Marrakech, known as the Red City, is a whirlwind of colour, culture, and charm. From ancient palaces and lush gardens to vibrant markets and desert adventures, this Moroccan gem offers something for every type of traveller.
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to unwind in a luxurious setting, Marrakech will captivate you with its unique blend of tradition and modern flair.
I went to Morocco for the first time in February and loved it. I visited Marrakech and also booked a 3-day trip to the Sahara. It was incredible! And that’s why I decided to write this post to help you plan your trip to Morocco’s most iconic city.
From visiting striking palaces and gardens to staying in a riad and treating yourself in a hammam, here are the 17 best things to do in Marrakech for an unforgettable experience.
Table of Contents
17 Unmissable Things to Do in Marrakech
1 – Get lost in the Medina
The heart of Marrakech, the medina, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a labyrinth of narrow alleyways brimming with energy. As you meander through the maze-like streets, you’ll encounter local artisans, colourful mosaics, and a blend of Berber, Arab, and French influences.
The medina is more than a historic site—it’s a sensory journey. The scent of spices, the calls of merchants, and the vibrant textiles create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Don’t forget to look up and admire the intricate wooden balconies and iron lanterns.
I recommend that you take your time exploring the nooks and crannies. Hidden courtyards, small museums, and traditional bakeries are tucked away behind unassuming doors. Every turn holds a new surprise, making the medina a perfect place to get delightfully lost.
Pro tip: Exploring the hectic Medina is one of the best things to do in Marrakech, but it can be very overwhelming. Please, be careful with the intense motorbike traffic when walking on the narrow streets.
2 – Walk around the Souks
Marrakech’s souks are a shopper’s paradise and an essential part of the city’s identity. In these bustling marketplaces, you’ll find handcrafted goods like leather bags, lanterns, spices, and ceramics. Haggling is expected, so come prepared to negotiate with a smile.
Each section of the souk specialises in something different. From textiles and carpets to metalwork and herbs, the diversity is astounding. The Souk Semmarine is one of the most popular, leading you into a colourful tunnel of Moroccan treasures.
It’s not just about shopping—the souks offer an insight into local life. Watch craftsmen at work, enjoy spontaneous music performances, and savour the buzz of one of the most atmospheric parts of Marrakech.
3 – Go to Jemaa el-Fna Square
Jemaa el-Fna is the soul of Marrakech. This sprawling square in the heart of the medina comes alive at sunset with snake charmers, street performers, and sizzling food stalls. The energy here is palpable, with something to see in every direction.
During the day, you’ll find orange juice vendors, henna artists, and fortune tellers. But it’s in the evening that Jemaa el-Fna transforms into a magical carnival of sounds, sights, and flavours that is uniquely Moroccan.
Climb to a rooftop café for a bird’s-eye view of the chaos below, and soak in the atmosphere with a mint tea in hand. No visit to Marrakech is complete without experiencing the square’s enchanting chaos.
Pro tip: Please refrain from taking pictures with animals at Jemma el-Fna Square. Apart from snakes, you’ll also find monkeys dressed in children’s clothes. If you do, be prepared to tip them, as any other street performer. They will all ask for money.
4 – Take a City Tour
One of the best ways to get to know Marrakech is through a guided city tour. Whether you choose a walking tour through the narrow alleys of the medina or hop in a tuk-tuk for a whirlwind ride, you’ll gain a much deeper appreciation for the city’s rhythm and soul.
Knowledgeable local guides will introduce you to the history behind iconic landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque, the old city walls, and the labyrinthine souks—places that are easy to get lost in without a bit of direction.
My city tour was one of the highlights of my trip! Our guide did not point out sights, but told the stories behind them, connecting us with the people, the culture, and the vibrant energy of Marrakech. I highly recommend it!
Cost: There’s an array of city tours at reasonable prices to take in Marrakech, ranging from 20 to 30€. I took this one and I loved it! You can find others here. They all offer free cancellation.
5 – Stay in a Riad
For a truly authentic Moroccan experience, skip the hotels and stay in a riad—a traditional house built around a central courtyard. Often tucked behind unassuming doors in the medina, these restored homes are oases of calm and beauty.
Many feature mosaic-tiled floors, lush plants, soothing fountains, and rooftop terraces with sweeping views over the city. You’ll be amazed at the contrast between the bustling streets outside and the peaceful retreat within.
What makes riads special isn’t just their design, but the warmth and hospitality of their hosts, who often serve homemade breakfasts and are happy to share tips for exploring the city like a local.
I stayed in two different riads (Riad Touda and Riad La Lumière d’Étoile) and I loved both.
6 – Visit Bahia Palace
A jewel of Moroccan architecture, the Bahia Palace is a must-see when visiting Marrakech. Built in the late 19th century for a powerful vizier, this sprawling complex was intended to be the most beautiful palace of its time—and it shows.
