Marrakech Morocco
Everything You Need to Know About Marrakech Morocco
About Marrakech Morocco
Marrakech Morocco also spelled Marrakesh, is one of the most captivating cities in Marrakech Morocco. Nicknamed the Red City for its sunbaked walls, it blends deep-rooted traditions with fresh, urban energy. Set at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, it has been a major center of culture and trade for close to a thousand years.
Founded in 1070 by the Almoravids, the city quickly became a hub for art, learning, and design. Today, Marrakech tourism thrives on Islamic architecture, buzzing souks, elegant riads, and warm hospitality. Use this Marrakech travel guide to plan your Morocco travel, find the best places to visit in Marrakech, and map out where to stay in Marrakech.
Top Attractions in Marrakech Morocco
The Medina (Old City)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Medina is a maze of lanes packed with markets, mosques, riads, and hidden courtyards. Wander the souks for spices, jewelry, carpets, leather goods, and lanterns. It is a must for Marrakech shopping and one of the top things to do in Marrakech.
Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and soft light for photos.
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
This huge square is the center of city life. By day you will find snake charmers, henna artists, and storytellers. After sunset, food stalls appear, music fills the air, and the scent of grilled meat and cumin drifts across the plaza. It is a perfect spot to sample Marrakech food.
Best experience: Book a rooftop table and watch the square glow at sunset. It feels unforgettable.
Koutoubia Mosque
Koutoubia, with its 77 meter minaret, is the city’s most famous landmark. Non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, but the gardens and surrounding paths are open and peaceful, ideal for a short break between sights.
Bahia Palace
Built in the 19th century, Bahia Palace highlights Moroccan craftsmanship at a grand scale. Look for carved cedar, painted ceilings, zellige tile, and calm courtyards planted with orange trees. It ranks high among the best places to visit in Marrakech.
Saadian Tombs
Sealed for centuries and rediscovered in 1917, these royal tombs feature marble, carved stucco, and fine tile work. It is a quiet, short visit that adds rich context to your Marrakech travel guide.
Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Created by artist Jacques Majorelle and later preserved by Yves Saint Laurent, the garden is famous for bold cobalt walls, cactus beds, and tranquil pools. Next door, the YSL Museum showcases the designer’s legacy and ties to Marrakech Morocco.
Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakech Morocco
Once one of the largest Islamic colleges in North Africa, this madrasa stands out for its serene courtyard, cedar latticework, and intricate mosaics. History lovers and photographers will both be happy here.
Practical tips for your trip
Unique Experiences
* Traditional hammam, private vs public
* Cooking class with market shop
* Sunset rooftop tea, Medina viewpoints
* Hot air balloon over the plains
* Desert-style dinner shows outside the city
* Tannery visit, what to expect
* Street food crawl, safe picks
Marrakech food to try:
* Classic dishes, tagines, couscous, pastilla, tanjia, harira
* Where to try them, local eateries vs modern bistros
* Breakfast in riads, msemen and amlou
* Sweets and snacks, chebakia, sfenj
* Tea culture, mint tea, coffee habits
* Dietary notes, vegetarian, halal, gluten sensitive
* Tipping norms and table etiquette
Marrakech shopping basics:
* What to buy, rugs, lamps, leather, ceramics, argan oil, spices
* How to bargain, fair ranges and polite lines
* Quality checks, stitching, smell, natural dyes, food-grade argan
* Packing and shipping options
* Market hours and best times to visit
Day Trips and Nearby
* Atlas Mountains, Imlil and Toubkal views
* Ourika Valley, waterfalls and easy hikes
* Agafay Stone Desert, quad biking and sunset
* Ouzoud Falls, day-long trip
* Essaouira, coastal breeze and medina
* How to choose by time and interest
1 to 5 Day Itineraries
* One day, old city hit list with one garden
* Two days, add Majorelle, cooking class
* Three days, hammam and rooftop night
* Four days, Atlas Mountains day trip
* Five days, mix of museums and Agafay sunset
Getting Around the City
* Walking routes and safe paths
* Taxis, petit vs grand, how to agree on a fare
* Bus, airport bus and city lines
* Ride apps that work locally
* Horse carriages, when it makes sense
* Bike and scooter notes
Culture and Etiquette
* Greetings and polite phrases
* Dress norms by area, medina vs resorts
* Respect for prayer times and photos
