Best places to visit in Marrakech: The ancient and enchanting city of Marrakech, known for its palaces, mosques, markets and gardens.
Marrakech’s Medina, like the Red City, offers chaotic alleys and vibrant souks that promise unforgettable experiences.
Marrakech, Morocco’s most visited city, sees significant tourist traffic, especially during peak times like rush hour in popular places like the souk.
To fully appreciate its charm, we recommend planning your days wisely during your stay in the city.
Avoid visiting during the scorching summer months of July and August, when temperatures can soar to 40 degrees Celsius.
If you’re a first-time visitor, plan to stay at least two days in Marrakech.
Consider day trips to the seaside resort of Essaouira or experiencing stargazing in the deserts of Zagora or Merzouga if you have the time.
Our five-day exploration of Marrakech and Essaouira, documented in our Marrakech tour, guided us to select fifteen essential sites every visitor to the city should experience. Let’s begin!
Jamaa el Fna Square
Jamaa el Fna Square is the heart of Marrakech, where all paths through the old Medina either start or end.
It exudes a special charm that invites exploration at various times of the day, undergoing constant transformations.
In the morning, encounter animals, snake charmers, water sellers, and vendors offering fresh orange juice.at night, experience bustling food stalls.
For the best views of the square’s lively transformation and activities, visit the terraces of Café Glacier or the quieter Café de France. Enjoy mint tea while waiting for nightfall.
Consider booking either a highly-rated free tour or a private tour with customizable itineraries.
Fluent Spanish or English-speaking guides lead both options, offering an unforgettable introduction to the Medina and Jamaa el Fna Square.
Medersa Ben Youssef
A visit to Medersa Ben Youssef, the largest Islamic school in Morocco, is one of the top things to do in Marrakech.
Built in the 14th century, this ancient school instantly captivates upon entering its central courtyard, dominated by an impressive iron lamp.
Take in the intricate zellige tile work, cedar wood, stucco, and marble panels adorning the walls, as well as the arches and tile-decorated walls.
At its peak, the medersa housed 800 students who memorized the Quran in its 130 spartan cells, a tradition that continued until its closure in 1960. Today, it remains one of the most significant places to visit in Marrakech.
A short distance from this medersa stands the Qubba Barudiyine, the only surviving example of Almoravid art in Marrakech.
Saadian Tombs
Finding the Saadian tombs within the Medina, one of our favorite places to visit in Marrakech, can be a bit challenging. These tombs, dating from the 16th century, remained undiscovered until 1917.
To get there, navigate a narrow passage on the right side of Moulay El Yazid mosque, near the grand Bab Agnaou gate.
Once inside the funerary complex, be sure to visit the mausoleum of the Hall of Twelve Columns. It features twelve white marble columns supporting an intricately carved cedar wood dome, a true marvel to behold.
Adjacent are the Hall of the Three Niches and the Hall of Mirhab, smaller yet still worth exploring.
These halls house members of the Saadian Dynasty, while the gardens contain over 100 tombs of servants and soldiers adorned with mosaics.
The Souk is one of Marrakech’s best places to visit.(Best places to visit in Marrakech)
Before entering the souk, understand that getting lost, haggling, shopping, and even a little frustration are all part of the experience.
These moments also make for some of the best travel tips for Marrakech.
Located in the heart of the Medina, accessed from the north side of Jamaa el Fna Square.
the souk is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with shops and occasional food stalls—a haven for avid shoppers. from traditional metal lanterns, slippers, djellabas, tea sets, spices, and dried fruits to clothing.
Artisans specializing in similar crafts tend to cluster together, making it easier for visitors to find what they desire.
One standout is the dyers’ souk, where sun-dried colored wool captivates passersby.
Other notable souks worth exploring include the henna souk for cosmetic items, Kissaria Serrajine for silk, cotton, and slippers.
Also there are Tillis souk for carpets, Es-Seffarine souk for cauldrons, and Nejjarine souk for wooden items.
Don’t fall for guided tours of the souks, which often lead to overpriced purchases at specific shops.
Instead, explore on foot, allowing yourself to wander and absorb the experience. Despite occasional overwhelm, visiting the souks remains a quintessential Marrakech experience.
Riads of Marrakech(Best places to visit in Marrakech)
Riads in Marrakech are small, historic Arab palaces converted into hotels with beautiful inner courtyards.
These buildings are our preferred places to stay in Marrakech’s Medina.
offering courtyard fountains, fragrant plant scents, and rooftop vistas while enjoying mint tea. Experience Arab hospitality, traditional breakfasts, and the serenity of a few rooms—all contributing to unforgettable memories.
During our initial visit, we stayed at Riad Assalam, a tranquil haven that surpassed our expectations.
Whether you’re staying here or not, you can dine at Dar Cherifa or visit Casa Tiskiwin, an erstwhile riad turned museum.
Note that finding your riad in the labyrinthine Medina can be challenging, but locals are often willing to guide for a small tip.
Some riads are excellent for sampling local specialties like couscous, pastries, and delicious tagines. Recommended dining spots include Bazaar Café, Cafe Babouche, and Nomad, all located in prime Marrakech locales.
Majorelle Gardens
The Majorelle Gardens, located outside the Medina, rank among Marrakech’s most exquisite and essential destinations.
French artist Jacques Majorelle originally designed the gardens, which fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent purchased in 1980.
They now serve as a serene oasis, providing respite from Marrakech’s bustling atmosphere amidst shaded tree canopies.
Featuring a diverse array of plant species from around the world. including cacti, bamboo, aquatic plants, coconut, and banana trees, the gardens captivate visitors with their natural allure.
