A Human-Generated Travel Guide to Marrakech: Real-Life Experiences + Authentic Recommendations
- Malika
- Jan 31, 2024
- 15 min read
Updated: Jun 4
With its colourful souks, enchanting architecture and incredible riads, Marrakech never fails to captivate. Its name derives from Amazigh words meaning “Land of God” and it has long been the heartbeat of the country. Marrakech is also one of Morocco's most popular tourist destinations and while it's not my favourite place to visit (full disclosure), I do think it's still a "must-visit"!
Within the red ramparts of the Marrakech medina, you’ll experience Morocco at its most intoxicating - it really is an assault on the senses. As an expat who has lived in North Africa for several years, it's still a destination that makes a BIG impact every time I visit.
Yes, it's hectic. Yes, there are pushy vendors. Yes, the motorbikes in the medina are REALLY ANNOYING! But it's the ordered chaos and intensity of the city that makes it such an unforgettable experience.
In all honesty, Marrakech isn't for everyone and after a few days I'm always ready to escape somewhere quieter. But the architecture is AMAZING, the souks are second-to-none and the riads are among the best in Morocco.
Even though I don't love Marrakech, I think it's a city you have to experience and I would always recommend that people visit. Beyond the tourist trappings, there are some really wonderful places to explore, not to mention great restaurants. But if possible, don't make your entire Morocco trip about the "Red City", even if you have limited time in the country.
Marrakech's location makes it an ideal base for exploring Morocco, from the sun and surf of the Atlantic coast to the traditional villages that dot the nearby palmeraie and Atlas Mountains. Even if you can only get away on a day trip to Essaouira or to spend a night in Agafay, you'll come away with a better appreciation for what Morocco has to offer.
In this Human-Generated Travel Guide to Marrakech, I'll share authentic experiences and real-life recommendations (based on my adventures) to help you explore the "Red City" to its fullest. Aside from highlighting some of the best things to do in Marrakech and incredible riad stays, I'll provide some tour recommendations for venturing further afield.
Want more human-driven Marrakech travel inspiration? Browse my collection of detailed articles about Morocco's "Red City".
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing and ensure my content stays free!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Amazing things to do in Marrakech
Marvel at the Koutoubia Mosque from Park Lalla Hasana
Rising to 70 metres in height, the soaring minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque pierces the Marrakech skyline and is visible for miles in every direction. This iconic landmark is the city's most famous site and one of the country’s most important places of worship. I just think it's magnificent and visit every time I'm in Marrakech.
According to local legend, when the Koutoubia was first built in 1162, the muezzin had to be blind. This was because the towering minaret overlooked the ruler's harem, making it impossible for a seeing man to avoid catching glimpses of the hidden women. I don't know if this is true or not, but I love the story!
The Koutoubia Mosque is one of the finest examples of Almohad architecture and I love admiring it from Park Lalla Hasana at its base. Filled with orange trees, this green oasis is dotted with benches where you can relax in the shade and gaze up at the minaret. On the mosque's northwest side, archaeological excavations reveal foundations from an even earlier structure - be sure to wander around here too!
While the exterior of Koutoubia can be admired by all, non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself.
Best things to do in Marrakech
Be humbled by Ben Youssef Madrasa
Stepping inside Ben Youssef Madrasa is like travelling back in time to 16th-century Morocco. Set within the medina opposite the Ali Ben Youssef Mosque, this magnificent theological college illustrates the rich artistic heritage of the Saadian dynasty. It was once home to 900 students and served as an epicentre of Quranic study in the country.
Even though I've visited Ben Youssef Madrasa several times, it never fails to leave me awestruck. It's just so incredibly beautiful!
At its heart is a magnificent courtyard with an elongated pool and stunning zellige tiles in geometric patterns. The surrounding walls feature exquisite plasterwork and carved cedar wood, as well as Kufic calligraphy. Warrens of tiny rooms frame the courtyard above - you can explore these too and poke your head out through the windows into the courtyard below.
Visiting Ben Youssef Madrasa can be equal parts transcendental and frustrating, depending how many people are vying for the best photography spots. My suggestion is to come early in the morning just after it opens or half an hour before it closes when the crowds start to thin out.
