Away With The Steiners

Plan the ultimate 2-Day Marrakech Itinerary: Everything you need to know.

Sarah Steiner

If you are planning your first visit to Marrakech in Morocco, this 2 day Marrakech itinerary is perfect for you.  With two days in Marrakech, you have enough time to visit the highlights of this famous Moroccan city.  

Whether your two days in Marrakech is the jumping off point for a longer Morocco itinerary.  Or if it is just a quick first trip and introduction to this colourful and chaotic city, here is the ultimate 2-day Marrakech itinerary for the perfect trip. 

About Marrakech 

Marrakech is known as Morocco’s dazzling ‘Red City’.  It is a chaotic tangle of narrow streets with a maze-like Medina in hues of red and pink and all the dashes of brightly coloured trinkets and souvenirs on display. 

The city was once an important trading centre for caravans crossing the Sahara Desert with gold, salt and slaves.  Marrakech has been welcoming travellers for literally centuries.

Beautiful tilework and the iconic red-hued architecture.
Beautiful tilework and the iconic red-hued architecture of Marrakech.

Best things to do with 2 days in Marrakech 

These are the places to visit if you have 2 days in Marrakech: 

All of these are included on this Marrakech itinerary. 

How long do you need? Is a 2-day Marrakech itinerary enough? 

I would say yes, absolutely.  For a first-time visit, two days in Marrakech is a good amount of time to see the highlights. 

If you only have one night and one day in Marrakech you can see Jmaa El-Fnaa Square (the main town square), Bahia Palace and wander the historic Medina.  These are arguably the main attractions in Marrakech. 

However, with a two-day Marrakech itinerary you can see the famous Jmaa El-Fnaa Square, Bahia Palace, Jardin Majorelle, Secret Garden, Saadian Tombs, Hammam Mouassine and more. 

Is it safe in Marrakesh? 

Marrakech is considered safe for travellers and normal travel precautions can be taken.  

Like any major city, there is the typical risk of petty crime and scams (watch out for pick pockets) but for every time we’ve visited we have felt very safe. 

What is the best time of year for this Marrakech itinerary? 

The best time to visit Marrakech is in the spring and autumn when temperatures are consistently pleasant without getting unbearably hot.  

Due to the 90-day entry visa many retired Europeans come for the winter sunshine and to exit the Schengen for three months. 

All kinds of activities and games, henna artists, food vendors, fresh juices and more fill the square by sunset at any time of year.

SUMMARY – 2-DAY MARRAKECH ITINERARY 

First up here is a summary of what to see with two days in Marrakech. 

DAY 1 – Marrakech 

DAY 2 – Marrakech 

DETAILED – 2-DAY MARRAKECH ITINERARY 

Here is the complete Marrakech itinerary with details for each day, sites, places to eat and stops to see. 

This itinerary fits well with a 10-day Morocco itinerary or a first time itinerary for Morocco. 

DAY 1 – 2-DAY MARRAKECH ITINERARY 

Stop 1 – Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakesh.  

This is the first site to admire on your 2-day Marrakech itinerary.  As the chances are if you are parked and walking towards the old city, you can’t help but admire the towering minaret.  

The mosque was built in the 12th century and is an important religious and cultural site in Marrakech.  

It was one of the largest places of worship for followers of Islam when it was completed in 1158.  The minaret is nearly 70m (226ft) tall and towers over the city.  

It is easily the highest building in Marrakech. 

Like most mosques in Morocco, non-Muslims cannot enter Koutoubia.  However, it is a bustling sight to behold from outside anyway and makes a great first stop.

The incredible Koutoubia Mosque.

Stop 2 – Saadian Tombs – 2-Day Marrakech itinerary

From Koutoubia Mosque head next towards the Saadian Tombs. 

This needs to be an early stop on your 2-day Marrakech itinerary because the tombs are notorious for hour-long queues to enter once the tour buses arrive. 

The Saadian Tombs were originally built in the 14th-century by Ahmad al-Mansur, a Sultan from the Saadian dynasty.  Many of Morocco’s monarchy are buried here, and the intricately designed space houses the tombs of three of the most important Sultans of the dynasty.

Inside the central tombs. 
There are more than 170 tombs in the complex. 

Stop 3 – Mellah (Jewish Quarter)

From the Saadian Tombs it is a 1km walk towards the Mellah.  The Mellah is the old Jewish Quarter of Marrakech. 

Look out for Tinsmiths Square on the way.  This busy square used to be called Place du Mellah.  It was the connection between Islamic and the Jewish quarters.

The Mellah district of the old city dates to the mid-1550’s when several synagogues were built.  It became a neighbourhood of spice shops and merchants inside the medina. 

Nowadays it is a slightly more mellow area of the city to wander without the hordes of tourists near Jemaa el-Fnaa.  (Save that excitement for later!).  

