Welcome to Marrakech, a city that enchants visitors with a fascinating blend of history, culture, and adventure. This vibrant Moroccan metropolis offers a variety of activities and attractions that attract travelers from all over the world.
From the bustling souks to the majestic palaces, Marrakech is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and charm. Join us as we discover Marrakech, revealing the hidden gems, must-visit spots, rich heritage sites, and diverse activities.
It’s time to discover Marrakech like never before. Let’s jump in.
Here’s a quick overview:
Discover Marrakech By Exploring the Medina and the Souks
The heart of Marrakech is undoubtedly the medina, a maze of narrow streets, markets and historic buildings. Stroll through the labyrinthine souks to discover intricate craftsmanship, vibrant colors, and exotic scents. From handmade carpets to spices and traditional handicrafts, immerse yourself in commerce and culture.
The winding alleys of Marrakech’s medina are a true taste of the Orient.
Around the Djemaa el-Fna, the labyrinth of winding streets stretches through the old city of Marrakech. Take your time to explore the old town with its souks (markets), museums and palaces, and the Kasbah quarter and the Mellah, the Jewish quarter.
The farther you get from the main tourist attractions, such as the Place Djeema el Fna and the souks, the more authentic the shops and food stalls – and the cheaper the bargains from the haggling merchants.
This is where everyday life happens: Men in jellabas (long hooded robes), women in veils, and children playing in the predominantly pink-washed houses.
Most tourists limit their visits to the Place Djeema el Fna or get lost in the maze of the souks or in areas of the medina with beautiful “riads” where it is worth staying overnight. However, the medina is much bigger and more interesting since this is where the real lives of the locals take place.
The souks are north of the square, with thousands of small shops. At every corner, vendors try to persuade you to buy their wares – wickerwork, beautiful crockery, teapots, scarves, and bags, or the popular babouche shoes, leather poufs, carpets, and silver jewelry. Linger in the midst of life in this exotic world and watch the artisans forge, hammer, sew and carve.
Even if you don’t want to buy anything – which will be very difficult, because the “want to have” feeling leaves almost no one untouched here – it is practically a must for your visit to Marrakech to stroll through the old town in this intense and beautiful way and (inevitably) get lost in the maze of alleyways.
The souks in the medina are organized according to trades and goods. For example, there is the Babouches souk for leather slippers or the Souk du Forgé, where crafts such as blacksmithing are practiced. The carpet souk (Souk des Tappis) is also worth a visit. While the area around the square is dominated by tourist shops with correspondingly high prices, the markets further north usually offer slightly cheaper products.
Related: Bargaining Advice for Shopping in Marrakech and Morocco
Visit Historic Palaces and Gardens
Discover Marrakech’s history by visiting the beautiful palaces and gardens.
Related: Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Marrakech
Palaces in Marrakech
Marrakesh is rich in architectural masterpieces.
There are several palaces in the center of Marrakech, all of which can be visited except for the Royal Palace of Mohammed VI.
Bahia Palace
On the edge of the southern medina, near Mellah, is the Bahia Palace, the largest of these palaces. This vast complex was built by the Alaouites in the second half of the 19th century and is now one of the most beautiful sights in Marrakech.
The Bahia Palace, with its ornate courtyards and elegant gardens, transports visitors back to the splendor of yesteryear.
Allow an hour and a half for a detailed tour of the 8000m² Bahia Palace.
El Badi Palace
El Badi Palace was once Morocco’s largest and most magnificent palace complex. Only the foundation walls of the El Badi palace remain so not many remains of the splendor of the Saadian dynasty. But you can still get an idea of how impressive and large the Saadian mansion and this seat of power must have been.
El Badi is also home to another particularly rewarding destination.
Saadian tombs
For a long time, these magnificent tombs of the Saadian dynasty were walled up and forgotten. But since their rediscovery in 1917, they are among the most impressive structures in Marrakech. They are reminiscent of the Alhambra in Granada with their strange, subdued lighting effect. The beauty of Andalusian-Moorish craftsmanship can be admired in two beautiful mausoleums.
The necropolis, with its two magnificent mausoleums, is surrounded by a beautiful garden, perfect for a short break.
Jardin Majorelle
Another gem is the Jardin Majorelle, a botanical garden of vibrant blues once created by French artist Jacques Majorelle and now an oasis of tranquility in the city’s heart.
