If you’re looking for the very best things to do in Marrakech Morocco, you’ve come to the right place! Located in northern Africa at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech invites travelers to explore its rich and diverse cultural heritage.
I’ve been to Marrakech a few times and there is such a diverse range of things to do and see in Marrakech. If you love learning about the history of places you visit, you’ll want to go to the many historic landmarks like ancient palace ruins or the Dar El Bach Museum which focuses on the culture and traditions of Morocco.
In the evening you’ll want to head to the lively and chaotic square of Jemaa el Fnaa. There you’ll find performers, musicians, and food stalls. Marrakech is a lively city that will leave you captivated.
There is no shortage of things to do in Marrakech: from navigating the bustling souks of the city to exploring the natural landscapes of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech promises an unforgettable experience that will leave an indelible mark on the soul. Let’s dive into all of the best things to do in Marrakech Morocco.
Things to do in Marrakech
You might already be aware but just in case you aren’t, there is a LOT to do and see in Marrakech. I could list every single thing but that would probably take me a year to do and you would not be reading this right now.
So, I’m going to stick to the absolute very best things to do and see in Marrakech. I don’t expect anyone to do everything on this list but you will definitely be able to knock quite a few of these things off your Marrakech Bucket List.
Best Things to do in Marrakech
There isn’t an order of best to worst here because I think everything on this list is worth doing but I will put an asterik by the things I don’t think should be skipped. Those are my absolute MUST things to do and see in Marrakech. If it’s something you aren’t really interested in then skip it. You can always come back like I did! On to the list.
1. *Jemaa el Fnaa Square
Jemaa el Fnaa Square is the main square in Marrakech. It’s impossible to miss. This triangular shaped square is like a massive parking lot minus the cars. The square is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and public buildings and is located at the entrance to the Medina.
If you aren’t sure what a Medina is, it refers to the historic part of an ancient city usually with narrow maze-like streets that contain the souks, or markets.
During the day, Jemaa el-Fnaa is pretty tame but at night it really comes alive and is something that cannot be missed. What will you see there? First, there will be somewhere between 50-100 food stalls with every kind of food you can imagine. Some may offer the same things but you’ll just have to walk around and check everything out before deciding on something.
But, there’s not just food there. You’ll also see performers, musicians, games you can take part in, snake charmers, and more. Trust me, you won’t know what to look at next. Just walk around and take it all in!
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
The square is open 24 hours a day and is free.
2. Marrakech City Free Walking Tour
There’s no better way to get to know a city than to take a tour with a local. And this tour is FREE so you really don’t have anything to lose.
Your tour guide will take you through the medina and to Marrakech landmarks like the El Bahia Palace and will give you information about the city and its history that you might not otherwise get. It’s the perfect way to start your time in Marrakech.
Make sure you tip your guide at the end if you are happy with the tour. The tour might be free but your guide will greatly appreciate tips for their time.
Free City Walking Tour
These free tours happen daily at 10:30am & 3:30pm.
Although the tour is free you will still need to book your slot online.
3. Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle is a botanical garden featuring exotic plants and serene water fountains. This garden has a diverse array of cacti, palms, and other desert flora and is a little oasis in the heart of Marrakech.
Once the home of the famous French painter Jacques Majorelle who spent decades cultivating the garden, it was opened to the public in 1947. After his passing in 1962, the garden faced neglect before being rescued by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent in the 1980’s.
What you’ll find now is an oasis of tranquility amidst the vibrant energy of Marrakech. Besides the botanical garden, you’ll also find striking cobalt blue structures and artful landscapes as well as the Berber Museum which used to be Majorelle’s former home. There’s also a gift shop with items such as vintage photos, ceramics, jewelry, and books.
Jardin Majorelle
The gardens are open 7 days a week from 8:30am to 6:00pm.
There are several ticket options that start at $15 a person.
4. The Photography Museum
Located in the Medina, the Photography Museum of Marrakech showcases the heritage of Moroccan photography. Founded in 2009, the Photography Museum resides inside a 19th century house and features rotating exhibitions.
These works highlight local and international photographers offering a unique perspective on Moroccan culture and history.
The Photography Museum
The Photography Museum is open 7 days a week from 9:30am to 7:00pm.
The cost to visit the museum is $5 per person.
5. *Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs in Marrakech are a testament to the architectural and artistic ability of the Saadian dynasty which ruled Morocco during the 16th and 17th centuries. There are over 200 crypts that are elaborately decorated and house the remains of various Saadian rulers and their families.