Some things to look out for in the Mellah neighbourhood: 

The oldest Synagogue Lazama is still in use today. 

Somewhere in the Mellah.

Stop 4 – Bahia Palace – 2-Day Marrakech itinerary

The next stop on your Marrakech itinerary is Bahia Palace.  It is just a few minutes’ walk from the Mellah.  

Bahia Palace a stunning late 19th-century palace with beautiful courtyards, zellige tiles, and ornate ceilings. The palace showcases the history of Moroccan architecture and design and is a beautiful place for photos.

Many of the palaces in Morocco are still privately owned as residences of the Royal Family.  But Bahia Palace is open to the public.  

It was built from 1866 AD for the personal use of Si Moussa, the Grand Vizier of the Sultan.  Moussa was a former slave who climbed the ranks to the position of head of government.  Later the palace was expanded and renovated with more flair and extravagance over the early 1900s.

Stop 5 – Jemaa El-Fnaa Square

From Bahia Palace it is a 15-minute walk to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.  This is the famous main town square of Marrakech. 

But at this stage on Day 1 on your 2-day Marrakech itinerary, it is just a teaser quick first visit.  We will be back later for dinner in the square! 

During the day the square is much quieter.  There are rows (endless rows) of fresh juice stalls lining the fringe of the square.  But the evening is when it really comes alive.

Wander through the square.  Grab a fresh juice and head for the Medina – the old walled city – behind. 

A quieter moment entering Jmaa El-Fnaa Square in the afternoon (well before sunset).

Stop 6 – Chez Lamine 

It’s time for lunch! 

In Souk Semmarine, just behind Jemaa El-Fnaa Square is the famous restaurant ‘Chez Lamine Haj Mustapha’. 

This is one of the busiest and most popular restaurants with locals.  It serves traditionally cooked Lamb Mechoui; delicious slow cooked meat that pulls apart.  

Plus it is where Gordon Ramsay ate when he came to Marrakech! 

You must try the famous Lamb Mechoui at Chez Lamine (where Gordon Ramsay ate!).

Stop 7 – Souk Semmarine – 2-Day Marrakech itinerary

After lunch, take a relaxing(ish) wander through the Souks of Marrakech medina.  

The main artery of retail and shopping in the Medina is Souk Semmarine.  This is the main passageway in the Marrakesh medina.

But Souk Semmarine isn’t the only souk in the Marrakech medina.  There is a slew of smaller souks leading off in a labyrinth of directions, each dedicated to particular crafts and traditional trades. 

Exploring (and getting lost in) the Medina is top of the list for things to do in Marrakech. 

Stop 8 – Place des Epices

At some point in your Medina wander you will likely end up at the colourful small square of ‘Place Des Epices’.  

The name translates to ‘Place of Spices’ in French.  It is a bit like a smaller Djemma el Fna.  

It is a famous spice market inside the medina known for the vibrant colours, aromas of piled spices and (again) a bustling atmosphere. 

Sticky ‘Beldi’ soap (for the Hammam) on sale in the Place des Epices.

Stop 8 – Jemaa El-Fnaa

Finish Day 1 of your 2-day Marrakech itinerary at the focal point of the city; Jemaa El-Fnaa Square.   

At night the entire square buzzes into life with wandering vendors dressed in traditional (and semi-traditional) clothing and playing musical instruments.  

Kids are running around.  The call to prayer sounds out from the minarets fringing the city square.  While a multitude of vendors appear from all directions with flying toys and games of gambling and walking salesmen with Moroccan football t-shirts and hot mint tea.  

Dinner at one of the small food stalls in the busy square is top of the list of things to do in Marrakech. 

It is a fantastic atmosphere in the square at sundown. 

DAY 2 – 2-DAY MARRAKECH ITINERARY 

Stop 1 – Jardin Majorelle

Start Day 2 of your Marrakech itinerary with a visit to the Insta-famous and beautiful Jardin Majorelle.  It is best visited in the morning as it gets seriously busy.  (Take heed!).  

The gardens were created as a project by the French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920’s.  Since then (and thanks plenty to Insta) it has grown to become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.  

As well as the exotic plants and specimens from all around the world, the Jardin Majorelle is famous for the vibrant blue villa that Yves Saint Laurent lived in.  

The now Insta-famous bright blue house of Yves Saint Laurent.

Stop 2 – Ben Yousef Madrasa – 2-Day Marrakech itinerary 

The Ben Youssef Madrasa is one of Morocco’s most famous Islamic schools. Located within the Medina, it is a Muslim Quranic school specialising in religious studies.

It was at one time the largest Islamic school in North Africa and is a great way to experience the Islamis architecture, history and culture of Marrakech.  

Stop 3 – Lunch in the Marrakech Medina

It is a 10 – 15 minute walk from the Madrasa back to Jemaa El-Fnaa Square.  

From the square, take one of the laneways into the Medina.  

