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Marrakesh, Morocco

The magical charms of marrakesh.

A vibrant city filled with mesmerizing sights, bustling markets, and a rich blend of cultures. Situated in the heart of Morocco, Marrakesh is a city that captures the imagination with its intoxicating blend of history, architecture, and exotic ambiance. Join us on a virtual journey as we explore the enchanting streets, discover hidden treasures, and immerse ourselves in the vibrant colors and flavors of Marrakesh.

• The Medina: A Maze of Intrigue Step into the heart of Marrakesh’s old town, the Medina, and prepare to be transported back in time. The Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its labyrinthine alleyways, vibrant souks (markets), and stunning architectural wonders. Lose yourself in the vibrant chaos of Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, where snake charmers, food stalls, and storytellers create an electrifying atmosphere. Be sure to visit the Koutoubia Mosque, a symbol of the city, and explore the hidden riads (traditional courtyard houses) tucked away amidst the bustling streets.
• Majestic Palaces and Gardens Marrakesh boasts several magnificent palaces and gardens that offer a serene respite from the city’s vibrant energy. The Bahia Palace, with its stunning architecture and tranquil courtyards, showcases the opulence of Moroccan craftsmanship. The Saadian Tombs, discovered only in 1917, reveal the grandeur of the Saadian dynasty. For nature lovers, the Majorelle Garden, designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle, is a delightful oasis of exotic plants, vibrant blue buildings, and a small museum dedicated to Berber culture.
• The Richness of Moroccan Cuisine No visit to Marrakesh is complete without indulging in the tantalizing flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Dive into the world of aromatic spices, tagines, and traditional Moroccan tea. Explore the local food stalls in the Medina and sample delicacies such as couscous, pastilla (a savory pastry), and harira (a hearty soup). Don’t miss the opportunity to visit a traditional Moroccan cooking class and learn the secrets behind the delectable dishes.
• Hammams and Relaxation To truly immerse yourself in Moroccan culture, pamper yourself with a visit to a local hammam (traditional bathhouse). Relax and rejuvenate as you indulge in a traditional bathing ritual that includes steam, exfoliation, and a massage. Hammams provide an authentic experience that leaves you refreshed and revitalized.
• Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by embarking on a day trip to the Atlas Mountains, which provide a breathtaking backdrop to Marrakesh. Explore the stunning Ourika Valley, hike to cascading waterfalls, or visit traditional Berber villages perched on the mountainside. Experience the warm hospitality of the locals, savor traditional mint tea, and marvel at the awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Marrakesh is a city that awakens the senses, captivates the soul, and leaves an indelible mark on every visitor. From its enchanting Medina to its opulent palaces, from the tantalizing flavors of Moroccan cuisine to the tranquility of its gardens, Marrakesh offers a truly unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, and get ready to create cherished memories in this magical city that will last a lifetime. Marrakesh is waiting to be discovered!

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Home » Africa » Marrakech

INSIDER MARRAKECH ITINERARY for 2024

Marrakech is a destination like no other! This vibrant city is an explosion of the senses, with things to see, touch, smell, and hear wherever you go. It is an essential part of any trip to Morocco, as this city has so much to offer its visitors. Our Marrakech itinerary will show you just what.

As you walk down the busy streets of Marrakech, you will  be inspired by the colorful walls, decorated doors, pristine piles of spices, the busy shops and the unique Moroccan charm found wherever you go. Read on to discover our ultimate Marrakech itinerary guide. You’ll undoubtedly fall in love with this magnificent destination.

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Best Time To Visit Marrakech

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There is certainly no bad time to visit Morocco, as the weather here is pleasant all year round. However, there are definitely ideal seasons that will make your weekend in Marrakech as enjoyable as possible.

The best time to travel to Marrakech would have to be during the shoulder seasons. This would be from March to May, and September to November. These seasons provide the most desirable weather conditions – sunny skies with moderate temperatures. Not only this, but the city is more affordable during these periods, with accommodation prices often dropping a little. 

Be aware that the summer months here can be scorching hot! If you don’t deal well with the heat, then consider visiting during winter. While Morocco’s warmth and sunny skies may seem appealing, the summer heat can get a little bit unbearable. While the winter months have great weather, the city also fills up with tourists over this period. 

Wondering when to visit Marrakech? Take a look at our detailed weather guide below. 

Choosing the best place to stay in Marrakech can be difficult. This vibrant city is split into two different sections – Medina (the historic part) and the European District (the new town). The different areas in Marrakech are all unique, giving you many different places to experience during your Marrakech itinerary. 

The most popular and possibly best choice of areas to stay in Marrakech would be Medina. This is the heart of old-world Marrakech, with all kinds of charming winding streets, alleys, and points of interest. There are many great accommodation choices in this part of the city, and it is the ideal base for exploring the rest of Marrakech, as everything is within easy reach! 

If you would like to stay somewhere a little bit less visited by tourists, then Gueliz is a great area. Gueliz is part of the more modern European District and is a super trendy hub of shops, restaurants, and nightlife hotspots. If you would like to experience the modern side of Morocco, then this is the place to be. 

Now that you know where to stay, its time to choose your accommodation! Here are some of the best accommodation options for your Marrakech itinerary. 

Best Hostel in Marrakech – Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel

• Has an authentic Moroccan feel to it
• Central location
• Awesome rooftop terrace

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel is the ultimate place to stay in this city! With an ideal Medina location, clean modern facilities and comfortable rooms, everything you need is right here! The rooftop terrace, bar, and pool make this a really fun place to stay!

For more cool hostel options, check out our Best Hostels in Marrakech guide!

Best Airbnb in Marrakech – Beautiful home with a lot of space

Riad Barbmar is a renovated traditional Moroccan riad in the Marrakech Medina. A riad is a type of traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. It accommodates up to eight guests in four bedrooms. Regardless of whether you are 1 traveller or a group of 2-8 people, you will have the private use of the entire house and will not share with other guests. The indoor pool is perfect for cooling off after sightseeing. The third floor roof terrace is a great space for socialising with family and friends. The upper terrace on the fourth floor is shaded and ideal for outdoor meals. From there you look over the entire Medina.

Best Budget Hotel in Marrakech – Hotel & Spa Riad El Walaa

• Excellent location
• Fantastic facilities
• A beautiful outdoor terrace

Hotel & Spa Riad El Walaa is a brilliant accommodation choice for your trip to Marrakech. This place offers affordable luxury, with amazing rooms, thoughtful facilities, and a top location in the heart of Marrakech. Enjoy the authentic Moroccan decor, the stunning outdoor terrace, and the relaxing spa. 

Best Luxury Hotel in Marrakech – Four Seasons Resort Marrakech

• Luxurious rooms and facilities
• Loads of thoughtful touches
• An amazing pool area

For the absolute best that Marrakech has to offer, consider checking into the Four Seasons Resort here. This place has world-class modern facilities, well-equipped rooms, and all kinds of thoughtful touches across the hotel. The service is excellent, and the pool is a great place to relax!

Before you start to plan your itinerary for Marrakech, it is important to know how to get around this awesome city. When you are in the medina old town, walking around is one of the best things to do in Marrakech . This way you get to see and experience all the magic that this city has to offer. However, walking around here can also be pretty intimidating and confusing at times. 

In terms of public transport taxis, are your best options. Taxis are easy to catch and will take you wherever you want to go without any stress. They are also very cheap – just be sure to agree on a price before you get in! The bus network in Marrakech is also pretty good, allowing you to travel all over the different parts of the city but it can be slow and can get hot. 

It’s time to start planning your trip! Here are some of the best things to include in your Marrakech itinerary. 

Jemaa el-Fnaa | Koutoubia Mosque | Hammam | Saadian Tombs | Marrakech Museum | Souk | Bahia Palace

Your 2 days in Marrakech will start off with some of the top sights and landmarks in the city. This first day will show you some of the most iconic Moroccan points of interest and cultural attractions. Here is what to do in Marrakech on your first day.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Jemaa el-Fnaa

• Why it’s awesome: The main central hub of Marrakech
• Cost: Free to explore
• Food recommendation: There are all kinds of delicious local foods on offer at the stalls here. Grab a fresh orange juice in the morning, a delicious lamb dish at night, or even some boiled snails if you are feeling adventurous!

Jemaa el-Fnaa is an essential addition to any Marrakech itinerary! When in the city, you just have to wander through this central hub in order to really experience the place properly. This is one of the top Marrakech points of interest due to its bustling walkways and truly Moroccan atmosphere. 

Take a walk through here and take in all of the stalls and entertainers around you. You will pass snake charmers, henna tattoo artists, huge piles of spices, dates, olives, and more! As this square is the heart of Marrakech, it is always busy no matter what time you visit! 

This is a brilliant place to try some delicious local foods, buy something to take home or to just soak up the unique culture in this city. No Marrakech itinerary would be complete without a trip to Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Insiders tip: This square can get very busy and a little overwhelming, so visit early to avoid crowds. 

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Koutoubia Mosque

• Why it’s awesome: The largest mosque in Marrakech
• Food recommendation: Cafe Kif Kif is located nearby the Koutoubia Mosque, offering the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or a pot of local mint tea. The menu boasts some of the best Moroccan classics. This is a great setting to try some of the best local food in Marrakech. 

Mosques play a huge role throughout Marrakech and these buildings have great historical and spiritual importance to the locals. Not only this, but they also offer some of the best architectural points of interest in the city. 

During your Marrakech itinerary, be sure to visit the Koutoubia Mosque – the largest in the city! This stunning 12th-century mosque is a marvel to look at, being an iconic structure in the city. 

Visit during the call to prayer to take in one of the most important sites in the city. It is important to understand and appreciate the various mosques here during your Marrakech itinerary, as this will give you a stronger understanding of the city. 

Insider tip: The call to prayer occurs five times a day from the top of the minaret. This is great to experience up close. 

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Experience a Hammam

• Why it’s awesome: Traditional local bathhouses found throughout the city
• Cost: Entry to local hammams usually costs around USD $4, while different treatments and establishments differ in price
• Food recommendation: Patisserie Anjar is located near the popular Hammam Ziani, offering the perfect place to grab a treat after your relaxing experience. Choose between many local delicacies, teas and sweet treats at the authentic patisserie. 

When in Morocco, treating yourself to a relaxing hammam experience is a must. Hammams are local bathhouses/spas that are found throughout the city. These are popular attractions for locals and tourists and they will be sure to leave you relaxed, clean, and glowing.

Enjoy a massage, a steam in the sauna, or a dip in the different thermal pools. This is such a great way to escape the frenzy of the busy city and enjoy a peaceful, quiet moment relaxing inside. You can choose between busy local hammams and secluded private hammams.

Some of the most popular hammams in Marrakech include Hammam Ziani, Hammam De La Rose, Hammam-e Sultan Mir, Les Bains de Marrakech Morocco, and Hammam Mouassine. A treatment at a hammam is an essential addition to your Marrakech itinerary! 

Insider Tip: Consider booking a private hammam experience if public nudity is not your thing

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Saadian Tombs

• Why it’s awesome: Historic tombs for many important rulers of the Saadi Dynasty
• Cost: USD $1
• Food recommendation: Dar Cherifa is the ideal place to grab an authentic Moroccan meal nearby these tombs. You must try the tagine and Moroccan couscous in this Marrakech gem. 

The Saadian Tombs are one of the most popular Marrakech landmarks, offering visitors a great historical place of interest. These tombs are where many of the most important rulers and members of the Saadi Dynasty are buried. The tombs were rediscovered in 1917 after they had been sealed for centuries! 

The Saadian Tombs are beautifully decorated with colorful tiles, carvings, and Arabic calligraphy. This is a wonderful site to explore, as you will learn all about the rich history of the area as you witness some stunning decorated tombs. 

If you love history and want to learn more about this ancient city, then a visit to the Saadian Tombs should be an essential addition to your Marrakech itinerary. 

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Marrakech Museum

• Why it’s awesome: An amazing art museum in the center of Marrakech
• Cost: USD $4
• Food recommendation: Le Trou au Mur is an excellent restaurant near the museum. With a stylish interior and delicious cuisine, this is a fantastic place for a sightseeing break!

Marrakech boasts many brilliant museums, with the Marrakech Museum being one of the best! This is an art museum located in the heart of the city. Expect to see loads of modern and traditional Moroccan art, as well as many other interesting displays. 

While the museum is a fascinating place to visit with all its exhibitions, the building itself is definitely worth adding to your Marrakech itinerary! Housed in a 19th-century palace, this is a grand building to explore. 

Admire the magnificent Moroccan architecture and details throughout this museum. Soak up art, history, and culture as well! This is one of the best Marrakech attractions for those wanting to discover more about the city and its interesting past. 

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Old Town Souk

• Why it’s awesome: The old town trading hub offers the most authentic Moroccan market experience
• Cost: Free to browse
• Food recommendation: Terrace des Epices is the perfect place to grab something to eat between shopping in the busy souks. This rooftop terrace provides a peaceful escape from the busy streets below, with some fantastic food options!

Exploring the bustling souks of Medina is an essential addition to any Marrakech itinerary. Souks are the traditional market streets that are found all over the city. 

These originate from the times when merchants would sell their goods that were transported by camel across the desert into Marrakech. There may not be the camels anymore, but souks today are just as vibrant and important to the Moroccan lifestyle as they have always been! 

Wander through the busy market streets and admire all of the goods for sale. Carpets, lamps, leather products, spices, foods, and all kinds of other things will be on offer here. If you are after a truly authentic Marrakech experience, then the souks of the Old Town/Medina are the places to be.

Insiders tip: While the souks are a lot of fun, they can also be pretty intimidating. Merchants will often try to rip off tourists, and taking in all of the stalls on offer can be overwhelming. Try to bring your negotiating skills and a firm attitude when navigating through the busy souks. 

Day 1 / Stop 7 – Bahia Palace

• Why it’s awesome: Magnificent 19th-century palace and gardens
• Food recommendation: La Table de Marrakech is the perfect place to grab something to eat or drink after a long day of sightseeing. Sit outside next to the palace and enjoy some quality Moroccan cuisine. 

The Bahia Palace is a 19th-century building that was designed to be the greatest palace of its time. This stunning structure is a real marvel to take in, with its iconic Islamic and Moroccan style. Bahia translates to brilliance, and you will see why when you visit.

The palace is a great place to explore and learn more about the history and cultural traditions of Marrakech. It is also the perfect place to take in some of the best architecture in the city. Beyond the amazing palace building, there are also beautiful gardens located here. These are well worth spending some time exploring. 

For a look into the royal life of this old city, be sure to add the Bahia Palace to your Marrakech trip itinerary! 

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Jardin Majorelle | El Badi Palace | Ben Youssef Madrassa | Maison De La Photographie | Menara Gardens

Day 2 of our 3-day itinerary in Marrakech will give you a deeper insight into the history, culture, and atmosphere in the city. Here are some must-do attractions for you if you are seeing Marrakech in 2 days. 

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Jardin Majorelle

• Why it’s awesome: A stunning botanical garden to add to your itinerary for Marrakech
• Cost: USD $20
• Food recommendation: Cafe Jardin Majorelle Marrakech is the perfect place to grab some food, tea or coffee during your trip to the garden. Enjoy local favorites in a beautiful setting. 

Jardin Majorelle is a two and a half acre botanical garden in Marrakech, but really it is so much more than that! This beautiful attraction is a kind of artistic landscape created by the French artist Jacques Majorelle over a period of almost 40 years. The garden was then acquired by the famous designer Yves Saint-Laurent who restored it to its glory.

As you walk through this amazing garden, you will pass through an absolute Eden. There are many magnificent plants, water features, trees, and sculptures. Beyond the gardens, the space also houses the Berber Museum and the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech. Both of these cultural institutions are well worth the visit. 

If you are after amazing art, culture, history, and an unbeatable garden oases, then Jardin Majorelle is the place to go. This stunning city attraction will certainly be a highlight of your Marrakech itinerary. 

Insider Tip: These gardens and museums are not to be confused with the Yves Saint-Laurent museum nearby (which is also well worth the visit!)

Day 2 / Stop 2 – El Badi Palace

• Why it’s awesome: An ancient ruined palace
• Food recommendation: Dar Marjana, located close to El Badi Palace, is one of the best traditional Marrakech riad restaurants. Try some of the tastiest authentic Moroccan food here in a charming setting! 

El Badi Palace is one of the world’s greatest examples of ancient ruins. Comparable to the Roman Forum, or the Acropolis in Athens, this enormous building shows off the ancient past of Marrakech. 

Explore the huge ruins of El Badi Palace to experience just how grand this place must have been back in its time. The palace was built in the 16th century to commemorate the victory of The Battle of the Three Kings. The palace consisted of 300 rooms, decorated in gold, turquoise, and crystal. 

Visiting this site will teach you a great deal of the history behind Marrakech. Experience first hand what the ancient city might have looked like, and learn about its interesting past. This is a must-do activity for history lovers! 

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Ben Youssef Madrassa

• Why it’s awesome: A beautiful 14th-century Islamic school
• Cost: USD $6
• Food recommendation: Jnane Tamsna is a brilliant place to grab a bite to eat or some relaxing tea when visiting Ben Youssef Madrassa. Enjoy the tranquil setting and excellent food!

Ben Youssef Madrassa is a former Islamic school dating all the way back to the 14th century. Ben Youssef Madrassa is a popular attraction in Marrakech for anyone wanting to get a glimpse into the magnificent past of this city. 

While it is old, the Madrassa is beautifully preserved providing an unbeatable example of Moroccan architecture and design. 

Admire the detailed tiles and unique curves of the building. As you explore the Ben Youssef Madrassa, take some time to appreciate the tiny rooms that once held 900 students. Enjoy the peaceful courtyard and stunning wooden windows throughout the building. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Marrakech for an authentic look into Moroccan design and architecture. This is also an interesting historical stop in the city. 

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Maison De La Photographie

• Why it’s awesome: An interesting Moroccan photography museum
• Cost: USD $11
• Food recommendation: Enjoy a great pot of mint tea or a bite to eat from the rooftop cafe here. Not only is the food and service excellent, but the view from here is definitely worth the visit!

Maison De La Photographie is an excellent museum to add to your Marrakech itinerary. This may be a fairly small gallery, but it really has a great deal to offer. During your visit here, you can expect some of the best photography from Marrakech.

The museum mostly displays excellent street photography and portraits, but there are also some interesting photographs dating back over 150 years. This offers an amazing insight into Moroccan life and history. 

The small building housing the museum is also lovely to explore, with beautiful colorful tiles and a magnificent rooftop. This is a really special addition to your 2-day itinerary in Marrakech . 

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Menara Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: 12th-century botanical gardens
• Food recommendation: Cafe Oasis et Tafernout is a great spot to stop and enjoy a cup of coffee or bite to eat while exploring the Menara Gardens. 

The Menara Gardens are the most popular landscaped gardens in Marrakech. The gardens can be found near the Atlas Mountains, to the west of Medina. These beautiful gardens surround a lake, and they offer the perfect breath of fresh air from the busy city. The gardens date back to the 12th century, and so they have an interesting history as well!

Enjoy walking around the pristine lake, and appreciate the wonderful pavilion alongside it. Explore the gardens and take in all of the different flowerbeds, trees, and lush green spaces. If the streets of Marrakech are getting too much, then escaping to this peaceful oasis is the perfect thing to do! 

Insider Tip: Visit on a sunny day and enjoy relaxing under a tree in this picture-perfect garden

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel is the ultimate place to stay in this city! With an ideal Medina location, clean modern facilities and comfortable rooms, everything you need is right here!

• Linen Included

Souk Place des Epices | Gueliz | Hot Air Balloon | Dar Si Said Museum | Quad Bike Tour

If you are looking for more places to visit in Marrakech, then here are some excellent ideas. There is so much to see and do around this city, so planning at least 3 days in Morocco is always a good idea. 

Souk Place des Epices

• A lively souk
• Famous for its many spice traders
• These spices are an essential part of Moroccan culture

Souk Place des Epices is a large square-based souk in the heart of Marrakech. When you are in this bustling city, visiting the different souks is a vital way to really experience the local culture and buzz. This souk, in particular, is special due to its piles of colorful spices!

Morocco is world-famous for its unique cuisine, something that comes from its many flavorsome spices. Wandering through this souk will show you the many immaculately piled spices. The kind of smells and sights that you take in here really could never be found anywhere else in the world.

Whether you are looking to purchase some of these amazing spices to take home, or simply want to admire them in their tall piles, a visit to Souk Place des Epices will always be worth it! Exploring this busy souk is one of the best ways to get an authentic insight into Moroccan life and culture, and it is a great place to learn more about this country’s delicious cuisine.

• The most modern and trendy area of Marrakech
• Offers excellent shopping and restaurants
• Often called the European district

When exploring Marrakech, chances are you will be spending most of your time within the old town. This is where the majority of landmark attractions and riad accommodation options can be found. If you have 3 days in Marrakech, or if you would just like a change of scene, consider visiting the trendy district of Gueliz. 

Gueliz offers you an insight into what modern-day Morocco looks like. This is a super trendy part of the city. Spend your time enjoying the vast array of boutique shops, malls, and beautiful homeware stores. Between this, there are also some of the best restaurants and cafes in the city – perfect for a break between your retail therapy! 

Gueliz also boasts some of the best nightlife in Marrakech. There are plenty of fun and lively bars here to visit for an unforgettable night out! 

In order to truly understand Marrakech, you will need to experience both the new and the old. This is why spending an afternoon wandering around Gueliz can be highly rewarding for any Marrakech itinerary.

Ride a Hot Air Balloon

• This is a must-do activity in Morocco
• The best views in Marrakech
• A fun and unique experience

There are many different ways to see and experience Marrakech, but a hot air balloon is possibly the best. Taking an exciting and absolutely breathtaking hot air balloon flight is one of the most popular activities for tourists in Marrakech,

The best hot air balloon flights in Marrakech will start at dawn, allowing you to witness the magnificent sunrise during your flight. As you rise up, you will get the most unbelievable panoramic views across Marrakech. 

As you float across the stunning desert and towards the Atlas Mountains, you will get to experience the true majesty of this destination. Beyond the amazing views though, hot air balloon rides are such a fun experience. This way of flying cannot be compared to anything else. This is a truly unique thing to do in Marrakech, and an experience you will certainly remember! 

There are a number of hot air balloon companies that operate from Marrakech. Flights generally last about an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak up all of the incredible views around you. 

Dar Si Said Museum of Weaving and Carpets

• A fascinating museum
• The museum is focused towards Berber carpets
• A great place to learn more about Moroccan cultural heritage

A museum completely dedicated to carpets may not sound that exciting to everyone, but this Marrakech attraction is seriously worth the visit. Whether you are interested in Berber carpets or not, you will be sure to learn a great deal of interesting information here, as well as admire some very impressive exhibitions! 

The museum will teach you all about the unique Berber carpets in Marrakech. There are all sorts of fascinating displays devoted to this. There is also a central focus on the art of weaving these products, and what kind of role that has played in Morocco. 

As you will learn from a visit here, these carpets are truly special parts of the cultural heritage in this country. They have a rich and interesting history and have helped to shape Marrakech in many ways. Beyond the carpets though, this museum is an awesome building to visit!

There are some seriously impressive halls here, as well as stunning courtyards and gardens within the museum. This is a great place to take in some beautiful examples of Moroccan architecture while learning about some of the country’s most iconic designs and products. 

Quad Bike Tour

• Quad bike tours are available through the desert
• A fun way to see the area
• Explore the rugged surrounding desert

Now that you have seen some of the best sights and attractions within Marrakech, its time to do some exploring in the surrounding desert. If you would like to experience the breathtaking desert through one of the most exciting ways possible, then consider taking a quad bike tour! 

Not only is speeding along in a quad bike loads of fun, but it is also the best way to navigate the desert landscape. You will get to ride between the stone desert, the dramatic valley found here, and the famous palm groves. 

There are a number of quad bike experiences available in Marrakech. While each may be unique, they will all offer a valuable insight into the life and scenery of the harsh desert. This is a really great way to experience the dramatic landscape around Marrakech. 

Marrakech received loads of each year and most end without incident. While safety does not need to be a major concern while you are here, it is important to understand any potential safety precautions that you might want to take in Marrakech. 

The souks are super busy, small spaces. If you are not careful, these can be easy places for thieves and pickpockets to do their work. When walking through the souks, always keep your belongings close. Also, try to avoid walking through the souks at night. 

Scams are also pretty common in Marrakech, so always be on the lookout for these. Tourists can often look like easy targets for scammers or people trying to rip you off, so keep your wits about you! Also avoid walking alone at night, and stay away from empty alleys.

Shopkeepers, hawkers and unsolicited guides can be persistent and a real nuisance.  Be firm and if anybody bothers you too much, use the magic word “police” and they will disappear.

Be sure to always drink bottled water, and try to avoid ice (as this may contain bacteria). You may also want to avoid eating from street vendors, as there is always the chance of getting ill.

Besides exercising regular caution and following standard safety procedures of a big city, Marrakech should be a safe destination for all visitors! 