Opening hours of Ben Youssef Madrasa: 9 am to 7 pm (or 6 pm during Ramadan)
Entrance fee for Madrasa Ben Youssef: 50 DH adults/10 DH for children under 12
Best things to do in Marrakech
Drink tea at the Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum
Housed within an 18th-century palace, this relatively new museum is devoted to everything related to Moroccan cuisine, making it a must for foodies. I discovered it on my last visit to Marrakech and went back twice because I loved it so much!
Set across three floors, the Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum features displays explaining the ingredients, techniques and equipment used in Morocco's most iconic dishes, from harira soup to couscous and tagines. Information is provided in English and there are some beautiful ceramic dishes on display. And the best part? It's completely free!
On the first floor are two stunning interior courtyards embellished with zellige tiles and beautifully carved columns. While tourists were queuing up next door to get into Bahia Palace, I sat in one for ages just soaking it all in, not believing I had it almost completely to myself!
On the second floor, you’ll find 34 interactive cooking stations where hands-on classes take place. If you're eager to learn more about blending Moroccan spices and perfecting the art of slow-cooked tagines, this is the place to head.
In addition to the exhibits and cooking classes, the Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum also boasts a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the medina and a delightful tea salon where you can drink traditional mint tea after your visit. The murals in the tea room make it worth a visit alone!
Opening hours of the Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum: 9 am to 8 pm
Entrance fee for the Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum: Free
Best things to do in Marrakech
Stroll around Bahia Palace
Next door to the Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum is Bahia Palace, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece set around several courtyards. With its elaborate zellige tilework and intricately painted ceilings, it's a lavish display of Moroccan craftsmanship.
Built as the residence of Grand Vizier Bou Ahmed during the reign of Sultan Moulay al-Hassan I, the palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lives of those in the sultan's inner circle. That being said, it's recently been undergoing restoration works and the presence of plastic sheeting on my last visit detracted somewhat from its magnificence.
Among the main attractions of Bahia Palace are the sumptuous salons of the haram complex and the oasis-like courtyard at the heart of the grand riad, with its banana trees and citrus groves. Navigating the crowds of tourists that flock here can be challenging - my suggestion is to stop occasionally and gaze up, taking the time to really appreciate the incredible artistry that has gone into its design.
Opening hours of Bahia Palace: 9 am to 5 pm
Entrance fee for Bahia Palace: 100 DH
Best things to do in Marrakech
Visit the Maison de la Photographie de Marrakech
Established in 2009 by Hamid Mergani and Patrick Manac’h, this museum highlights the diversity of Morocco as seen through the lenses. It showcases works from both famous and lesser-known photographers, spanning from the late 19th century to the contemporary period. As a photography enthusiast, I just love coming here and seeing how others have documented their experiences in Morocco.
The Maison de la Photographie boasts a vast collection that includes a variety of photographic items such as glass plates, postcards, newspapers and documentary films. By safeguarding and curating these artefacts, the museum has evolved into not just an archive of Morocco's photographic legacy but also a storehouse of the nation’s changing ideas and stories.
To share this wealth of knowledge and inspiration, the museum hosts a wide array of thematic exhibitions, both at its medina-based venue and through travelling displays at partner cultural institutions. You can check out what's currently showing at their website here.
Opening hours of Maison de la Photographie de Marrakech: 9:30 am to 7 pm
Entrance fee for Maison de la Photographie de Marrakech: 50 DH
Best things to do in Marrakech
Get your retail fix in Marrakech’s souks
No trip to Marrakech is complete without exploring the souks - they really are among the best in the world! Moroccan craftsmanship is legendary, with everything from handwoven carpets to ornate hanging lanterns and beautiful leatherwork for sale. Haggling is a mainstay of souk shopping in Morocco, so rather than it just being a financial transaction, it's an authentic cultural experience.
In my opinion, exploring the Marrakech souks is not something you need to necessarily schedule into your itinerary, particularly if you're not a serious shopper. It kind of just happens as you're walking from one place to the other. There are sooooo many markets and stalls scattered around the medina that, before you know it, you're in the midst of a souk!
With so many different souks (each with a different specialty), it can be hard to know where to start. So if you're not in the market for something in particular, don't be afraid to just wander and follow your curiosity. Alternatively, you can join a guided shopping tour in Marrakech, which is a great way to get an overview of what's available, suss out prices and learn some tips for finding authentic products.