Fountains, ponds, and striking blue-hued buildings further enhance the tranquil ambiance, making it a highly frequented spot.
Taxis offer convenient access, allowing visitors to walk back leisurely from the center, providing a comprehensive experience.
Marrakech Wall
A formidable 15-kilometer wall, a notable Marrakech landmark, encloses the Medina, separating its oldest section from newer neighborhoods. Constructed from clay and adobe, the monumental walls stand approximately 10 meters tall.
Particularly noteworthy is Bab Agnaou Gate, dating from the 12th century, adorned with bas-reliefs and green stone from Gueliz.
Walking along a significant portion of this wall reveals other interesting gates, such as Bab el Robb, Bab Doukkala, Bab el Debbagh, Bab el Jadid, and Bab el Khemis.
Koutoubia Mosque
Because of its long association with the manuscript trade, the Koutoubia Mosque has earned the nickname “booksellers’ minaret.”It stands tall and proud on the skyline of Marrakech.
Its towering 66-meter minaret is among the largest in the Arab world, and it is an important mosque to visit in Marrakech.
It situated near Jamaa el-Fna Square, provides picturesque views from numerous restaurant terraces and surrounding riads.
These viewpoints provide ideal settings for capturing stunning photos of the Medina with the prominent minaret in the background.
The mosque, like other mosques in the city, prohibits non-Muslims from entering. However, observing the ambiance around the mosque during calls to prayer offers a memorable experience.
Bahia Palace
Designed in the late 19th century as one of the world’s most spectacular palaces, the Bahia Palace is a must-visit in Marrakech.
This collection of buildings and gardens, crafted in Moorish style, spans 8 hectares. The harem, with a central courtyard pond surrounded by concubine quarters, is a notable feature.
Although it is a bit of a walk from Jamaa el Fna Square (approximately 20 minutes).
the palace, though somewhat empty and devoid of valuables, merits a visit for its intricate wall decorations, wooden doors, and ceilings.
The Dar Si Said Museum: A Place to Visit in Marrakech
Marrakech’s oldest museum, housed in a 19th-century palace adjacent to Bahia Palace, boasts the city’s most extensive collection.
Spanning two floors, it features beautifully adorned inner patios exhibiting diverse handicrafts, traditional attire, copperware, weaponry, Berber jewelry, and furnishings.
During our initial visit, we explored the Museum of Marrakech, another notable venue. Even a brief visit offers a glimpse into its charming courtyard with three fountains and preserved wall mosaics.
Palm Grove
For adrenaline seekers or those seeking escape from Marrakech’s bustle, we recommend a taxi ride to the Palmeraie area.
This area, covering over 6,000 hectares with more than 100,000 palm trees, is perfect for camel rides or exploring desert landscapes and traditional villages by quad or buggy.
Badi Palace
Another fascinating Marrakech attraction is the Badi Palace.which Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour constructed in the late 16th century to celebrate the triumph against. the Portuguese in the Battle of the Three Kings.
Despite once boasting over 300 rooms and numerous opulent halls adorned with lavish materials, it has since fallen into disrepair and looting, remaining in the dilapidated state seen today.
Still, one may get a sense of the palace’s majesty just by visiting.take in breathtaking views of Marrakech from atop walls brimming with stork nests, and marvel at a spacious courtyard including a pond.
Menara Gardens
Situated at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, the Menara Gardens offer a romantic retreat in Marrakech, particularly at sunset.
Alongside stunning Atlas Mountain vistas, these gardens feature a grand artificial reservoir irrigating adjacent orchards and olive groves.
Dominating the landscape is the Menara Pavilion, capped with a small green pyramid, lending the gardens their name.
Taxis provide the most convenient access to these gardens, located 2 kilometers from the city center, with fares typically around 10 dirhams.
Relaxation in a Hammam
To conclude our list of Marrakech’s most intriguing places to visit, indulge in a soothing bath and invigorating massage at a hammam.
These historic Arab baths were once exclusive to Marrakech’s elite before opening to the public and tourists.
Please note that popular hammams typically charge around 10 dirhams. Instruct visitors to procure their own bath necessities, such as a kessa glove, black soap, flip-flops, and towels. Additionally, facilities are segregated by gender.
Locations like Rosa Bonheur are great options for anyone looking to cater to tourists.
Spa Click or Les Bains de Marrakech, both of which give all you could possibly need. It is highly recommended that you use their websites to make bookings.
Where to stay in Marrakech(Best places to visit in Marrakech)?
Our recommended accommodation in Marrakech is Riad Assalam, a 10-minute walk from Djemma el Fna Square.
In addition to its central location, this riad offers a delightful breakfast each morning, friendly staff, and multiple terraces with excellent city views.
Other well-located riads within the Medina offering exceptional value include Riad Samsli and Riad Dar Nakous.
For more information on top hotels and neighborhoods, we suggest referring to our guide on where to stay in Marrakech.
Marrakech Itineraries
To ensure you don’t miss any of Marrakech’s highlights, follow these customized guides based on your available time:
You can visit Marrakech in one day, two days, or three days.
For the quickest and most comfortable route to the city, consult our guide on traveling from Marrakech Airport to the city center.
Excursions from Marrakech
If you have more days in the city. we advise you to discover some of the wonders to visit in Morocco such as the deserts of Merzouga and Zagora, Essaouira, or the Ouzoud Waterfalls.
Among the best excursions from Marrakech with a guide in Spanish you have:
2 days excursion to the Zagora desert
Excursion to the Ouzoud Waterfalls
For more information, about trip to Morocco countct us!