If you are also visiting other places in Morocco, you will be pleased to know that on the whole Morocco is a safe country .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Marrakech

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you are planning a 3-day itinerary in Marrakech, then you may want to consider exploring some more of Morocco . This city serves as the perfect base for your Moroccan travels, allowing you to do so much more while touring Marrakech. 

Here are some of the best day trips from Marrakech to experience during your visit. 

Full-Day Tour to Ouzoud Waterfalls

Marrakech is an amazing city to experience, but there is also plenty of natural splendor just beyond the city itself. Spend a day taking in the magnificent Ouzoud Waterfalls on this sightseeing tour from Marrakech. 

The highlight of this tour is, of course, witnessing the incredible cascades of the Ouzoud Waterfalls. Your day will also be filled with plenty of other exciting activities, such as swimming in nature in the Al Abib River, and seeing local monkeys in the mountains! The tour includes round trip transportation and an expert Marrakech tour guide. 

Take a Trip to the Atlas Mountains

Just beyond the city of Marrakech tower the impressive Atlas Mountains. These mountains are not just a breathtaking sight to see, but they are brimming with Moroccan Berber culture and picturesque villages. Take this exciting day trip to escape the busy city and explore a more peaceful side of Morocco. 

The trip will include a visit to the village of Imlil, as well as a fun camel ride. You will get to drink mint tea, admire the highest peak in North Africa, and learn all about traditional Berber culture. This is one of the best day trips from Marrakech for those wanting to discover more about the interesting culture and natural beauty of the area. 

Tour Essaouira and the Atlantic Coast

Morocco is famous for its magnificent desert landscapes, but there is also an amazing coast to discover in this country. To experience the best of the Atlantic Coast here, take a full day trip out to Essaouira. 

This is a beautiful coastal town that you will be able to explore at your own pace. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, the historic medina in the town, and the long stretches of pristine beaches. This day trip will show you a great deal more of the unspoiled and absolutely beautiful Moroccan landscape. 

Visit Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Across the Atlas Mountains lie two of the most majestic deserts in Morocco. Enjoy a day trip out to this area to take in some of the most impressive and important sites in the area. The day will include a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou kasbah, a crossing over the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, and a journey through Ouarzazate. 

This area is referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa” as famous films such as The Mummy, Lawrence of Arabia, and Gladiator were filmed here. Needless to say, this day trip will show you some of the most magnificent landscapes in Morocco! 

Explore the Berber Villages and 3 Valleys

If you are planning a trip to Marrakech, exploring the unique Berber culture here is a great idea. If this sounds like fun, consider taking this day trip out to the beautiful Berber settlements high up in the Atlas Mountains.

You will get to trek through beautiful hamlets and valleys, and soak up some of the best scenic views in the area. You will get to stop for lunch in a traditional Berber home in one of the stunning villages that you visit. This is a truly unforgettable experience that could only be enjoyed during your Marrakech itinerary! 

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Marrakech itinerary.

How many days do you need in Marrakech?

To see all the main highlights, I would allow 3 days to see everything. However, you could easily stay 4-5 days and enjoy the cities unique charm.

Is Marrakech worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Marrakesh is the most famous and unique city in Morocco and there’s no where else like it.

What is the best month to visit Marrakesh?

The best time to visit Marrakesh is during the Spring (March-May) when the weather is at its nicest.

Is Marrakesh safe for tourists?

Marrakesh is on the whole quite safe for tourists, but you should keep your eyes on the look out for petty crimes such as pick pocketing and bag snatching.

Marrakech is a busy and vibrant city, with so much going on in every street. Walking through the old town truly is an explosion of the senses, as there is just always such a great deal to take in. This city has such a unique charm to it, and should be a definite bucket-list destination for any traveler.

Marrakech is famous for its spices and cuisine, its peaceful riads, bustling souks, visible history, and beautiful desert landscapes. As you walk down the streets here, you will notice the iconic Moroccan design and sights that just can’t be experienced anywhere else. 

Marrakech really is a destination like no other! With so much to do and see in this city, one day in Marrakech probably isn’t enough. You could spend weeks here without getting bored. We hope our ultimate Marrakech itinerary helps you to make the most of your time in this epic North African destination! 

If your plan is to travel around Morocco and you need to sort your accommodations, check out our Best Hostels in Morocco guide!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Marrakesh Travel Guide

TripSavvy / Chris VR 

Situated at the foot of the Atlas mountains, the imperial city of Marrakesh is large, noisy, polluted and smelly. But Marrakesh is also fascinating, full of history, the cultural center of Morocco and beautiful. If you enjoy a daily assault on all your senses then you'll have a lot of fun. When the most popular sights include numerous references to "tranquility" and "peace" like the Majorelle gardens or the gardens around the Saadian Tombs you know you're in for an interesting experience. If you find it a little overwhelming then get an official guide to take you around.

There are so many things to see, you should spend at least 3 days in Marrakesh. If you can afford it, treat yourself to a stay in a Riad so when you return from a hectic day amidst carpet salesman, fire jugglers and noisy souqs, you can relax and have a cup of mint tea in a nice quiet courtyard.

This guide to Marrakesh will help you figure out the best time to go; the best sights to see; how to get to Marrakesh and how to get around; and where to stay.

When to Go to Marrakesh

It is best to try and avoid the summer heat and crowds and visit Marrakesh in the cooler months between September and May. But, some annual events take place in summer which you may not want to miss.

• Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival in July. This annual festival attracts folk singers, dancers, fortune-tellers, acting troupes, snake charmers, fire-swallowers and more, from all over Morocco. Since 2000 the festival has also attracted many artists and entertainers from Europe and Asia. The main events take place in the ruins of the 16 century Badi Palace and the Djemma el Fna (main town square - see below).
• Fantasia is a horse-riding spectacle that includes hundreds of charging horsemen (and women) wearing traditional clothing. It's part of the Popular Arts Festival so it takes place at the same time in July. You can experience the Fantasia in the evenings outside the city walls near the Bab Jdid. If you don't get to see it in July, there's a restaurant that offers the Fantasia as entertainment while you dine, the Chez Ali . Up-market and touristy but I'm sure you won't forget the experience in a hurry.
• Imilchil Marriage Feast is a Berber marriage festival where up to forty couples tie the knot. It takes place in Imilchil in the Middle-High Atlas Mountains near Marrakesh. The festival is a great way to experience Berber culture including music and dance. The event takes place after harvest every year so the dates vary, it's usually held late August or early September.

Winter in Marrakech From mid-January to mid-February there is usually enough snowfall in the Atlas mountains to accommodate skiers . The Oukaimden ski resort is less than 50 miles away from Marrakech. There are several ski lifts and if they don't work you can always take a donkey up the slopes. If there's not enough snow the views are always spectacular and it's still worth the trip.

What to See in Marrakech

Djemma el Fna The Djemma el Fna is really the heart of Marrakech. It is a large central square in the old city (Medina) and during the day it's a perfect place to grab a freshly-squeezed orange juice and a handful of dates. At the end of the afternoon, the Djemma el Fna transforms into an entertainers paradise -- if you're into snake charming, juggling, music and that sort of thing. Snack stalls are replaced with stalls offering more substantial fare and the square comes alive with entertainment that hasn't changed much since medieval times.

The Djemma el Fna is surrounded by cafe's overlooking the square so you can just relax and watch the world go by if you're tired of jostling the crowds below. Be prepared to be asked for money when you take photos of the performers and stop to watch the entertainment.

Souqs The souqs are basically undercover markets that sell everything from chickens to high-quality crafts. The souqs of Marrakech are considered to be among the best in Morocco, so if you like  shopping and bargaining  you'll enjoy yourself tremendously. Even if you don't like shopping, the souqs are a cultural experience you wouldn't want to miss. Souqs are divided into small areas that specialize in a certain good or trade. The metal workers all have their little shops clustered together, as do the tailors, butchers, jewelers, wool dyers, spice merchants, carpet salesmen and so on.

The souqs are situated north of the Djemma el Fna and finding your way around the narrow alleyways can be a bit tricky. Guides are plentiful in Marrakech, so you can always use those services, but getting lost in the chaos is also part of the fun. It's often more interesting to peek into souqs where local wares are being produced than to be taken to yet another carpet shop by your guide. If you get lost, just ask for directions back to the Djemma el Fna.

Majorelle Gardens and the Museum of Islamic Art In the 1920's, French artists Jacques and Louis Majorelle created a stunning garden in the middle of Marrakech's new town. The Majorelle gardens are filled with color, plants of all shapes and sizes, flowers, fish ponds and perhaps the most pleasing aspect, tranquility. The designer Yves Saint Laurent now owns the gardens and has also built himself a house on the property. The building that gets most of the attention, however, is the bright blue and yellow building the Marjorelles used as their studio and which now houses the  Museum of Islamic Art . This small museum includes some good examples of Moroccan tribal art, carpets, jeweler, and pottery. The gardens and museum are  open daily  with a 2-hour lunch break from 12-2pm.

Saadian Tombs The Saadian dynasty ruled much of southern Morocco during the 16th and 17th centuries. Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour created these tombs for himself and his family in the late 16th century, 66 of them are buried here. The tombs were sealed up rather than destroyed in the 17th century and were only re-discovered in 1917. Consequently, they are beautifully preserved and the intricate mosaic is stunning. Despite being situated in the heart of the somewhat hectic old town (medina) the tombs are surrounded by a nice peaceful garden. The tombs are open daily except for Tuesday. It's advisable to get there early and avoid the tour groups.

The Ramparts of Marrakech The walls of the Medina have been standing since the 13th century and make for a wonderful early morning stroll. Each gate is a work of art in themselves and the walls run for twelve miles. The Bab ed-Debbagh gate is the entry point for the  tanneries  and provides an excellent photo opportunity full of vivid colors from the dyes used. It is a little smelly though.

Palais Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts) A palace and museum in one and well worth a visit. The palace is opulent and beautiful in itself with a lovely courtyard where you can relax and take some pictures. The museum's displays are well laid out and include jewelry, costumes, ceramics, daggers and other artifacts. The museum is open daily with a couple of hours break for lunch.

Ali ben Youssef Medersa and Mosque The Medersa was built in the 16th century by the Saadians and could house up to 900 religious students. The architecture is beautifully preserved and you can explore the tiny rooms where the students used to live. The mosque is adjacent to the Medersa.

El Bahia Palace This palace is a wonderful example of the best of Moroccan architecture. There's lots of detail, arches, light, engravings and what's more, it was built as a harem's residence, which makes it even more interesting. The palace is open daily with a break for lunch although it is closed when the royal family visits.

Getting to Marrakech

By Air Marrakech has an international airport with direct scheduled flights coming in from London and Paris and many charter flights arriving from all over Europe. If you are flying from the US, Canada, Asia or elsewhere, you'll have to change planes in  Casablanca . The airport is only about 4 miles (15 minutes) from the city and buses, as well as taxis, operate throughout the day. You should set the taxi fare before you get in. The major car rental companies are represented at the airport.

By Train Trains  run regularly between Marrakech and Casablanca . The trip takes about 3 hours. If you want to go to Fez, Tangier or Meknes then you can take the train through Rabat (4 hours from Marrakech). There is also an  overnight train  between Tangier and Marrakech. It's best to take a taxi to the train station in Marrakech since it's quite far from the old town (if that's where you're staying).

By Bus There are three national bus companies that operate between Marrakech and most major towns and cities in Morocco. They are Supratours, CTM and SATAS. According to recent traveller accounts on VirtualTourist.com SATAS doesn't have a very good reputation. Long-distance buses are comfortable and usually air-conditioned. You can buy your tickets at the bus depot. Supratours buses are handy if you are travelling onward by train since they stop at the Marrakech train station. The other bus companies arrive and depart from the long distance bus station near Bab Doukkala, a 20-minute walk from Jema el-Fna.

Getting Around Marrakech

The best way to see Marrakech is on foot especially in the Medina. But it's a sizable town and you'll probably want to make use of some of the following options:

• Taxis  are readily available throughout town and probably the most efficient way of getting to the main sites.  Grand taxis  are old Mercedes cars that carry up to six people for a fixed fare. They usually keep to specific routes and you'll find them at the bus station, Djemaa el Fna and the main Post Office in Gueliz (new town).  Petit taxis  are a little more expensive but you get it to yourself and they'll take you anywhere you want to go. The meters aren't always used so either ask the driver to switch it on or bargain for your fare before you hop in. Ask your hotel staff what a reasonable fare is if you know where you're going. Petit taxis in Marrakech are usually beige and you can just flag them down.
• Caleche  is a horse-drawn carriage and a popular way to get around Marrakech. There are set prices for the more common routes, around the ramparts for example, but for other routes, you'll have to bargain with the driver. Set the price before you hop in. You can catch a Caleche in the garden square between the Koutoubia Mosque and Djemaa el Fna, El Badi Palace and the more expensive hotels.
• Buses  within the town are frequent and cheap but can get crowded. The central bus station, Place El Mouarabitene is just outside Bab Doukkala on the northwestern edge of the old city. You can pay the bus driver directly. The no 8 will take you to the train station; the no 10 to the central bus station and the no 1 travels between the Medina and Gueliz (new town). Most buses will stop at the Djemaa-el-Fna
• Moped or Bicycle  is also a popular way to get around Marrakech and you can cycle within the medina which is handy. Check out  Maroc deux Roues  to get an idea about rates.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Riads One of the most sought-after accommodations in Marrakech is a  Riad , a traditional Moroccan house situated in the Medina (old town). All riads have a central courtyard that will often have a fountain, restaurant or a pool. Some riads also have rooftop terraces where you can eat breakfast and look out over the city. A comprehensive list of riads in Marrakech including photos and prices can be found on the Riad Marrakech website . Riads are not all expensive, check out the  Maison Mnabha ,  Dar Mouassine  and the  Hotel Sherazade  where you can stay in style but pay less.

There are two Riads in Marrakech of note:

• La Maison Arabe ; a luxury riad in the heart of the Marrakech Medina. Famous for its restaurant it also offers 13 rooms overlooking two courtyards and a beautiful hammam (traditional Moroccan sauna). You can catch hourly shuttles to the hotel's cooking school (20 minutes away) with swimming pool and gardens. Check rates and reviews.
• Riad Kniza ; situated in the heart of Marrakech's Medina just a few minutes walk from the Djemma el Fna (the main square). This small, romantic, beautifully furnished traditional Riad has 7 rooms, two lounges, a courtyard and several patios. The owner is an antique dealer and extremely knowledgeable about Marrakech. The Riad Kniza comes very highly recommended with glowing  reviews  from all who stay here.

Hotels Marrakech has lots of  luxury hotels  available including the famous La Mamounia, featured in the  Sex and the City 2  movie and which Winston Churchill described as "the most beautiful place in the world". There are also several popular chain hotels like the  Le Meridien , and  Sofitel . These hotels are often housed in historic buildings and retain the Moroccan character and style. 

Budget hotels  are also plentiful and Bootsnall has a decent listing of affordable options. Since many of the smaller budget hotels won't have websites or online booking facilities you should get a good guidebook, like the Lonely Planet and follow their recommendations. Most budget accommodation is situated south of the Djemaa el Fna.

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Four Days In Marrakech Itinerary: Best Things To Do In The Red City

Adventure Travel , Africa , Morocco , Travel | May 4, 2018

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you buy anything mentioned here. It doesn't cost you anything extra.

Marrakech has been on my wish list of travel destinations ever since it started getting some serious attention from Instagrammers. I know, I hate me too .

I spent four days in Marrakech in search of pretty riads, red city walls and luxurious textiles, but found so much more.

Despite soaring to the top of the world’s bucket list in recent years, Marrakech has retained so much of its own unique character.

I expected its medina to be jam-packed with tourists and emitting a faint whiff of inauthenticity, but instead I found myself rubbing shoulders mainly with locals.

I expected the hassle from vendors to be almost unbearable, but the reality was completely manageable.

And I expected to be slightly disappointed because I’d built Marrakech up so much in my head that it couldn’t possibly be  that  good – but happily, I wasn’t let down at all.

Here, I’ve created a four day Marrakech itinerary to help you have the best possible trip.

Having spent time in Morocco working remotely and exploring, I’ve put together the ultimate four day Marrakech itinerary for visitors, with a day-by-day plan that will make sure you fit in all the top things to do in Marrakech, plus as many tips as I could gather during my time there.

Head to the bottom of this post for accommodation recommendations and other Morocco travel tips, including ideas for things to do if you have five, six or seven days in Marrakech.

Hope it helps you plan your holiday in Marrakech!

If you’re travelling to Marrakech alone, check out my post about solo female travel safety in Morocco .

The ultimate Marrakech itinerary

Watch my full Marrakech travel vlog on Youtube

Your four day Marrakech itinerary at a glance

Day 1 in Marrakech: Souks and Djemaa el-Fna

Day 2 in marrakech itinerary: culture and history, day 3 in marrakech: the scents of the city, day 4 in marrakech itinerary: pamper or adrenalin activities you decide, days 5, 6, 7 and beyond: day trips from marrakech, multi-day tours from marrakech, what to eat and drink in marrakech, average prices in marrakech, where to stay in marrakech, how to get to marrakech.

If you’re wondering how long to spend in Marrakech, I’d say three or four days is enough time to see most of Marrakech’s highlights, but I wholeheartedly recommend taking more time if possible.

Just like New York City, this is one of those destinations whose best and most intriguing traits are found on the ground: just strolling through its streets at different times of the day and night to see what you can find.

But if you don’t have the time to take it slow? Here’s how to make the best possible use of four days in Marrakech.

Start the morning the Moroccan way: with a mint tea or continental breakfast at one of the pavement cafes near Djemaa el-Fna (the main square).

Do some people-watching, get a feel for Marrakech’s vibe and gather yourself as you prepare to throw yourself into its vortex.

You may as well jump straight into the heart of Marrakech with a morning visit to the medina’s treasure trove of souks. No Marrakech itinerary would be complete without a visit!

If you go early in the day, the hustle and bustle is less overwhelming and there are fewer crowds (and hassle). 

Follow rue Semarine or rue Mouassine into the markets’ heart. The latter path is the less hectic of the two options.

It can definitely be a bit intimidating, and I know many travellers prefer to book a short souk tour with a local to help them find their feet. The one I’ve linked has great reviews.

You’ll pass live chickens clucking away next to their mid-slaughter mates, pile upon pile of jewel-toned textiles, colourful ceramics in every pattern you can dream of, bucketfuls of heady spices and cubicles dripping in trinkets and charms.

The Marrakech souks are a journey into the city’s past. You can’t go without spending some time getting lost in the medina’s fibrous labyrinth.

Marrakech is the only place I’ve ever bothered to shop on my travels, because it feels like a cultural activity.

My advice, if you’re after bargains, is to use the first morning as a taster session and dive back in towards the end of your trip in the evening, when you’ve got a better idea of what’s on offer (and the vendors are a bit more eager to close a sale).

It’s not often I list shopping as a fun local activity, but haggling in the souk is one of the most memorable things to do in Marrakech!

If you can find your way there from the clutches of the maze, get lunch at Bazaar Cafe , Atay Cafe (a rooftop cafe) or go all-out and order a camel burger at Cafe Clock .

It’s not hard to spot the minaret of Koutoubia Mosque , the most famous in the city. Non-Muslims can’t enter but the grand building serves as an orientation point that will help you get around the city – and its exterior is beautiful to look at.

The name is based on the Arabic word  koutoubiyyin , which means ‘bookseller’, because once upon a time, the area around the mosque was filled with booksellers.

It’s not the biggest mosque you’ll ever see, but it’s the biggest in Marrakech and a rule stating that no nearby building may be taller than a palm tree keeps it looking stately in the red city’s skyline.

As the sun sets on your first night in Marrakech, head back to the main square. Night time is when it really comes to life, with snake charmers, shoe shiners and berber musicians all contributing to the carnival-like atmosphere. Steer clear of the monkeys on chains though, obviously.

For dinner, Nomads is the instagrammers’ favoured rooftop restaurant. I preferred their sister restaurant, Cafe Des Epices .

The view on the rooftop is great but the portions are small. You might need to go elsewhere for dessert! I recommend one of the French crêperies.

Alternatively, book a nighttime street food tour for an authentic taste of Marrakech.

On your second day in Marrakech, enjoy breakfast at Gastro MK at Maison MK .

You should now have a good idea of the city’s pace, and you’ll possibly want a little respite from it. Day two in Marrakech is a great time to take a guided half-day tour of the city’s historic attractions .

Prefer to explore on your own terms? Follow my itinerary for a day of culture and history in Marrakech below.

First, head towards the Kasbah Mosque , which dates back to 1100, and find your way into the tranquil, opulent Saadian Tombs of Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Ed Dahbi. It’s one of the top Marrakech attractions today.

These tombs actually lay hidden behind thick walls for years and were rediscovered in 1917 thanks to aerial photography. They’re made from carved Italian marble and pure gold, so they’re an impressive sight.

Cat lovers will find feline friends all over Marrakech, but there was a particularly cute kitten at the tombs posing for tourists!

From there, head to Bahia Palace . Its name means ‘brilliance’ in Arabic and it certainly is a sight to behold, with courtyards filled with fragrant plants, gleaming mosaics and carved columns. The blue and yellow grand courtyard is particularly impressive.

At only 10 MAD for entry, this is so worth visiting, even if just for some interior inspo for your future home.

I was wowed by a lot of Marrakech’s historical buildings but didn’t feel there was a lot of information for visitors so more discerning travellers might like to book a tour of the historical sites in order to learn more.

Head back towards the Saadian Tombs for lunch at  Kasbah Cafe . Their rooftop terrace gives you a perfect vantage point and place to shelter from the midday sun.

This would be the time to see Ben Youssef Madrasa , an old Islamic college. It’s one of the most picturesque attractions in Marrakech – but I wouldn’t know, because it was closed for refurbishment during my Marrakech trip.

If you still haven’t had your culture fill, pay a visit to Musée de Marrakech . 

This museum doesn’t have any English descriptions so most of the artefacts are still a mystery to me, but the Mnebhi Palace itself is jaw-dropping. The 50 MAD entry fee is worth paying for this alone!

I stood near the door to take it all in and every single person who entered let out an awed exclamation as they got their first glimpse of its beauty.

Next, walk for three minutes towards La Maison de la Photographie . It’s only small but this photography museum’s collection offers some insight into Marrakech’s past from 1870 to 1960. Plus, the building is beautiful and there’s a lovely little rooftop cafe.

As night falls, enjoy dinner with a bellydancing show at Le Narwama restaurant.

My itinerary for the second day  in Marrakech is packed but completely do-able, I promise! You can obviously stretch it out over two days if you have more time.

They stink and are generally unpleasant, but Marrakech’s tanneries are still an interesting sight to see. Go in the morning, when work is in full swing and the smell of animal hides isn’t quite so pungent.

Keep walking away from the main action from Bab Debbagh and let your nostrils lead you.

A word of warning about the tanneries: you will be targeted by scammers, but don’t let online reviews put you off, if it’s something you’re keen to see.

The tanneries are about a ten minute walk from the House of Photography, and I just pointedly ignored every single person who approached me. When one man tried to take charge and lead me into a tannery, I immediately walked back out because I knew he’d later try to get money from me for his ‘guide services’.

You don’t need to pay anyone: just walk in, take a look and get out. Apparently, some of the shopkeepers will let you onto their terraces for an aerial view if you buy something, but I didn’t try this.

You won’t want to hang around the tanneries long, trust me. Refresh with a freshly squeezed orange juice from one of the many stalls in Djemaa el-Fna. It should cost no more than 4MAD.

As the afternoon heat rises, pay a visit to Jardin Majorelle , fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent’s gift to the city.

It costs 70 MAD (or 100 if you want to see the museum too). Expect to queue and know that you won’t have the place to yourself, but these art deco gardens are a tranquil oasis with lotus-filled ponds shrouded in greenery and a striking museum taking pride of place.

It took 40 years to paint these gardens and the electric blue building they hide is a striking contrast to Marrakech’s usual dusty pinks, while the abundance of cacti is a nod to the desert around you.

There’s a museum here, but I didn’t pay the extra cash to enter.

Later in the day, take a Moroccan cookery class to learn all about the country’s aromatic cuisine. Some of the classes include a guided visit to the souks to pick up the spices you’ll be using, so this is a full-circle Moroccan experience.

Hardy travellers stuff out of the way, now it’s time to indulge in some pampering, the Moroccan way. If you’re staying in a riad, I highly recommend just spending some time relaxing in its courtyard.

Most riads don’t let you in unless you’re a guest, but we managed to wangle our way into El Fenn for a cup of tea. We also accidentally fell into Dar Marjana , which was magical.

I didn’t actually get to do this, but visiting a hammam is one of the most relaxing – and cultural – experiences you can have in Marrakech.

The most popular hammams are   Les Bains de Marrakech , Heritage Spa , and the super-local hidden gem  Kennaria Hammam – so local in fact, it doesn’t even have a website. If you’re the type to plan ahead, you can book a spa and hammam experience online .

Feeling fancy? La Mamounia is the luxury must-see in Marrakech. If you can’t afford to stay there but still want to experience it, try booking in for a meal – or fork out for a spa day pass, which costs 500MAD per person.

