Marrakech is more than just an ancient city in Morocco. It’s a sensory experience of vibrant colors, flavors, smells, sounds, and unique sights. It’s world-famous for its markets and shopping in the Medina (old city), but there is so much more to do in Marrakech. Once you’ve witnessed the fascinating mix of European, Middle Eastern, and African cultures, head out of the city for unparalleled mountain and desert scenery.
Everything in Marrakech goes on within the hustle and bustle of the Medina, the walled, most ancient part of the city. Spend a day soaking up the sounds, smells, and sights of this remarkable area, experiencing the souks and squares.
The most beautiful part of the Medina is its maze of narrow streets that transport you back in time. Throw your map in the garbage and lose yourself in the excitement while dodging donkeys and carts.
Admire the colors of the walls and buildings, the smells of the food and spices, and speak to friendly locals. Most unique of all is the sound of the call to prayer echoing among the narrow streets coming from the many mosques situated close by. To experience this high up, head to one of the many rooftop cafes to experience panoramic sounds and views.
At the heart of the Medina lies the world-famous Jamaa el Fnaa square. Walking through this square is an experience like no other! Feel the heat beating off the stone floor as you worm your way through snake charmers, entertainers, and street food stalls selling fresh juices.
By night, the square comes to life with music, with flute players, dancers, and artists all showing their talents under the twinkling lights of the stalls. This amazing demonstration of Moroccan culture is not to be missed!
If the square is the heart, then the souks are the true soul of Marrakech. Wander just off the main square to discover an extraordinary labyrinth of markets. It’s easy to lose yourself in the covered markets and the network of tiny streets that all seem to look the same.
Don’t worry about this, and enjoy the fantastic colors of the textiles, the magical smells of the vibrant mountains of spices, the high-quality leatherwork, and the glittering lights bouncing off the lanterns and colored glassware. Make sure to visit the main souk: ‘Souk Semmarine’, located just off Jamaa el Fnaa. A little further away is the ‘Souk Place des Epices’, which is the traditional spice souk.
Marrakech has a great selection of traditional and fusion restaurants that serve up delicious tagine and couscous. Our personal favorite was Cafe Atay. There is also Cafe Clock, which is more of a fusion one but also very good!
In Morrocan architecture, all buildings have flat roofs, which are perfect for rooftop bars. Head to a rooftop cafe overlooking Jemaa el Fnaa for a delicious mint tea, or visit the museum Maison de la Fotagraphie, which has the highest rooftop bar in the medina for incredible views!
Enjoy day 2 by jumping between beautiful buildings. See the traditional Moroccan architecture and designs of arches and blue tiles, but also the more innovative designs of artistic buildings and museums.
Staying in a traditional riad (guesthouse) is the best way to see the stunning details of Moroccan architecture. On the outside, they are normally a sandy color with basic architecture. However, once you open the door, there is a whole different world.
A world of wonderful colored tiles, detailed patterns, and plants that are normally centered around a dreamy-looking swimming pool. Staying in a riad is definitely a peaceful experience that provides a tranquil oasis away from the noises of Marrakech.
Explore a world of stunning symmetry, and intricately patterned mosaics, in this former Islamic school. Located near the medina, Ben Youssef Madrassa used to be the largest Islamic college in Morocco. Spend an hour or so here, admiring the beautiful Moroccan architecture, especially the remarkable interior terrace that’s centered around a tranquil pool.
Entrance Fee: Tickets are approximately 5 USD.
This extraordinary palace, with 150 rooms, was built in the 19th century by the grand vizier of the sultan, who hoped for it to be the greatest palace of all time. Discover the traditional Moroccan architecture of the courtyards, filled with orange trees and fountains, and the beautiful stained glass windows and tilework.
Most impressive of all is the huge, luxurious marble courtyard at the center of the palace complex. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn about the fascinating history of the grand vizier, his family, and his many wives.
Note: Only a portion of the palace is available to see, but it’s definitely worth it, especially as it’s located just a 20-minute walk from Jamaa el Fnaa square. Entrance is 70 Dhs (7 USD), and it’s open Monday to Sunday from 8 AM – 5 PM.
Take a day trip to the jaw-droppingly beautiful atlas mountains, situated just an hour or two drive away from Marrakech. Most tours offer a return journey to Marrakech and take you through beautiful valleys and traditional Berber villages. This is a perfect way to see some of the amazing nature in Morocco and get up to the cooler climates of the mountains.
Tip: Visiting in the winter? Take advantage of the fact you can go skiing in the Atlas mountains! If you’re visiting in summer, don’t forget that the mountains get a lot cooler as it approaches the evening, so make sure to take an extra layer.
Situated on the Atlas mountains south of Marrakech lies the movie-like scenery of Aït Benhaddou. Earthen, sandy buildings that make up this ancient village date back hundreds of years. The UNESCO site is exceptionally well preserved and allows travelers a glimpse into a simpler way of life.
Spend some time here, wandering through the village admiring the surrounding mountains, and enjoy a mint tea as the sun sets over the red clay. Day trips can be arranged to Aït Benhaddou for as little as 22 USD.
No trip to Morocco is complete without seeing the epic scenery of the Sahara Desert. Adventure by jeep or foot amongst the rippling sand dunes by day. By night, experience some of the most incredible stargazing in the world by a roaring campfire. Most drives to the Sahara take about 8 hours, stopping at villages and natural sights along the way. Because of this, it’s recommended to do a 2-3 day tour of the Sahara.
Read more: Visit the Sahara Desert in Morocco!
