Marrakech is a feast for the senses: vivid colours, the scent of spices, centuries of history and an energy that never quite fades. Whether it's your first visit or your fifth, here are ten things to do in Marrakech that you shouldn't miss in the Red City, with a few ideas for fitting them into three or four days.
Five essentials in and around the medina
1. Get lost in Jemaa el-Fnaa
The beating heart of Marrakech changes throughout the day and truly comes alive at dusk, when storytellers, musicians and food stalls take over the square. Arrive hungry and adventurous, and take a moment to watch the scene from a café terrace before you dive into the crowd.
2. Wander the souks
North of the square lies the maze of the souks, where the city's craftsmanship shines, from pierced-metal lanterns to leather goods. Bargaining is part of the fun: take your time, compare and stay courteous. Note a few landmarks along the way so you don't lose your bearings.
3. Visit the Bahia Palace
A 19th-century masterpiece of zellige tilework, carved cedar ceilings and tranquil courtyards, the Bahia Palace is a beautiful introduction to Moroccan architecture and easy to combine with a walk through the medina.
4. Escape to the Majorelle Garden
Cobalt-blue walls, cacti and shaded paths: created by the painter Jacques Majorelle and later the home of Yves Saint Laurent, this garden is an oasis of calm and a photographer's dream. Arrive early to enjoy it before the crowds.
5. Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains
Just an hour or so away, Berber villages and waterfalls offer a refreshing contrast to the bustle of the city. Ourika Valley or Imlil? Our guide to planning an Atlas Mountains day trip from Marrakech will help you choose.
Five experiences to round off your stay
6. Relax in a hammam
A ritual deeply rooted in Moroccan life, the hammam combines heat, a thorough scrub and pure relaxation. Whether you choose a traditional neighbourhood hammam or a more private version in a riad or spa, it is the best way to recover after a day on your feet.
7. Watch the sunset from a rooftop
As the light fades, the rooftop terraces of the medina offer superb views over the Red City. With a glass of mint tea in hand, it is the perfect moment to unwind before dinner.
8. Take a cooking class
Learning to make a tagine or balance the spices is a souvenir that fits easily in your suitcase. To know which dishes to try before you pick up the wooden spoon, read our foodie's guide to Moroccan cuisine.
9. Ride a camel in the Palmeraie
On the edge of the city, the Palmeraie is the setting for a gentle camel ride among the palm trees, a peaceful break far from the busy lanes.
10. Spend a night in a desert-style camp
Without travelling all the way to the Sahara, a night in a desert-style camp lets you enjoy the calm, dinner under the stars and the silence, for an evening away from the city.
What to do in Marrakech in 3 or 4 days
Three to four days is enough to enjoy the essentials. Here is a simple plan:
Day 1: the medina, the souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa as night falls;
Day 2: the Bahia Palace, the Majorelle Garden and a rooftop sunset;
Day 3: a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or the Ourika Valley;
Day 4: a hammam, a cooking class or the Palmeraie, depending on your mood.
Would you rather have a tailor-made programme with transfers, excursions and a private driver? You can request a custom trip with your dates and what you would like to do.
Plan your arrival
Marrakech Menara Airport is only a few kilometres from the medina. To reach your riad stress-free, our complete guide to airport transfers in Marrakech compares the options and covers what to check before you book.