Apparently, they’re funny about people taking pictures there, so I didn’t bother – but like, how do the Instagram Girls do it?

If you prefer high-speed adventures to pamper parties, try a quad biking adventure in the desert or do a dune-bashing tour in a buggy .

Four days in Marrakech should give you enough time to do a full day or half day desert trip.

If you want to get out of Marrakech and see more of Morocco during your four day trip, I highly recommend spending a day in Essaouira, which is just three hours from Marrakech.

Read my guide to one day in Essaouira to help you plan your day trip, and book a guided trip here .

If you have more than four days there and want to see more of Morocco from your base in Marrakech, some of the best day trips from Marrakech are Ouzoud Waterfalls , the Atlas Mountains , Agadir (for surfing), and of course a trip to the desert –  this tour takes you quad biking through the palm groves.

Check out more of the most popular multi-day tours from Marrakech below.

3-day safari tour from Marrakech to Merzouga

3-Day Sahara tour to the Erg Chebbi Dunes

3-Day desert tour to Fes

3-day tour from Marrakech to the blue city of Chefchaouen with stops in Fez, the most traditional city in Morocco, Rabat and Casablanca

2-Day Zagora desert camp trip

2-Day Mount Toubkal Trek

Essential info for your Morocco trip

Moroccan food is delicious. Be sure to sample all of the local delicacies: bubbling kefta tagines served with freshly baked bread, cous cous, salty olives, and French pastries from the many boulangeries .

And of course, you can’t go to Marrakech without sipping mint tea everywhere you go. They use a  lot  of sugar. Be warned!

The cost of food and drink in Marrakech varies depending on which part of the city you’re in.

In Gueliz, I got a continental breakfast with freshly squeezed orange juice and a hot drink for 25MAD. I paid more than that amount for an orange juice alone at a rooftop terrace near Djemaa el-Fna square. However you can pick up a delicious orange juice from a cart in the square for 4MAD.

Basically, you pay for comfort and location! In a typical restaurant in Marrakech, a tagine costs around 75MAD.

Bottled water costs around 5MAD for a 1.5litre bottle. I didn’t drink the tap water in Marrakech, but brushed my teeth with it and had zero issues.

Obviously, the best type of accommodation in Marrakech is a traditional riad. I feel I should put a disclaimer here: because I was in Marrakech for work, I actually stayed in the modern part of the city.

I’d 100% stay in a riad when I go back to Marrakech though, because I feel like I missed out on an important part of Moroccan culture.

Some of the most popular (Instagram-worthy) riads in Marrakech are  Le Riad Yasmin , Riad BE , El Fenn , Riad Jardin Secret and La Sultana . Basically, when I post from one of these riads, you’ll know I’ve made it in life.

If you want luxury accommodation in Marrakech, there’s no place for it other than La Mamounia.

On a budget? You can still find cheap but traditional rids in Marrakech. Riad Tizwa has double rooms starting from £45 per night,  Dar Attajmil starts at £65 and  Riad Berbère starts at £60.

Search all Marrakech accommodation 

You can fly from major UK airports to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK). The Arrivals Hall is fancier than Dubai’s! I booked a private car transfer from the airport to my accommodation, which made my arrival stress-free.

My advice is to look out for cheap flights to Morocco on Skyscanner .

You’ll need travel insurance for visiting Morocco. I recommend using World Nomads .

Travelling around Morocco? The Lonely Planet Guide is bound to help. WiFi isn’t great in some parts, so a paper book is always handy!

Use my Travel Resources page to find the best deals on your Morocco trip

I hope you found this four day Marrakech guide useful! I definitely want to go back to Morocco one day in the near future and stay in a riad. I left with an excellent impression of the city and felt much safer as a solo female traveller than I actually expected. You can read my guide to visiting Marrakech as a solo female traveller if you’re hesitant.

I filmed a little vlog during my time in Marrakech, which you can watch over on my Youtube channel .

Please follow While I’m Young on  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  from more updates from the UK and beyond. You can also  subscribe to my newsletter  to make sure you never miss a post.

Ryan Biddulph says

May 4, 2018 at 10:48 am

Gotta love those souks Dannielle! So much fun strolling through, snapping a few images here and there, and enjoying the scene. I reckon those tanneries are rough! Middle Eastern spots can be intense. Definitely a change up from the West. Thanks for sharing 🙂

Sam | North East Family Fun Travel Blog says

May 4, 2018 at 11:18 am

Wow Dannielle you packed so much into your trip. Your photos are absolutely STUNNING! I am sad to say, the online reviews put us off visiting the tanneries – I’m not sure I’d really want to to be honest anyway. Ah I miss the Moroccan sunshine!

hellojenniferhelen says

May 4, 2018 at 1:09 pm

We had a very similar itinerary when we went to Marrakech! Must admit, I found the souks pretty stressful – the heat, getting lost, people following you, people shouting at you. If we went back I’m not sure I’d want to stay in them!

Roger Castillo says

May 4, 2018 at 2:59 pm

Love your photos. I was there in 1999 and it still looks the same. But it probably looked the same in 1899. Haha! I do miss the Djemaa el-Fna. Photo ops everywhere. Good reporting on your part. Thanks. Safe travels.

aggiemush says

May 5, 2018 at 6:38 pm

I went to Marrakech in 2008 with a friend and I’ve been dying to go back ever since!! This is such a good itinerary and I realize now I missed so much!

suedavies689 says

May 5, 2018 at 7:28 pm

Nice photos and report. Brought me back to when I was there. Wish I had 4 days. Loved the Souk. And we did a cooking class.

Violeta says

May 5, 2018 at 8:19 pm

Hey, I’ve been to Marrakech last week, and I’ve got photos of the same kitten at the Saadian Tombs. I’ve also seen the tanneries. The guy who led us there allowed me to climb on a terrace to take photos. He also gave us some fresh mint leaves to smell from time to time – I used them quite a lot.

Bangali Backpackers says

May 5, 2018 at 8:36 pm

Marrakech is so lively…it’s almost like a cabinet of curiosities. Love the marvellous architecture around the city.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations
• Africa & Middle East

The Ultimate Marrakech Travel Guide

Published: October 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Sella Benge

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the enchanting city of Marrakech, an exotic destination that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy. Nestled in the heart of Morocco, Marrakech offers travelers a rich cultural experience, with its bustling markets, stunning architecture, and tantalizing cuisine.

Known as the “Red City” due to the distinctive hue of its ancient walls, Marrakech is a treat for the senses. From the vibrant colors of the souks to the aromatic spices that waft through the air, every corner of this city has a story to tell.

Stepping into Marrakech is like entering a time portal where the traditions of the past intertwine effortlessly with the contemporary spirit of the present. The city’s history dates back to the 11th century, and it has since become a hub for artists, musicians, and travelers from around the world.

As you explore the labyrinthine streets of the medina, you’ll be captivated by the intricate architecture, adorned with stunning tilework, carved wood, and ornate stucco. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to a myriad of hidden gems, including historic palaces, tranquil gardens, and ancient mosques.

But Marrakech is not all about history and culture. The city also offers a vibrant and modern side, with trendy cafes, stylish boutiques, and a thriving nightlife scene. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Marrakech will leave you spellbound.

This ultimate travel guide to Marrakech will take you on a journey through all the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and insider tips to make the most of your visit. From navigating the bustling souks to savoring traditional Moroccan dishes, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to create unforgettable memories in this captivating city.

So, grab your passport, pack your bags, and get ready to immerse yourself in the colorful tapestry of Marrakech. Let the magic unfold as you embark on an adventure of a lifetime in this vibrant Moroccan city.

Getting to Marrakech

Getting to Marrakech is convenient as it is well connected to major cities around the world. The city is served by Marrakech Menara Airport, which offers regular flights from international destinations. Many airlines, including low-cost carriers, operate flights to Marrakech, making it accessible for travelers from different parts of the globe.

If you are coming from Europe, there are direct flights from major cities such as London, Paris, Madrid, and Rome, among others. The flight duration from these cities is relatively short, making Marrakech a popular weekend getaway destination.

For travelers from other continents, there are connecting flights available from major hubs like Dubai, Istanbul, New York, and Casablanca. Marrakech Menara Airport is located just a few kilometers from the city center, and you can easily reach your accommodation by taxi or shuttle service.

Another option to reach Marrakech is by train. Morocco has an extensive rail network, and there are trains connecting major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fes to Marrakech. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside and is a comfortable way to travel within the country.

If you prefer a road trip, you can consider renting a car and driving to Marrakech. The roads in Morocco are well-maintained, and there are major highways connecting Marrakech to other cities. However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules and regulations before embarking on a road trip.

Once you arrive in Marrakech, getting around the city is relatively easy. The most common mode of transportation within the city is by taxi. You can easily find taxis on the streets, or you can opt for the more convenient option of ordering a ride through a mobile app.

For a unique experience, you can also explore the city on foot. Marrakech is compact, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking through the narrow alleys of the medina allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.

Now that you know how to get to Marrakech, it’s time to start planning your trip to this mesmerizing city. Whether you choose to fly, take the train, or embark on a road trip, get ready to immerse yourself in the colors, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant Moroccan destination.

Best Time to Visit Marrakech

Marrakech enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, but it’s important to consider the season and weather when planning your visit. The best time to visit Marrakech is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and mild.

During the spring, Marrakech is in full bloom, with colorful flowers adorning the city and the temperatures averaging between 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F). This is a great time to explore the outdoor attractions like the Majorelle Garden and wander around the medina without the scorching heat of the summer months.

In autumn, the weather starts to cool down, making it another ideal time to visit Marrakech. Temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), and the city experiences fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. You can enjoy comfortable outdoor activities and explore the bustling souks without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.

However, if you’re a sun-seeking traveler and don’t mind the heat, you can plan your visit during the summer months (June to August). Marrakech experiences high temperatures during this time, with averages ranging from 30°C to 45°C (86°F to 113°F). This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan your activities during the cooler parts of the day.

Winter (December to February) is also a viable time to visit Marrakech, especially if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer tourists. While the days are relatively sunny with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), the evenings can get chilly, dropping to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). It’s advisable to pack layers and a light jacket for the cooler evenings.

It’s worth noting that Marrakech hosts several festivals throughout the year, which can add a unique experience to your visit. The Marrakech Popular Arts Festival takes place in July and is a celebration of Moroccan music, dance, and traditional arts. The International Film Festival in December attracts renowned filmmakers from around the world.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Marrakech depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Whether you choose to visit during the spring, autumn, summer, or winter, Marrakech will captivate you with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Marrakech offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you prefer a luxurious riad in the heart of the medina or a modern hotel in the newer parts of the city, Marrakech has something for everyone.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the old-world charm of Marrakech, staying in a traditional riad is a must. Riads are traditional Moroccan houses turned into boutique hotels, featuring stunning architecture, peaceful courtyards, and rooftop terraces. Many riads are located within the medina, offering easy access to the bustling souks and historical attractions. Some popular riads include Riad Yasmine, Riad BE Marrakech, and Riad Dar Anika.

For a more modern and luxurious stay, there are numerous four and five-star hotels scattered throughout the city. These hotels often offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, spa facilities, and on-site restaurants. Some top-rated hotels in Marrakech include La Mamounia, Royal Mansour Marrakech, and Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech.

If you prefer a lively and energetic atmosphere, the Gueliz neighborhood is a great option. Here, you’ll find a range of mid-range and budget hotels, as well as trendy cafes, shopping centers, and art galleries. It’s a more modern part of the city, providing a different perspective on Marrakech without compromising its charm.

The Palmeraie district, located on the outskirts of Marrakech, offers a tranquil and luxurious escape from the bustling city center. This area is home to several high-end resorts and luxury villas, surrounded by palm groves and offering a serene retreat.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling on a budget or prefer a more social experience, you can consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse. Marrakech has a variety of affordable accommodations that cater to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. Hostels often offer dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces where you can meet fellow travelers and exchange stories. Some popular hostels in Marrakech include Equity Point Marrakech and Riad Lola & Demeures.

When choosing your accommodation, it’s important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and your personal preferences. Whether you’re seeking a traditional riad experience, a luxurious hotel stay, or a budget-friendly option, Marrakech has a wide array of options to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, Marrakech will captivate you with its rich culture, vibrant atmosphere, and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions in Marrakech

Marrakech is a city that is brimming with history, culture, and stunning sights to explore. From ancient palaces to bustling markets, here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Marrakech:

• The Medina: The heart and soul of Marrakech, the medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets filled with colorful shops, handicrafts, and local vendors. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, which stands tall as a symbol of the city.
• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: Located at the entrance of the medina, Jemaa el-Fnaa is a vibrant and bustling square that comes alive with performers, musicians, henna artists, and food stalls as the sun sets. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, taste delicious Moroccan street food, and witness traditional storytellers and snake charmers.
• Majorelle Garden: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a stroll through the peaceful Majorelle Garden. Designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle, the garden features a beautiful collection of exotic plants, vibrant blue buildings, and a small museum dedicated to Berber culture.
• Bahia Palace: Step into the opulent world of the Bahia Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace that showcases the grandeur and beauty of Moroccan architecture. Meander through the intricately decorated courtyards, visit the luxurious rooms, and admire the exquisite mosaic work.
• Saadian Tombs: Discover the hidden treasure of Marrakech at the Saadian Tombs. Dating back to the 16th century, these tombs were rediscovered in 1917 and showcase exquisite craftsmanship and intricate tilework. Marvel at the beautifully decorated mausoleums and the tranquil garden surrounding them.
• El Badi Palace: Explore the ruins of the once grand El Badi Palace, which now stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history. Climb to the top of the ancient walls to enjoy panoramic views of Marrakech, and imagine the grandeur that once filled this palatial complex.
• Koranic School of Ben Youssef: Step into the past at the Koranic School of Ben Youssef, one of the largest theological colleges in North Africa. Admire the stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and the peaceful atmosphere of this historical site.
• Atlas Mountains: Escape the city and embark on a day trip to the magnificent Atlas Mountains. Just a short drive from Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains offer breathtaking scenery, traditional Berber villages, and opportunities for hiking, trekking, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Morocco.
• Menara Gardens: Enjoy a moment of tranquility at the Menara Gardens, located just outside the city center. Stroll around the expansive garden, centered around a large reflecting pool, and marvel at the views of the Atlas Mountains.
• Souks: Dive into the sensory overload of the Marrakech souks. These bustling markets are a shopper’s paradise, filled with a variety of goods, including textiles, spices, ceramics, leather goods, and traditional Moroccan handicrafts. Practice your negotiation skills to get the best deals and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that Marrakech has to offer. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites, indulging in mouth-watering Moroccan cuisine, or getting lost in the narrow alleys of the medina, Marrakech will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Exploring the Medina

The medina of Marrakech is a captivating maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and ancient architecture, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Exploring the medina is like stepping back in time, where the traditions of the past blend harmoniously with the modern influences of today.

As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, prepare to be enchanted by the sights, sounds, and aromas that fill the air. Admire the intricate tilework, carved wooden doors, and ornate stucco decorations that adorn the buildings, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Moroccan artisans.

One of the highlights of the medina is the bustling souks, where you can find a myriad of treasures waiting to be discovered. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow alleyways, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you browse through a wide range of goods, including traditional textiles, leather goods, spices, ceramics, and jewelry. Don’t forget to hone your bargaining skills as haggling is a common practice in the souks.

Among the souks, you’ll find the famous spice market, where piles of vibrant spices, dried fruits, and aromatic teas dazzle the senses. Let the enticing scents guide you through the market and consider purchasing some traditional Moroccan spices to take home with you.

Another must-see in the medina is the Koutoubia Mosque. With its towering minaret, the Koutoubia Mosque is an iconic landmark of Marrakech and serves as a reminder of the city’s strong Islamic heritage. Although non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque, you can appreciate its beauty from the outside and listen to the melodic calls to prayer echoing through the medina.

As you explore the medina, you’ll stumble upon hidden gems, such as the Mouassine Mosque and its beautiful courtyard, the peaceful Dar Si Said Museum, and the Maison de la Photographie, where you can discover a fascinating collection of historical photographs depicting life in Morocco over the years.

To escape the bustling streets, take a moment to relax in one of the traditional riads scattered throughout the medina. These peaceful oases offer a serene retreat from the busy city, where you can unwind in tranquil courtyards and enjoy a cup of refreshing mint tea.

Exploring the medina of Marrakech is a sensory adventure that will transport you to another time and place. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, interact with the friendly locals, and embrace the unique charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visiting the Majorelle Garden

Step into a world of botanical beauty and tranquility at the Majorelle Garden, an enchanting oasis nestled within the bustling city of Marrakech. Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this botanical garden is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

The Majorelle Garden is a haven of lush greenery, vibrant blue buildings, and serene pools that create a serene and captivating atmosphere. As you enter through the iconic blue gate, you’ll be greeted by a landscape of exotic plants from all corners of the world, including cacti, bamboo, palm trees, and colorful flowers.

Wander along the meandering paths, taking in the sights and sounds of nature, and discover hidden corners of tranquility. The garden provides plenty of shaded nooks where you can sit and relax, immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One of the highlights of the Majorelle Garden is the striking Villa Oasis, which houses the Berber Museum. Explore the museum to learn about the indigenous Berber people and their rich cultural heritage through a collection of artifacts, textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts.

The vibrant blue building that serves as the focal point of the garden is known as the “Majorelle Blue.” This particular shade of blue is synonymous with the garden and has become an iconic symbol of Marrakech. The bold blue color creates a striking contrast against the greenery, making it a perfect backdrop for photos and a visual feast for the eyes.

Another highlight of the Majorelle Garden is the small but captivating Islamic Art Museum. Housed within a charming pavilion, the museum showcases a collection of ceramics, textiles, and artwork representing various periods and regions of Islamic art. The intricate designs and stunning craftsmanship on display provide insight into the cultural heritage of Morocco and the Islamic world.

To complete your visit, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the boutique located within the garden. Here, you can find a range of high-quality products inspired by Moroccan and Berber design, including clothing, accessories, and decorative objects. It’s a perfect place to find unique souvenirs or to simply indulge in some retail therapy.

Visiting the Majorelle Garden is a serene and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exploring the diverse plant life, admiring the iconic blue architecture, or delving into the rich cultural history within the museum, this botanical oasis will transport you to a world of beauty and tranquility.

Experiencing Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

No visit to Marrakech is complete without immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the beating heart of the city. This bustling square, located at the entrance of the medina, is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavors that will leave you captivated.

Jemaa el-Fnaa comes alive as the sun sets, transforming into a lively open-air theater where local performers, musicians, and storytellers gather to entertain the crowds. As you stroll through the square, you’ll encounter acrobats, snake charmers, henna artists, and traditional musicians, each showcasing their unique talents.

The square is a hub of activity and an excellent vantage point for people-watching and soaking up the vibrant street life of Marrakech. You’ll witness the buzz of locals and tourists mingling, food vendors sizzling up traditional Moroccan delicacies, and the constant rhythm of life in the city.

One of the highlights of Jemaa el-Fnaa is the mouthwatering street food. Tantalize your taste buds with an array of Moroccan culinary delights, from savory tagines and grilled meats to flavorful couscous and freshly squeezed fruit juices. Indulge in local specialties like Moroccan pastries, barbecued skewers, and the famous orange and avocado juice available from the numerous stalls.

For a truly immersive experience, venture into one of the many rooftop restaurants surrounding the square. From these elevated vantage points, you can savor delicious traditional dishes while marveling at the energetic scene below, with the distant sound of music and the aroma of food wafting through the air.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Jemaa el-Fnaa, you’ll find an array of market stalls offering an assortment of goods. From colorful textiles and leather bags to intricate metalwork and authentic Moroccan crafts, the market is a shopper’s paradise. Practice your negotiation skills and haggle for the best prices, but be prepared for the lively banter and friendly salesmanship that is synonymous with Moroccan markets.

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is also a gateway to the enchanting maze of the medina. From here, you can venture into the narrow alleyways, exploring the souks and discovering hidden gems along the way. Take a leisurely stroll through the medina, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and get lost in the myriad of sights and sounds that make Marrakech truly unique.

Visiting Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is an experience that will ignite your senses and stay with you long after you leave Marrakech. Embrace the energy, embrace the diversity, and embrace the magic that can only be found in this captivating square.

Discovering the Bahia Palace

Step into the opulent world of the Bahia Palace and immerse yourself in the beauty and grandeur of Moroccan architecture. Located in the heart of Marrakech, this magnificent 19th-century palace is a must-visit attraction that showcases the splendor of Moroccan craftsmanship and design.

As you enter the palace, you’ll be greeted by lush gardens, tranquil courtyards, and intricately carved wooden doors that lead to beautifully decorated rooms. The name “Bahia” translates to “brilliance,” and the palace lives up to its name with its stunning combination of Islamic and Moroccan architectural styles.

Originally built for Si Moussa, a former slave who rose to become the vizier of the sultan, the Bahia Palace was later expanded upon by his son Ba Ahmed, who added more extensive sections to the palace complex. The result is a sprawling masterpiece that is spread across a vast area.

As you wander through the palace, marvel at the elaborate stucco work, hand-painted ceilings, and the intricate zellige tilework that adorns the walls and floors. Each room tells a story of the luxury and opulence enjoyed by the families who once lived within its walls.

Some of the must-see areas within the Bahia Palace include the Grand Courtyard with its central fountain, surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful flower beds. The harem quarters, with their private gardens, offer a glimpse into the secluded world of the palace’s women.

Another highlight is the Council Chamber, an exquisitely decorated room adorned with ornate chandeliers and stunning stained glass windows. This chamber is a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who worked on the palace.

As you explore the palace, take a moment to pause in the peaceful courtyards, where you can admire the intricate details, listen to the soothing sounds of the water features, and appreciate the tranquility away from the bustling streets of Marrakech.

Visiting the Bahia Palace is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the extravagant lives of Morocco’s elite. The palace allows you to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship of the country.

Make sure to allocate plenty of time for your visit to fully explore the palace and soak up its beauty. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a serene escape, the Bahia Palace will leave you awe-struck and inspired by its timeless elegance.

Enjoying Traditional Moroccan Cuisine

Indulging in the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine is an essential part of any visit to Marrakech. The country’s culinary traditions are a delightful blend of aromatic spices, succulent meats, and vibrant fruits, creating a rich tapestry of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

One of the signature dishes of Morocco is the tagine, a slow-cooked stew that derives its name from the conical clay pot in which it’s cooked. Tagines are made with a variety of ingredients, such as tender meats, aromatic vegetables, and an array of spices, resulting in a delectable and fragrant dish. Try the traditional lamb tagine or the vegetarian-friendly options like vegetable tagine or the popular tagine with preserved lemons and olives.

Couscous is another staple in Moroccan cuisine and is often considered the national dish. Made from finely ground semolina, couscous is usually served with a flavorful broth and a selection of vegetables and meats. The couscous is steamed to perfection, creating light and fluffy grains that soak up the delicious flavors of the accompanying ingredients.

Moroccan cuisine also showcases a variety of savory pastries and street food. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the famous Moroccan street food snack, the delicious and satisfying “b’stilla”. This pastry is filled with layers of flaky pastry, spiced meat (usually chicken, pigeon, or fish), and a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar, creating a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

For those with a sweet tooth, Moroccan desserts will not disappoint. Treat yourself to traditional pastries such as “m’hanncha” (a coiled almond pastry) or “chebakia” (a fried sesame-coated cookie). Finish your meal with a cup of refreshing mint tea, a staple in Moroccan culture and a symbol of hospitality.

As you wander through the bustling streets of Marrakech, you’ll come across numerous food stalls and restaurants offering an array of Moroccan delicacies. Visit the food stalls at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where you can sample an assortment of authentic street food, including grilled meats, aromatic spices, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.

For a more refined dining experience, visit one of Marrakech’s many restaurants that offer traditional Moroccan cuisine. These establishments often provide a cozy and elegant atmosphere, complete with richly adorned interiors and attentive service. Don’t be shy to try unfamiliar dishes and ask for recommendations from the friendly staff.

During your culinary journey in Marrakech, be prepared to indulge in the hearty flavors of Moroccan cuisine and embrace the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. From the aromatic spices to the rich and satisfying dishes, traditional Moroccan cuisine is truly a feast for the senses.

Shopping in Marrakech

Shopping in Marrakech is a vibrant and immersive experience that will delight any avid shopper or curious traveler. The city is renowned for its bustling souks, where you can find a treasure trove of traditional Moroccan goods and immerse yourself in the local culture.

One of the most iconic shopping destinations in Marrakech is the Medina, particularly the labyrinthine streets of the souks. Here, you’ll find a myriad of stalls and shops offering an array of goods, including textiles, leather goods, spices, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional Moroccan handicrafts.

The souks are a sensory overload of colors, scents, and sounds. Navigate your way through the bustling alleys, bargaining with friendly shopkeepers, and discovering unique items along the way. Take your time to explore the different sections of the souks, each dedicated to a specific craft, such as the leather souk, the carpet souk, or the spice souk.

When shopping in the souks, it’s important to embrace the art of negotiation. Haggling is a common practice in Moroccan markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate for the best prices. Remember to approach the process with a friendly and respectful attitude, and be prepared to meet in the middle to reach a fair deal.

