Top 12: Things to Do in Marrakech
Planning a trip and wondering what to do in Marrakech? Here at Civitatis we have you covered! Also known as the “Red City” for its reddish-pink clay buildings, this Moroccan city is an absolute must-visit. Culture, history, and a lively atmosphere are all at your fingertips here. So whether you’re looking for some adrenaline-filled adventures, significant landmarks, or delicious local food, check out these 12 essential things to do in Marrakech.
1. Stay in a Traditional Riad
While researching things to do in Morocco, you may have stumbled across the word “riad”. But what does it mean? And why is it worth staying in one?
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden or courtyard. The word “riad” comes from the Arabic word “ryad”, meaning garden, and they are usually located within Marrakech’s medina. This central location makes them ideal for exploring historical sites, souks, and cultural attractions on foot while also providing a peaceful oasis to return to after your time in the city’s chaos. Truly one of the most authentic experiences you can have in Marrakech!
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a more adventurous yet equally authentic accommodation during your stay in Marrakech, why not spend the night in the desert? You’ll get to sleep under the stars in a traditional haima, a portable tent used by the nomadic Berber people. It’ll be a totally unique experience!
2. Wander the Medina & Souks
Spices, leather, artisanal crafts, carpets, jewelery… Come and visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site like no other! Marrakech’s medina and souks are a network of narrow streets and vibrant marketplaces selling anything you could possibly imagine. The perfect place to experience Moroccan culture and to find an authentic handicraft or two as a souvenir.
This part of Marrakech is often best enjoyed on foot, as it allows you to wander around (and get lost in) the complex maze of alleyways as you watch animated bartering taking place. However, if you want to explore the medina and souks in a new and exciting way, why not book a bike tour of Marrakech? Get ready to put your cycling skills to the test!
Pro Tip: Bargaining is a key part of the medina and souk experience—start low and enjoy the negotiation!
3. Explore the Jemaa el-Fna Square
The Jemaa el Fna is the beating heart of Marrakech. Originally a place of large gatherings and public events, over time its role has evolved into a site for commercial, religious, and social exchanges. Watch this square come alive with street performers and small stalls selling unique trinkets!
If you head over in the evening, you’ll likely stumble across the night food market, made up of many open-air stalls selling tasty local food. Eating at these “mini restaurants” can be a special experience and a great way to try some new Moroccan dishes which are equally as popular amongst tourists and locals. However, it is also worth taking your time when choosing to ensure the food is well-cooked and hygiene standards are met.
4. Stroll Through the Majorelle Garden
The Majorelle Garden, named after Jacques Majorelle, the French artist who created it in the 1920s, is one of Marrakech’s most beloved attractions. Fascinated by Morocco, this painter envisioned a lush garden around his villa, painted in a bright blue that has become iconic and is called “Majorelle blue”.
Another notable aspect of this spot is the vast collection of exotic plants. Cacti, palms, bougainvillea, and water lilies all feature in the gardens, making it not only a great spot for nature lovers but also one of the most photographed places in the city.
The garden also houses a museum dedicated to the work of famous designer, Yves Saint Laurent. Fashion lovers, you’re in luck! Get ready to explore his iconic creations and trace his deep connection with Morocco. Every corner of the garden and every exhibit reflects this profound relationship between art and nature. This haven of peace is the perfect spot to visit if you’re looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
5. Admire Bahia Palace
Next stop? Bahia Palace! Built at the end of the 19th century, this is without a doubt, one of the top landmarks to visit in Marrakech. Did you know that Bahia means “brilliance” or “beautiful”? Find out all about how this palace became a symbol of luxury and power in the country.
Moroccan and Andalusian-inspired architecture, magnificent gardens, and beautifully ornate mosaics feature heavily throughout Bahia Palace, offering a glimpse into the luxurious life of the nobility and traditional decorative arts. If you’re looking to get to know this historical site even further, a private tour of Marrakech is the perfect option for you. Discover all of the city’s gems in the company of an exclusive English-speaking guide!
6. Learn About Morocco’s History in the Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
The Mellah is Marrakech’s Jewish Quarter, dating back to the 16th century. At its peak, this neighborhood was one of the most dynamic in Morocco.
Today, the Mellah still preserves the Slat Al Azama synagogue, one of the oldest in Marrakech, as well as a Jewish cemetery. These historical sites serve as reminders of the harmonious coexistence that once existed between different religious communities in Marrakech throughout history. Stroll through the narrow alleys of the neighborhood lined with artisan shops and cafés and learn about a lesser-known but important piece of Moroccan history. You’ll love it!
7. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque
One of the many monuments built by the Almohad dynasty, the Koutoubia Mosque is an iconic part of Marrakech’s skyline, particularly when its 77-meter (252-foot) minaret is lit up at night. The mosque is a perfect example of Almohad architecture, known for its delicate arches, geometric motifs, and carefully chosen materials. It has also inspired other beautiful buildings like the Giralda in Seville!
Although access inside the mosque is restricted, the gardens and surroundings are open to the public. A private tour of Marrakech will also allow you to delve deeper into the history and cultural significance of this magnificent building. However, if you’re looking for an adventurous alternative, why not see if you can spot the beautiful minaret from above on a balloon ride over Marrakech? You’ll never forget these one-of-a-kind views of the city!
8. Indulge in Moroccan Cuisine
One of the most popular aspects of Marrakech as a travel destination is its food. This city’s cuisine is known for its unique blend of Berber, Mediterranean, and Arab influences, and you simply cannot leave without having tried some of its most famous dishes! If you’re a fan of bold flavors and a vibrant street food scene, Marrakech is the place to be. Alternatively, if you’re looking to recreate these dishes yourself, we recommend heading over to the city’s souks to find all the best spices to use in your own culinary creations.
Looking to sample Moroccan food but not sure where to start? Be sure to check out this food tour of Marrakech for some unmissable best bites on your trip. For those in search of something off the beaten path, why not head into the mountains and have lunch with a local Berber family in their very own home after a gratifying hike? A unique way to get to know the local customs and traditions.
9. Discover the Saadian Tombs
Another emblematic place to visit in Marrakech is the Saadian Tombs. Discovered in 1917 after being hidden for centuries, this mausoleum houses the tombs of the Saadian dynasty, which ruled over Marrakech in the 16th and 17th centuries.
This archaeological site is not only one of the most historically significant in the country but also one of the most visually striking. The tombs are a stunning example of Moroccan craftsmanship, with intricate tilework and marble pillars reflecting the dynasty’s grandeur. Visiting the Saadian Tombs offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s royal history and provides an opportunity to admire some of the country’s best examples of Islamic art and architecture.
10. Venture into the Atlas Mountains
Nature lovers, it’s your time to shine! The Atlas Mountains are an impressive mountain range that stretches across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. If you’re looking for some of the most stunning natural landscapes in North Africa, this is the place to be. Located just outside Marrakech, the range is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts or those looking to learn more about Berber culture and rural life.
There are many activities on offer in the Atlas Mountains, particularly hikes, treks, and mountaineering. This rugged area in Morocco serves as a fascinating contrast to the vibrant city life in Marrakech and is a great way to discover a unique side of the country. If you’ve got some extra days in Marrakech we recommend checking out some of these adventurous activities in the Atlas Mountains and its valleys:
Happy hiking!
11. Pamper Yourself at a Hammam
A hammam is an essential part of Moroccan culture and daily life. It offers not only a cleansing experience but also a social and relaxing one. A visit to a hammam is a must-do in Marrakech, combining both wellness and cultural immersion.
Marrakech boasts a great number of traditional hammams popular amongst locals, where age-old rituals are followed in a friendly atmosphere. Others offer a more upmarket spa experience with personalized treatments, massages, and aromatic baths in luxurious settings. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s something for everyone. Take some time out and enjoy a relaxing moment in Marrakech with this bath or massage at Les Sources Berbères Spa! Alternatively, if you can’t choose between the two, why not combine them and indulge in this bath and massage in a traditional hammam spa? Get ready to feel completely restored!
12. Go on a Day Trip to the Desert
Our final recommendation for things to do in Marrakech is to explore the desert. 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) southwest of the city you’ll find the beautiful arid landscape of the Agafay Desert. Known for its rocky dunes, rugged plateaus, and rolling hills, it once served as a route for caravans traveling between Marrakech and distant regions. Though less known perhaps than the Zagora and Merzouga deserts, Agafay is nevertheless an excellent alternative for those seeking a serene yet adventurous escape.
So what are you waiting for? A day trip to Agafay is the perfect way to culminate your trip to Marrakech. For those in search of adventure in the desert, don’t miss the chance to feel the adrenaline rush you’re looking for with this quad biking activity in Agafay. Engines at the ready!
Pro tip: Is one day in the desert not enough? If that is the case, why not check out this 3-day Sahara tour? We’re sure it’ll be an experience you never forget!
There you have it! The top 12 things to do in Marrakech. This city offers a plethora of unique experiences, blending tradition, history, and breathtaking landscapes. If you’re looking for more travel inspiration, be sure to check out more activities and tours in Marrakech with Civitatis. Enjoy your trip!
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