The complex consists of three main mausoleums, each featuring intricately carved marble, colorful tilework, and stunning stucco ornamentation. While there, we were able to witness some artisans working to restore tile work throughout the grounds. The tombs were mostly forgotten but rediscovered in 1917 and are now part of Marrakech’s cultural heritage.
Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs are open 7 days a week from 9am to 5pm.
It costs $6 per person to enter.
6. The Mellah
The Mellah in Marrakech is the historic Jewish quarter of the city. Established in the 16th century by Sultan Moulay Abdallah, the Mellah was a segregated area for Jewish residents but over time it became a vibrant neighborhood with ornate synagogues and bustling markets.
Much of Marrakech’s Jewish population has moved to other parts of the city and out of Morocco but the Mellah remains an important symbol of Morocco’s multicultural heritage. It’s a great area to explore for visitors who are interested in history and culture.
The Mellah
The Mellah in Marrakech and is open 7 days a week and is free to walk through.
7. Atlas Mountains Tour
Explore the Agafay Desert, the Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains, ride a camel through a gorge, and hike to the Ait Souka village to share a meal in a Berber family’s home.
This all day tour to the Atlas Mountains gives you a chance to take in the scenery of terraced gardens and waterfalls and get to know another side of Morocco that most people don’t get to experience.
Atlas Mountains Tour
This 7 hour tour takes you through the Atlas Mountains, a camel ride in the desert, a visit to a Berber Village and more for just under $25.
8. *Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace was built in the late 19th century and was one of the greatest palaces of its time showcasing the opulence and grandeur of Moroccan architecture and design.
The palace features intricate tilework, colorful mosaics, ornate wood carvings, and beautiful gardens. Visitors get a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy and powerful Moroccan sultans of that era by visiting Bahia Palace.
Bahia Palace
Open 7 days a week from 9am to 5pm.
It costs $7 per person to enter.
9. Le Jardin Secret
The Secret Garden is a hidden gem in Marrakech that dates back to the 16th century. This lush oasis was restored and reopened to the public in 2016 and is divided into two sections: the Exotic Garden and the Islamic Garden.
The Exotic Garden features a variety of plants from around the world such as palms and cacti while the Islamic Garden is designed in the traditional Islamic style with geometric patterns and serene water features. Le Jardin Secret is a great place to escape the busy and noisy streets of Marrakech
Le Jardin Secret
Le Jardin Secret is open 7 days a week from 9:30am to 7:30pm (Thursdays until 6:30pm).
It costs $10 per person to enter the gardens.
10. *Medina of Marrakech
It would almost be impossible to NOT visit the Medina of Marrakech. Probably THE best thing to do in Marrakech is exploring the historic heart of the city.
This is the oldest part of Marrakech that dates back thousands of years. The medina contains a maze of streets and alleys with souks and ancient landmarks surrounded by pink-hued walls that date back to the 12th century.
Inside the medina you’ll find traditional riads, mosques, and marketplaces that sell everything from spices to ceramics to cell phone cases. Pretty much anything you might need. If you’re heading to Fes, you’ll see a big difference between the two Medinas. It’s a completely different feel.
Medina of Marrakech
The Medina is the oldest part of Marrakech and is open 7 days a week.
There is no cost to enter the Medina.
11. Dar Si Said Museum
This museum which was originally constructed in the 19th century as a palace, showcases a diverse collection of Moroccan art and artifacts including woodwork, ceramics, textiles, and jewelry.
Visitors can admire carved wooden doors and ceilings, vibrant Berber carpets, and ornate pottery which highlightes Morocco’s artistic legacy and cultural identity.
The museum temporarily closed in October 2023 due to the earthquake and repairs are expected to take around 6 months before it opens again.
Dar Si Said Museum
Open 6 days a week from 10am to 6pm, closed on Tuesdays.
The museum costs $3 per person.
12. *El Badi Palace
Next on our list of best things to do in Marrakech is the El Badi Palace, a historic 16th century palace that once had lavish courtyards, grand halls, and ornate gardens.
Unfortunately the palace was destroyed in the 17th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail who used the materials to construct other buildings. The Badi Palace remains an important historical architectural site and is still worth visiting.
You’ll be able to explore the massive sunken gardens and remnants of towering walls all while taking in stunning views of the city and the Atlas Mountains.
