Marrakech, the Red City of Morocco, is one of the most fascinating and iconic destinations in the country. Its blend of ancient traditions, vibrant culture, lively markets, and peaceful gardens makes it an unmissable place for travelers seeking authenticity and adventure. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply in search of new experiences, Marrakech offers something for every visitor. Here are the 10 best things to do during your stay in this magical city.
The 10 Best Things to Do in Marrakech for Every Traveler
1. Explore the Medina of Marrakech
The Medina of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. Strolling through it is like stepping into a whirlwind of colors, sounds, and smells. Narrow alleys, vibrant souks, craftsmen at work, and historical buildings tell the thousand-year-old story of the city. It’s easy to get lost, but that’s part of its charm. It’s the perfect place to wander, admire the facades of traditional houses, and discover hidden treasures.
The souks of the Medina are the ideal spot to buy local crafts such as carpets, pottery, jewelry, spices, textiles, and more. Don’t forget to haggle with the vendors, a skill you’ll soon master!
2. Visit Jemaa el-Fna Square
Jemaa el-Fna Square is undoubtedly one of the most famous and lively spots in Marrakech. It’s where the heart of the city beats day and night. In the morning, the square comes alive with vendors selling fresh orange juice and various street performers. By evening, it transforms into an open-air theater with snake charmers, storytellers, musicians, and street artists taking over the space.
At night, the square becomes a massive outdoor food market where stalls serve local specialties such as tajines, skewers, and Moroccan pancakes. It’s the perfect place to sample Moroccan street food in a unique and lively atmosphere.
3. Visit the Majorelle Garden
The Majorelle Garden, located just outside the Medina, is one of Morocco’s most famous gardens. Created in the 1920s by French painter Jacques Majorelle, the garden is an oasis of peace with pathways lined with palm trees, bougainvilleas, and cacti. What sets it apart are the vibrant colors, particularly the intense blue of the walls, known as “Majorelle Blue,” which gives the garden an almost surreal atmosphere.
Today, the garden is owned by the Pierre Bergé-Yves Saint Laurent Foundation and also houses a museum dedicated to Berber culture, featuring an impressive collection of traditional objects. It’s a serene and beautiful place that’s a must-visit while in Marrakech.
4. Explore the Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs, located in the Kasbah district, are a historical landmark that shouldn’t be missed in Marrakech. These tombs date back to the Saadian dynasty (16th century), which marked the city’s golden age. The site consists of several mausoleums, including the tomb of Sultan Ahmed el-Mansour, and beautiful gardens surrounding the graves.
This site is a testament to the opulence of the period and the grandeur of the Saadian rulers, who governed Morocco during a time of prosperity. The tombs are decorated with stunning ceramics and intricately carved marble, offering a remarkable view of the era’s splendor.
5. Get Lost in the Souks
The souks of Marrakech are a true maze where you can spend hours exploring various markets, each specializing in a specific type of product: carpets, pottery, perfumes, spices, leather goods, and more. Wandering through these lively markets is a fascinating sensory experience. The vendors are often eager to engage, and it’s common to be invited for a cup of mint tea during your shopping.
The souks are also the perfect place to purchase authentic souvenirs such as silver jewelry, lanterns, colorful slippers, and traditional clothing. Don’t forget to bargain—it’s part of the fun!
6. Visit the Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace is a 19th-century architectural masterpiece built by the vizier Si Moussa for his family and concubines. This palace is a striking example of Islamic art and Moroccan architecture, with its inner courtyards, lush gardens, fountains, and colorful mosaics.
The rooms of the palace are decorated with intricately carved woodwork, detailed stucco, and ceramic tiles. The Bahia Palace is one of Marrakech’s most stunning landmarks, providing a glimpse into the opulence of the former sultans and their viziers.
7. Relax in a Traditional Hammam
The hammam is an integral part of Moroccan culture and offers an essential relaxation experience in Marrakech. These public or private steam baths are the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
In a traditional hammam, you can enjoy a scrub with black soap, followed by a relaxing massage. The atmosphere is usually soothing, with marble walls and warm temperatures that help relax your muscles. There are many hammams in the city, ranging from luxurious to more traditional and authentic experiences.
8. Take a Trip to the Agafay Desert
Just an hour’s drive from Marrakech, the Agafay Desert offers a different desert experience compared to Merzouga or the Sahara. Less touristy but equally spectacular, Agafay is a vast expanse of rocky terrain and sand stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s the perfect place for a 4×4, camel, or quad excursion.
Visitors can also spend the night in Berber-style camps under the stars, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. The surrounding dunes and mountains provide a breathtaking landscape, and you’ll enjoy the tranquility far from the city’s hustle and bustle.
9. Visit the Marrakech Museum
The Marrakech Museum, housed in a former 19th-century palace, the Palais de la Ménara, is a must-see cultural stop. It hosts a fascinating collection of Moroccan art and culture, from ancient jewelry to traditional clothing, carved wood objects, and ceramics.
The museum is a great way to learn about the history of Marrakech and Morocco through both permanent and temporary exhibitions. Don’t miss the stunning architecture of the building itself, with its inner courtyards, arches, and fountains.
10. Taste Moroccan Cuisine
Marrakech is a true paradise for food lovers. Moroccan cuisine is rich in flavors and spices, with traditional dishes such as tajine, couscous, pastilla, and kefta. The city’s restaurants offer a wide range of dishes, from the simplest to the most refined.
For an authentic culinary experience, try a meal in a traditional riad, where you can taste dishes prepared according to family recipes passed down through generations. You can also sample famous fresh fruit juices, mint tea, and Moroccan pastries like cornes de gazelle or baklava.
Conclusion
Marrakech is a captivating city where the past and present meet in spectacular ways. Between historical architecture, colorful souks, exotic gardens, and flavorful cuisine, there’s no shortage of activities to discover. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Marrakech offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to take the time to get lost in its streets and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere that pervades this legendary city.