Top 45 things to do & see in Marrakech, Morocco

Top 45 things to do & see in Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is the main tourist destination in Morocco, a beautiful country. Located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, it offers a lot of monuments declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. You won’t be short of things to do in Marrakech: from getting lost in its souks to escaping to the desert. In this post, we tell you 45 things to do & see in Marrakech so you can enjoy it as it deserves. If you have enough days, we recommend you to take an excursion outside the city to get to know better the Moroccan landscapes and culture.

1. Getting lost in the Medina of Marrakech

The historic center of Marrakech was founded in 1070 by a nomadic population coming from the Sahara. During all these centuries, the Medina has been the economic center of the city, besides having real architectural wonders.

In the Medina you will find a thousand wonders if you wander aimlessly. In fact, it is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Just don’t get too busy and keep an eye on the traffic. If you want to be more relaxed and discover every corner of the Medina, you can book a guided tour in ingles.

2. Fall in love with the Jamaa el Fna Square, a must-see place in Marrakech.

The heart of Marrakech is in this square. It changes a lot to visit it during the day or at night, so we recommend you to go at least a couple of times. Before sunset it is much quieter, with juice stalls and street vendors. When night falls, crowds of people gather around speakers, various musicians provide a lot of atmosphere and a lot of street food stalls take over the center of the square.

It’s one of those places that you either love or hate, so taking a walk there is a must-do in Marrakech.

3. Be very careful with the animals around.

Unfortunately, there are not only food stalls and vendors in Jamâa el Fna square. You will also encounter many people who use monkeys, cobras or snakes to make a little money. They will try in every possible way to put the animals on you and make you like them so that you will take a picture with them. Be very careful because there is no control and a simple bite can cost you your life. Several “snake charmers” have died in Morocco victims of bites.

In addition, for taking a simple photo of the animal, they will ask you for money in return. They are beings that should be in freedom, so financing such a pitiful activity is something inadvisable to do in Marrakech.

We always travel insured with InterMundial. A travel insurance is as or more important than the plane ticket. This way we are covered with the best care for any unforeseen event. We offer you a 20% discount on all your travel insurance.

4. Have a drink at Café de France or Café Glacier and enjoy the view of the square, a wonderful thing to do in Marrakech.

The best way to see everything that happens in the Jamaa el Fna square at sunset is to go up to a terrace and have a drink. It is something very relaxing to do in Marrakech to end the day calmly. The most famous places are Café Glacier and Café de France. We tried both and we chose the first one, there is a wider view of the square and the terrace is bigger and nicer. We recommend going half an hour before sunset to get a good spot next to the railing.

5. Getting lost in the souks of the Medina, an unavoidable thing to do in Marrakech.

You will find carpets, cushions, lamps and real jewels of craftsmanship to decorate your home. There are also all kinds of leather products: belts, bags, backpacks and shoes. What do you want spices or argan oil? You won’t have a problem finding them either. Be patient and practice the art of bargaining to get a good price. They will always try to sell you the product for much more than it is worth.

6. Be amazed by the art Moroccans have to lure you to their restaurant.

When you walk through Jamaa el Fna at night you will be assaulted by a lot of guys trying to get you to try their street food stall. The first time you will hallucinate, then you will try to take another way or make a grumpy face so that they do not stop you because it is very overwhelming. You haven’t left one and there’s already another one telling you the same thing.

Of course, we must admit that they have a good repertoire of phrases to make you laugh: cheaper than Ryanair, better than in Mercadona, here you eat better than with Karlos Arguiñano and Arzak. Those are just some examples of what they told us

7. Photograph the Bab Agnaou gate

The wall has 19 entrance gates to the city, do not miss this one! It was built in the 12th century to give access to the royal kasbah. Of course, the current one is a reconstruction of 200 years ago, somewhat smaller than the original.

8. Locate the city walls

The old part of Marrakech is surrounded by a wall with a perimeter of more than 18 kilometers. Its characteristic reddish color of clay has been preserved since the twelfth century. It was built to protect the military camp and the markets that formed the city at that time.

We won’t tell you to walk the entire route of the wall, but there are some really beautiful and well-preserved sections. We especially liked the section that surrounds the Hivernage neighborhood, where the Casino of Marrakech and some luxury hotels are located.

9. Be perplexed by the beauty of the Kutubia Mosque.

Its tower can be seen from almost anywhere in Marrakech, as it is the tallest building in the city with more than 60 meters. In fact, it is forbidden for any construction to exceed its height. It was inaugurated in 1158 and occupies the territory of a previous mosque that was destroyed. If you want to see the third-largest mosque in the world, you will have to visit Casablanca.