The name “Bahia” means brilliance, and you’ll quickly understand why. Inside, you’ll find intricately carved wood ceilings, zellige tile floors, stained glass windows, and tranquil courtyards filled with orange trees.
It’s easy to imagine the opulent lifestyle of the elites who once lived here. As you wander through its rooms, each space seems more beautiful than the last—a true showcase of craftsmanship and elegance.
Pro tip: You can visit the Bahia Palace alone, but your visit will be more enjoyable if you book a guided tour. Tickets cost around €10, and I highly recommend getting there as soon as it opens because it can get very busy.
7 – Don’t Miss Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle is one of Marrakech’s most beloved attractions, and it’s not hard to see why. Originally created by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later lovingly restored by Yves Saint Laurent, this botanical garden feels like a dreamy oasis in the middle of the city.
The striking cobalt blue buildings, lush greenery, exotic plants, and serene water features offer a peaceful escape from the chaos of the medina. It’s also home to the Berber Museum, which provides a glimpse into Morocco’s indigenous culture.
Whether you’re a plant lover, an art enthusiast, or just in need of a quiet moment, visiting Jardin Majorelle is one of the best things to do in Marrakech, and you shouldn’t miss it.
8 – Try the Moroccan Cuisine
Marrakech is a paradise for food lovers! The city’s cuisine is an aromatic mix of spices, textures, and bold flavours that reflect centuries of cultural fusion.
Tagines—slow-cooked stews made with meat, vegetables, and spices—are a staple, often served bubbling hot in their signature clay pots. You’ll also find rich couscous dishes, grilled meats, flaky pastries like briouats, and the irresistible sweetness of honey-drenched desserts.
Don’t miss out on sipping mint tea, often called “Moroccan whisky,” which is as much a cultural ritual as it is a refreshment. For a hands-on experience, consider taking a cooking class to learn the secrets of these beloved dishes.
9 – Go to a Rooftop Bar/Restaurant
There’s nothing like enjoying a meal or a drink from one of Marrakech’s many rooftop bars and restaurants.
As the call to prayer echoes through the city and the sun begins to set over the rooftops, the whole medina takes on a golden glow. Rooftops offer a breath of fresh air and a stunning perspective of the city’s maze-like streets below, with the Atlas Mountains in the distance.
Whether you’re enjoying a hearty Moroccan dinner, sipping cocktails, or just relaxing with a mint tea, the ambience is unbeatable. Going to a rooftop bar or restaurant is the perfect way to wind down after a busy day of exploring.
10 – Have a Coffee at Bacha Coffee
Bacha Coffee is more than just a coffee shop—it’s an experience wrapped in elegance. Housed in one of Marrakech’s most beautiful palaces, this stylish café offers a refined setting where you can sip some of the finest coffees in the world.
The menu is a journey through global coffee culture, with beans sourced from Ethiopia to Colombia and expertly brewed using various methods.
As you savour your cup, you’re surrounded by stunning architecture: intricately carved wood, gleaming tiles, and tranquil courtyards that reflect the building’s aristocratic past. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and sophistication.
Pro tip: Bacha Coffee became very popular, and the queues are long. You can expect to wait over one hour for a table. My recommendation is to visit Dar el Bacha Museum while waiting for your table.
11 – Be in Awe of La Mamounia
La Mamounia is more than a hotel—it’s a Marrakech legend. With nearly a century of history, this luxury palace hotel has welcomed royals, celebrities, and dreamers from around the globe.
Its interiors are a masterclass in Moroccan design, with dramatic arches, endless mosaics, and lush velvet lounges. But it’s not just the decor that stuns—the gardens, filled with palm trees, roses, and orange blossoms, offer a peaceful escape from the city.
Even if you’re not staying there, visiting for afternoon tea or cocktails is a must. Every inch of La Mamounia is a visual feast, and stepping inside feels like entering another world.
12 – Visit El Badi Palace
El Badi Palace might be a ruin now, but its crumbling walls still whisper stories of grandeur.
Commissioned by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur in the 16th century, it was once filled with Italian marble, gold, and onyx—much of which was later stripped and reused elsewhere. What remains today is a vast, open courtyard, sunken gardens, and panoramic terraces where storks now perch.
Walking through El Badi feels like time travel—you can almost imagine the lavish ceremonies that once took place here. Climb to the top for sweeping views of the medina and surrounding rooftops, and be sure to check out the underground passages and prison cells.
13 – Admire the Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs are one of Marrakech’s most exquisite historic sites. Hidden away behind high walls, these tombs were rediscovered in 1917 after being sealed off for centuries.