Souq Cherratine and Souq el-Kebir are known for their leather goods while Souq Haddadine is considered the metalworkers' quarter (head here to find gorgeous lanterns). Place Rahba Kedima is a good place to pick up aromatic spice blends and Souq des Teinturiers still has a few places selling hand-dyed wool. Souq Smata specialises in footwear - you can pick up Moroccan babouches here.
For more inspiration, check out my Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Morocco.
Best things to do in Marrakech
Experience Djemaa el-Fnaa once the sun goes down
The beating heart of Marrakech is Djemaa el-Fnaa, which comes to life each evening. As the sun begins to set, this massive public square transforms into a stage for musicians, dancers and fortune-tellers.
I have to admit, Djemaa el-Fnaa isn't one of my favourite places in Marrakech - I can't get over the monkeys on leashes - but I still think it's one of those places you kind of have to see. My suggestion would be to do a walk-through around sunset as things are starting to gear and decide if it's somewhere you want to hang out.
In Djemaa el-Fnaa, you'll find everything from snake charmers to henna artists and performance artists, as well as musicians playing Gnaoua music. There's also a cluster of juice stands and food stalls selling freshly grilled meats, fried fish and snails, although personally, I don't think this is the best place to eat in Marrakech.
If you're curious but don't want to be in amongst all the action with performers and vendors vying for your attention, grab a spot at one of the many roof-top cafes ringing the square and watch on from there.
Best things to do in Marrakech
Stay in a luxurious Marrakech riad
In some destinations, the accommodation is just a place to sleep and shower, rested and ready to venture out sightseeing each day. But in Marrakech, staying at a riad is a cultural and architectural experience in itself. Sometimes my main reason to visit Marrakech is just to stay at a new riad - they really are THAT good!
Centred around an interior courtyard, these traditional mansions offer an intimate glimpse into the city's cultural heritage. Once grand homes (many of which had fallen into disrepair), Marrakech’s riads have been lovingly restored into boutique hotels, many complete with sparkling pools and traditional hammams
From palatial estates with museum-worthy decor to smaller hideaways with contemporary flair, Marrakech's riads come in all shapes and sizes. So rather than staying in a standard hotel that feels like it could be anywhere in the world, don’t miss the opportunity to experience this uniquely Moroccan type of accommodation.
For inspiration, check out 10 of my favourite riads in the Marrakech medina or these 5 luxury boutique riads in Marrakech.
Best things to do in Marrakech
Recommended tours in Marrakech
It's easy enough to explore Marrakech independently (albeit with a little help from Google Maps) and getting lost is all part of the experience. But if you DON'T want to get lost or you just want to delve a little deeper into the local culture, I'd recommend joining a guided tour.
Both Viator and GetYourGuide have a huge number of Marrakech tours and day trips available, complete with reviews from previous travellers. I find them to be really helpful resources when planning my Morocco itineraries, even if it's just for inspiration!
This half-day historical and cultural tour of Marrakech comes highly recommended and provides a good overview of the city, giving you the confidence to venture off solo at the end. Foodies might want to consider a more niche experience, such as this four-hour street food tour or an exploration of hidden snack spots with dinner at the end.
Moroccan cooking classes are also really popular for those who want to get hands-on and I think Marrakech is a great place to do one (there's such a huge choice of cooking schools here). If picking up souvenirs and homewares is more on your radar, then a private shopping experience in the Marrakech souks can be a foolproof way of finding authentic goods at a price that's good for everyone.
Recommended day trips from Marrakech
As I mentioned above, I would highly recommend getting out of Marrakech for at least one day, even if you're only visiting for a long weekend away. The medina can feel like a bit of a "bubble" (an overly stimulating one at that) and I think it's important to experience a different side of Morocco.
Thankfully, there are lots of amazing day trips available from Marrakech, whether you want to take a sunset camel ride in the Marrakech Palmeraie or drive the spectacular Tizi n' Tichka Pass to Ait Benhaddou (an ancient ksar where numerous films have been shot).
You can go hiking in Toubkal National Park (home to North Africa's highest peak), explore Atlas Mountains valleys and villages or simply soak up the incredible views on a sunrise hot-air balloon flight. Day trips to the magnificent Ouzoud Waterfalls in Western High Atlas National Park are also really popular.