Does it remind you of anything? It served as a model to build the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat. You can not enter, since access is for Muslims who want to pray. Even so, contemplating it from the outside is one of the most recommended things to do in Marrakech.

10. And take the best pictures from the gardens

Although they are not the most beautiful gardens in the world, we believe they are an essential stop to make in Marrakech. From there you have a great view of the Koutoubia. Along with the gardens, there are a couple of very nice fountains. Plus, it’s a great place to take a break from the sweltering Moroccan heat on a bench in the shade.

11. Discover Dar Cherifa, the oldest riad to see in Marrakech.

This 16th century riad will make you fall in love with its courtyard surrounded by columns. It has a decoration worthy of the best madrasa, so it is well worth a visit. Since 2000 it has been restored and converted into an art gallery with a literary cafe and restaurant. It is only open for lunch at noon.

12. Le Jardin Secret.

This is one of the quietest visits to do in Marrakech despite being in the heart of Medina. It is a complex with Islamic architecture of more than 400 years ago where you can breathe peace. The buildings of the Saadi dynasty were remodeled last century and are surrounded by a beautiful garden.

The entrance to the garden costs 50 dirhams (5 €) and climbing the tower costs an additional 30 dirhams (3 €).

13. Enjoy a hammam, a very relaxing thing to do in Marrakech.

With all the hustle and bustle in the Medina, something highly recommended to do in Marrakech is to relax in a hammam. It is a typical Arab bath that will leave your skin soft and your mind very clear. In addition, the prices are much cheaper than in Spain. We had a fantastic experience in Les Bains de Azahara, where in addition to the bath, exfoliation and body mask we were given a fabulous massage.

14. Soak up art at the Museum of Photography, a very interesting place to see in Marrakech.

Here you can see a collection of hundreds of photos, negatives and documents of Morocco from 1870 to 1950. There are real works of art. But it is not only worth it for the photos, the building itself is beautiful. It also has a terrace overlooking the Medina where you can have a drink.

The entrance costs 40 dirhams (4 €) and, if you keep it, you can enter as many times as you want. A very interesting stop to make in Marrakech if you like to see old photographs.

15. Visit the Museum of Marrakech

There are several traditional Moroccan objects on display, such as carpets, pottery, weapons or jewelry. All these objects may not attract your attention, but the building will not leave you indifferent. It is a former 19th century palace where a former defense minister lived. The entrance costs 30 dirhams (3 €).

16. And also the Almoravid Qoubba

Very close to the Madrasa and the museum of Marrakech is the only building of Almoravid architecture that remains in the city. The building was built in 1117 and belonged to a mosque that was destroyed. The dome was used for washing before prayers.

17. Photograph the beautiful Ben Youssef Madrasa, a must to do in Marrakech.

One of the most photogenic places to see in Marrakech is this ancient Koranic school which the found in the fourteenth century. It had the capacity for more than 800 students to memorize the Koran. But beyond its historical significance, the wood and tile decoration makes the madrasa a magical place.

Although we have to say that our favorite madrasa is in the imperial city of Meknes. It is an essential visit to do in Marrakech. We recommend visiting it early in the morning or at noon to be calmer, as it is usually full of visitors, the entrance costs 20 dirhams (2 €).

18. The smell of the Moroccan spices.

One of the most photographed products of the souks are the mountains of spices. In Rahba Kedima square you will not be short of varieties to choose from. They also smell great. If you like charming souks and you will visit more places in the country, you can not miss the magical blue streets of Chefchaouen.

19. Taste the traditional Moroccan food in a cool terrace.

An essential thing to do in Marrakech is to try typical Moroccan dishes. Moroccan food has a very good reputation, and rightly so! In almost any place they serve abundant and delicious portions. Do not leave without trying the cous cous, a tajine or the delicious sweets for dessert. If the views are great, you can’t ask for more. There are many restaurants with terraces from where you can see the rooftops of the medina.

20. Feel in another world in the Majorelle Garden, a wonderful place to see in Marrakech.

This oasis with more than 300 species of plants is beautiful. It was created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle but became known after the designer Yves Saint Laurent bought it to prevent a hotel from being built there. It is one of the most popular things to do in Marrakech, so expect to find plenty of people.

The entrance to the garden costs 70 dirhams (7€). You can also visit the Berber museum for an additional 30 dirhams (3€). There you can see the personal collection of typical objects of the country of Yves Saint Laurent.