El Badi Palace
El Badi Palace is open 7 days a week from 9am to 5pm
It costs $7 per person to enter
13. Moroccan Cooking Class
The best way to experience Morocco is through it’s food and you can learn how to cook a traditional Moroccan meal. You’ll first meet up to go to the Souk to buy the ingredients for the class. After that you’ll head over to the chef’s home where you’ll learn to cook Chicken Tagine and couscous.
Moroccan Cooking Class
The cooking class is held in Marrakech and costs just under $35 per person.
14. *Ben Youssef Madrasa
Visit this historic Islamic college that was founded in the 14th century and was an important center for Islamic education in North Africa.
The madrasa is renowned for its Moorish architecture and intricate decorative details. It has a central couryard with a pool surrounded by student rooms, a prayer hall, and domed ceiling.
This place is ALWAYS busy and has a line of people waiting to get in. I recommend being there before they open so you can get in early before the crowds show up.
Ben Youssef Madrasa
Ben Youssef Madrasa is open 7 days a week from 9am to 7pm.
It costs $5 per person to enter.
15. Quad Bike Desert Adventure
If you’re ready to have a little fun then join a Quad Bike Desert Tour. You’ll be picked up from your hotel or meeting spot and driven to the desert outside of Marrakech. After your instructions and practice time you’ll follow your guide through the desert. Be prepared to get dusty and dirty!
Quad Bike Adventure
This tour will last 2 hours and costs $35 per person.
16. Sahara Desert Tour
How often do you hear someone say they got to camp in the Sahara Desert? Probably not very often. So here’s your chance to do it for yourself! If you’re spending the majority of your time in Marrakech then this is a great way to spend some of that time.
This is a 3-day adventure that takes you into the desert where you’ll camp and visit some of the amazing places on this list of things to do in Marrakech.
Some of the places you’ll visit during this tour is the High Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, Tinghir Oasis, and more. This tour also includes your breakfasts, dinners and accommodations.
Sahara Desert Tour
This 3 day tour to the Sahara includes breakfast & dinner, your accommodation, and more for under $200 per person.
17. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Enjoy a sunrise hot-air balloon ride over the Moroccan desert and the desert and the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. You’ll be picked up from your hotel early in the morning and driven to the launch site.
You’ll have amazing views of the area as the sun rises and will be given a traditional Berber breakfast afterward. You’ll also get a chance to enjoy a camel ride through the Moroccan desert before being dropped back off at your hotel.
I can’t think of a better way to experience Morocco!
Hot Air Balloon Ride
The Hot Air Balloon Ride in the Moroccan desert lasts for 5 hours (from pick-up to drop-off).
The cost per person is just under $200.
18. *Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou
Another tour of the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou but this one is just a day trip. This UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the High Atlas Mountains is a fortified village surround by high walls and is characteristic of tradional Moroccan architecture.
Dating back to the 17th century, the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou was a strategic stop along the Saharan trade route between Marrakech and the Sahara Desert. It was once a thriving hub for merchants and travelers but today it is inhabited by a small number of familes.
The Kasbah’s well-preserved mud brick structures and design have made it a popular filming location for movies and TV shows such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and The Mummy.
You can take an all day trip to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate from Marrakech. It is a LONG trip so plan on being gone the entire day.
Ait Ben Haddou
This day trip takes you to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate in the Atlas Mountains.
Cost is just under $40 per person, lunch not included.
19. Ouzoud Waterfalls
If you don’t want to spend an entire day treking around the Moroccan Desert then take this 3 hour day trip to the Ouzoud Waterfalls. Located in the Atlas Mountains, the Ouzoud Waterfalls is one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Morocco.
The waterfall cascades over a rocky cliff 360 feet tall into the valley below. Surrounded by olive groves and wildflowers, the Ouzoud Waterfalls is a great place for hiking the network of trails that wind down to the base of the falls where you can swim in the natural pools. It’s a great place to escape the heat in Morocco!
Take this 3 hour tour from Marrakech to the Ouzoud Waterfalls where you’ll see the highest waterfall in Morocco, hike the trails, and learn about the Berber culture. The tour also includes a boat ride.
Ouzoud Waterfalls
If you haven’t rented your own vehicle you can take a 3 hour tour to the waterfalls.
The tour will cost just under $30 per person, lunch not included.
20. Menara Gardens
Marrakech is such a busy city so it’s almost a necessity to have a place to escape all the chaos and the Menara Gardens are the perfect place to do just that.