If you’re looking for a more modern shopping experience, Marrakech also offers several shopping malls and boutiques. The Gueliz neighborhood is a popular area for modern shopping, with its trendy boutiques, designer stores, and stylish galleries. Here, you can find a mix of international and local brands, as well as contemporary fashion, homeware, and accessories.

For those interested in traditional Moroccan crafts, a visit to the Ensemble Artisanal is a must. This government-run artisan complex offers a selection of high-quality crafts, including handwoven textiles, intricate woodwork, ceramics, and metalwork. You can directly support local artisans here and have the opportunity to watch them work on their crafts.

When shopping in Marrakech, keep in mind a few useful tips. Be prepared to bring cash as many small shops in the medina may not accept card payments. It’s also a good idea to carry a bag or backpack to store your purchases, and be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.

Lastly, shopping in Marrakech is not just about acquiring souvenirs or material items, but also about immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture and supporting the talented artisans who keep traditional crafts alive.

Whether you’re hunting for unique treasures in the bustling souks or exploring the modern boutiques in Gueliz, shopping in Marrakech is an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and one-of-a-kind souvenirs of your Moroccan journey.

Day Trips from Marrakech

While Marrakech offers an abundance of captivating sights and experiences, venturing beyond the city on a day trip allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures that Morocco has to offer. From stunning natural wonders to historical landmarks, here are some of the top day trips you can embark on from Marrakech.

Atlas Mountains: Escape the bustling city and venture into the magnificent Atlas Mountains. Just a short drive from Marrakech, this mountain range offers breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages, and opportunities for hiking or trekking. Explore the Ourika Valley, Imlil, or the Ouzoud Waterfalls for an unforgettable experience amidst stunning landscapes.

Essaouira: A visit to the charming coastal town of Essaouira is a popular day trip option. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sandy beaches, and vibrant blue and white medina, Essaouira offers a refreshing change of pace. Stroll along the historic ramparts, enjoy fresh seafood at the port, and soak in the artistic vibes that have attracted musicians and artists to this charming seaside town.

Ouarzazate: Embark on a journey to the “Gateway to the Sahara” – Ouarzazate. Located at the edge of the desert, this city is home to the exquisite Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a backdrop to many famous films and television shows. Explore the labyrinth of narrow alleys, admire the stunning architecture, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient fortified village.

High Atlas Berber Villages: Discover the unique Berber culture by visiting the traditional villages nestled in the High Atlas Mountains. Take a journey to remote settlements such as Imlil, Aroumd, or Amizmiz, and experience the hospitality of the locals. Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch, hike through scenic landscapes, and learn about the ancient customs and traditions of the Berber people.

Agafay Desert: Experience the desert landscape without venturing too far from Marrakech by visiting the Agafay Desert, also known as the “Desert of Marrakech”. Explore the vast expanse of golden sand dunes, enjoy camel rides, and savor a traditional Berber tea in a desert camp. This is a perfect option for those looking to have a taste of the desert experience within a short distance from the city.

These are just a few examples of the incredible day trip options available from Marrakech. Whether you choose to explore the majestic Atlas Mountains, stroll along the captivating Essaouira coastline, or delve into the rich history of Ouarzazate, each day trip will offer you a new perspective on the beauty and diversity of Morocco.

With so many diverse and fascinating destinations within reach, day trips from Marrakech are a fantastic way to complement your city adventure and create lasting memories of your journey through this enchanting country.

Safety Tips for Travelers in Marrakech

Marrakech is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s always essential to take precautions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. Here are some safety tips to consider when visiting Marrakech:

• Be cautious of your belongings: Like in any city, be mindful of your belongings and keep them secure. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so it’s advisable to use anti-theft bags or keep your valuables close to you. Avoid displaying expensive items, and always be aware of your surroundings.
• Dress modestly: Morocco has a conservative culture, and it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and public places. Avoid overly revealing clothing and respect the local customs and traditions.
• Negotiate prices: Haggling is part of the Moroccan culture, particularly in the souks. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices for goods and services. However, be fair and respectful during the process.
• Use reputable taxis: When taking taxis, choose official taxis with the meter running or agree on a price in advance. Avoid unmarked or unofficial taxis, as they may overcharge or take longer routes.
• Drink bottled water: As tap water may not be safe to drink, it’s best to stick to bottled water and avoid consuming drinks with ice from unknown sources. Stay hydrated, especially during hot days, and carry a bottle of water with you.
• Plan ahead and use official guides: If you’re interested in taking tours or hiring guides, opt for licensed and reputable operators. Research and plan your activities in advance to ensure you choose trusted providers.
• Stay alert in busy areas: Places like Jemaa el-Fnaa Square can get crowded, so stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings. Be cautious of individuals trying to sell or offer services aggressively, as they may become persistent if declined.
• Follow local customs and traditions: Respect the local culture by observing customs and traditions. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in establishing goodwill with locals.
• Know emergency numbers and embassy information: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, including those for the police and medical services. Also, make note of your embassy’s contact information in case of any emergency or assistance needed.
• Trust your instincts: Trust your instincts and use common sense throughout your trip. If a situation or place feels uncomfortable or unsafe, it’s best to remove yourself from it.

By practicing these safety tips, you can enjoy your time in Marrakech with peace of mind and make the most of your experience in this captivating Moroccan city.

Marrakech is a city that captivates visitors with its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling markets of the medina to the tranquil gardens and historic palaces, Marrakech offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

Throughout this ultimate travel guide, we have explored the best time to visit Marrakech, where to stay, top attractions, and must-try experiences. We’ve provided insight into the enchanting medina, the magnificent Majorelle Garden, the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the opulent Bahia Palace, and the tantalizing world of traditional Moroccan cuisine.

We have also discussed opportunities for day trips, allowing you to venture beyond the city and discover the stunning Atlas Mountains, charming Essaouira, historical Ouarzazate, thriving Berber villages, and the nearby Agafay Desert.

While exploring Marrakech, it’s important to prioritize your safety by being mindful of your belongings, respecting local customs, and staying alert in busy areas. By following the provided safety tips and planning ahead, you can navigate the city with confidence and peace of mind.

Marrakech is a city that stimulates all the senses, from the vibrant colors and aromatic spices to the sounds of laughter and music that fill the air. It’s a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with the modern world, offering a unique and immersive experience for travelers.

So, whether you’re strolling through the labyrinthine souks, sipping mint tea in a traditional riad, or marveling at the intricate architecture, Marrakech will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Pack your bags, open your mind, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure in the enchanting city of Marrakech. Allow yourself to be swept away by the magic, warmth, and timeless beauty of Morocco.

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Marrakesh Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

Marrakesh is the fourth-largest city in Morocco and is usually on every traveler’s itinerary when visiting the North African country. My time visiting Marrakesh was everything I thought it would be: a modern mix of Moroccan and international culture, delicious food, and beautiful architecture in the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Founded in 1070, the city has been the capital of various kingdoms and dynasties throughout the ages. But the history of the region stretches back even further, with indigenous Berbers inhabiting the area since the Neolithic era (10,000-4,500 BCE).

Though Marrakesh lacked the grit and edge that the rest of the country had, it was the most eclectic city of my trip. The famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square is truly the mess that everyone describes, with tens of thousands of people eating, shopping, getting henna tattoos, listening to bands and storytellers, and watching magicians (and snake charmers during the day). It is the busiest square in Africa. It still blows my mind how big and full it was!

Marrakesh is on the map and should undoubtedly be part of your trip to Morocco. Few travelers visit the country without stopping in this city. While parts may be touristy, it is a remarkable and beautiful city worth a visit.

This travel guide to Marrakesh can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most out of your time here!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Marrakesh

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Marrakesh

1. Explore the town square

Djemaa el-Fna is Marrakesh’s main square, where you can find exotic street performers, snake charmers, tattoo artists, musicians, storytellers, and more. It’s huge, chaotic, crowded, and a sensory overload. At night, the market fills with food vendors and crowds of locals and tourists alike.

2. Visit the Bahia Palace

La Bahia was built in the late 19th century over the course of 14 years. Although the palace has 150 rooms, only a fraction of it is open to the public. The Grand Riad, with its studded fountains and carved wood lintels, is the oldest part of the palace and probably my favorite part. Entrance is 70 MAD.

3. Mosey through the Jardin Majorelle

The Jardin Majorelle was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle between 1886-1962. The garden is a collection of 300 species of plants from five different continents. The entrance fee is 120 MAD and another 30 MAD for the Berber Museum. The new YSL Museum costs an additional 100 MAD.

4. Walk through the Ben Youssef Madrasa

This Quranic learning center dates to the 14th century and is greatly admired for its detailed tile, woodwork, colorful mosaic walls, and Italian marble. The main courtyard has some stunning tile work. Admission costs 70 MAD. Currently closed for renovations.

5. Marvel at the Saadian Tombs

Saadian Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour ed-Dahbi flaunted his extravagance and wealth, as you’ll see at his tombs. This royal necropolis was built in the late 16th century with imported Italian marble and decorated with pure gold. The open-air museum costs 70 MAD.

Other Things to See and Do in Marrakesh

1. visit the maison de la photographie.

The Maison de la Photographie (Museum of Photography) opened when friends Patrick Menac’h, a Parisian, and Hamid Mergani, a Marrakshi, decided to combine their collections of vintage Moroccan photography. Together, they collected 4,500 photos, 2,000 glass negatives, and 80 documents between 1870 and 1950. Works are on display through three floors, organized thematically by content and region. Most photos are also for sale. Entrance is 50 MAD.

2. Get lost in the medina

Marrakesh’s medina, which means “city” or “town” in Arabic, is the historic walled city, with a labyrinth of alleys and stalls upon stalls to peruse. Watch the making and selling of traditional handicrafts, eat some street food, and take in the sights and smells in the historic walled quarter of the city. You’ll find stalls selling merguez sausage, grilled meats, potato tagines, maakouda potato cakes, and so much more. Don’t be afraid to get lost in the alleys and tiny streets. The alleys seem endless, but I found it less intimidating than the medina in Fez.

3. Visit Morocco’s largest Jewish cemetery

The largest Jewish cemetery in Morocco, Miara Cemetery dates to 1537 and is still in use today. The graveyard is divided into three sections: one for men, another for women, and a third for children. Due to space constraints, there are three layers of burial grounds. This is an excellent historical site and I highly suggest you visit. After visiting the cemetery, wander around the Jewish quarter, which is home to the 15th-century Lazama Synagogue. It’s the last synagogue in the quarter.

4. Relax in a traditional hammam

A hammam is a steam bath popular in North Africa. It used to be the only place where people could bathe because private bathrooms were a luxury only few could afford. They are usually found near mosques or toiletry shops and can be upscale or public (traditional). Public hammams cost about 10 MAD and you need to bring your own scrubbing glove, soap, brush, razor, shampoo, towel, and change of clothing. Hotel hammams provide the necessary kit and usually cost around 300-500 MAD. If you want to try a public hammam, go to Hammam Dar el-Bacha or Hammam Mouassine.

5. Hang out on the terrace of Grand Café de la Poste

This is an institution in Marrakesh. While the food is good, most people come for the architecture and atmosphere. Built in the 1920s, this originally was a café, hotel, and postal relay. Today, the café retains much of its original grandeur with vaulted ceilings, black and white tiled floors, leafy palms, red sofas, and leather chairs. The terrace is a fantastic spot to drink a cold beer. On the weekend, you’ll find locals and expats eating brunch and catching up. The menu is mostly French cuisine, with dishes ranging in price from 80-280 MAD.

6. Hang out in the parks

Marrakesh has a lot of parks, with everything from formal gardens with trees planted in straight rows, to expansive parks, to neighboring palaces, to Yves Saint Laurent’s blue-splashed garden. My favorites are Arsat Moulay Abdeslam Cyber Park (featuring free Wi-Fi), Jardin el Harti (over 80 years old), The Agdal Garden (over 700 acres and next to the Royal Palace), and Lalla Hasna Park (a small park right by the Koutoubia Mosque).

7. Visit the Menara botanical gardens

Located west of the city center, this botanical garden was established around 1130 by the Almohad Caliphate. The Menara pavilion, with its green pyramid-like roof, is a focal point because of its views of the nearby man-made lake. It was built in the 16th-century during the Saadi dynasty. From the gardens, you can see the Atlas Mountains in the distance. Admission is free.

8. Take a cooking class at the Marrakesh Culinary Arts Museum

Found in the mellah (Jewish quarter), this museum offers cooking classes twice a day. Each class is around two hours in duration and the menus feature Jewish and Moroccan dishes. Cooking classes are around 500 MAD. You can visit the museum for 60 MAD or 120 MAD with tastings. (Temporarily closed due to COVID-19.)

9. Stroll the ruins of El Badi palace

The “Incomparable Palace” is a massive palace of over 300 rooms, built by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur in the 16th-century. With the sultan’s death and the decline of the Saadian dynasty, the palace fell into decline, and today the palace is a large-scale ruin. Admire the views over the city, stroll the gardens, descend into the dungeons, and learn more at the small museum inside. World Folklore Days, the biggest folk-dance festival in Africa, takes place in the palace complex each March. Entrance to the palace is 70 MAD.

  For more information on specific cities in Morocco, check out these guides:

• Fez Travel Guide

Marrakesh Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Dorm rooms with 6-8 beds cost around 60-90 MAD per night, while a bed in a room with 10-20 beds costs 40-70 MAD per night. Private rooms cost around 260-380 MAD per night. Hostels usually offer free breakfast, Wi-Fi, towels, linens, and many communal spaces designed for you to meet other travelers.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost around 270-410 MAD per night and include private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and breakfast.

On Airbnb, private rooms start around 200-320 MAD per night. Entire homes/apartments start at around 350-550 MAD per night.

Food – Moroccan cuisine is a colorful, flavorful mix of Berber, Andalusian, and Mediterranean traditions with a pinch of French and sub-Saharan cuisine to round things out. It is a land of spices, so expect flavorful meals at every turn (the traditional ras el hanout spice mix is composed of 27 different spices). Beef, goat, and lamb are some of the most common meats, usually eaten with couscous. Fish like mackerel and anchovy are also quite common, owing to the country’s location on the coast. Be sure to try pastilla , a pastry filled with meat or seafood.

Food can be cheap in Marrakesh if you eat at the street stalls and local restaurants, especially in the main square. Most hostels include breakfast, but a budget cafe breakfast costs around 25 MAD.

Restaurants and street stalls in the souk have affordable and traditional meals such as tagine, grilled fish, and meats for 30-50 MAD. Eating Western food and in fancy restaurants starts at around 150 MAD for a dish and can go as high as 300 MAD.

Fast food (think burger and fries) costs around 50 MAD for a combo meal.

Beer is around 35 MAD while a latte/cappuccino is around 18 MAD.

In the main square, try Cafe Clock, Bakchich Cafe, and PepeNero. Try traditional Moroccan foods such as harira (a soup popular during Ramadan), tajine, and Sfenj (Moroccan style donut).

If you cook your own food, expect to pay 200 MAD per week for groceries such as pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat or seafood.

Backpacking Marrakesh Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Marrakesh, my suggested budget is about 230 MAD per day. This budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, eating mostly from cheap street stalls and cooking some meals, walking or taking public transit everywhere, limiting your drinking, and sticking to cheap or free attractions like the botanical gardens.

A mid-range budget of about 500 MAD per day covers a private Airbnb room, eating out at cheap restaurants for all your meals, enjoying a few drinks, taking the occasional taxi to get around, and doing more paid activities like museum visits and visiting the palace.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,090 MAD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat at nice restaurants for all your meals, drink more, rent a scooter or take a taxi to sites outside the city, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in MAD.

Marrakesh Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Marrakesh, like the rest of Morocco, is very affordable so it’s easy to visit here without breaking the bank. That said, here are some ways to save money in Marrakesh without cutting your fun:

• Eat at the markets – Stick to eating at the local markets in the medina or away from the tourist centers in the new town and you’ll spend very little money on food!
• Negotiate your cab fare – Be sure to negotiate a price before you get into the taxi. There aren’t set prices and you need to bargain hard. Ask your hostel/hotel staff for rough price estimates so you can avoid being scammed.
• Avoid faux guides – Faux guides (or false guides) linger in the medina and offer you tour services. Be forceful in saying no and keep walking away, and eventually they will give up.
• Stay with a local – If you want to save money and get some local insight into the city, use Couchsurfing. Staying with a local is the best way to get a feel for the city and learn some insider tips. There’s a small Couchsurfing community in the city.
• Avoid drinking – Even though drinking is frowned upon in the country, you can still find plenty of drinking establishments. They are overpriced and the drinks aren’t that good. Avoid drinking during your visit, save money, and align yourself closer to local norms.
• Eat from street stalls – While restaurant meals can typically cost as little as 30 MAD, street food is even cheaper. For just a few dollars, you can indulge in delicious kebabs, sausages, barbecued corn on the cob, hot roasted chicken, and huge sandwiches, among many other tasty options.
• Make change at your hotel – A lot of vendors and museums do not give change back when you pay with paper notes, and the lowest denomination you can get from an ATM is 100 MAD. Hotels and larger grocery stores are best for getting smaller bills and change. This way you can give to correct amounts, and not lose money unnecessarily.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink but you should bring a reusable water bottle with a filter just in case. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Marrakesh

There several hostels in the city. Here are my recommended places to stay in Marrakesh:

• Riad Jennah Rouge
• Kasbah Red Castle Hostel
• Hostel Riad Marrakech Rouge

How to Get Around Marrakesh

Marrakesh is a very walkable city, but the medina can be confusing, so I recommend using GPS. Outside of the medina, there are a few different methods of transportation that you can use.

Public transportation – Bus rides around the city cost 2-5 MAD. Buses are run by Alsa and run from 6am-10pm, with most buses running every 15-20 mins. Bus 1 runs from the Kasbah, through Gueliz, and Bab Doukkala. Bus 11 runs through Bab Doukkala, Djemaa El Fna, and Menara Gardens. Bus 12 runs through Jardin Majorelle, Bab Doukkala, and Hivernage.

Scooters/Motorcycles – Scooters and motorcycles are also available for rent around the city, with a half-day scooter rental costing around 180 MAD. You can find rental places near the medina.

Taxi – Taxis have a base fare around 7 MAD and cost about 4 MAD per kilometer. Don’t expect to receive change, so pay the exact price and ask to use the meter at the beginning of the ride.

A taxi from the airport to the city center runs about 60-100 MAD, while an airport express bus only costs about 30 MAD.

Always negotiate the price before getting into the taxi, as prices can inflate quite a bit when you arrive at your destination if you don’t.

When to Go to Marrakesh

March-May and September-November are the best times for visiting Marrakesh. During these months, temperatures average 30°C (86°F) so the weather is hot but not unbearable.

July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures an average of 38°C (100°F). That’s just too hot to comfortably explore on foot.

Marathon des Sables takes place in Morocco each April. It is a 6-day foot race in the Sahara Desert, one of the toughest races of its kind in the world. In July, the Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival attracts fortune tellers, dancers, snake charmers, and fire-swallowers from all over the world. It’s an interesting distraction from the heat of summer when the crowds of tourists are lower.

Ramadan takes place in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar (which is based on lunar cycles so it varies every year) and lasts for 30 days. During this time, Muslims abstain from food and drink during the daytime. It is also considered a sober month in Morocco. Most restaurants and businesses are still open, but often with reduced hours.

In winter, the daytime temperatures average around 7°C (45°F), and while the days can be sunny, the nights can be quite chilly. There are fewer visitors during this time but pack a sweater.

How to Stay Safe in Marrakesh

Marrakesh is fairly safe and the risk of violent crime here is low. Like anywhere else, avoid walking through unfamiliar areas alone at night and beware of pickpocketing and petty theft.

Pickpocketing, petty theft, fake tour guides, and harassers are your most likely problems here, especially in the medina. Be firm when saying no to touts who try to sell you excursions. Beware of locals inviting you into their shop for tea, as you may end up spending a lot of money to buy something you don’t want.

Women traveling alone can attract a lot of attention, and the chances of being followed, and possibly groped, is high. Walking alone at night is generally not a good idea. Dress appropriately and respectfully. Although Marrakesh is touristy and slightly more liberal, women should still dress modestly to avoid harassment and having to spend money on extra clothing to cover up while there.

If you’re worried about getting scammed, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 19 for assistance (112 for mobile phones).

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Marrakesh Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Morocco Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Morocco and continue planning your trip:

The Best Tour Companies in Morocco

Is Morocco Safe? 11 Ways to Stay Safe During Your Visit

A Journey of 1,000 Mint Teas: Reflections on Traveling Morocco

11 Reasons Why I Fell in Love With Morocco

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The Ultimate Marrakech Travel Guide (2024)

Planning a trip to Marrakech but don't know where to start? Here's your ultimate guide to visiting Marrakech, Morocco. This Marrakech Travel Guide covers everything from where to stay and how to get to Marrakech, to the best things to do when visiting Marrakech for the first-time and much more. I spent five days exploring this incredible, vibrant, colourful city and it completely stole my heart. Fusing east and west in a delicately entwined and dusty package, there are two very different sides to this city and I'm excited to share how you can make the most out of your visit. Whether you're planning a solo trip, a couples break or a holiday with friends or family, Marrakech is the perfect destination for all budgets.

Imagine a city where you can explore the dusty, winding streets through bustling souks, discover archaeological and architectural gems, taking a moment to rest in shaded gardens with trickling fountains and gorgeous rooftop bars for sunset. There are so many things to do in Marrakech, Morocco, and it doesn't stop at the city, you can venture further afield to the beautiful Atlas Mountains to explore waterfalls, or even spend a night in the Agafay Desert watching the sunset fade into a starlit sky. It's time to live your desert princess dreams and book a trip to Marrakech today!

Travelling to Marrakech: Everything You Need To Know

Booking flights from the uk to marrakech.

If you're flying from the UK, it can be super cheap and easy to get to Marrakech, Morocco, with around 125 flights per week. The cheapest month to fly is March, when flights start from £35, while the most expensive is August from £143. Flying into Marrakech Menara Airport is easiest as you are just 3km from the city. Flights are available with a range of airlines from London including Jet2, EasyJet, Ryanair, British Airways and several others. Jet2 and Tui also provide package holidays to Marrakesh in case you prefer to book everything in one go and take the stress out of organising. The flight takes 3 hours and 51 minutes from the UK to Marrakech. Find cheap flights to Marrakech now

Read:  5 tips for finding cheap flights for any destination

How many days do I need in Marrakech?

You could easily do a long weekend in Marrakech and that would be a perfect length trip. There's a lot to see and do in the city, but I think you only need a few days there or the heat and bustle of the city can become oppressive. We actually visited for five days and found it a great length of time for us, but we also chose to do some day trips out of the city which really made the trip. If you have time to stay longer, it is worth doing if you plan to take a few day trips from Marrakech . Keep reading this Marrakech Travel Guide to find out the most unique things to do in the city and excursions around Morocco.

How to avoid getting sick in Marrakech

It's always a worry when visiting somewhere new that your body might not agree with the destination. The change of foods, the travel and the water all pose risks that could result in a poorly tummy. However, that's no reason to not travel to a destination, just all the more reason to travel prepared. I was a bit poorly in Marrakech but it didn't stop me exploring – here's my Marrakech Travel Guide top tips for avoiding getting sick and enjoying your stay:

• Don't drink the water or use it to brush your teeth!
• Avoid anything fresh including salads or even olives served in restaurants that could have been exposed to water
• Drink plenty of bottled water and stay hydrated in the heat (it was 40ºC when we visited!)
• Take time to rest and stay cool in the shade during the hottest parts of the day
• Travel with sickness/diarrhoea medication in case you get caught short
• If it is really hot while there, it's worth taking rehydration sachets and adding them to your water daily
• If you do get sick, make sure you see a doctor if needed and seek medical advice
• Always get travel insurance! It can be a lifesaver if you do get poorly and need medical help.

Check out this post for my travel insurance recommendations !

Read:  Saviours for when you're struck down by travel sickness

Marrakech Travel Guide: Tips for Exploring Marrakech and the Medina

It can feel intense and overwhelming to explore Marrakech's city centre (the Medina) especially during peak season. I highly recommend travelling in the quieter seasons – we actually visited in June and it was nice to explore and quieter than usual. However, the temperatures did vary a lot from 30-40ºC over the course of the week. Here's some key things we learned from our week-long visit to Marrakech:

• Always carry cash as well as card – most businesses will accept card payments however, market stalls in the souks and food stalls will not.
• Don't accept help from strangers – they will try and pretend they work for a hotel and will take your luggage but then they will ask for a tip.
• Be firm when you say no and be prepared to say it a lot! Everyone will try and sell to you, their livelihood depends on it. Be kind and firm and remember it is a different culture to what you might be used to.
• Remember to haggle when shopping – this is part of their way of life! So don't be scared to negotiate and drive the price down so you're not just paying the standard tourist rates.