They are the final resting place of the powerful Saadian dynasty, including Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur. The craftsmanship is breathtaking—carved marble, ornate plasterwork, and colourful tile mosaics adorn the chambers, particularly the famous Hall of Twelve Columns.
Despite their solemn purpose, the tombs are a beautiful, peaceful place to reflect and marvel at the artistry of the past. Their rediscovery remains one of the city’s most important archaeological finds.
14 – Treat Yourself in a Hammam
A traditional Moroccan hammam is not just a spa treatment—it’s a centuries-old ritual of cleansing and renewal. Start with a steam room to open your pores, followed by a black soap scrub to exfoliate your skin, and finish with a relaxing massage using fragrant argan oil.
Many riads and luxury spas in Marrakech offer this immersive experience, blending old-world tradition with modern wellness.
You’ll leave feeling physically rejuvenated and mentally recharged. Whether you opt for a rustic local hammam or a five-star retreat, treating yourself to this ritual is a must.
Going to a hammam experience is one of the best things to do in Marrakech for couples, and if you’re going with your partner, you shouldn’t miss it. Here are some suggestions:
15 – Go Souvenir Shopping
Shopping in Marrakech is a full sensory experience. The souks are bursting with colour, scent, and texture—leather goods, woven rugs, lanterns, spices, ceramics, and jewellery all compete for your attention.
Each piece tells a story, often handcrafted by local artisans using techniques passed down through generations. Haggling is part of the fun, and it’s expected, so don’t be afraid to negotiate with a smile.
If you want more curated or ethically sourced items, seek out cooperative shops or design boutiques around the medina. You’ll return home with more than souvenirs—you’ll carry pieces of Marrakech’s soul.
16 – Take a Day Trip to the Agafay Desert
If you don’t have time for the long journey to the Sahara, the Agafay Desert offers a stunning alternative just 40 minutes outside Marrakech.
Though it’s more rocky than sandy, the landscape is dramatic and serene, with rolling hills, distant mountains, and golden light that transforms the entire scene.
Day trips include camel rides, quad biking, and relaxing lunches in luxury desert camps that feel far removed from the city’s hustle. Stay for sunset to see the landscape shift into hues of fire and gold, or book a night under the stars for a peaceful, luxurious retreat.
17 – Escape to the Sahara Desert
No trip to Morocco is complete without experiencing the vastness of the Sahara Desert. Reaching it from Marrakech usually takes two or three days, passing through the Atlas Mountains, ancient kasbahs, and dramatic gorges along the way. But the journey is part of the magic.
When you finally arrive at the golden dunes of Merzouga or Erg Chegaga, it feels like another world—quiet, infinite, and deeply moving.
Ride a camel at sunset, enjoy a traditional Berber dinner by the fire, and sleep in a tent under a canopy of stars. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that stays with you forever!
Marrakech is more than a destination—it’s a deep dive into colour, chaos, and culture.
Whether you’re sipping mint tea on a rooftop or wandering ancient palaces, every moment here leaves a mark.
Embrace the energy, slow down when needed, and let the city’s charm pull you in. It’s a place that lingers long after you’ve left.
Safe travels and enjoy Morocco.
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Planning a Trip to Marrakesh
Where is Marrakech?
Marrakech is located in western Morocco, near the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. It’s one of the country’s most famous cities, known for its lively Medina, historic sites, and delicious cuisine.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Marrakech is by flying into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), which connects to major cities in Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
From there, taxis and shuttle services can take you to your accommodation. Alternatively, if you’re travelling from within Morocco, you can take a train, bus, or even a private car from cities like Casablanca or Fes.
- You can book your flights with Skyscanner, the website I use and trust.
Best Time to Visit Marrakech & the Sahara Desert
The ideal time to visit is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant, and the weather is perfect for exploring the city and the desert.
Summer can be extremely hot, especially in the Sahara, while winter nights in the desert can be quite chilly.
Where to stay?
I recommend staying in a riad in the Medina area for a more immersive experience.
I stayed in three different places: two riads, Riad Touda and Riad La Lumière d’Étoile, and at Kenzi Rose Gardens, a five-star hotel with three swimming pools, because I wanted to rest before coming back home.
- Budget: Riad Jnane Mogador, Riad des Etoiles, Riad Malida and Be Nomad.
- Middle range: Hotel & Riad Art Place, Riad Zazz and Les Jardins De La Médina
- Luxury: La Sultana, Es Saadi Marrakech Resort – Palace, Les Jardins De La Koutoubia and Sofitel Marrakech Palais Impérial & Spa
Where to eat?
The are plenty of good restaurants in Marrakech. The ones that I recommend are: Rooftop Dardar, Safran Marrakech, La Trattoria, Le Jardin, Dar el Bacha and La Cantine des Gazelles.
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