The beautiful garden in the Guéliz district, created in 1923 by the French painter Jacques Majorelle, is today one of Morocco’s most popular tourist attractions. More than 600,000 visitors flock here every year. The garden is best known for its unique cobalt blue color, named after its founder.
Plants from all five continents thrive in the Jardin Majorelle, including many impressive cacti that rise like trees from the Garden of Eden. As you enter the gardens, you will immediately notice the birdsong and realize how few birds you have heard in Marrakech. The sound of running water and the pleasant humidity invite you to sit down on one of the integrated benches and enjoy the shade.
But before you take a seat, be sure to follow the beautifully landscaped paths, which are covered with a charming reddish rug that contrasts beautifully with the omnipresent Majorelle blue and the green of the many plants.
At the heart of the garden is a splashing fountain with an intricately decorated basin where water turtles live patiently, gliding through the cool water. A two-story Moroccan pavilion with Art Deco elements provides pleasant shade and glows in the fascinating majorelle blue. Together with the more than 300 species of plants, the yellow tubs and the reddish paths, the pavilion is a living painting.
The Jardin Majorelle also houses a small museum exhibiting Islamic works of art, folklore artifacts and paintings by Jacques Majorelle.
Menara Palace
The Menara Gardens are located about 3 km outside the city walls of Marrakech and cover an area of about 100 hectares. This artificial oasis was created by the Almohad ruler Abd al-Mu’min in the 12th century.
Today, 40 different varieties of olives still grow in this beautiful and idyllic city park. On your way to the Menara Gardens, you will cross the rather barren Moroccan countryside, which makes the lush green surroundings of the park all the more vibrant.
The Menara Gardens are open to the public and free of charge. Especially on weekends, it is a popular retreat for locals who seek refuge from the African sun in the pools of water and under shady trees. In addition to local families, you will often encounter guided tourist groups who want to take a closer look at the flora of the Menara Gardens. However, you should know that there is a greater variety of plants in the Agdal Gardens.
In the center of the Menara Gardens is a huge lake-sized pool surrounded by fruit and olive groves and a low stone wall with a small pavilion as an opening. This pavilion is called “Menara,” and although it is well preserved, it is no longer in use.
Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is a feast for the senses, and Marrakech is the perfect place to explore it. Try the delicious tajine dishes, sample the fresh fruit in the markets, or enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast of fresh mint tea and sweet pastries.
If you plan a trip to this magical place, remember these authentic dishes. They are probably the best options and will delight you culinary-wise.
Tajine
The tagine is a traditional dish named after the vessel in which it is cooked and served – a clay pot that is part of the gastronomic tradition of North Africa. It consists of delicious vegetables, usually chicken or meat, and spices such as turmeric, cumin, or paprika. The exact ingredients can vary. In some places, variations of this dish include lemon chicken or veal with dried plums.
Koftas
If you like meatballs, don’t miss koftas. This specialty is prepared with the typical spices of the region and served either as a burger, kebab or with vegetables. You can find them almost everywhere at street stalls.
Couscous
Of course, couscous should not go unmentioned. As we all know, it is a wheat semolina dish that can be served with almost anything: meat, nuts, spices.
A trip to Marrakech would be incomplete without tasting real couscous!
Harira soup
For soup lovers, harira is a good choice; this traditional regional soup contains meat, tomatoes and lentils. It is often served with dates or figs.
Mechoui
On the other hand, mechoui is another typical local dish; this recipe is a whole grilled leg of lamb served with harissa sauce and can be accompanied by couscous, almonds or prunes.
Moroccan Mint Tea
Moroccan mint tea, also known as “Berber whisky” or “Maghreb mint tea“, is an important part of Moroccan culture. It is drunk on various occasions and at any time of the day, including welcoming guests, weddings, births, funerals, and communal meals.
In Morocco, it is common to drink tea 20 to 30 times a day. It is considered rude to refuse a cup of tea and is a cultural taboo in Morocco.
Preparing a cup of tea is not just a matter of hot water and mint leaves – it is a ceremonial art passed down from generation to generation.
Every cup of Moroccan tea contains three main ingredients: Gunpowder black tea leaves, sugar and mint.
Dinner in the Sky: An Unforgettable Culinary Experience
One highlight that makes a visit to Marrakech even more memorable is Dinner in the Sky. This extraordinary experience lifts guests to dizzying heights above the city while they enjoy an exquisite meal.