What to wear when visiting Marrakech

It's important when packing for a trip to Marrakech to remember that, as an Arabic country, Morocco is more conservative than your standard holiday destination. I do want to preface this by saying that Marrakech did seem a lot more relaxed than I expected and I did see a lot of tourists walking around the main square and sitting in bars with bare shoulders. However, that doesn't mean that you should . Please be respectful when walking around public areas including the Medina and the souk, visiting tourist attractions and generally places of worship or historic buildings. Ensure that you wear clothes that cover your shoulders, dresses or skirts that are below the knee and choose loose fabrics over clingy ones.

For women, it's the perfect place to crack out the maxi dresses and midi skirts, loose linen trousers and shirts and maybe even carry a pashmina for extra coverage where needed. For men, I'd recommend long shorts or trousers and t-shirt or even a shirt over it. It's always good if you're visiting certain places or tourist attractions to check online if there are any specific dress codes or restrictions as some places are more conservative than others. If you're heading to any of the more Westernised bars or rooftop bars, you will see people dressed far less conservatively and that's perfectly okay, but worth remembering that you may have to walk to a venue and need to cover yourself during this time. If you are a woman / solo female traveller visiting Marrakech, I would recommend covering yourself particularly to limit stares and unwanted attention. I found travelling as a couple this was fine, but as a solo traveller I might cover up slightly more.

Marrakech Travel Guide

Finding the perfect accommodation in marrakech for your budget.

There are so many types of accommodation to choose from when visiting Marrakech, it can feel a little overwhelming to decide. The key things to decide are your budget for the trip and whether you would like to stay in one place or experience different types of accommodation during your trip. Then you need to think about whether you prefer boutique and traditional vibes in the riads, budget hostel community vibes or whether you prefer the vast luxury of an all-inclusive or luxury hotel. When choosing your Marrakech hotel or accommodation, make sure you check whether you are booking in the Old Town or New Town – if you're planning to sightsee around the Medina it could be a pain to have to get taxis over to the Medina every day.

Always remember, the three rules for choosing accommodation:

• ALWAYS read the reviews! And cross-check across Booking and various other websites – some accommodations have fewer reviews on certain sites but loads on one.
• Price check between booking websites and the actual accommodation website – sometimes it can be cheaper to book direct, however you can also benefit from rewards on Booking.com such as free upgrades/free breakfast/airport shuttles etc.
• Make sure you look at location & on a map view to check how easy it is to get between places in a location. Ideally you want to be able to walk everywhere, so check that is possible and you're not the other side of the city as you can end up spending a lot on transport.

3 of the Best Budget Riads in Marrakech

It can be a minefield trying to choose the perfect riad for your stay in Marrakech, there are simply so many to choose from! I highly recommend you book a riad when visiting Marrakech, if only for a couple of nights before going to a hotel. It really is such a unique experience of accommodation and the hospitality is faultless. During my stay in Marrakech I stayed in four riads which was great for providing a well-rounded experience of both riads and Marrakech. You'll notice that I'm only recommending three of these riads because they provided such an amazing experience that I would happily go back and stay at them again, and would love for you to experience them. The fourth? Well let's just say it had a few too many critters running around for my liking which was a shame considering it had potential to be the most visually spectacular.

But what is a riad?

Well the term means a "traditional Moroccan house" and comes from the Arab word 'ryad' which refers to the townhouses that have been turned into accommodations. They provide a truly unique experience and are much smaller than the standard hotel counterparts, often with only around 10 rooms. This means that they are so uniquely decorated with each room having a truly magical finish that provides you with an experience, not just a stay.

Riad Hikaya – £££ (from £140) Rated 9.7 on Booking

Riad Hikaya is a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of the Medina and a place that instantly makes you feel like you're in a movie set from the moment you walk in the door. "Hikaya" actually means story in Arabic, and this beautiful and opulent surrounding certainly makes you feel like the main character in your story. With just eight rooms surrounding the tranquil courtyard and year-round outdoor heated pool, it provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding streets. An oasis of calm in the centre of the city with direct and easy access to Marrakech's top tourist attractions and sights, including just a 10-minute walk from Djemaa El Fna square. The service is incredible and the hospitality of the small team is faultless, bringing a homely feel to this centre of elegance and luxury. The rooms are intricately decorated in the traditional Moroccan style, including the stunning bathrooms with ornate freestanding bathtubs fit for a princess. Don't forget to enjoy a leisurely Moroccan breakfast fit for a king on the beautiful rooftop overlooking the Medina.

Book a stay at Riad Hikaya now

Riad Livia – ££ (from £100) Rated 9.4 on Booking

If you're looking for the ultimate relaxing experience and hideaway from the busy Medina, Riad Livia provides the perfect boutique escape. With just five suites, it can feel almost like you have the whole place to yourself. Imagine the serenity of a spa, with the scent of orange blossoms mingling with the sound of birdsong as you enter the cool entryway. The suites are vast and luxurious from the unique and exquisite design, to the vibrant colours. Experience incredible Moroccan hospitality with a kind and warm welcome from the team as you walk through the door. Don't forget to head to the rooftop, where the true magic awaits. It's the perfect place to relax, take in the sights and sounds of the Medina as you relax in the sunshine and enjoy the plunge pool. My favourite part was the leisurely breakfasts in the bright sunshine as the birds chirped and sung, and the Media came to life beneath us. This is a stay where you can experience full luxury on a budget while having easy access to the heart of the Medina.

Book a stay at Riad Livia now

Riad Ayada – £ (from £69) Rated 9.5 on Booking

If you're looking for a real budget stay but don't want to scrimp on the homely, welcoming hospitality that is so well-loved in Morocco. Riad Ayada is the place for you! This authentic riad is located just 600m from the very centre of Morocco but on the other side of the main square to the other two riads I have recommended and gives a totally different experience. You enter the Medina from a different place and while still vibrant, colourful and lively, it feels like a totally different place. We loved both experiences and highly recommend this riad. Our lovely French host, Delphine, was so thoughtful, kind and couldn't do enough for us, including taking the time to call her friends and book us tables at popular rooftop bars and advise us on the best things to do in Marrakech. We stayed in two different rooms while visiting, one downstairs in the cool and shaded courtyard, and another at the top of the building which came with a beautiful tented room and rooftop terrace where we could enjoy a private breakfast. The rooms are hugely spacious with plenty of space to relax by the pool and in the sunshine.

Book a stay at Riad Ayada now

The Best Hotels and Hostels in Marrakech

If you're keen for luxury getaway to a hotel in Marrakech, here's some great Marrakech hotels:

• La Sultana Marrakech – spectacular stay with world-class service, luxury outdoor swimming pool and rooftop terrace. (£££)
• Les Jardins De La Médina – in the heart of the Medina, exotic gardens, restaurant and hammam spa on site. (££)
• Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech – 10 minute drive from the centre with views of the Atlas Mountains. (£££)
• Tigmiza Boutique Hotel & Spa – a short drive from the centre, pools, bars and Atlas Mountains views. (££)
• Royal Mansour Marrakech – luxury stay with indoor and outdoor pool, just five minutes from the main square. (£££)

If you prefer to travel on a tighter budget and to meet other like-minded travellers, here's some hostels to try in Marrakech:

• The Central House Marrakech Medina – styled like a huge riad but with dorms available as well as private rooms.
• Equity Point Marrakech – another huge riad-style hotel/hostel but dorms available and a swimming pool!
• Kasbah Red Castel Hostel – great location for exploring, community vibes, lovely outdoor terrace and really clean.
• Be Nomad Hostel – great location, lovely welcoming hosts, communal areas for meeting other travellers and great decor!

Marrakech Travel Guide: 8 Unique Things to do in Marrakech

If you're looking for unique experiences when visiting Marrakech, I've got some gems in this Marrakech Travel Guide for you to try:

• Moroccan Cooking Class with Farmer's Market Visit – discover Moroccan flavours and ingredients at the market, then visit a chef's private home to enjoy a cooking class and prepare a meal together.
• Luxury Spa Massage and Steam Hammam – a traditional Moroccan hammam is an experience you simply have to try. The ultimate spa, scrub and massage experience, enjoy this luxury package and relax in tranquil surroundings.
• 3-Hour Colourful Souks Tour – explore the vibrant open-air markets and souks of Marrakech with this tour of the most vibrant and colourful labyrinth of stalls.
• Ben Youssef, Secret Garden, & Souks Walking Tour – take in the stunning architecture of Marrakech with a walking tour of the city's most beautiful buildings, the lively souks and the lush oasis of the Secret Garden.
• Ouirgan Berber villages & Salt mine Day trip from Marrakech – support the local villages by joining this tour to discover rural life, traditional Berber villages and the salt mines.
• Quad Bike Tour to Palm Oasis and Jbilat Desert – go on an adventure you won't forget as you ride through the palm trees to traditional Berber villages on quad bikes before taking a break with local bread and honey.
• Desert and Palmeraie Horse Riding Tour – if you love horse riding, this trip is the one for you. Sip traditional mint tea, admire the palm trees, and pass by traditional Berber villages.
• Hot Air Balloon Ride with Traditional Breakfast – a hot air balloon ride is always a magical experience, imagine starting your day with an incredible sunrise over Marrakech before a traditional Moroccan breakfast.

Marrakech Travel Guide: Best Things to do in Marrakech at Night

The sightseeing and travel experiences don't have to stop just because of nightfall, if anything it is the time to really explore the city in the cooler temperatures. Here's some ideas for things to do in Marrakech at night:

• Marrakech: Street Food Tour by Night for a taste of the local cuisine and delicacies from the bustling souks and markets.
• Visit a rooftop bar for sunset – I recommend Kabana Rooftop , Dardar Rooftop and El Fenn for amazing sunset views!
• Medina by Night Tour to explore the colourful wonders of Jemaa el Fnaa medina, shop and try the local tea.
• Go to a Jazz Bar and enjoy live music – I recommend La Pergola for amazing food, drinks and music!

6 Best Day Trips to Take From Marrakech

Ouzoud waterfalls guided hike and boat trip.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore the beautiful Atlas Mountains and visit an oasis nestled at the foot of the mountains. The Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike and Boat Trip is a great way to escape the city and visit a totally contrasting landscape, experience the beauty of Ouzoud Waterfalls and have lunch with a view of the falls after a relaxing boat ride with the locals.

Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride, and Dinner

The most magical experience of the trip, I half expected a magic carpet to whisk me away into the sunset. The Agafay Desert Sunset, Camel Ride, and Dinner is an experience you won't want to miss when visiting Marrakech. Just a few hours over the evening, it's perfect for getting out of the city and witnessing the beauty of the desert and watching the stars come out to play. Enjoy a relaxing dinner under the stars with local Berber musicians. Although this trip does come with the opportunity for a camel ride, I chose not to take part in this activity. Please always do your research before riding animals and ensure they are well looked after.

Atlas Mountains Full-Day Hiking Trip

If you love getting outside, the Atlas Mountains Full-Day Hiking Trip could be the perfect day trip for you. This scenic hike takes you through the traditional Berber settlements of Ait Mizan, Targa and Imoula before enjoying lunch in a Berber house in Ait Souka.

Atlas Mountains and Berber Village Day Trip

Skip the hiking if you prefer but still experience the magic of the Berber community and lose yourself in the beauty of the Atlas Mountains on the Atlas Mountains and Berber Village Day Trip . Experience traditional and local life in villages throughout the mountains, including Tizi N'Tacheddirt, the highest village in the Atlas Mountains.

Full Day Trip To Essaouira city From Marrakech

Missing the ocean? Take a trip to the seaside with a Full Day Trip To Essaouira city From Marrakech and visit this beautiful fishing village where you can experience Morocco’s seaside culture and learn how argan oil is extracted. Take a stroll around Essaouira’s Medina and witness traditional agriculture and architecture

Merzouga 3-Day Desert Safari with Food

Fancy something a little more adventurous? Why not book the Merzouga 3-Day Desert Safari with Food and spend a few days travelling through the desert on a safari you won't forget? Spend the night at a Bedouin camp in the Erg Chebbi dunes. Ride a camel to watch the sunset and sunrise. See the Kasbah of Ouarzazate, and much more. Again, if you chose to ride camels, please do your research beforehand and ensure the animals are not being mistreated.

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Best things to do in Marrakech: An affordable luxury 3-Day itinerary

Jayne Gorman

February 17, 2023

One of my travel highlights of 2022 was the affordable luxury holiday in Marrakech I enjoyed with my girlfriends. Our 3-day itinerary was the perfect blend of indulgent spa treatments, 5-star pool days, cultural sights and cocktails at design-led rooftop bars. The best thing though was how affordable all these luxury experiences were, especially the stylish riads we stayed in.

So, for anyone planning a trip to Marrakech, here’s our exact itinerary and what we loved about it.

If luxury spa experiences, pool days at 5-star hotels, secret gardens, frozen cocktails on rooftop bars, bartering for bargains in souks and staying at stylish but affordable riads sounds like your type of holiday, then this is the Marrakech itinerary for you.

Pool Day at the Royal Mansour

I arrived in Marrakech on a Thursday night on an Easyjet flight from Gatwick. I’d prebooked an airport transfer with our riad (15 euros) as well as a 3-course traditional meal (15 euros per person) to have on the rooftop of the riad with my girlfriends who had flown in slightly earlier.

For our first full day in Marrakech we booked pool day passes at the Royal Mansour and I cannot recommend this enough.

We’d saved quite a bit of money by sharing a family room at a riad so splurged on a day pass to the Royal Mansour in order to soak up some 5-star luxury for a fraction of the price.

Our day pass cost 1250 MAD (approx £100) per person and included access to the huge garden swimming pool, a welcome mocktail, a 3 course a la carte lunch at the beautiful Le Jardin Restaurant and unlimited ice buckets filled with bottled water.

This was honestly just the perfect way to start the holiday. The service was exemplary without being stuffy, the pool was so peaceful and lunch was absolutely delicious.

We asked to delay dessert and have it by the pool later as we were so full from the first 2 courses and I’m so glad we did as the chocolate dessert I ordered was one of the most beautiful sweets I’ve ever eaten. (And I’ve eaten a lot of sweet treats.)

You could easily spend the price of the day pass on food alone at other hotels, so the fact we got to hang out in these exquisite surroundings for about a tenth of the price it costs to stay there was a real win in my eyes.

I booked the Royal Mansour pool day pass in advance by emailing [email protected] . You can also book online.

Families are welcome. The day pass is free for children under 6 years old and reduced by 50% for children aged 6 to 12.

Dinner at Nomad & Cocktails at El Fenn

Found in the heart of the medina, Nomad has 2 rooftop terraces with 360-degree views that are perfect for watching pink sunsets sink into terracotta roofs.

They are well-known for their burgers (which I didn’t order as I had one at lunch) but the crème brûlée I had for dessert was absolutely wonderful.

Nomad doesn’t have an alcohol license so after dinner we went to El Fenn, a drool-worthy riad with rooftop restaurant and bar that is an interior lover’s dream.

Getting around Marrakech

It’s worth noting that cars cannot enter the medina so to reach dinner at Nomad and get to El Fenn afterwards we had to walk through the souks. I had purchased an e-sim through Airalo (get $3 credit with my referral code JAYNE8741) and this was essential to help us navigate the winding lanes. Getting to Nomad was quite straightforward from Jemaa el Fna, the buzzing central square in Marrakech , but to get to El Fenn afterwards Goggle kept wanting to take us down unlit alleys and I found myself constantly rerouting.

El Fenn is on a main road that taxis can reach though so if you’re worried about navigating the souks in the dark, I’d recommend you book dinner at El Fenn and save Nomad for a lunch during the daytime.

Read also : Top tips for visiting Marrakech

Shopping, The Secret Garden & Spa Time

The second morning we’d left free for shopping with a side of sightseeing. We asked our driver to drop us near Le Jardin Secret as a starting point, and between where he dropped us and arriving at the garden we accumulated 4 pairs of shoes, some brass tea light holders, table mats, woven baskets, jewellery and more!

We really enjoyed haggling with the stall holders and, compared to experiences I’ve had in parts of Asia, I didn’t find anyone too pushy. It was really refreshing.

We spent 30 minutes in one store trying on almost every pair of leather sandals to get the perfect fit. We came away with 4 pairs of shoes for 600 MAD – approx. £12 each!

Le Jardin Secret was a wonderful place to stop for some respite from the souks. We enjoyed marvelling at this stately palace with its mix of exotic and traditional Islamic gardens, and inhaled a cold drink at the cafe afterwards.

Then, from the garden we headed back to El Fenn for some lunch and realised that it’s even more beautiful in the daytime! The food was delicious and it’s hard not to feel happy enjoying it when you’re surrounded by décor like this.

Les Bains De Marrakech

That afternoon we’d been tipped off by a friend about Les Bains de Marrakech and I cannot describe how wonderful this experience was. Les Bains is a traditional spa and hammam with the kind of interiors, smells and service that you’d expect at the world’s best 5-star hotels.

(The only experience I’ve had that comes close is the ESPA at The Corinthia but even then I prefer the authenticity of Les Bains – not to mention the very reasonable prices! )

We booked a 2-hour package for 799 MAD (approx £65) which included a 1-hour relaxing massage and 1-hour hammam. (You can mix and match your treatments – facials and mud baths are available if you don’t fancy the hammam.)

We arrived early so we could cool off in the plunge pools – I mean have you seen one as pretty as this? – and then were taken to a large cabin so we could have our hammam all together.

What to expect at a hammam

Leave your inhibitions at the door ladies! Although I would say Les Bains is a luxury experience it’s very much a traditional one too. For the hammam you are asked to strip and given a paper thong which frankly covers nothing. You begin lying on a heated marble slab in what is essentially a large sauna and then over the space of an hour the ladies come in and out without announcement and proceed to scrub, splash and wash you all over until you feel like a little baby!

I was glad to be able to do it in the same room as my girlfriends as you do feel a bit exposed lying around naked waiting for someone to come in and rub and scrub all your bits. It was good to giggle through the awkwardness, while averting our gazes, of course. I’ve had one other hammam experience before and this one was a lot more comfortable – maybe because I knew what to expect. I love how they even wash your hair for you. You feel completely taken care of.

After the hammam we were led to a quiet room to enjoy tea before being taken to separate treatment rooms for a 1-hour massage that was just magic. The whole afternoon was blissful and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Reserve online in advance here . Note: you will need to pay a deposit.

Dinner at Dar Dar Rooftop

That night I’d booked us a slightly later dinner at Dar Dar Rooftop Restaurant and it was the perfect place to spend a Saturday night in Marrakech. With Moroccan meets Mediterranean tapas on the menu, an extensive cocktail list including Froze, and a DJ playing all the classic tunes, Dar Dar was a vibe!

We stayed until we could fit no more in (Dar Dar also does a mean crème brulee) and then What’s Apped our driver to come get us from the nearest junction.

Check out this highlights reel from our trip to see more of Marrakech’s nightlife.

Relaxing at Riads & Exploring Ben Youssef Madrasa

Day 3 begun with a lazy morning at Riad Palais Calipau , soaking up the sun on the rooftop and then plunging in the pool to cool off. One of my girlfriends flew home that morning and the other was flying home that night. I had booked myself into another riad for an extra night as it worked out about £200 cheaper than flying on a Sunday. So, after a relaxed morning,  Sam and I moved to my new riad and soaked up all the complimentary tea, coffee and pastries they plied us with.

My new digs, Riad Nelia , was within walking distance of a lot of the main sights so we set off on foot that afternoon to explore a little more. We visited the beautiful Ben Youssef Madrasa , once the largest Islamic school in Morocco and now a historical building open to the (instagramming) public.

It was a little saturated with tourists trying to get the perfect shot (who am I to judge?) but it’s so beautiful and definitely worth a visit.

(Tickets are 50MAD per person – no need to prebook.)

For our last meal together Sam and I headed to Café Des Epices , a Marrakesh institution I remembered from my last visit almost 10 years ago. With bird’s eye views over Place Des Epices, known for its vendors selling woven baskets and hats, you can almost eye up what to buy while waiting for brunch to be served.

Sam bought some beautiful big woven baskets that I now regret not getting for myself and then we headed back to the riad for a quick dip before she headed to the airport.

I spent my solo night in Marrakesh relaxing on the rooftop of Riad Nelia , enjoying more complimentary tea and fruit smoothies and thinking about what a wonderful trip it had been.

How much does it cost for a luxury long weekend in Marrakech?

Our total spend (we used a handy app called Tricount to work out who owed who what) was about £500 per person for food, drink, accommodation, spa treatments, taxis and souvenirs and I think it was an absolute bargain when you consider how indulgent our experience was.

My flights cost £277 return (with hold luggage and reserved seating) but you can easily get flights for under £100 with hand luggage only if you book early.

Where to stay in Marrakech

Some of the  best affordable riads in Marrakech  I’ve researched are:

Riad Palais Calipau

Riad Yasmine

Riad Nayanour

Riad Paradis Blanc

Riad Le Saadien

We got to suss out a couple of these different accommodation options while in Marrakech.

If you’re going for a special occasion, you can’t go wrong with El Fenn . It’s conveniently located in the centre of the old city, has a number of plunge pools, restaurant and bar and is drop dead gorgeous. As their rooms can accommodate max 2 people it wasn’t right for us for this trip, which is how we came to stay in Riad Palais Calipau – a lush green oasis in the Kasbah area of Marrakech.

At Riad Calipau , we had a generous family suite that had a double bed and 2 singles behind a curtain. There was plenty of room for the 3 of us, plus all our luggage, and the interiors were well considered in a charmingly rustic kind of way.

We found staff very helpful with arranging taxis and transfers etc via Whatsapp but it wasn’t always easy to find someone on site. I only mention this because, in contrast, when I checked in at Riad Nelia, the manager Ismail was fantastic at welcoming us with hot tea and a map full of information about what to see and do in the area.

Riad Nelia is a gorgeous new riad within walking distance of a lot of Marrakech’s main attractions. It’s small but welcoming and I think it would be a great base for couples looking for somewhere modern yet relaxing in the middle of the medina.

Find more pictures and a detailed review here .

Disclosure: My trip was self-funded but this post contains some affiliate links.

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I’m Jayne, a travel blogger, content creator and mum to a 4-year-old son. I’ve been blogging since 2010, travelled to 65 countries and share travel guides and tips to help you plan stylish, stress-free trips.

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A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Marrakech

Prepare to be bewitched – there’s nothing quite like the blend of curious chaos and cultural diversity that epitomises Marrakech , and with riads and tours aplenty it’s perfectly set up for an unforgettable solo trip.

You’ll never forget your first time in this ancient city on the edge of the Sahara, fringed by the snow-tipped Atlas Mountains. Explore the centuries-old plaster-pink ramparts of the Medina, haggle for a bargain in the souks, take in the drama of Djemaa El Fna square while quietly sipping a cup of sugary mint tea – whatever you do, Marrakech is a book of magic any solo traveller won’t want to put down. In this guide, we give you the lowdown on what to do, where to stay and what to eat on a solo trip to Marrakech.

What’s the vibe?

Marrakech charms you in the way an eccentric aunt can be your favourite, with so much personality packed into a city whose soundtrack is the call to prayer ringing out from stork-topped minarets. Explore noisy souks lined with North African spices and handmade leather babouches, and admire exquisite examples of Islamic architecture. Stay as long as you can in the Djemaa El Fna, a central square alive with a giddying mix of musicians, snake charmers and spiced street food you’ll keep coming back for.

Where to stay in Marrakech as a solo traveller

1. riad le j.

Tucked away behind the Mouassine Mosque in the beating heart of the Medina – just five minutes’ walk from the Djemaa El Fna – this restored riad is run by designer-minded owners who are only too happy to guide you around the area. Cosy rooms feature restored carved ceilings you can admire from comfortable beds, with furnishings and paint in pretty shades of pink and green. Get to know your fellow guests by the courtyard fountain or over house-party style communal meals infused with spices, lentils, meat and fish.

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2. La Mamounia

Spa Hotel, Hotel

Spoil yourself in this regal homage to Moorish opulence circled by acres of historic gardens atmospherically lit by lanterns each night. The location in the Hivernage neighbourhood means easy access to the Medina and the 12th-century Koutoubia minaret. Hot towels, dates and almond milk greet you before relaxation in rooms dressed in intricate tiling, lattice-wood screens and rich art deco shades. Mingle at the buffet breakfast served poolside, shaded by towering palm trees.

3. 2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

A blissful mix of Moroccan artistry and the art deco touch Marrakech is known for define this contemporary hotel, which overlooks palm-tree-lined El Harti Park in the fashionable Gueliz district. Monochrome tiles and potted plants frame turquoise pools you can cool off in after a day of getting to know the Red City. Unwind after a reviving hammam as you sip fresh mint tea or sample tapas in the rooftop bar with your eye on those soaring Atlas Mountains.

You’ll spend a night at 2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa as part of Culture Trip’s exclusive six-day Moroccan trip .

Eat and drink in Marrakech

Restaurant, Moroccan

Within the sandstone walls of Riad Noir d’Ivoire, a lavish boutique hotel in the Medina, Oban’s modern-Moroccan menus will woo you with seasonal ingredients elevating dishes such as monkfish tagine or seafood pastilla. You can pair your meal with any one of the 3,000 bottles in the open-design wine cellar. Soft lighting creates an intimate space you’ll feel happy to dine in, alone or with a crowd.