21. Enter the store 33 Rue Majorelle

Next to the entrance of the Majorelle gardens there is a very cool store. You will find clothes, accessories and home decor items in Moroccan style. All products have a very elegant and modern design. Of course, do not expect prices according to Morocco, they are all quite expensive designer products by Moroccan standards. A good stop to make in Marrakech after visiting the Majorelle Garden.

22. Knowing Guéliz, the other Marrakech

The modern part of Marrakech seems a totally different city. The streets are wide, the houses are big and the stores are quite separate. It is by no means the most beautiful area, but a walk around there after seeing the Jardin Majorelle is something curious to do in Marrakech to see the other side of the city.

23. Marvel at the beauty of the train station of Marrakech.

Every corner of Marrakech is pure art, so its train station could not be less. Despite being a very new building, opened in 2008, it maintains the essence of traditional architecture.

24. And also with the Royal Theater

Just opposite the train station is the Teatro Real, another building that will not leave you indifferent. Do not think it is an old jewel, it is fairly new construction, from 1978. It is the work of architect Charles Boccara, who combined different materials typical of Moroccan buildings. You can enter for free, although you will always find guides willing to show you around in exchange for a few dirhams.

25. Visit the MACMA, the most beautiful of our things to do & see in Marrakech

In the most modern area of Marrakech you can visit this small museum. It has a collection of works related to the Arab world of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Most of them are by European painters who fell in love with Morocco and reflected it in their work. The entrance fee is 40 dirhams (4 €) and includes a guided tour.

26. Take a trip to the desert of Merzouga

If you have enough days, we highly recommend a two or three day tour to the desert. You will sleep there one night in a haima camp. Walking on the dunes at night gives an incredible feeling of peace and freedom. It is a once in a lifetime experience.

You can book this   3 days tour from marrakech to fes .  with English speaking guide that will allow you to discover the best of the area. If you prefer to finish in the beautiful city of Fez and gain in comfort, this excursion is the best option.

27. Watch a belly dance show while you have dinner

One of the nighttime experiences to do in Marrakech is to see a belly dance show with live music while you dine. The most famous places are Comptoir Darna and Jad Mahal. The dishes go for about 20 euros, not unreasonable considering the fabulous atmosphere of the dinner.

28. Relaxing in the Menara Gardens

Do not expect something like the Majorelle Garden, there are only olive and palm trees. They also have a pond with a rather nice palace. If you visit them on a clear day you can see the Atlas Mountains in the background, a picture that is worth it. These gardens are very close to Marrakech airport.

29. Imagine how beautiful the El Badi Palace, one of the main attractions to do & see in Marrakech, once was.

Although today only ruins remain, this was one of the most beautiful palaces in Morocco. It was built to commemorate the victory in a battle against the Portuguese in 1578. The area it occupies is huge, so it took 25 years to finish it.

According to the plans, experts say it was inspired by the Alhambra in Granada. Now there is nothing left of the luxurious materials that were useful in its 360 rooms, but just looking at its walls gives you an idea of the grandeur of the palace. The entrance fee is 10 dirhams (1€).

Thinking of going from Marrakech to Fez? There you will find the beautiful royal palace.

30. The Bay Palace.

Unlike the previous one, the Bay Palace is well preserved. It was built in the 19th century with the intention of being the largest palace of all time. It has a spectacular central courtyard around which are the rooms for the vizier and his concubines.

In addition, it is surrounded by 8,000 square meters of gardens. A highly recommended visit to do in Marrakech. The entrance costs 10 dirhams (1 €).

31. Stroll through the Place des Ferblantiers and contemplate the stores of tinplate objects.

Lamps, teapots, trays… You will find all kinds of tinplate preciousness in this charming square in the Kasbah. There are also some places to eat or have a drink. We found it a nice and quiet corner to see in Marrakech in the madness of the Medina.

32. Visit the Saadian tombs

Inside the Kasbah, you will find the complex where the Saadian dynasty is. There are two tastefully mausoleums, although you will also see tombs of the soldiers in the garden. Don’t leave without seeing the highlight, the room where Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur and his immediate family are. It is decorated with twelve marble columns and a spectacular carved wooden dome.

You can not access the enclosure, to see it you have to queue to look through a kind of window. The entrance costs 10 dirhams (1 €).

33. Visit the Jewish cemetery Miaara, something historical to see in Marrakech.

This cemetery was founded in the sixteenth century, to bury the Spanish Jews expelled in the fifteenth century. They came to Marrakech to sell salt, spices, and jewelry in the Mellah quarter. But you can see tombs from different periods, all in light tones. It is a very curious historical visit to do in Marrakech.