Marrakech also serves as a gateway to camel trekking adventures the Sahara Desert. I suggest giving yourself at least three days to get there and back - doing it in two is just too rushed. If you don't have that much time, you can have a completely different desert experience in Agafay, which is notable for its rocky landscapes. Aside from camel trekking and quad biking, paragliding is popular here.
Marrakech is also within easy reach of Essaouira, an atmospheric, whitewashed city on the Atlantic coast. You can travel there independently by bus but taking a day trip to Essaouira from Marrakech including return transport just make things a little easier.
Best day trips from Marrakech
How to get to Marrakech
Fly to Marrakech Menara Airport
Marrakech Menara Airport is the main gateway to the city and receives international flights from across the globe. It’s just five kilometres from the city centre but heavy traffic can make transfers longer than you might expect. Fixed price taxis are available at the airport and cost between 100 and 150 DH, depending on the destination.
If you're travelling around Marrakech, petit taxis are readily available and these are metered. Some drivers prefer to negotiate fixed prices for journeys, but if you want to use the meter, insist on it.
By train
Marrakech has railway connections to many major Moroccan cities, with the national railway company ONCF operating daily trains to and from cities like Casablanca, Tangier and Fes. The journey from Casablanca takes just 3 hours while the picturesque trip from Fes to Marrakech takes 7.5 hours. Overnight trains with "couchettes" connect Marrakech and Tangier. You can learn more about travelling around Morocco by train here.
By bus
Bus companies like CTM and Supratours connect Marrakech to cities across Morocco, including Essaouira and Agadir. The journeys are generally comfortable and some operate overnight, which is convenient if you want to maximise your sightseeing time and budget. You can learn more about travelling around Morocco by bus here.
By private transfer
If you want to save time or just don’t want the hassle of negotiating public transport, a private transfer to Marrakech is ideal. They are available from cities across Morocco and include door-to-door service, meaning you don’t have to find a taxi at the bus or train station on arrival. Most drivers will also help with luggage and they’ll stop along the way if you need to use the bathroom or grab food and drink.
Best places to stay in Marrakech
Inspiring places to stay in Marrakech
Famed for its abundance of riads and luxury hotels, Marrakech is home to some of Morocco’s most incredible stays. With so many inspiring choices in the city, deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming. Trust me, I struggle every time I have to choose because the options are THAT good!
Not to worry - I've scoured the offerings and curated a list of my top picks across the spectrum to help you easily find the perfect base for your Marrakech escape. Whether you're after a family-friendly hotel, a riad in the heart of the medina or a luxury riad with a pool, I have you covered.
Looking for sustainable accommodation in Marrakech? Check out my article featuring some of the best sustainable hotels in Marrakech.
Luxury hotels in Marrakech
Ultra-luxurious! If you can afford to stay here, do it!
A beautifully restored property that prides itself on sustainability.
Stunning pool villas set within an olive grove near Marrakech
Inspiring hotels in Marrakech
Mid-range riads in Marrakech
An adults-only retreat with a rooftop plunge pool.
A charming whitewashed riad in the atmospheric Kasbah district
An intimate, six-room riad with a pool and hammam
Inspiring hotels in Marrakech
Affordable riads in Marrakech
A Moroccan-owned riad with a courtyard pool
A family-friendly riad near Djemaa el-Fnaa
Eclectically decorated in the former home of a French painter
Best time to visit Marrakech
Best time to visit Marrakech
If you want to dodge the scorching heat, the best time to visit Marrakech is between September and May. Specifically, early spring (March/April) and late autumn (October/November) offer the best weather. That being said, these are becoming the most popular times to visit Marrakech, so expect crowds!
In summer, temperatures are regularly in the high 30s but it can seem hotter as the heat radiates off the hard surfaces of the medina. This doesn't seem to deter tourists, however, and things remain busy with Europeans and North Americans on their annual summer vacations.
If you’re looking for a winter escape, February brings abundant sunshine with highs around 20°C. It's still pleasant enough to explore the medina comfortably, just be sure to bring a few layers for the evenings. While it might not be warm enough to enjoy a dip in your riad pool, many have fireplaces to cosy up beside instead. Some hotels also drop their rates slightly during the winter months as there's a small reduction in tourist numbers.
Rain isn't much of a concern any time of year as Marrakech stays pretty dry. The "wet" season (November to April) only sees around 1-2 inches per month so your holiday is unlikely to get rained out!
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.