This Marrakech oasis dates back to the 12th century and includes an olive grove and historic pavillion which was built during the 16th century Saadian dynasty. The pavillion features Moorish architecture and gives visitors panoramic view of the gardens and mountains.
Menara Gardens
The Menara Gardens are open 7 days a week from 8am to 5pm.
It is completely free to enter the Menara Gardens.
21. Dar el Bacha Museum of Confluences
The Dar El Bach Museum is a cultural institution housed in a historic palace that showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Morocco. The museum’s collection includes a range of artifacts, art, and historical objects that represents various aspects of Moroccan culture from Islamic art to the Berber heritage.
These exhibitions highlight the connections between the different cultures and civilizations that have influeneced Morocco over the centuries.
Dar el Bacha Museum of Confluences
The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm (closed Mondays)
It costs $6 per person to enter
22. *Souks
Get lost in the souks! Go shopping for rugs, leather goods, spices, ceramics and more. Souks are usually divided into areas, meaning if you’re looking for a Moroccan lantern to buy ALL the shops that sell lanterns will be grouped together making it easier to find what you’re looking for.
Of course you may find other stores outside the lantern area selling lanterns but the majority of things are grouped together. Spice shops will all be together, ceramics together, etc…
You will find rug shops scattered throughout Marrakech and a lot of shops sell more than just one type of thing so if you’re looking to buy something to take home explore all the souks. And make sure you haggle a bit to get a good deal! Haggling is totally expected, even on big items like a Moroccan rug.
Souk Semmarine
This market sells a variety of things from clothing, antiques, food, and spices. You’ll find a lot of the same things in the shops so be sure to look around to compare prices and find the exact thing you want. Souk Semmarine is open 7 days a week.
Souk Haddadine
If you’re looking for a Moroccan Lantern then this is the place to find one. Souk Haddadine does have other things as well such as ceramics, brass items, food stalls, and more. The souk is open 7 days a week.
Souk Market
This vibrant market has a large selection of items from spices, shoes, wood, fruits, decor items, and more. You can spend HOURS in the souks and believe me it’s so hard to pass up all the things! I wanted everything. Souk Market is open 7 days a week.
Souk Des Epices
This souk is located right in the Mellah of Marrakech and if you love to cook then this is the place to pick up some authentic Moroccan spices to take home. Souk Des Epices is open 7 days a week.
NOTE: Always haggle a bit when shopping in the souks and make sure you triple check the prices. Sometimes in the confusion you may get charged more than you agreed on.
Marrakech Souks
Most of the shops in the souks open around 9am and close between 7:30pm to 9pm. Shops are run by independent owners so the hours may vary and you might see a shop close on certain days or maybe even closed for lunch. There are so many shops though so just go to another one to find what you’re looking for.
How many days to spend in Marrakech
I’ve been to Marrakech twice and have spent a total of about 8 days there. And I have not made a dent in the hundreds of things there is to experience there. However, I did see most of what I wanted during that time (even if I had to come back) and I can’t promise that I won’t return one day to do more!
The number of days to spend in Morocco, and particularly in Marrakech, will vary according to your schedule and interests. I would suggest spending no less than 4 days in Marrakech which will give you enough time to see and do a lot of things.
However, if you only have a week to spend in Morocco and you have other cities on your list to visit then you can still accomplish a lot in just 2 days.
FAQ
What is Marrakech best known for?
Marrakech is best known for its vibrant medina and souks and historic landmarks such as the Djemaa el-Fna square.
Marrakech is known as the Red City due to it’s pink-red tinted walls. It has a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years and has numerous colorful gardens, museums, and palaces to visit.
How many days do you need to visit Marrakech?
Try and spend no less than 2 days in Marrakech but if you can spend 4 days in Marrakech that would be ideal. 2 days is enough to see about half the things on my list of best things to do in Marrakech but 4-5 days would give you time to go on a few day trips outside of Marrakech.
Is it safe to walk around Marrakech?
Yes, Marrakech is safe to walk around but females should try to avoid walking around at night alone in areas where there aren’t any people. I walked around by myself at night and didn’t have any issues at all.
It’s just a good idea to be very aware of your surroundings and if you don’t have to walk alone late at night then don’t. There’s nothing specific to watch out for, it’s just a good rule to follow in any city in the world.
Where should I stay in Marrakech?
I recommend staying in a riad somewhere in the Medina. The riads are traditional Moraccan homes usually with a courtyard or garden with rooms facing the courtyard. Riad actually translates to gardens in Arabic. The riads are so beautiful and in my opinion staying in one is a must!