5. Hotel Restaurant Café de France

Hotel Restaurant, Moroccan

One of the oldest and most famous cafes in Marrakech earns its bragging rights for the Djemaa El Fna location and rooftop terraces in view of the mountains. Locals mingle with tourists here for cups of mint tea on a street-side terrace. It’s also a local landmark for tour groups to meet before heading off on a cultural discovery.

Dreamy sunset cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired fusion created by an Ibizan chef keep travellers coming back to this design-forward spot – part cool lounge, part tropical-themed rooftop terrace in the heart of the Medina. If you’re here alone, it’s unlikely things will stay that way for long – what with the sumptuous sushi and cocktails such as Lavender Fizz.

What to do in Marrakech as a solo traveller

Hike the Atlas Mountains, stopping off at an ancient Berber village

Trade bustling souks and alleyways for soaring mountains and tiny villages on a day trip out of Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains. Led by a guide, you’ll discover the Berber community, explore ancient settlements, savour a slow-cooked tagine and – depending on what tour you choose – stay the night in a hilltop kasbah with panoramic dancing views of the rugged landscape.

A trip to the Atlas Mountains with an overnight stay in a local community is just one of many authentic activities you’ll experience on Culture Trip’s six-day Moroccan adventure , led by our Local Insider.

Soak up the natural beauty of Jardin Majorelle

A visit to this enchanting urban idyll should be near the top of the to-do list on any solo trip to Marrakech. Created in the 1920s by French painter Jacques Majorelle – before fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Berge took over – the garden is filled with cooling marble pools and lily-pad-topped ponds, creating a serene spot to reflect or relax in the shade of a banana tree.

Haggle for spices and slippers in the Medina

Only those who’ve lived here all their lives can navigate this crowded, cobblestoned network of alleyways, home to donkeys, leather shops and stalls piled high with fragrant spices. That’s where our small-group tour comes in handy – helping you haggle for handicrafts, traditional leathers and henna tattoos, with stacks of insider knowledge.

Stay safe, stay happy

Marrakech is generally a safe and friendly place to visit, whether you’re travelling solo or not. However, as with any city of this size, you should take care to avoid isolated areas when exploring alone – such as the mountains outside of the city or along the Medina’s quiet streets and alleyways at night. This is where an insider-led trip can provide that extra comfort blanket to allow you to explore at night, unperturbed.

Getting around Marrakech as a solo traveller

Near constant crowds and a web of narrow interlaced streets and squares make central Marrakech very much a place for getting around on foot. The benefit is that you can stop to marvel at an intricately carved doorway here or haggle over a woven rug there. Some streets are so narrow that bikes, scooters and the odd donkey cart struggle to pass.

Outside the Medina however, you can hop into a “petit taxi” and usually agree on a price with the driver before you set off. Then there’s the horse-drawn carriage ride, ultimately the most sedate way to see the sights from Djemaa El Fna or the Koutoubia Mosque.

Want to experience Marrakech with other culturally curious travellers? Share your travel experience by joining Culture Trip’s six-day Moroccan adventure to discover the whirlwind of sights, sounds and smells that make Marrakech so unique.

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What to do in Marrakech if you are not a shopper – Marrakech Museums

Wandering the dusty streets and alleyways surrounding the souks you would be forgiven for thinking that the only attraction in this African city is the allure of some haggling in the covered, crowded corridors lined with enticing stalls, specialising in just about everything you could imagine.

Whilst the souks are an experience that no-one should avoid this is not the only reason to visit such culturally rich, historical metropolis.

When visiting any country many travellers will say that it is the people that make the experience unique and often overwhelming.  If you are a person that enjoys spending time with locals or have an infinite ability to spend hours people watching then Maison de la Photographie is a must.

Located on Rue Ahel Fes, one of the oldest streets of the medina, you will find this gem blending into its surroundings and embracing the old façade of the building.  The art work displayed here enhances the interior of the one-time Inn and gives a sense that it was designed specifically for this purpose .

Home to over 4500 photographs this is an exceptional collection demonstrating the history of a country proud of its heritage.  Large works draw your attention making you feel like you are part of the scene.  The detail and clarity of some of the photos make it easy to forget that some were taken as early as 1870; a time before computers and digital enhancing and yet you could easily believe that they were taken yesterday.

Not only will you find numerous images of people, each with their own story to tell, you will be able to explore the landscape and culture of Morocco.  Rather than having to travel miles to see the archaeological site of Volubilis for example, Henri de La Martiniere, brings the impressive site to you through a lens.  There are also numerous other Moroccan landscapes captured by wonderful photographers including Marcelin Flandrin, H. Regnault and J. Robichez not to be missed.

One element that is worthy of people’s time is the series of short documentaries running on the top floor of the museum exploring life of Berber tribes living in the High Altas Mountains.  It is not for the quality of the recording itself that you will watch it but for the insights into an almost unknown group of people outside of Africa.

All the photographs you see can also be purchased; unfortunately not the real thing but a print of outstanding quality.  So if one particular image does leave an impression you can take it home with you.  Likewise, this is one of the few collections of other people’s art work that you are allowed to photograph – so you can click away until your heart is content – just be mindful of your reflection in the glass protecting each image.

A visit to Maison de la Photographie costs 40 Dhs per person (just under £3 per person) and the ticket is valid for the length of your trip, so should you want to go back for more – its free!

Purchased prints vary in cost from 250 – 500 Dhs (between £18 and £36) or you could buy a series of postcards at minimal cost.

For those after something slightly more unusual a visit to the Maison Tiskiwin is an interesting experience.  Home to the largest private collection of Moroccan art this museum is a more than just a place to exhibit art work this is the life’s work of one man who has taken the time to explore the country.  The owner of the collection, Bert Flint, is a Dutch Anthropologist who has spent years collecting everything from carpets, jewellery, statues and clothes from every imaginable area of the country.  His choice of artefact may not always be to everyone’s taste but it is definitely an accomplishment – no other museum has such a variety.

Maison Tiskiwin is open daily from 9.30 – 12.30/3 – 6pm and costs 15Dhs per person (just over £1).

Both museums are highly rated by many that have visited, which should make them both places of interest for anyone wanting to explore Marrakech .

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I always enjoy great photography, and historic photographs. The museum sounds like a great place to visit. Thanks. –Curt

Marrakech is really popular at the moment! I took a bit more time than I would have liked to adjust to the chaos.

We visited Fes before going to Marrakech so I think we were more acclimatized by the time we got there but I know what you mean by chaos!

Great advice I look forward to visiting one day not being a shopper often puts me off going to some places this was one of them.

I guarantee that you can avoid shopping throughout your trip, although at some point even those that hate shopping (I include myself in this group) can’t help but have a go at haggling! 🙂

They look great! I have absolutely no interest in shopping when I travel although I do love wandering around local markets and souks 🙂

The Souks definitely hold a different appeal to your normal shop but it doesn’t take long for my mind to wander off with a desire to do something different 🙂

First of all, love love love the quote in your header “Most people just want to see you fall, that’s more reason to stand tall”

Now, onto your post! 🙂

What an interesting place to visit! I love the fact that you photograph the photographs and the interior as well as the exterior of the building is just beautiful! BTW, love the last photo – it brings both the place and the culture to life!!

Thank you. I take random photos and then spend hours going back through them; deleting several as I go. Part of the enjoyment of these museums is the way you seem to just stumble across them because they have been set up to blend in with the local landscape; that was one of the things we loved about Marrakech.

I’ve never been a huge shopper, so I love these suggestions! 🙂

I last for a while but shopping has never held any appeal for me either 🙂

4,500 photographs? That sounds like a huge collection! Are they all displayed on the walls – if so, the place must be vast!!! I’m guessing, though, that some must just be in storage?

It took several hours to wander around and I have to say we went back for a second visit during our time there to see the bits we had missed. Some images had been stored away but should you want to see them you only had to ask one of the two gentlemen at the front desk and they would happily take you off to see them.

It’s always great when you can find some museums to visit especially when they don’t cost very much! Some of the local museums are frequently the best to visit because even though they may not get the media coverage they deserve, the exhibits inside them are true to the area you are visiting and can probably give you a better idea as to the local culture you are experiencing.

Marrakech is full of locally run museums which were great to visit and knowing that the money they made would be reused in the community put a smile on my face! 🙂

Ooh I love this! Great alternative, I love looking at shops and markets but I want to hit museums first.

I did enjoy the souks but there is only so much shopping one person can do 🙂

Beautiful! Great suggestions! I think I can fit these in, along with shopping ;P

I’ll always seek out the museums before I’ll hit any shops or markets (where everyone else is), this is a great alternative write up!

It’s hard to beat the souks :). Just kidding. Both museums sound pretty interesting. I would certainly enjoy the Maison de la Photographie.

Amazing photos!

Whose not a shopper? Who are those weird people…kidding, even though I love shopping I’d still love to see these sights too. Just AFTER the shopper was done.

Hopefully Morocco will be one of our next destinations in the near future, great to read interesting posts about it!

Make me want to go and see the musée de la photographie. I like that type of places. Really nice!

Not shopping – I suggest the Marjorelle Gardens!

I loved that park. The colours were so vibrant and the little cafe in the heart is ovely. I have a post about it coming up! 🙂

I look forward to reading it and comparing it with mine!

I am just in the process of sorting out all the pictures I took so will be ready in a couple of days 🙂

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My Top 23 Essential Marrakesh Travel Tips (You Can Thank Me Later)

Marrakech is a fabulous city, full of intrigue and wonder, but it is chaotic and can be intimidating when you visit for the first time, or maybe even the second or third time.

Morocco’s Red City is a different world, so having an idea on what to expect, where to go, what to do, how to dress, how to get around and how to handle the medina is great to have in the back of your mind before you even arrive so that you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

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Table of Contents

My Top Tips for Marrakesh

Take a tour with marrakech by locals.

Saeed of Marrakech By Locals was a great guide, full of knowledge and very engaging. He gave us a potted history of the city as well as lots of useful tips for visiting Marrakech and we went to lots of places we would never have found on our own.

He’s very strict, absolutely NO SHOPPING! Which personally I think is a great rule as it’s really annoying waiting around for other people to shop, especially in a city like Marrakech.

But you will see lots of cool stuff that you will want to buy so just take note of where you are so that you can go back. I did this by taking screenshots on my phone and writing in my notes, but I’m sure there’s probably a more high tech way to do it!

I’d highly recommend doing this tour on your first day so that it helps you get your bearings and know where to go, where to shop and where to eat.

Wear Comfy Shoes 

You are going to do a lot of walking in Marrakech, so make sure your shoes are comfy as can be. On Saeed’s tour alone, I think we walked around 6 miles, so a pair of comfy pumps or sandals are a must.

How to Find Your Way Around the Medina

Finding your way around the medina (old walled city) can be tricky, but taking a tour near the beginning of your stay definitely helps.

By day, you can ask the way, but by night when everything has closed and there are very few people about, it becomes a little more difficult to navigate.

As you walk from your riad or hotel to Jemaa el Fna (the main square) for the first time, take note of a few landmarks that will help you find your way home, your breadcrumbs, if you will. But just be aware, that just like in Hansel and Gretel, the breadcrumbs can disappear, as by night the shops all close and get boarded up and you can’t tell them apart. So make sure your markers are fixed and that they won’t change when night falls.

As you enter the square, remember which cafes or restaurants are on each side of the street you come out of. That way you’re at least heading in the right direction when you go home.

I would maybe just avoid walking home too late at night.

It may also be helpful to buy a local SIM (I’m with Maroc Telecom) as the signal is pretty good all over Morocco, even in the mountains (the only place it wasn’t great was in the Sahara) and I was able to find my way around the city using Google Maps just fine. If you don’t have an unlocked phone, download MAPS.ME or a similar app.

For those staying outside the medina, you can get taxis from near Koutoubia Mosque or Bahia Palace.

How to Find Your Way Around the Souk

Saeed told us that the souk (market in the medina where you can buy anything and everything) is like a fishbone, with one main spine running through it. From this main street, you can pretty much find your way to all the other parts of the market and just keep coming back to the main street. But I do also think there’s something fabulous about just wandering aimlessly and seeing where you end up.

There are parts of the souk that specialise in specific products and you can actually see some of the products being made there, including shoes, rugs, lanterns, and leather goods, whereas a lot of shops on the main stretches sell more of a mix. If your bargaining skills are good, you should definitely head to where they make the items as you may get a good deal as this is where the other traders buy from.

If you get lost, don’t panic. As someone once told me “that is the charm of the city, to always be lost” and it’s not that big, so you will eventually find your way out and all you need to do to get your bearings is head back towards Jemaa-el-Fna.

But again, Google Maps works pretty well in the souk too!

Shopkeepers Are Your Friends

If you want some help navigating, the best people to ask are shopkeepers or those that are working in the souk. They will point you in the right direction usually without wanting anything in return and they also can’t leave their shops.

I always try to walk with purpose and try not to look lost, even when I am. That way someone is less likely to try and take advantage of my situation.

Generally, people in Morocco are very lovely and helpful, but it has been known for some (especially in the cities) to come up to you and offer to show you the way and either take you somewhere else (their friend’s shop) or turnaround and ask you for money, however, I believe the government has clamped down on this anyway (I think it’s actually illegal now- but don’t quote me on that). We did get a few people offering to show us where to go, but none asked for money, although a couple did the first time I was there a few years ago.

Build-in Time for Shopping & Leave Room in Your Suitcase

If you hadn’t worked it out, Marrakech is a shoppers paradise, so build in some time for shopping. Then you’re going to need to leave a bit of room in your suitcase to fit all your souvenirs in and lots of cash to buy them with.

I wasn’t going to buy anything this time and my backpack was full when I left home, however, somehow, I came back with a jumpsuit, 7 scarves (yes 7), a pair of earrings, a bracelet, a pair of shoes, a painting and an all in one kaftan thing that makes me look like Jasmine from Aladdin and that was me bring restrained.

My friend came back with even more stuff, including a rug, a wooden camel, jewellery, some wooden boxes, a game, a bag, ceramics…

Bargain Hard

Haggling is a national sport in Morocco and I don’t want to say that everyone is trying to rip you off, but most will give it a good go. If they did it at the Olympics, the Moroccans would win every time. It’s in their blood.

A lot of shops sell the same stuff, so you can definitely get a good price if you shop around and aren’t too hasty in your purchases. I bought a pair of shoes (they were similar to the sky blue ones above) for 180 dirhams bringing the guy down from his initial 250. He was a little old man so I figured he wasn’t ripping me off.

Later on, I saw a very similar pair of shoes in another shop. When I asked the price, the guy said 100 dirhams. So the little old fella had definitely seen me coming!

My main rules of haggling:

• Go in with a sense of humour and a smile. Moroccans have an excellent sense of humour, so have a bit of banter with the shopkeepers. It can be really fun.
• Look disinterested. Whilst I was waiting for my friend outside a shop the other day, a guy tried to sell me a bag. I’d actually seen it a few days earlier and quite liked it, but I knew I couldn’t get it home with my luggage restrictions and on closer inspection, it looked a bit dirty. I kept saying no, no, no. He started his price at 700 dirhams, he thought I was driving a hard bargain, but I actually just didn’t want to pay the excess baggage fee and wasn’t so keen anymore, so he kept dropping his price and eventually was saying 250 dirhams. He dropped his price by 550 dirhams, that’s £42 or $60. If this guy came down that much, just think how much he was trying to rip me off in the first place.
• Walk away if you need to, just to emphasise your disinterest.
• Go in with a price in your head that you are happy with. When the salesperson gives you their price, drop it right down, to maybe a third of the price or less if you’re feeling feisty. They say 800, you say 200, meet somewhere in the middle that you are happy with. They’ll never sell for less than it’s worth so don’t feel bad about starting low (see number 2).
• Be firm. Sometimes I just keep repeating the price I want to pay until they give in.
• Don’t let anyone bully you into buying something you don’t want. I cannot even tell you how many times I used to get home and be like ‘why did I buy that?’ – but I’m much better at saying these days!
• Check it’s real. Before you buy anything and pay a lot for it, check it’s authenticity. If they say it’s real leather, drop some water on it . If they say it’s a rug made from wool, take a lighter to it (real wool won’t light). If they say it’s real silver, check for the stamp or test it with a magnet (real silver is not magnetic). Not always easy (I mean who carries a magnet round with them?), but just don’t always believe everything the sellers tell you.

Play the Happy Imbecile (if you need to)

As you walk through the markets, lots of people will call you and try to get you to go into their shop, buy their stuff, drink their orange juice and they can be persistent. So I just smile, wave, and carry on wandering, looking around smiling like an idiot so they think that I’m in my own little world.

As I walk away I’ll often hear ‘miss, miss, excuse me, hello miss’ and I just keep on walking. That way I don’t appear rude, just a bit stupid.

This is one of my favourite tricks, which I have been doing for years, however, a Dutch guy I met in Mozambique hit the nail on the head with this description. This was his tactic for avoiding the notoriously corrupt Mozambican police. As they tried to flag him down, he would wave and smile like a maniac and just keep on driving.

Learn the Word “Inshallah”

A favourite phrase of mine in ‘Inshallah’ which means ‘God willing’ in Arabic. It’s used commonly in Morocco, for when you hope to see someone again, or if you’re hoping something good will happen.

People also use it in the context of time, as in the same way the Spanish use ‘manyana’. Morocco is in Africa, so it’s not immune to good old ‘African time’, you get there when you get there at an unspecified time in the future, ‘Inshallah’.

Although nowadays, a lot of people use it to get out of situations that they don’t want to be in. For example:

A shopkeeper says ‘Come in and see my shop, just look, not buy’ (you will hear this a lot) and you really don’t want to, you say ‘Inshallah’ with a smile and keep on walking. Probably not the right use for the word, maybe you will go back to that shop, maybe you won’t but when you say it, the shopkeepers generally find it funny and understand you’re not in the mood right now.

Pronounce it ‘In-SHA-LAH’ with the emphasis on the ‘sha’ and the ‘lah’.

Advice on Getting Taxis

When you need to get a taxi, always ask a local (maybe the people who work at your hotel) how much a taxi will be from A to B.  They can usually give you an approximate price so you know what you are working with.

Just be aware that when you go to get your taxi, the taxi drivers will always quote you a higher price – tourist price.

There is some negotiation, but some will just walk away if you don’t give them what they ask for. There are usually a few taxis around though, so you can just move on to the next, but very rarely will they go down to the price that it actually probably should be, so you just need to find a price that works for you both, without you getting totally ripped off. This is how my conversation went earlier today:

Me: How much is a taxi to the bus station? (The owner of my riad told me it should be about 50 dirhams)

Taxi Driver: 70 dirhams.

Taxi Driver: 60

Taxi Driver: Ok 50.

So just be firm. If you find a good taxi driver, who gives you a fair price the first time, take his number and please send it to me.

Taking Photographs

General street scenes are fine, but if you take pictures of a specific person or someone’s stall without asking they may get offended or ask for money.

If you want to take photos of the street performers (musicians, snake charmers, or the guys in traditional costume in the square, etc), you will need to pay for the privilege. They sometimes tell you to take a photo and then demand money after, so just be aware that this may happen and try to agree on the price before if you really want that photo.

When you’re watching the busier performances in the square it’s usually fine and you won’t need to pay (maybe give a tip if you feel like it), but if you want a posed photo, then be prepared to cough up.

12. Avoid the Men with the Monkeys & Snakes in Jemaa el Fna

Speaking of the guys with the monkeys…

One of the things I don’t like about Marrakech is the men in Jemaa el Fna (the main square) with the chained up monkeys and the Snake Charmers. They like to get you to take pictures with the animals for money. It’s cruel (they often mistreat the animals) and the men can be aggressive.

I was walking through the square when one of the monkey guys came towards me, trying to get me to touch his monkey (this is not a euphemism) and I kind of ducked out of his way “What, you don’t like monkeys?” He said. “No, I don’t like the fact that you have chained the monkey up.” His response? Shouting “You are ugly as fuck!” in my face. As I walked away he shouted “Nice ass.” 

I just ignored it. Do I wish I’d said something, maybe? But would it have achieved anything? Probably not.

But it’s ok, I go to sleep happy in the knowledge that I travel the world for a living and he is an asshole that walks around a square all day chained to a monkey.

Dealing With Male Harassment

I’ve heard stories of women being catcalled or even having stones thrown at them in Morocco, but I hadn’t personally had any real negativity or harassment thrown my way until the dude with the monkey.

I get the odd “beautiful” or “hey Shakira” but I just give them a polite yet tight-lipped smile and keep on walking so as not to encourage that behaviour. I often pretend that I haven’t heard, or I just raise my eyebrows, roll my eyes, and give a wry smile and just keep on going.

This time I was there I had a guy whisper ‘sex’ into my ear as he walked past me at night and another creepy guy tapped his lips as if to say ‘give me a kiss’ when he was showing us where they dye the materials to make the rugs. He then kept following us around and trying to get us up to a rooftop restaurant to see the ‘views’. We quickly made our excuses and left.

I find the best way to deal with this kind of behaviour is just to not rise to it. Keeping relatively covered up and wearing a wedding ring also helps.

If you are alone, do not let anyone show you a ‘secret’ place and don’t walk alone late at night in the quieter parts of the medina.

Bring a European Plug Adapter

Take a Food Tour with Marrakech Food Tours

I honestly can’t rate this tour highly enough and it’s definitely one of my top Marrakech tips!

Run by Amanda, the blogger behind Maroc Mama and her husband Youssef (who was our guide that night), Marrakech Food Tours is a great way to get an insight into Marrakech (and Morocco) through the heart of the city – the food, the souks, and the people.

Again, they will take you to local places that you would never find on your own and you’ll get to try all kinds of different Moroccan dishes, including sheep’s head (you get a sticker if you eat the eyeball – I passed on that one) and THE BEST couscous I’ve ever tasted.

Book in advance as the tours fill up pretty quickly and I’d say not to do this tour on the same day as you do Saeed’s tour as you will be exhausted.

If you can’t book onto Amanda’s tour, you could try this tour which also gets rave reviews.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

The tap water in Morocco is not known for being particularly drinkable, so it’s probably best to avoid it, especially if you are prone to a dodgy tummy every now and again.

I am one of those people who brushes their teeth with the water, with the thought in mind that I’m building up my immunity, but I definitely wouldn’t encourage anyone else to do it!

Bring a LifeStraw bottle (or similar) with you and then you don’t have to keep buying bottles of water.

Where to Find Alcohol in Marrakech

So many people asked me about where they could find alcohol in the Marrakech medina because only a few bars and restaurants sell it and those that do, tend to be quite expensive.

The nightlife in the medina is pretty chilled, but the places that I know do sell alcohol are Cafe Arabe, Dar Anika, the Piano Bar at Les Jardins De La Koutoubia, Le Tanjia, Le Salama, Kosybar and the Churchill Bar at La Mamounia (just outside the medina).

But if you want more lively nightlife (and alcohol) head to the modern parts of the city, Gueliz, and Hivernage, which are a short taxi ride away from Jemaa-el-Fna. A taxi should probably only be about 30 – 50 dirhams, but you’ll likely be charged around 80 dirhams one way.

Bigger supermarkets like Carrefour and some riads also sell alcohol.

Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

The medina, souks and Jemaa el Fna are all very busy and therefore it’s an ideal place for pickpockets to lurk.

Keep your wallet and phone safe within your bag or about your person and if you have a bag, keep it zipped and close to you.

Skip Jardin Majorelle

Some people are bound to disagree with me on this, however, I honestly think Jardin Majorelle is one of the most over-hyped, boring tourist attractions I have ever visited. It might be ok if you’re a big fan of Yves Saint Laurent or really into art deco design, but even then, I’d say it wasn’t that great compared to other places you can visit in Marrakech.

I do love a garden, but there are others that I much prefer to Jardin Majorelle. It’s also usually pretty busy so you need to go early to avoid the crowds.

However they have now opened the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door, so if you combine the two, it’s probably much better. I like the look of Anima Garden instead, but I haven’t been there yet!

Swat up on Your French, Arabic or Berber

A lot of people can speak English, but knowing a little bit of French is useful, especially in restaurants, as most of the menus are in French and a lot of people speak it.

The two official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) and even if you don’t speak a lot, attempting a few words will always go down well. The most important probably being thank you, which is ‘shukraan’ (I’ve seen it spelled various ways) in Arabic and ‘sahit’ in Berber. And of course the best word in Arabic… ‘Inshallah’.

Always Make Time for Tea

When you’ve had enough of the madness of the medina, head indoors to a nice riad courtyard or a rooftop terrace to partake in one of Morocco’s favourite pastimes – drinking traditional mint tea. It’s delicious!

You can get mint tea almost anywhere, but we had a lovely pot at Riad Yima , which is an art gallery, shop, and tea room all in one.

Dress Appropriately

Marrakech is pretty conservative and the local women are usually very covered up especially in the medina, however, it is a cosmopolitan city and they are used to tourists, so you don’t have to go to extremes.

