Marrakech is one of the most captivating cities in the world. From the chaotic energy of Djemaa el-Fna square to the tranquil beauty of hidden palace gardens, there is truly something for everyone. Here are the best things to do in Marrakech that no visitor should miss.
1. Explore Djemaa el-Fna Square
The beating heart of Marrakech, Djemaa el-Fna is a UNESCO-listed square that transforms throughout the day. In the morning, orange juice vendors and snake charmers set up shop. By evening, the square explodes with food stalls, musicians, storytellers, and acrobats. It is best experienced both during the day and after dark.
Tip: Eat dinner at one of the rooftop restaurants overlooking the square for the best views and atmosphere.
2. Get Lost in the Medina Souks
The souks of Marrakech are a labyrinth of narrow alleys packed with leatherworkers, spice merchants, carpet weavers, and jewelry makers. Each souk specializes in a different craft. Allow at least 2-3 hours to wander freely and do not be afraid to bargain.
Best souk areas: Souk Semmarine (textiles), Souk des Teinturiers (leather dyers), Souk el Attarine (spices and perfumes).
3. Visit the Bahia Palace
The 19th-century Bahia Palace is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Its name means “brilliance” and it lives up to that name with its stunning tiled courtyards, carved cedar ceilings, and lush gardens. The palace was built to be the greatest palace of its time.
Entrance fee: Around 70 MAD (approx $7 USD). Open daily.
4. Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
The High Atlas Mountains are just one hour from Marrakech and make for one of the best day trips in Morocco. Visit the Ourika Valley, hike to the Setti Fatma waterfalls, or explore traditional Berber villages. In winter, you can even ski at Oukaimeden resort.
Consider booking a guided Atlas Mountains day trip for the most convenient experience.
5. Relax in the Majorelle Garden
Once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, the Majorelle Garden is an otherworldly oasis of cobalt blue buildings, exotic plants, and trickling fountains. It also houses the Berber Museum with an impressive collection of traditional artifacts. Book tickets in advance as it sells out quickly.
Opening hours: Daily 8am-6pm (check current hours). Entry: From 150 MAD.
6. Visit the Saadian Tombs
These magnificent royal tombs date back to the late 16th century and were sealed for 200 years before being rediscovered in 1917. The intricate tilework and carved plaster decoration inside the mausoleums are among the finest in all of Morocco.
7. Experience a Traditional Hammam
A hammam (Moroccan bathhouse) is a deeply relaxing cultural experience you should not skip. A traditional hammam involves a steam room, a vigorous scrub with a kessa mitt, and a black soap (savon beldi) massage that leaves your skin incredibly soft.
Options range from local neighborhood hammams (from 20 MAD) to luxury spa hammams in riads (from $50 USD).
8. Take a Cooking Class
Learning to make a tagine or bastilla in a Marrakech cooking class is one of the most memorable things to do. Many riads offer morning classes that begin with a trip to the souk to buy fresh ingredients.
9. Stay in a Riad
Staying in a traditional riad is one of the highlights of any Marrakech trip. These are beautifully restored townhouses built around a central courtyard. Many have rooftop terraces, plunge pools, and serve delicious breakfasts. See our top riad recommendations here.
10. Watch the Sunset from a Rooftop Café
Marrakech is famous for its rooftop terraces. As the sun goes down over the medina, the call to prayer echoes across the rooftops and the pink-orange light gives the city its famous “Rose City” glow. Grab a mint tea and soak it all in.
Practical Information for Marrakech
- Best time to visit: March-May and September-November
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD). 1 USD ≈ 10 MAD
- Getting around: Walking in the medina, taxis for longer distances
- Language: Arabic and French are most common; English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Where to Stay in Marrakech
We recommend booking your riad or hotel early, especially during peak season. Use Booking.com to compare prices and read real reviews from travelers.
Recommended Tours
If you want to make the most of your time in Marrakech, consider booking guided tours through GetYourGuide. They offer everything from half-day medina walks to full-day desert excursions.