Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech with the snowy Atlas Mountains

Things to Do in Marrakech

Marrakech, the Red City, is the heart of Moroccan travel: a maze of souks, palaces, gardens and rooftop cafés, with the snowy High Atlas on the horizon. Whether you have one day or a full week, here are the best things to do in Marrakech, chosen by our local team.

1. Jemaa el-Fna square at sunset

The famous main square changes all day long, but the magic starts at sunset: food stalls, musicians, storytellers and the smell of grilled meat. Watch it from a rooftop café, then walk down and try harira soup or snails like the locals.

2. Get lost in the souks

North of Jemaa el-Fna, the souks of the medina are organised by craft: leather, spices, lanterns, carpets, babouche slippers and ironwork. Take your time, enjoy a mint tea with the shopkeepers and bargain with a smile.

Colourful souk alley in the medina of Marrakech

3. Koutoubia Mosque

The 12th-century minaret of the Koutoubia is the symbol of Marrakech and can be seen from almost everywhere in the city. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but the gardens around it are perfect for a quiet walk.

4. Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs

Bahia Palace is a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship, with painted cedar ceilings, zellige tiles and peaceful courtyards. Close by, the Saadian Tombs hide richly decorated mausoleums from the 16th century.

5. Jardin Majorelle and the YSL Museum

The cobalt-blue Majorelle Garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, is one of the most photographed places in Morocco. Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds, and visit the YSL Museum next door.

6. Ben Youssef Madrasa

This former Koranic school is one of the most beautiful buildings in the medina, with carved stucco, cedar wood and a large courtyard with a reflecting pool.

7. A traditional hammam

After a day of walking, relax in a hammam with a black soap scrub. You can choose a local public hammam for an authentic experience or a spa hammam for more comfort.

8. Rooftop dinner with a view

Sunset over the rooftops of the Marrakech medina

Marrakech is full of riads and restaurants with roof terraces. Book a table for sunset, order a tagine or couscous and watch the call to prayer echo over the medina.

9 to 12. The best day trips from Marrakech

Ourika Valley and the Atlas Mountains: Berber villages, waterfalls and fresh mountain air, about 1 hour away.
Agafay desert: a stony desert close to the city, perfect for a sunset camel ride.
Essaouira: the windy blue-and-white port on the Atlantic coast, about 3 hours away.
The Sahara desert: the real dunes of Merzouga need at least 3 days. Read Marrakech to Merzouga: how many days do you need?

Local tips for Marrakech

Stay in a riad inside the medina for the real Marrakech atmosphere.
Politely refuse unofficial “guides” who offer to show you the way.
Dress modestly and carry small change in dirhams.
Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons; summer afternoons are very hot.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Marrakech?

Two to three days are ideal to see the medina, the palaces and the gardens. Add more days for the Atlas Mountains or a Sahara desert tour.

Is Marrakech safe for tourists?

Yes. Marrakech is welcoming and safe for travellers. Use normal precautions in crowded places and only accept guides arranged through your hotel or agency.

Explore Morocco from Marrakech

Marrakech is the perfect starting point for a trip across Morocco. Discover our tours from Marrakech or the 14-day Morocco grand tour, and contact us for a tailor-made itinerary.