Keeping knees and cleavage covered is definitely a good idea, so no shorts or short skirts or plunging tops, if just to avoid any unwanted attention if nothing else. I generally prefer to keep my shoulders relatively covered out of respect for the local culture, but I wouldn’t feel uncomfortable if they weren’t. Saying that I usually carry a scarf with me at all times – you can easily buy them in Morocco if you don’t have any at home.

You’ll also need to take note of the weather too. If you go in the summer months, Marrakech gets very hot, so breathable, lightweight clothing is good. Marrakech can also get cold and wet at certain times of the year, so take something warm and/or waterproof with you. I was just there in April and it was freezing and raining.

When it rains in Marrakech the souks become very waterlogged as the drainage system isn’t great, so you may want to take some closed-toe shoes that will withstand a little bit of water.

Just Let Marrakech Happen

One of my best tips for Marrakech is to just go with the flow. It’s good to have a bit of a plan for Marrakech and some things do book up in advance (good restaurants/food tour etc) but you should leave a bit of time to just let Marrakech happen, to wander, to get a bit lost, let the chaos unfold around you and to just to sit and people watch for a while.

I hope this helps you get prepared for your trip to Marrakech!

Other Morocco posts you might enjoy…

• The Perfect 2-Week Morocco Itinerary
• Surfing in Morocco – The Complete Tagazout Travel Guide
• The Charm of Marrakesh
• Highlights of the Rock My Morocco Adventure
• 16 of Africa’s Most Incredible Hiking Destinations
• Morocco – Yoga, Surf Sleep, Repeat
• Camping Under the Stars in the Sahara Desert, Morocco

I love to travel all over the world, but it's Africa that holds a special place in my heart. My mission is to help people travel Africa in an authentic, safe, fun, adventurous and ethical way.

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24 Comments

I was in Marrakech last month, and I heartily agree with all of Helen’s advice (except skipping the Jardin Majorelle, but then I’m really into gardens). Here are a few little doodads by way of addition. My Parisian French helped quite a bit, but be aware that Moroccan Arabic is its own creature and Egyptian or Gulf Arabic will be of limited utility. A pleasant surprise for me in Marrakech is that the ice cream is quite good. If you’re into architecture and decorative arts, I recommend the Marrakech Museum (next to the Merdersa Ben Yousef). The building is the star attraction there. In most ‘restored’ historic buildings, the marvelous, ornate plaster and stucco work is restored structurally, but it is left white. At the Marrakech Museum, that decorative work is restored to its polychrome glory.

Thanks Tom! Great tips! 🙂

Great list! I wish I had seen this before I went… My husband and I had a bit of a confrontation with the snake guys in the square our first day (he gave them $20 to end it, smh) and also had a guy in Essaouira try to take us to his friend’s restaurant and then demand money. We refused, and he popped up in 3 different places around the city shouting that the Americans owed him money. Those are definitely two very real things to try to avoid.

However, I LOVED the Maroc Mama food tour- so delicious! It was definitely the best thing we did in Marrakech and the street vendors were much less aggressive when we were with Youssef. And the shopping was unreal!

Yeah, the snake and monkey guys are just horrible people who can become aggressive very quickly – best avoided. and wow, the guy in Essaouira sounds really persistent. I’m really on my guard now when anyone offers to show me the way, I always refuse but some people just genuinely want to help. Then I feel bad I was so adamant! 🙂

I haven’t been to Marrakech but seeing your photo it looks like the place has a lot of fun and lively colors from shops to cafes. I would definitely like to visit the country soon but for now I will add it to my “must travel places” on my bucket list.

It’s amazing!!! 🙂

It is absolutely beautiful. The culture looks like my local swap shop. I haven’t been yet but I would love to go just to try their food and shop haha! We might go to Marrakech this summer If we have enough saved up but the tickets are super expensive $1100+.

Ow wow, that’s expensive! Marrakech itself is pretty reasonable though – except to eat and drink in fancy restaurants! 🙂

Such a detailed post full of useful tips. I really want to go to Marrakech but am a bit nervous about going there alone. Thanks for sharing these advice. Just what I was looking for!

Thank you! Honestly, don’t be scared, it’s a great place to travel, just keep your wits about you.

Thanks for sharing all of these. Totally agree with all your tips! We loved Marrakech and didn’t encounter any problems like I heard so many others unfortunately did. Like you, we always walk with purpose and look like we know where we are going even if we are slightly lost. The men that try to “guide” you were a pain but we were able to mostly avoid them. Definitely agree with wearing comfy shoes and bargaining hard!

Very informative post and enjoyable to read! I’m thinking about taking a trip to Morocco towards the end of the year so I’ve saved this post. Thank you for writing it 🙂

Thanks Sandy! Hope you have an amazing time!

So helpful! Thank you so much! You sure had me in stitches with the monkey man!!!

Ha ha, no worries! 🙂 Hope you are well!!!

Your post is so useuful and I love it. Marrakech is on my bucket list for one year now and I can’t wait to see it.

Wow, first of all, thanks so much for this lovely article with these colorful pictures. I really like it. I’m definitely going to try some of these tips for my next trip.

Such an amazing post.

Thanks for sharing wonderful tips with us. I really loved your post.

Keep Sharing…!!!!

Amazing list Helen, Loved it.

Great Post Helen

I love the pictures . Very nice article . Also taking Moroccan cooking class is a good experience as well as trying the Moroccan Hammam (spa).

Excellent blog post, and thank you for sharing some very helpful thoughts!!! Best of luck with your travels.

What a great article! Marrakech is such a great place but I definitely wish I did more research before I went! Thanks for all the info!

I have been to Marrakesh before, long ago, and am about to visit with my partner and our 5 year old girl. This blog is by far the best of of all the travel tips I have seen, all very wise. It seems like the place has calmed down a little since I was last there 10 years’ ago so am a little less nervous about launching into the souks with my little girl in tow!

Vive l’adventure!

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Bucket list trip:

Marrakech 5-day itinerary

Where to go and what to see in Marrakech – a 5-day itinerary from destination expert and travel writer Annabelle Thorpe .

Editor note – Annabelle has not included specific recommendations of where to stay each day unless it’s necessary. Instead, see the ‘Where to stay’ section in our Marrakech destination guide .

Begin by exploring the sprawling souks with a guide; afterwards grab lunch at buzzy Nomad , before retreating to your riad for a relaxing hammam or to laze on the rooftop during the afternoon heat. Later, stroll in the grounds of the Koutoubia mosque, and on to the Jemaa el Fna . Watch the sunset from a rooftop café before dinner at one of the stalls. Stay overnight in a traditional ‘riad’.

Souks of the Medina

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco

The world’s quintessential Arabic bazaar, the Medina’s maze-like souks are a shopper’s paradise.

Best for ages 13+

Hammams in Marrakech

An everyday Moroccan ritual, a traditional hammam visit is a signature Marrakech experience, featuring rhassoul clay from the Atlas Mountains and locally-sourced Argan oil.

Adult price: £20

Duration: 2+ hours

Jemaa El Fna

UNESCO World Heritage-listed central square that hums with snake charmers, musicians, magicians and other exotics.

Best for ages 8+

Stay in a traditional riad

Shady roof-terraces, plant-filled courtyards and the bewitching medina just outside the door – staying in a riad is the best way to experience authentic Marrakech.

Best for ages 18+

Duration: 1+ nights

Take a cab to the city’s outskirts to join an artist’s workshop at the Ateliers Ailleurs (great shopping potential too). Head back for lunch at Pause Gourmande , and then dip into the shady Jardins Majorelle, before exploring Villa Oasis and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum . Later, head into the desert for an unforgettable dinner under the stars .

Local craft workshops in Marrakech

Hands-on half or full-day workshops allow students to learn traditional Moroccan handicrafts alongside master craftspeople in their studios throughout Marrakech.

Adult price: £45

Duration: 3-5 hours

When: All year round

Frequency: daily

Jardin Majorelle

Luxuriant twelve-acre botanical gardens designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle who lived here in the 1920s and 1930s. Also once owned by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

Adult price: £10

Yves Saint Laurent Museum, Marrakech

One of the two international museums dedicated to the Yves Saint Laurent fashion house, displaying iconic pieces by the famed designer in an architecturally-interesting building.

Dinner in the Agafay Desert (& camel ride)

Agafay Desert, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco

Ride a camel across stark, lunar-like landscapes before dinner beneath the stars during an evening escape into the Agafay Desert, just 45 minutes from Marrakech.

Adult price: £180

Best for ages 10+

Duration: 4 hours

Rise early for a hot-air balloon ride above the desert, then head back to discover the history of the city at the Photography Museum, stopping for a sandwich at Terrasse le Medersa . Afterwards, explore the intricately-sculpted courtyards of the Ben Youssef Medersa , before a sundowner on the roof of your riad. End your trip in style with dinner at Yacout , Marrakech’s best restaurant.

Hot-air balloon flights over Marrakech

Drift above evocative Marrakech , awash with vibrant colours, geometric patterns, and labyrinthine streets. Then it’s out over dramatic, arid landscapes of the Atlas Mountains, looking down onto traditional Berber villages.

Adult price: £150

Duration: 5+ hours

Photography Museum

Tranquil Medina riad housing an interesting collection of photographs documenting Moroccan life from the 1870s-1950s, that gives the best insight into life in the city before tourism arrived.

Adult price: £4

Medersa Ben Youssef

A splendid former Koranic school, dating to the 14th century, of remarkable architectural detail and beauty.  

Take the chance to explore beyond Marrakech with a trip into the Atlas Mountains. The atmospheric village of Imlil is a 90-minute drive from the city and offers a dramatically different experience; surrounded by mountain peaks and farms. Stay overnight at the luxury Kasbah du Toubkal .

Kasbah du Toubkal

Toubkal National Park, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco

| Official star rating:

Restored historic kasbah at the foot of Mount Toubkal to suit most budgets – ideal for post-hiking relaxation.

Average £150

2+ bedrooms

Fitness center

Please note - we hope to one day have live prices for you, but for now, here are some useful links for you to compare prices...

Rise early for a guided walk in the mountains, before heading back to the city. Reward yourself with afternoon tea in the glorious gardens at La Mamounia , with a final shopping spree in the medina, before dinner at Al Fassia , a Marrakech institution, that does the best pastilla (pigeon pie) in town (reservations essential).

La Mamounia

Sumptuous suites, monumental spa and massive pools make this luxurious legend a royal favourite.

Average £391

Quad Marakkech – The Ultimate Desert Tour

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 11, 2021

Marrakech is an exotic destination known for its narrow maze of streets running through the Medina (the old fortified city) and busy souks near the crowded square of Jemaa El fna. But there are some amazing Marrakech desert tours that you must do. A Quad Marrakech Tour is at the top of our list. 

Quad Marrakech – A Marrakech Desert Tour

Getting lost while exploring the area is a right of passage, bartering with vendors in the Souks (a maze of covered markets) is an adventure unto itself and visiting a Hammam (Turkish Bath) is something everyone should try at least once.

Dining on Moroccan Cuisine or taking a cooking course is a must too. But there is another adventure to be had just outside Marrakech in the surrounding Desert.

Our Quad Tour Marrakech

We were picked up for our Marrakech desert tour near the Saadian Tombs at 9:00 am sharp where we were whisked out to the rock desert to begin our Quad Bike Tour.

It was exciting to drive through the new city of Marrakech and see a different side of life as we made our way to the outskirts of town. People in suits were rushing to work, men and women were sitting at coffee shops reading books and looking at their smart phones and McDonalds and KFC’s signs stood out among the modern buildings.

We had been in Marrakech for 2 days and hadn’t left the Medina; a place where time stands sill and life continues as it has for hundreds of years and this was a stark contrast to the every day life that we had been witnessing.

About Quad Marrakech Adventure

The owners and guides of Dunes Desert Exploration greeted us with smiles.

The company is a joint French, Canadian venture and you can book their Quad Biking Tour with Get Your Guide.

They employ local guides who all speak fluent French, English and Arabic (probably more!) We were a small group of 6 and after signing our lives away in our waivers, when asked if we wanted to drive solo or together, Dave and I surprised everyone when we said together.

We’re always thinking about the photographs, and it’s difficult to drive a quad bike and take photos. So into a dune buggy we went.

It ended up being an amazing decision as we were placed in a Dune buggy. Dune buggy’s offer more safety and stability than a quad.

Dune Buggy Marrakech

When on a tour, you can drive faster and play harder than you can on a quad bike, so we ended up being separated from everyone and were taken on our own trip through the desert.

When we asked if we messed them up by asking to ride together, they said no problem at all. Quad bikes are a little more dangerous than dune buggy’s so they have to take it easier.

Since we were in a Dune Buggy that had roll bars and seat belts, we could let loose a little more and have more fun.  Therefore, we went in a separate direction than our four other companions.

Shh, don’t tell them but We were taking a more adventurous route.

Learning the Ropes

After a quick briefing of all the controls, Dave started at the wheel. Driving a dune buggy is easy and within seconds, he felt right at home.

We followed our guide through a quick obstacle course to get used to how the buggy handled and then it was time to set out for our desert tour.

The tour was not only a blast, it was a beautiful tour through the landscape. We went through palm groves and rock gardens and visited villages. It was a nice change of pace to the frenzied energy of the Medina.

Out here, locals walked casually through the empty paths, waved as we passed and smiled when we approached. People were out tending their sheep and farming and didn’t seem to mind that we were stopping by for a visit.

The tour company, Dunes Desert Exploration helps the community by donating a portion of their profits to help with the schools and community projects. When we arrived at the high lookout, children were waiting for us and remained completely polite.

They didn’t run up to ask for money or candy, they simply stopped by to say hello. Our guides know them well.

Tea Time and House Visit

After a couple of hours of driving through the countryside, we stopped at a house for some tea and bread. On our way in, our guide showed us the house Hammam.

A hammam is a steam bath where Moroccans go to be bathed and scrubbed and then have a massage after relaxing in a very hot steam room. Traditional houses in the country also have Hammams.

They are cone shaped rooms attached outside the house heated with coal. The fire is stoked and it heats the water that is captured in the room creating an amazing steam bath suitable for a good 20-minute shower.

It was ingenious. Our hands were cold from riding and I wanted to crawl right on in to warm up for a few minutes.

Lunch on our Marrakech Excursion

But instead it was time to eat. We entered the house (known as a riad in Morocco) and greeted our hosts with some figs that we bought at the market.

It’s tradition in Morocco to bring a gift to a house when invited for tea, so even though we were on an organized tour, we thought we’d follow the tradition.

They women seemed surprised, but grateful. We then washed our hands with the aid of our guide pouring warm water over a basin, took off our shoes, and relaxed on the floor on their inviting carpets. We love the way Moroccans eat. Lounging on the floor by short tables is the most relaxing way to consume a meal.

The visit was too short as we could have stayed there for hours, but it was time to move on and finish up the tour.

The End of the Dune Buggy Tour

It was a quick ride back to the office and it was here that we had the chance to put the pedal to the medal on the flat roads. We arrived covered in desert dust, but they were prepared and before they let us go, they hosed us off with an air gun to get all the sand out of our clothes.

We had so much fun and completely enjoyed the hospitality of both the owners and our guides.

It’s not often when on a tour that the owners are so hands on with the guests. They were right in there signing people in, hosing them down and handing out helmets right along with the guides and staff.

That’s my kind of place.

If you go to Marrakech, we highly recommend you get out of the city for a desert excursions and give a Dune buggy or quad bike a try.

There’s so much more to Morocco than carpets and markets. There’s adventure to be had too!

Note: the photo on their website is not the type of terrain you drive through. There are no sweeping dunes. The desert near Morocco is more like Palm Groves and shrub desert. If you are expecting rolling sand dunes, you will be disappointed.

• 11 Remarkable Things to do in Marrakech
• Etiquette Tips for the Middle East
• 10 Things to do in Dubai

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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10 thoughts on “Quad Marakkech – The Ultimate Desert Tour”

WONDERFUL ARTICLE… MOROCCO IS AN AWESOME EXOTIC PLACE TO ENJOY… THESE NARROW MAZE STREET ARE AMAZING…

la verite on est fiere d etre marocain . un si beau paye . situe a nord de l afrique. une stabilite extraordinnaire . et vraiment j invite tout le monde a visiter cet partie du planette nome maroc or morocco

Nicee! We also enjoyed Marrakech a lot! It's a golfer's paradise and if you care for a posh coffee you should hang out at La Mamounia… Our review of Djemaa El Fna goes like this http://travelmemo.com/africa/morocco/djemaa-el-fna-square-marrakech-morocco .

That looks like fun. This is not what I pictured Marrakech to look like nor did I expect the option to go four wheeling!

I agree, you wouldn’t expect to be geared up in four wheelin’ outfits, but that’s exactly what this is. It’s a nice change of pace from the old city. We really enjoyed getting out of town for a bit and enjoying the desert. Can’t wait to go back and spend more time there.

There are lots of great attractions within easy reach of Marrakech. Whether you visit the desert or the coast, it is always nice to take an occasional break from the hectic souks. Those quad bikes look like a nice alternative to camels!

You are so right. It’s great to take a break from the souks. It’s an amazing city, but it’s also nice to get away from the hustle and bustle and there is so much to do right at the doorstep of Marrakech.

I’ve read so much about this area of Morocco. I’ve only ever visited Tangier, on a day trip from Spain. Obviously, exploration further south is a must. People keep telling me how beautiful the Moroccan Sahara is, too.

Hey Erik, we’ve only been to Marrakech. I’d love to go to Tangier. There is so much to see, we’re looking forward to spending more time there and exploring more. Morocco is such a colourful and exotic country. It’s just a wonderful place to visit.

the 2nd shot is my favorite, love seeing the Medina.

10 things to do in Marrakech in June

June is an ideal month to enjoy Marrakech: in the first fortnight the temperatures are not yet high and in the second fortnight you can't miss the seasonal plans.

11 min read

Desert in Marrakech | ©Yeo Khee

In the month of June, the thermometer in Marrakech begins to register higher temperatures, with an average throughout the day between 25 and 35 ° C which decreases at night between 15 and 20 ° C.

Even so, it is a very pleasant month to visit the different monuments and gardens, as it is not as hot as in July and August, and there are many hours of sunshine . In addition, it is not high season and you will find cheaper prices .

1. Enjoy the Gnaoua Music Festival of Essaouira

If you go to Marrakech in June you can not miss the Essaouira Gnaoua Music Festival . In fact, whatever time of the year you go to Marrakech, it is always advisable to make an excursion to Essaouira, as it is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco. But if, in addition, your trip coincides with the last week of June , you have a double reason to go, so book your trip to Essaouira in advance.

The festival has been held since 1998 in order to promote Gnaoua music and promote certain values such as the union of cultures and peace. In fact, the festival is an exponent of musical crossbreeding and it is common to use various instruments typical of Gnaoua music such as drums (ganga), cymbals (qraqeb), the three-stringed drum (guembri) and the lute.

An event that has an important international presence and which each year brings together musicians of different styles such as reggae, jazz, pop and rock and has an audience of around four hundred thousand people. Moreover, admission is free, an essential event!

More information about the festival

• It is located in ... Essaouira, 180 kilometers from Marrakech.
• Find out how to get from Marrakech to Essaouira to prepare your trip.
• Do not hesitate to read the post excursions to Essaouira from Marrakech to make the most of your stay.

Book an excursion to Essaouira

2. Stroll through the Majorelle Garden

One of the best plans you can make in June is a visit to the Majorelle Garden . It is a very special time because at the end of spring the garden is in all its splendor and the pond softens the temperatures and makes it a very pleasant place to walk around. An oasis in the heart of the city of Marrakech. And is that the garden hides more than 300 plant species from around the world. Highlights include palm trees, cacti, roses, bougainvillea, bamboo, and ponds with lotus flowers and water lilies .

The precursor of this garden was the French painter Jacque Majorelle , who in 1922 bought a farm with palm trees. Subsequently, he created an art deco villa, as well as a botanical garden that hid an important number of species. As a passionate nature lover, Majorelle brought back specimens from all his travels.

The painter had an accident and in the following years the garden was very neglected, but later, in the eighties, the businessman and fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent acquired the estate and doubled the number of species. Today it is one of the most visited places in the city.

More information

• It is located at ... Rue Yves St Laurent, (40090), Marrakech.
• The Majorelle Garden, whose price starts at 12 euros , is open from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.
• In this enclosure is also the Museum of Berber Art .

Book a tour of the Majorelle gardens

3. Take an excursion to the desert of Marrakech, an unforgettable experience

If you are up for an excursion to the desert, you have several options. You can book an excursion to the Merzouga Desert , the Zagora Desert , or the Atlas Mountains and the Agafay Desert , or if you do not have much time, you can choose to book an excursion to the desert of Marrakech with dinner . All are perfect options for the month of June before the scorching heat of July and August arrives.

Specifically, the Agafay Desert is about 40 kilometers away, the Zagora Desert is just over 350 kilometers away and the Merzouga Desert is about 550 kilometers away and all three are unforgettable visits.

More information about the desert

• You are in ... Sahara Desert.
• Find out how to get to the desert from Marrakech .
• Check what are the best excursions to the desert of Marrakech and the best activities in the desert of Marrakech to have all the information about this experience.

Book your excursion to the desert of Marrakech

4. Escape the hustle and bustle with a walk in the palm grove of Marrakech

Another ideal plan for the month of June is to book a camel ride through the Palm Grove , an enclave that houses about 100,000 palm trees planted in the Almoravid dynasty and is located northeast of the city. It is considered a luxury area and there are several luxury hotels and golf courses.

It is common to tour the Palm Grove of Marrakech by camel , horseback or you can also enjoy a route on a quad bike . A pleasant and ideal way to escape from the bustle of the city in the month of June and make a plan with the whole family. In addition, you can take the occasional break while you take the opportunity to drink a green tea.

• Located at ... Route de Fès, (40000). Marrakech.
• If this experience is not enough for you, you can opt for a camel ride in other parts of Marrakech .

Book a camel ride in the Palm Grove

5. Take a night walk in the Yamaa el-Fna square

No matter what time of the year you visit Marrakech, the Yamaa el-Fna square is a place you should not miss. It is located in the Medina of Marrakech , the historic area of Marrakech and the ideal way to learn all the history of this enclave is to book a tour of the Medina of Marrakech

Specifically, from the month of June I recommend that you make your visit at night, as the walk is much more pleasant for the temperature. In addition, the square is filled with food stalls where you can dine while enjoying an impromptu show .

• Located at ... Avenue Jamaa El Fna (40000). Marrakech.
• The square is surrounded by various restaurants and bars so you can also relax while having a drink and contemplate the life of the place. I leave you the posts Moroccan food and the best restaurants in Marrakech to know all the details of the local gastronomy.
• If you want to live a top experience, book a gastronomic tour of Marrakech .

Book a tour of the Medina of Marrakech

6. Discover the Saadian tombs without the crowds

One of the most visited monuments of Marrakech are the Saadian tombs . They have a small size so the capacity is limited. Therefore, June is an ideal month to see them, as there are not as many tourists as in other months of the year and you will not have to queue as much.

The Saadid dynasty reigned between 1524 and 1659 and the Saadid tombs, which were discovered and opened to the public in the early twentieth century, date back to that time. There is a main mausoleum in which lies the Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur and his family.

• Located at ... Rue de La Kasbah (40000). Marrakech.
• The entrance can be purchased from 6,50€ and the opening hours are from 9 h. - 12 h. and from 14:30 - 18 h. approximately.

Book a guided tour of Marrakech

7. Visit the Jardin Secret

Le Jardin Secret is located in the heart of Marrakech and is also an ideal plan for the month of June, as you can escape the bustle of the city as well as the heat while enjoying a pleasant and exotic walk . Like the other green spaces in the city, on this date the plants and flowers will be in all their splendor.

Le Jardin Secret opened its doors in 2016 although it dates back to the Saadian dynasty more than 400 years ago and houses almost a hundred species . It is divided into two parts, an exotic garden on one side and an Islamic garden on the other.

More information about the garden

• Located at ... Rue Mouassine 121 (40030). Medina of Marrakech.
• Le Jardin Secret is open from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p. m. and is priced from 7€.

8. Laugh out loud with Marrakech Du Rire

If you go to Marrakech in June, keep in mind that in this month takes place the Marrakech Du Rire Festival , an event that already adds more than a decade and is so popular that it is broadcast on television.

Parades, carnivals, galas and various shows are some of the proposals of this acclaimed event, in which comedy and humor are the main protagonists and whose spectators will spend great and funny moments.

Marrakech Du Rire welcomes, every year, promising young and great artists, both national and international, who have something in common besides their talent, they will make you laugh. Don't hesitate to come, you won't regret it!

• It is located in ... different parts of Marrakech.

9. Take a trip to Anima Garden

Another great option is to take an excursion to Anima Garden or Andre Heller Garden . Its shady paths and large number of flowers and plants make it a magical place to visit in the month of June. It also has several art installations.

This garden of almost two hectares was created by the artist André Heller , one of the most internationally recognized multimedia artists, and is an ideal way to escape from the hustle and bustle of the big city. You can also enjoy a delicious cake and tea or a tasty menu with traditional dishes made from local products.

Anima Garden is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the entrance fee starts at €3. In addition, there is a free shuttle service from Thursday to Sunday to reach the site easily, as it is located approximately 30 kilometers from the city center.