* Friday rhythm, slower midday
* Tips for meeting sellers with ease
Safety and Common Scams
* Typical tourist scams, fake guides, price switching
* How to say no, clear and calm
* Night safety zones and lighting
* Money safety, ATMs and small bills
* Health tips, water, sun, street food picks
Practical Planning
* SIM cards and eSIM options
* Power type and adapters
* Riad arrivals, door codes and pickup
* Luggage storage and narrow lanes
* Staying cool, shade, midday breaks
Sustainability and Responsible Travel
* Buy local, fair pay, certified co-ops
* Water refills and waste habits
* Respect for animals, no snake or monkey photos
* Dress and behavior that honors locals
Accessibility
* Medina terrain, steps and uneven lanes
* Riad layouts, courtyards and stairs
* Hotels with elevators and ramps
* Transport options for limited mobility
* Accessible tour providers
For Different Travelers
* Families, stroller tips, kid-friendly food and shows
* Couples, sunset rooftops and hammams for two
* Solo travelers, safe areas and group tours
* Photographers, best light and viewpoints
Photo Spots and Best Times
* Koutoubia at golden hour
* Ben Youssef arches early morning
* Le Jardin Secret terraces
* Rooftop views over Jemaa el-Fnaa at dusk
* Majorelle blue walls, first entry slot
Language Cheat Sheet
* Essential phrases in Darija and French, hello, thank you, how much
* Numbers 1 to 10 for quick bargaining
* How to ask for a price and a taxi fare
Seasonal Guide
* Spring, flowers, fresh produce, mild temps
* Summer, heat plans, pool and morning walks
* Fall, clear skies, long evenings
* Winter, cool nights, cozy riads with heaters
Packing List
* Light layers, scarf, sun hat, comfy shoes
* Modest wear for medina visits
* Power adapter, portable charger
* Reusable water bottle, small bills pouch
* Allergy meds, basic first aid
* Room for purchases, foldable duffel
Photography and Drones
* Street photo etiquette, ask before close-ups
* No photos of police or military
* Drone rules, permits and no-fly zones
* Respect for privacy in small lanes
Sample Daily Budget Breakdowns
* Budget, street food, shared riad room, buses
* Mid-range, nice riad, taxis, one paid tour
* Luxury, 5-star stay, spa, private guide
Booking Timeline
* Six months out, flights, top riads
* Two months out, tours and hammams
* Two weeks out, airport transfer, restaurants
* Day before, cash, small bills, route to riad
Local Events and Nightlife
* Live music spots, gnawa and jazz
* Rooftop bars with views
* Cultural shows and theaters
* Night markets, safest routes to and from
Map Your Day, Sample Routes
* Morning in the northern medina, madrasa and souks
* Midday garden and lunch in Gueliz
* Afternoon palaces in southern medina
* Sunset rooftop and square at night
Mistakes to Avoid
* Overpacking the first day
* Skipping cash, many places prefer it
* Not booking top sights timed entry
* Wearing slick soles on tile floors
* Trusting the first price on big buys
Save this tour 10 days trip from Casablanca to plan things to do in Marrakech and to make the most of your Morocco travel.
Marrakech Morocco: FAQ
When’s the best time to visit Marrakech?
March to May and September to November have mild weather and clear skies. Summer gets very hot, often above 100°F. Winter nights can feel cold.
Do I need a visa to visit Morocco?
Many travelers get 90 days visa-free, including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia. Your passport must be valid for your stay. Check your country’s latest rules before you book.
What currency is used, and how do I pay?
The Moroccan dirham (MAD) is the currency. ATMs are common, and rates are good. Cards work in hotels and larger restaurants. Markets and small shops prefer cash.
Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
It’s generally safe, with normal city risks. Watch for pickpockets in crowded souks. Avoid unlicensed guides, and agree on prices before services.
How do I get from the airport to the medina?
Marrakech Menara Airport is about 15 to 20 minutes from the medina. Use official taxis, airport shuttles, or hotel transfers. Taxis have posted rates; confirm before you go.
What’s the difference between a riad and a hotel?
Riads are traditional homes with inner courtyards, often in the medina. They feel intimate and stylish. Hotels offer modern facilities and easier access by car.
Can I visit mosques?
Most mosques are closed to non-Muslims. The Koutoubia Mosque can be enjoyed from outside. You can tour historical madrasas and museums.
What are must see sights?
Jemaa el-Fna, the souks, Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and Majorelle Garden. Do not miss the Yves Saint Laurent Museum if you love design. Sunset views from rooftop terraces are great.