34. Go to the Patisserie des Princes, a very sweet stop to do in Marrakech.

An essential stop to do in Marrakech for those with a sweet tooth. They have pastries and cakes for all tastes, in addition to making good tea and coffee. It is very close to the Jamaa el Fna square, in a quiet place with WiFi. Do not be worry about the bees fluttering over the honey cakes, it’s all delicious!

35. See collections of African handicrafts at the Tiskiwin House.

The collection of North African art by a Dutchman in Marrakech will definitely amaze you. There are paintings as well as jewelry, carpets, and traditional costumes. In addition, when you enter it is better to hire a guide to understand the history and origin of all objects.

The entrance costs 20 dirhams (2 €).

36. Take some souvenir spices in the Aux 100,000 Epices store, one of the best things to do & see in Marrakech.

If you want to buy spices in a quieter place than the souks, this is your store. They have everything very well ordered and the decoration of the shop is beautiful. Not only do they sell spices, but they also create their own natural cosmetic products. You can buy soaps, shampoos, face creams and even perfumes.

37. The Dar Si Said Museum building.

If you are interested in the previous museum, another interesting visit to make in Marrakech is the Museum of Moroccan Arts. There you will find all kinds of garments, textiles, jewelry, weapons, and even carved doors. The building was the residence of a former war minister and, it is a charming place that houses real relics. The entrance fee is 10 dirhams (1 €).

38. Escape to the Palm grove, a must-do excursion in Marrakech

Just 10 minutes from the bustling center of Marrakech you will find a beautiful palm grove. There are more than 100,000 palm trees and it has now become a luxury area with golf courses and large hotels. You will be offered to ride a Camel rides in Morocco  for a nice picture, but the living conditions of the animals are not the best. Dozens of people are forced to ride them every day, with the wear and tear that this entails. For this reason, we advise against paying to contribute to this bad treatment.

You can get there by cab for about 50 dirhams (5 €) or hire an excursion with transport from your accommodation.

39. Strolling through the beautiful gardens of La Mamounia

It is the most famous luxury hotel to see in Marrakech and has some scandalous gardens. There are a couple of very nice cafes, decorated with typical tiles. You can access through the main door of the hotel, you will have to cross the spectacular hall (which smells wonderful) and you will reach the garden area. An oasis of peace.

40. Hike to the waterfalls of Ouzoud

Near Marrakech are the largest waterfalls in North Africa. You can walk around and it is even common to see monkeys in the area. If you go on a sweltering hot day you can even swim, although the water is quite cool. It takes about two hours to get there by car from the city and we recommend you to do it with a guide, otherwise they will try to accompany you.

41. Stay in a good riad

If you are like us and La Mamounia is out of your budget, don’t worry. There are plenty of charming accommodations in Marrakech. Both the common areas and the rooms have a very special atmosphere. We stayed at the Riad Rodamon, a real success in the middle of the medina.

42. Excursion to Essaouira, one of the best excursions to do in Marrakech.

200 kilometers from Marrakech is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Africa. Essaouira has such a spectacular medina that it was a World Heritage Site in 2001. In addition, you can taste excellent fresh fish dishes thanks to the fishing port they have. day trips

43. Climbing Mount Toubkal, a good plan to do in Marrakech for athletes

If you do not want to stop doing sports during your vacation, a few kilometers from Marrakech you can climb the highest peak in the country. The Toubkal measures 4,167 meters and there are many companies that organize expeditions to the top. It sounds strange for Morocco, but there you will see snow all year round.

The ascent takes about 9 hours. It is not particularly technical, but you should be in good shape to avoid problems due to the altitude. You can book a two or three day trekking tour.

44. Enjoy a good mint tea, a must do in Marrakech.

It is a must to do in Marrakech, whether you want to or not. Upon entering the riad or in some restaurants you will be offered mint tea. It is a ritual in Morocco and it is rude to refuse it. Once you drink the first glass you will be offered more and you will probably want more because it is delicious!

45. Be careful with the traffic in the streets of the Medina.

Last but not least, something essential to do in Marrakech is to be very careful with the traffic. All kinds of vehicles circulate in the streets of the Medina: motorcycles, bicycles, motorcycles with carts, donkeys and even cars. Especially motorcycles go at full speed, so keep your eyes peeled.

SUMMARY OF ALL THE THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN MARRAKECH