For further information, please contact

• It is located at ... Douar Sbiti Ourika, Route d'Ourika (40000). Marrakech.

10. Take a dip in the Plage Rouge resort

Another ideal plan for one of the hottest days of your visit to Marrakech in June, is to take the opportunity to take a dip in the resort Plage Rouge , located just over 15 kilometers from the medina , has a pool of over two thousand square kilometers in which there are Balinese beds and loungers to enjoy a relaxing day.

Also, during your visit you can enjoy a cocktail, listen to live music or enjoy a tasty dinner.

• Located at ... Route de Casablanca (40000). Marrakech.
• This tourist complex is inaugurated in April, although in June with the arrival of the heat is the month in which it begins to have more public reception.
• The price of access is from 14 €.

The temperature of Marrakech in June

As a prelude to summer, temperatures in Marrakech in June begin to be high, but nothing to do with the central months of the summer season in which walking becomes almost impossible in the central hours of the day.

In June you will be able to enjoy, in general, everything to see and do in Marrakech , since the average temperature is between 20 and 35ºC approximately and it is not usual to register precipitations.

The tourist flow in Marrakech in June

The number of tourists in Marrakech in June is low . Nothing to do with the month of August which has a large number of visitors despite the heat or the months of April, May and October that coincide with the high season. Thus, it is an ideal month to visit it in that you will not have to wait in long lines at the various attractions and you can go sightseeing at your leisure.

It is very important that before your visit you have all the information about safety in Marrakech and how to move around Marrakech .

Festivities in June in Marrakech

The calendar of festivities in Marrakech in general and Morocco in particular is quite particular as in all destinations. Even so, Marrakech does not have any specific festivity coinciding with the month of June. However, in this month is celebrated Marrakech Du Rire , a festival that has a great reception and is even broadcast on television due to its popularity.

Marrakech prices in June

Morocco is an ideal destination to go in June as far as prices are concerned, as it does not coincide with the months of high season so the prices both in travel and accommodation and food are cheaper than at other times of the year . Even so, in general terms, it is a cheap trip. The most expensive may be the airfare and accommodation and it will depend on the time of the year you visit.

On the other hand, feel free to visit the post Marrakech in one day , Marrakech in two days , Marrakech in three days , Marrakech in four days , Marrakech in five days and Marrakech in seven days and create your own itinerary depending on your days of stay.

What to pack to visit Marrakech in June

If you are going to visit Marrakech in June you have to take into account that temperatures will be high so it is advisable to bring light clothes, linen or cotton, ideal for higher temperatures . In addition, it is advisable to bring a hat or cap to cover your head and a scarf or foulard to cover your shoulders in case you enter a mosque or similar.

On the other hand, you have to keep in mind that Morocco is a Muslim country and it is recommended not to go with excessively low-cut clothes, strapless or short in the case of women in order to avoid uncomfortable looks. Even so, and despite being an Islamic country, it is one of the most westernized countries, so they are not as strict about dress as in other places.

When to visit Marrakech

If you are still not clear about the best time to visit Marrakech, do not hesitate to read the post when to travel to Marrakech .

On the other hand, if you are looking for information about other specific months, read the articles corresponding to January in Marrakech , February in Marrakech , March in Marrakech , April in Marrakech , May in Marrakech , July in Marrakech , August in Marrakech , September in Marrakech , October in Marrakech , November in Marrakech and December in Marrakech . On the other hand, if your doubt is about whether it is better to go in one season or another, you can read the posts Marrakech in summer or Marrakech in winter .

The Best Travel Guide to Marrakech

• The desert of Marrakech in one day
• Marrakech in three days: tours, monuments and visits not to miss a thing
• 10 things to do in Marrakech in July
• How to get to the desert from Marrakech
• How to get around Marrakech
• Marrakech in summer
• 11 Best Things To Do in Marrakech
• 10 Best Restaurants in Marrakech
• Marrakech Airport Transfers
• Essaouira Day Trips from Marrakech
• Camel Rides and Tickets in Marrakech
• 10 Day Trips and Excursions from Marrakech

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Marrakech Reviews & Ratings

Magnificent morocco.

What an exciting adventure my trip to Morocco was with nearly everyday a new city/town to visit in just over two week period. I thoroughly enjoyed the culture past...

Mules carrying luggage

Although I’ve been back home a while. I still have memories of seeing a mules loaded up with our heavy suitcases. Their legs buckling underneath. A taxi brought so...

Good overall

The main concern was the variability of the accommodation. From a dreadful first hotel in Casablanca - noisy and impersonal - a splendid one in Essaouira and a ple...

Enlightening Tour of Morocco!

Thoroughly enjoyed all aspects of the trip. Thought it was well organised. Riding through the dunes on a camel! Staying in Kasbah Oliver and exploring the village a...

Great trip but some journeys too long

A good trip covering a vast area gave us a good experience of the country. Each area had something different, ,enjoyed the desert . also the Atlas Mountains, only p...

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Berber Phrases for Travel to Morocco

Travelling to morocco maybe its time for some basic berber – tamazight travel phrases.

If you have already been to Morocco, then you know that French, although not being official language of Morocco, will get you a long way in communication with locals. If you have some knowledge of Arabic, even better. Those dependent on English language will notice that English is emerging in Morocco, specially in urban areas, yet you might still have problems when it comes to communication.

Although Berber Tamazight is not a mandatory language to grab on for Morocco trip,  maybe some basic, basic words will come handy, special when travelling Atlas region and Sahara.

Tamazight Language

Berber language also known as Tamazight has different varieties of languages spoken in Morocco and some parts of Northern Africa.

The varieties of Berber languages include Tarifit spoken in northern Morocco region of Rif, Tashelhiyt spoken in  the south, and some part of south west which includes High Atlas, Anti Atlas, and it also spoken in regions outside of High Atlas. Tamazight   is also spoken in central Morocco. All in all, according to statistics,  Tanazight is spoken by 20 to 25 million people.

Hassan II Mosque Casablanca Guide Get free travel credit of 40 USD with your first booking on Airbnb – click here.

 The Berber languages have had a written tradition for over 2,000 years, they are written in the Tifinagh alphabet,the oldest dated inscription is from about 200 BC.

So below are few phrases that were translated by original Berber!

Berber  Tamazight Greetings

• Hi/ Hello:  azul
• How are you? : mataànit ?
• I am great! : labas
• Good morning : sbah Lkhir
• Good afternoon: ms lkhir
• Good evening :ms lkhir
• Good night : temsiwin
• Good bye: layàwn
• See you later : ar netmezra
• Maybe : imken
• I dont know : our ain’t
• My name is….  : manismank
• I come from Usa, uk : nkin sg USA U.K.
• Thank you! : tanmert, Saha
• You are welcome: mrehba

• 13 tletaàch
• 14 rbaàtaàch
• 15 khemastaàch
• 17 sbaàtach
• 18 tmentaàch
• 19 tsaàtach

Drinks, Food  and Moroccan Dishes

• Coffee (with sugar / milk): lqehwa (nes nes / slehlib )
• Tea (without sugar) : atag bla sukar
• Orange juice : laàsir n limoun
• Avocado juice : laàsir n lavoca
• Olives : zitoun
• Water : Amanda
• Vegetable tagine : tagin s lekhdart
• Beef tagine: tagin slbagri
• Chicken tagine : tagin soufoulous
• Bread : aghroum
• Omelette: reflate
• Dinner: Imenssi
• Breakfast: leftour
• Lunch: inklli
• Moroccan salad : chalada
• Other Moroccan dishes: àfak kan lamakla Yasmin n marroc, Tgalya, Seksou
• Ahrir : soup
• Cheers! : besha ,stsant
• Spices: laàtrya
• Cinnamon : lqerfa
• Saffron : zaàfran
• Cumin : takamimt
• Salt : tesant
• Sugar : Sukar
• How much is it?  Mechta
• Its too expensive! Ighla bezaf
• Can I get a discount? Imkan atnaqst
• Deal! : Netafq
• How much is this carpet: chehal taxrbit
• leather shoes: idoukan ifsousn
• scarf:  zif

Also read: Moroccan Souqs Trekking in Dades Valley With Berber Mountain Guide Cooking Tagine in Essaoura

Days of the week

• Saturday : sbit
• Sunday: lhed
• Monday : Letnin
• Tuesday : tllati
• Wednesday: latbeà
• Thursday : lekhmis
• Friday : jemaà
• Tomorrow : asks
• Today : adder
• Yesterday: asnat
• Taxi : taxi
• Grand taxi station : taxi takhatart
• Bus station : lmahta nlkiran
• Desert : Sehrra
• i got lost. : Zlir
• Canyon : Agni
• Gorge: taghya
• Road : abrid

Compliments

• You are beautiful.: tehlit
• I like you. Tehlit ghori
• I love you. Righk

Translations provided by Ilias,Mountain Bereber Guide.

About the Author: Nina Zara

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I love this post! Thanks for sharing!

Great post! Tanmirt for sharing

Hi Nina, I would love to chat to you about Morocco and your experiences. Pls email me ☺️

Hi Chels, thanks for stopping by. I wish i could, but I am very busy and really dont have time atm, If you are looking latest experiences from Morocco from this year, i saw many fellow travel bloggers publishing online tones of material on just about every destination in Morocco.

Comments are closed.

Travel Junkie Gifts They Are Sure To Love

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Are you unsure about what to buy the travel junkie in your life?

I’m not surprised, we’re a difficult bunch to shop for. Chances are, we don’t really want material possessions, most of us travelers would rather have the cash to spend on our next adventure. However, cash is pretty much a thoughtless gift, isn’t it?

Luckily, I have come across some really great products for travelers to honor the places they traveled to and will go, or to make the next trip even better.

1. GoPro Camera Case by Travler Leather

This camera case for GoPro’s by Travler Leather is a real head-turner. Often, I find myself not wanting to carry my cumbersome Nikon around when I want my picture taking to be a little more under the radar. This camera case adds an entirely new functionality to the GoPro because you will now be able to use the GoPro in everyday life as opposed to only when participating in more extreme activities. It looks stylish, works well and is made with quality, locally sourced genuine leather. Additionally it’s pretty simple to get your GoPro in and out of, so if you need to put the waterproof housing back on, it will only take a few seconds.

https://www.instagram.com/p/_zmp3XHmVp/?taken-by=travlerleather

2. Girly Go Garter

I am absolutely in love with this product, as it is an excellent way to outsmart pickpockets and keep important items close to you at all times.

The Girly Go Garter is essentially a garter belt with pockets to stash all of your stuff. I love the quality of this product. It is made from strong materials, and has comfortable grips on the inside for keep from sliding off your leg or moving around. I have even taken mine out for a run and a hike without it moving around. Additionally, they say it can easily hold up to 3 pounds worth of your stuff. (Thats a lot of stuff!) The Girly Go Garter can be used as a replacement for a purse or used in addition to one. For 10% off your purchase you can use the promo code TRUSTEDTRAVELGIRL at checkout.

3. Vintage Quotation Map

These one of a kind vintage maps are amazing gifts for travel junkies. The more you travel, the more you tend to appreciate maps and globes. The MapsToGo shop on Etsy is packed with countless choices of rare maps, and you can mix and match maps with any of the quotes. When mine arrived, I raced over to my local framer because I was so excited to have the finished product. Instead of using the suggested quotes, I chose to have one of my favorite travel quotes printed at the bottom “I am not the same having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world”.  Any item from MapsToGo is sure to be a one-of-a-kind gift, and once framed it will be loved and appreciated for years to come.

4. Lily Camera

As an avid traveler and experience junkie, I absolutely love my GoPro. The GoPro is an excellent piece of equipment that can withstand just about anything. However there is one problem. Unless you want to hike, bike, dive or ski one handed with a selfie stick, it can be challenging to find a way to get video of yourself doing these actual activities. I often travel solo, so most of my videos turn out to be from my point of view of whatever activity I’m doing, rather than of me being the subject. That’s great and all, but sometimes I want a video or picture of myself doing these activities. The solution? The new Lily Camera . Lily is a drone camera that will track and follow it’s user with no controller required, keep it’s user in frame at all times!

Unfortunately, Lily is still only available for pre-order and will be released in summer 2016. This means if you are going to order Lily as a gift, you will have to be like one of my lazy ex-boyfriends that bought all of my birthday and Christmas presents too late and you will have to print out a picture of the item (as the placeholder for the gift) until Lily is available to ship. I ordered mine in May and I won’t receive it until February. Current orders will ship in August. Personally, I think it is well worth the wait.

5. Bose Quiet Comfort Noise Cancelling Headphones

I have been a huge fan of Bose Quiet Comfort headphones for over 10 years. I will not fly without them. Those obnoxious noisy passengers and crying babies literally fade into the distance with the click of a button. Bose now makes an ear-bud option as well as the traditional over-the-ear headset. These headphones change everything, your music has never sounded so good, and even if you choose not to turn on your iPod, the background noise still will dissipate. Additionally when yo are ready for a new pair, Bose has a pretty generous upgrade program that allows you to trade up to a newer set and will take good care of you should anything break. If there is anything I like more than an incredible product, it is excellent customer service.

6. Pro Flex GoPro case by GoScope

I had been looking high and low for a good case for my GoPro. I’ve seen some zip-up boxes and Pelican-cases, although they are well organized and sturdy, they make the GoPro far too bulky for convenient packing. Isn’t part of the point of the GoPro is its small easy-to-travel-with size? While searching for a GoPro case, I reach out to a photographer friend that often uses GoPro and his only suggestion was to use a ziplock. After searching for quite awhile, I came across the Pro Flex case by GoScope . This seemingly has it all, including a water resistant outer layer. The Pro Flex case can store up to two GoPro’s, and has room for extra lenses or the floaty. It comes with pockets of all sizes to store mounts, wires and other accessories. It also features a zippered mesh pocket to old SD cards, a hook to hand the entire case vertically and a place for everyone’s favorite accessory – the selfie stick. Because the GoPro itself is basically crush proof, there is’t a strong need for a bulky pelican case unless entering extreme conditions. The Pro Flex case is suitable for almost all GoPro users, and is truly a space and time saver.

Valerie Wilson

Contributor.

As the girl behind the blog: Trusted Travel Girl, Valerie is huge on traveling like a local and going off the beaten path to find secrets only locals would know. She has no comfort zone and loves to solo travel.

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Coming Soon

United Adds 3 New International Flights for 2024

United Airlines is growing its international route network once again.

The Chicago-based airline just announced three brand-new international destinations and plans to add more frequent flights to locales it already serves.

Later this year, the airline will begin offering nonstop flights to Medellín, Colombia; Marrakech, Morocco; and Cebu, Philippines. All told, the new routes will bring United's nonstop service to 134 international destinations spanning 67 countries.

Here's everything you need to know about the new (and expanding) routes.

Marrakech, Morocco

As of October 24, 2024, travelers will be able to connect directly from New York's Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Morocco's Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). The flights will operate three times a week on Boeing 767-300ER planes, which feature 46 Polaris business-class pods, 22 Premium Plus recliners, 43 Economy Plus extra-legroom seats, and 56 economy seats. Planes will depart Newark at 12:45 p.m. (on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday) and arrive in Morocco the following day at 11:20 a.m. (local time), with the return flight (on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday) departing Morocco at 1:20 p.m. and touching down in Newark at 4:25 p.m. (local time).

The route will run through mid-spring 2025, according to United. The tickets aren't yet bookable, as they're currently subject to government approval.

Medellín, Colombia

Starting October 27, 2024, United plans to fly nonstop from Houston's George Bush International Airport (IAH) to Medellín, Colombia's José María Córdova International Airport (MDE). The daily flights-which will be operated on Boeing 737-8 Max aircraft-will depart Houston at 4:29 p.m. and arrive in Medellín at 10:05 p.m. (local time). Going the reverse direction, planes will depart Medellín at 10:45 a.m. and reach Texas at 2:38 p.m. Like those for Marrakech, the tickets will be bookable as soon as United has government approval, though there's no word on when that will be.

Though this is United's first flight path to Medellín, the carrier already flies to Bogotá from Houston and Newark.

Cebu, Philippines

When United launches its service to Cebu City on October 27, 2024, it'll be the only U.S. carrier that reaches the Philippines city, which serves as a gateway to Cebu Island and its white-sand beaches, waterfalls, and incredible diving scenery. Granted, the nonstop service isn't departing from American soil-it leaves from Tokyo's Narita International Airport (which is accessible with direct flights from Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark, and San Francisco).

The daily, year-round service will operate on Boeing 737-800 aircraft, with planes departing Tokyo at 5:25 p.m. and arriving at Cebu at 9:35 p.m. (a flight of 5 hours and 10 minutes with the time change). The return journey will leave the Philippines at 9:15 a.m. and arrive in Tokyo at 3:20 p.m. local time.

The airline already runs a direct flight between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in the Philippines.

Additional United international flights

Beyond the three new routes, United announced that it would expand service to destinations with strong demand, including:

• Newark to Porto, Portugal: A second daily flight will be added starting May 23.
• Los Angeles to Hong Kong: A second daily flight will be added starting October 26.
• San Francisco to Seoul, South Korea: A second daily flight will be added starting October 27.
• Los Angeles to Shanghai: Starting August 29, there will be four weekly flights (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday) with return flights taking place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

United has been particularly bullish about adding flight paths to so-called second cities in recent years. In December 2023, United launched the only nonstop flight from the United States to Christchurch, New Zealand . One route, however, that is going away before it even starts is a direct flight to Faro, Portugal , which was supposed to launch this spring and has been postponed until summer 2025. Impacted customers are being offered a full refund or United will rebook travel on a partner airline without a fee.

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Is It Healthier to Eat Your Vegetables Before Your Carbs?

“Nutrient sequencing” is said to regulate blood sugar. We asked experts if the science holds up.

Credit... Eric Helgas for The New York Times

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By Nikki Campo

• April 2, 2024

Q: I’ve heard that it’s best for my health to eat a salad before dinner. But if I’m eating vegetables regardless, does the order really matter?

It’s a popular internet health hack: Eat foods in the “right” order — vegetables first, proteins and fats second, carbohydrates last — and you’ll significantly reduce your resulting spike in blood sugar, which can therefore reduce cravings, fatigue and health risks like Type 2 diabetes, proponents say.

Past research on the topic , sometimes referred to as nutrient or meal sequencing, has concluded that it can indeed benefit blood sugar, especially for those with Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes.

For everyone else, it’s not as cut-and-dried, said Dr. Alpana Shukla, a physician and researcher at Weill Cornell Medicine in New York City who has studied food order. Though there are some reasons to consider giving it a try, she said.

What does the research suggest?

Existing studies on the benefits of meal sequencing are small, but the results are consistent, experts say.

In one 2023 review of 11 studies , for instance, researchers concluded that people who saved carbohydrate-rich foods for the end of a meal, after vegetables and proteins, had significantly lower blood sugar levels than when they consumed them first.

In one 2019 study of 15 people with pre-diabetes, Dr. Shukla and her colleagues asked the participants to eat a meal of skinless grilled chicken, salad and ciabatta in three different orders on three different days: ciabatta first, followed 10 minutes later by the chicken and salad; chicken and salad first, followed by the ciabatta; and salad first, followed by the chicken and ciabatta.

Researchers measured participants’ blood sugar levels right before they ate, and every 30 minutes for three hours after each meal. They found that when the participants ate the chicken and salad before the bread, their blood sugar spikes following the meal were about 46 percent lower than when they ate the bread first.

Researchers aren’t entirely sure why this might be. One theory is that eating fats, fiber and proteins first delays stomach emptying , which could slow the absorption of sugars from the carbohydrates into the bloodstream, Dr. Shukla said.

Barbara Eichorst, vice president of health care programs at the American Diabetes Association, said it makes sense for people with Type 2 diabetes or pre-diabetes to consume vegetables and proteins first during meals, since, unlike carbohydrates, vegetables and proteins don’t rapidly turn into sugar and cause high blood glucose spikes.

For those who have Type 2 diabetes, some limited research even suggests that this blood sugar lowering effect could be comparable with certain diabetes medications, said Nicola Guess, a clinical dietitian and researcher at the University of Oxford in Britain. Though more research is needed on the topic.

Should everyone eat like this?

Research has also shown that eating carbohydrates last in a meal can reduce blood sugar spikes in people who don’t have diabetes . But the experts said that healthy people usually don’t need to micromanage their blood sugar in this way.

A properly functioning body will bring blood sugar levels back down to normal within hours after eating a meal, said Dr. Vijaya Surampudi, an endocrinologist at UCLA Health.

Nonetheless, since proteins, fats and fiber-rich vegetables take longer to digest than simple carbohydrates, saving carbs for last can help people feel fuller for longer, said Dr. Domenico Tricò, an assistant professor of internal medicine at the University of Pisa in Italy who studies food order.

Research also suggests that eating this way can stimulate the gut to produce more of a satiety hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1, or GLP-1. (The diabetes drug Ozempic is designed to mimic this hormone.)

“GLP-1 slows digestion and tells your brain you’re not hungry,” Dr. Surampudi said. But some experts said it’s not clear if the small increases in this hormone from meal sequencing alone (compared with the large increase you’d get from a drug like Ozempic) would make a big difference in how sated you feel.

If you tend to feel sluggish after meals, front-loading them with vegetables or protein could help, Dr. Shukla and Dr. Surampudi said.

Some research also suggests that saving carbohydrates for the end of a meal can make you more likely to fill up on vegetables and protein and eat fewer simple carbohydrates, which tend to have fewer nutrients and more calories, Dr. Shukla said.

The bottom line, the experts said, is that while meal sequencing is one of many healthy eating strategies, it’s not something to stress about. Dietary trends like these sometimes result in making people anxious, which can lead to disordered eating.

“If it’s easy for you, then you should go for it,” Dr. Tricò said. But if not, just aim for high-quality food you enjoy. Loading up on vegetables at every meal is more important than focusing too intently on the order of your food, Dr. Guess said.

Nikki Campo is a freelance writer in North Carolina.

A Guide to Better Nutrition

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We asked a nutrition expert how she keeps up healthy habits without stressing about food. Here are seven tips  she shared for maintaining that balance.

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Salmon is good for you, but choosing the right type to eat isn’t so easy. Here are answers to all your questions about this nutritional powerhouse .

Read these books to shift into a healthier way of thinking about food .

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High-Yield Savings Account Rates Today: April 9, 2024

Fact Checked

Updated: Apr 9, 2024, 3:59am

Rates on savings accounts are rising. You can now earn 5.84% or higher on your savings.

Shopping for an account where you can put some money aside? Here’s a look at some of the best savings rates you can find today.

Related: Compare the Best High-Yield Online Savings Accounts

Traditional Savings Account Rates Today

Traditional savings accounts, called “statement savings accounts” within the banking industry, are known for paying paltry interest rates. That’s slowly changing, thanks to the Fed’s attempt to combat inflation with repeated interest rate hikes.

Today’s highest rate on a standard savings account with a $2,500 minimum deposit requirement is 5.84%, according to data from Curinos. If you land a basic savings account with a rate in that ballpark, you’ve found a good deal. One week ago, the best yield also was 5.84%.

Today’s average APY for a traditional savings account is 0.24%, Curinos says. Last week, it was 0.23%. APY, or annual percentage yield, shows the actual return your account will earn in a year. It includes compound interest, which is interest that builds on the interest already in your account.

High-Yield Savings Account Rates Today

High-yield savings accounts generally pay substantially higher interest than conventional savings accounts. But the thing to know is you may have to jump through some hoops for the bank or credit union. Often, that means making a large deposit to open the account.

On high-yield accounts requiring a minimum deposit of $10,000, today’s best interest rate is 5.35%. That’s unchanged from one week ago.

The average APY for those accounts is now 0.24% APY, about the same as a week ago.

On high-yield savings accounts with a minimum opening deposit of $25,000, the highest rate offered today is 4.97%. You’ll be in good shape if you can nail down an account offering a rate close to 4.97%. Last week at this time, the best rate was a similar 4.97%.

The current average is 0.25% APY for a high-yield account with a $25,000 minimum deposit. That’s the same as last week’s 0.25%.

How High Can Savings Rates Go?

That’s tough to say—it depends on the path of inflation and the overall economy.

The highest interest rates in recent history were seen in the early 1980s when the Fed hiked the federal funds rate to over 19%. That was in response to record-breaking inflation that had prices rising at a rate of over 14% annually.

In the early 1980s, the average five-year CD paid almost 12%, compared to less than 2% today, according to Bankrate data. Savings rates eventually fell as inflation cooled and the federal funds rate was brought back down.

Methodology

Curinos determines the average rates for savings accounts by focusing on those intended for personal use. Certain types of savings accounts—such as relationship-based accounts and accounts designed for youths, seniors and students—are not considered in the calculation.

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Lauren Graves is an educator-turned-editor specializing in personal finance content. She seeks to make complicated topics easier to understand and less intimidating to the average reader with accurate, reliable information and transparent writing. Her expertise includes banking product reviews and general topics universal to personal finance such as saving and budgeting. Her work has been featured in Money Under 30, Investor Junkie, Doughroller, Saving for College and APY GUY.