This spectacular experience offers breathtaking views of the city and combines luxurious dining with the thrill of a lifetime.
High above the golf course and at a dizzying height, you will have the opportunity to enjoy not only delicious food, but also breathtaking panoramic views of Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains. As you soar above the clouds in an exclusive restaurant, the culinary team will introduce you to the region’s unique flavors.
Related: Where to Experience the Best Golfing in Marrakech
Exciting Activities Outside the City
For the adventurous, Marrakech also offers excursions outside the city. Go on a camel safari through the desert, visit the majestic Atlas Mountains, or explore the traditional Berber villages in the area.
Camel ride
The palm groves on the outskirts of Marrakech are just a short distance away and offer a pleasant change from the city’s bustling streets. You can explore them on a two-hour camel ride, during which you will be served the popular Moroccan mint tea.
A camel ride through the nearby palm groves is an unforgettable experience for you and your family. You will follow the paths of the locals and discover the desert landscape, palm groves and traditional Berber villages. The gentle giants will carry you effortlessly and your experienced camel guide will be with you every step of the way. At the halfway point, you can take a short break and enjoy a refreshing sip of mint tea.
At the end of this trip, you will not only have gotten to know the individual personalities of the camels but also have ticked off an activity that is a must-do in Morocco. Finally, you will return to your hotel or riad in Marrakech.
Berber Village Aït-Ben-Haddou
This village is a charming adobe town. It is located at the foot of the High Atlas in the southeast of Morocco, about 200 km from Marrakech.
In this old caravan town on the edge of the High Atlas, you will experience the hospitality of the Berbers. The “free people” have lived here for many generations; the fortified Ksar was already known in the 11th century as an important stop on the trade route between Timbuktu and Marrakech.
The settlement, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, consists of interlocking residential towers (“tighremts”) with elaborate decorations. The building material is rammed earth, which is well preserved in the dry climate at an altitude of about 1300 meters.
Fun fact: the ancestral home of the Ben Haddou Berber clan has served as a filming location for Hollywood movies and series such as “Game of Thrones” more than twenty times since the 1960s.
Atlas Mountains
Marrakech is the closest city to the center of the High Atlas. About 65 km away is the heart of the mountains, from where it is easy to reach the towns and villages of the Atlas.
As a tourist, you can rent a car and drive into the mountains yourself with the help of a navigation system.
The route from Marrakech is easy to navigate, with straight and direct roads taking you from the city center to the distant ridge. The many twists and turns from the plains to the hills to the mountains can be a little daunting for first-time visitors.
Alternatively, you can relax in the back of a taxi or take a shared taxi, which only costs about 6 euros and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
A popular destination for tourists is the village of Imlil – an ideal starting point for exploring the Atlas Mountains near Marrakech. There are a variety of activities in the mountains, so it is worth spending several days there. However, you can book a day trip if you are pressed for time.
In the surrounding villages, you can discover old traditions and experience an authentic culture that has existed for a long time. The region is also rich in flora and fauna, a unique feature of North Africa.
Unwind in Luxurious Riads and spas
Accommodations in Marrakech are unparalleled, from luxurious riads in the medina to world-class resorts on the city’s outskirts. Pamper yourself with traditional Moroccan hammam and relaxing massages at the city’s exquisite spas.
Plants grow along the mosaic-decorated walls, a small fountain splashes, and the sweet smell of tea fills the warm air. Behind the thick, high walls of Marrakech’s medina are countless riads to discover.
Most riads are small by design, with only a few rooms. Everything is very intimate and private. For this very reason, we would always prefer a riad to a large hotel complex in Marrakech.
As soon as you step through the unassuming gate of a riad, you leave the hustle and bustle of the souks behind and immerse yourself in the traditional life of the Moroccans. Silence reigns in the courtyards, and the noise from the streets outside rarely reaches here.
From the roof terraces, you can enjoy a sweeping view of the city’s rooftops, with the outline of the Atlas Mountains on the horizon.
In the evening, when the sun bathes everything in a golden light, the warm desert air becomes palpable and the muezzin’s call to prayer reaches you, then you have undoubtedly arrived in the “Orient”.
Ready To Discover Marrakech?
Marrakesh is a city that enchants with its diversity and cultural richness. With a mix of history, adventure and culinary delights, this city offers endless possibilities to captivate every visitor.
The numerous activities and attractions make Marrakech an unforgettable destination for anyone who wants to discover new horizons.
