With its colourful souks, enchanting architecture and incredible riads, Marrakech never fails to captivate. As the root of Morocco's name, this city has long been the heartbeat of the country. Within the red ramparts of the medina, you’ll experience this North African destination at its most intoxicating - it really is an assault on the senses.
For shoppers, Marrakech's souks offer a treasure trove of exceptional artistry while the restaurants are second to none. History buffs will find no shortage of inspiration while touring the city’s palaces and museums while those seeking adventure can embark on a day trip into the High Atlas or the Sahara Desert. Marrakech’s location makes it an ideal base for exploring the rich diversity of Morocco, from the sun and surf of the Atlantic coast to the traditional villages that dot the nearby palmeraie.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Marrakech, discover everything you need to know to experience this fascinating city to the fullest, from the best things to do and incredible riad stays to my top tour recommendations.
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BEST TOURS IN MARRAKECH
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Marrakech tour recommendations:
Things to do in Marrakech
Get your retail fix in Marrakech’s souks
When you step into the winding alleys of the Marrakech medina, you'll discover a world of vibrant markets and artisanal trades passed down through generations. Just off the bustling Place Ben Youssef, duck into the historic Fondouq Namas, a former camel caravanserai now brimming with colourful carpet stalls.
Wander through Place Rahba Kedima, where the air is rich with aromatic spices and spice blends. Listen to the hammering of coppersmiths in Souq Haddadine, the metalworkers' quarter before peering into the workshops of leatherworkers in Souq Cherratine. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow lanes between Souq el-Kebir and Souq Smata, lined with stalls draped in traditional Moroccan attire. If you follow Souq Lebbadine west, you’ll emerge amidst the dye-stained alleys of Souq Teinturiers, where textiles come to life in vibrant hues.
Marrakech’s exotic souks are not just a place to discover the enduring heritage of Moroccan craftsmanship but to pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home. For more inspiration, check out my Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Morocco.
Marrakech travel guide
Marvel at the Koutoubia Mosque
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.
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.
The Koutoubia Mosque represents one of the finest examples of Almohad architecture, with its intricate craftsmanship revealing the skilled artistry of its creators. On the mosque's northwest side, archaeological excavations reveal foundations from an even earlier structure that once stood there.
While the exterior of Koutoubia can be admired by all, non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself.
Looking for inspiring Marrakech accommodation? Check out my list of the Best Riads in Marrakech for an Unforgettable Stay.
Discover the Majorelle Gardens
This oasis of vibrant colours and textures was created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle, who found respite from illness in Marrakech. Lush palms sway over pathways that wind past whimsical cacti and vibrant ferns, all against the iconic “Majorelle blue” of his former studio-home.
Upon Majorelle's death, the property was purchased by fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent whose ashes were scattered here after his passing in 2008. Today, Majorelle's former studio serves as a museum honouring Amazigh crafts. Next door, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum celebrates the designer's groundbreaking career through rotating exhibitions.
Be awe-inspired by the Medersa Ben Youssef
Stepping inside the Medersa of Ben Youssef 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.
During a visit, you can wander through the intimate courtyards and warrens of tiny rooms where students once slept. Though the architecture is quintessentially Islamic in style, it's the main courtyard that will truly take your breath away. Exquisite zellige tiling in intricate geometric patterns covers the ground, while the walls feature stunning carved cedar wood and Kufic calligraphy.
The Medersa is a transcendent place - one of Morocco's most exquisite historic buildings and one of the best places to visit in Marrakech.
Marrakech travel guide
Stroll around Bahia Palace
With its elaborate zellige tilework and intricately painted ceilings, this 19th-century palace is 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.
The massive marble courtyard and sumptuous salons of the haram complex stand as the palace's main attractions. Yet the oasis-like courtyard at the heart of the grand riad, with its banana trees and citrus groves, offers a peaceful escape from the clamour of the city outside. As you wander through the palace's grand halls and intimate gardens, it's easy to imagine the luxurious lifestyle enjoyed by Moroccan nobility at the height of imperial power.
Visit the Saadian Tombs
For a glimpse into Marrakesh's fascinating history, enter the Saadian Tombs through the small alley entrance next to the Kasbah Mosque. This 16th-century necropolis is where 66 members of Morocco's Saadian dynasty were laid to rest and is a must for anyone interested in the country’s storied past. You can wander through the crumbling burial chambers, home to the remains of the eminent ruler Al-Mansour and his successors.
Though abandoned and hidden for centuries, the Saadian Tombs were uncovered in 1917, with excavations revealing several ornate mausoleums. One boasts a stunning mihrab prayer niche carved hundreds of years ago, making the Saadian Tombs an underrated place to visit in Marrakech.
Visit the Dar Si Said Museum
The elegant Dar Si Said palace, built by the Vizier of the same name, houses an impressive array of Moroccan treasures. Its rooms are filled with intricate silver jewellery, glowing oil lamps and delicate ceramics, together with embroidered leatherwork and fine marble carvings.
The palace also displays a dazzling array of Moroccan carpets and a remarkable collection of traditional door and window frames, highlighting the diverse architecture of the region. For those fascinated by the evolution of North African arts, it's a delightful place to explore for a few hours.
Nearby, within the Maison Tiskiwin, you'll discover a wonderful collection of costumes, weapons and instruments focused on the rich culture of the Sahara. Amassed by the Dutch historian Bert Flint, it's a must-see for understanding the traditions of this captivating desert region.
Explore the Marrakech Museum
Occupying a historic palace, the Marrakech Museum exhibits an eclectic collection spanning contemporary creations to ancient artefacts. Local ceramics, textiles and coins mingle with Qur'anic scripts and modern paintings, yet the real showstopper is the building itself.
Constructed as the residence of a Moroccan minister, the Mnebhi Palace later became home to the ruler of Marrakech. Gracefully blending North African and Portuguese elements, it centres around an opulent courtyard crowned by a lavish chandelier. This harmonious melding of art, artefacts and architecture makes the museum one of Marrakech’s top attractions.
Marrakech travel guide
Experience Djemaa El Fna once the sun goes down
The beating heart of Marrakech is Djemaa El Fna, which comes to life each evening. As the sun begins to set, this massive public square transforms into a vibrant stage for musicians, dancers and fortune-tellers.
Wander between the bustling stalls and you'll encounter everything from snake charmers to henna artists and acrobats, as well as an enticing choice of food offerings. The air fills with the sound of drums and pipe flutes as travellers gather to experience Moroccan culture and feast on iconic dishes.
Grab a spot at one of the many roof-top cafes ringing Djemaa El Fna and watch the lively scenes unfold below while sipping mint tea. Or venture into the square itself to enjoy freshly grilled meats, hearty harira soup and fried fish amidst the convivial atmosphere.
While it’s definitely touristy, spending an evening at Djemaa El Fna is an essential thing 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.
Centred around an interior courtyard, these traditional mansions offer an intimate glimpse into the city's history and culture. Once grand homes (many of which had fallen into disrepair), Marrakech’s riads have been lovingly restored into boutique hotels, blending modern amenities with old-world ambience.
Aside from enjoying a comfortable place to rest and a delicious breakfast each morning, a riad stay in Marrakech means lounging by a glittering patio pool or relaxing in a steamy hammam - a traditional Moroccan bathhouse for cleansing body and mind.
From palatial estates with museum-worthy decor to smaller hideaways with contemporary flair, Marrakech's riads encapsulate the romance and allure of the city. 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.
Best tours in Marrakech
Marrakech travel guide
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 and is well connected with an affordable airport shuttle running every 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can hail a yellow petite taxi on arrival for a private journey into the city.
By train
Marrakech has railway connections to most major Moroccan cities, with the national railway company ONCF operating daily trains to and from cities like Casablanca and Fes. The journey from Casablanca takes just 3 hours, while the picturesque trip from Fes takes 7.5 hours as the train winds its way through the Atlas Mountains.
By bus
Bus companies like CTM and Supratours connect Marrakech to cities across Morocco, including Casablanca, 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.
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 the best way to go. 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
Famed for its abundance of riads and luxury hotels, Marrakech is home to some of Morocco’s most incredible stays. With so many excellent choices in the city, deciding where to stay can feel overwhelming. 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 7 Sustainable Hotels in Marrakech.
Luxury places to stay in Marrakech
Mid-range places to stay in Marrakech
Affordable places to stay in Marrakech
Best time to visit Marrakech
If you want to dodge the scorching heat and avoid the massive crowds, 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, without large numbers of other tourists at the city’s major attractions.
In summer, temperatures are regularly in the high 30s but it can seem hotter due to the blazing sun. European visitors flock to the city in July and August, making this one of the busiest and most expensive times to visit Marrakech.
If you’re looking for a winter escape, February brings abundant sunshine with highs around 20°C - pleasant enough to explore the city sights comfortably. While it might not be warm enough to enjoy a dip in the swimming pool of your Marrakech riad, many hotels drop their rates during the cooler months.
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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