It’s time for lunch! 

The medina of Marrakech, Morocco has many street food options, including briouats (dumplings), tagines, and chebakia (sweets). You can find street food on every corner, sometimes from mobile stands or stores. 

We recommend a Kefta sandwich.  These are a mixture of grilled minced beef, tomatoes, green and red peppers, onion, egg, and a bold harissa-mayo sauce.  

There is lots to choose from.  But these are seriously delicious. 

There is no shortage of choice for street food!

Stop 4 – Le Jardin Secret – 2-Day Marrakech itinerary

The riad-museum Le Jardin Secret – The Secret Garden – is one of the largest and most ancient palaces of the medina of Marrakech.  The foundations of the historic riad are more than 400 years old. 

If you are choosing one museum-type thing to do in Marrakech this is a great opportunity to understand more about the Islamic history of Morocco.   

The gardens are beautifully designed in the typical style of Islamic architecture.  

Stop 5 – Moroccan Mint Tea

Next up; it’s time for tea.  

The rooftop restaurants are the best oasis to escape the bustle of the busy medina for a while and make the perfect spot for a Moroccan tea stop. 

Albeit there is a plethora of rooftop restaurants to choose from.  

We recommend Atay Café in the heart of the Medina. 

Or just pick a local looking cafe spot for a quieter spot away from the tourist shops!

Taking a breather at a quiet spot somewhere down the end of one lane of the Medina!

Stop 6 – Souks (Babouches, Haddadine, Attarine, Cherratin)

After tea, take one more afternoon wander through the Medina and check out the different souks.  

Shopping in the souks is the quintessential Marrakech experience!

Stop 7 – Hammam Mouassine – 2-Day Marrakech itinerary

After a busy but fulfilling 2-day Marrakech itinerary, I vote that you can’t leave Morocco – or Marrakech – without trying a traditional Moroccan Hammam.  

A Hammam is one of the most authentic experiences and a great thing to do in Marrakech after a day of exploring.  

There is the option of trying a traditional hammam or a Western spa-style.  But we recommend you try Hammam Mouassine.  

This is a public Hammam built in 1562 and still in operation today.  

There are separate areas for men and women.  

It costs 150 MAD (15 EUR) for a package Hammam experience. Guaranteed it will have you feeling cleaner and fresher than you’ve ever been before!  It is an amazing Moroccan experience. 

Because where else can you try a Hammam that has been operating since 1562?

Stop 8 – Jemaa El-Fnaa Square

Finally, finish the second day of your 2-day Marrakech itinerary with dinner overlooking Jemaa El-Fnaa Square.  

We recommend Nomad Restaurant.  This is a modern Moroccan rooftop restaurant set over four floors.  

Nomad has a killer view of the old city’s minarets from its twin rooftop terraces.   It is easily one of the most popular places for tourists to dine and is the perfect end to your 2-day Marrakech itinerary. 

Have more than two days in Marrakech? 

If you have more than two days in Marrakech there is more to see – and plenty more to taste! 

Planning where to go next on your Morocco itinerary? 

Marrakech is an ideal starting or start and end point of your Morocco itinerary.  

Getting there

Flights to Marrakech arrive at Menara Airport (RAK).  There are daily flights connecting Marrakech with Europe, Middle East and North America. 

By road the city is well connected to other major city destinations. 

There are frequent daily buses with SupraTours and CTM. 

Or there is a fast train connecting Marrakech with Casablanca, Rabat and Tangier. 

Getting there by car 

Renting a car is a great option for travel in Morocco.  It is the best choice for a flexible itinerary. Marrakech is positioned between Essaouira and Ait Ben Haddou and the desert of Zagora and Merzouga.  

Most rental car companies offer one-way rates for an itinerary starting or ending in Tangier or Marrakech. 

Driving in the inner city can be busy during rush hour (but it is not as busy as Casablanca traffic!). 

Transport in and getting around in Marrakech 

The best way to get around Marrakech is to walk.  Most of the main attractions or things to do in Marrakech are in the central medina, which is car-free. 

The lanes are tiny.  Many are unmarked or unnamed and the labyrinth of streets can get very confusing.  But getting lost in the historic laneways of the Medina is part of the fun of visiting Marrakech.  

Where to eat / Restaurants and cafes in Marrakech 

Marrakech is famous for its rooftop restaurants and dining overlooking the busy Jmaa el-Fnaa square and surrounding Medina.  But honestly one of the best things to do in Morocco is to try the street food! 

If I had to recommend one Marrakech food experience not to miss – apart from the Jmaa el-Fnaa food stalls – it would be Chez Lamine.  Go early so you don’t miss out! 

Accommodation and where to stay in Marrakech 

Marrakech is well known for its seemingly limitless range of beautiful accommodation.  

From traditional riads to modern hotels and AirBnB’s you will definitely find something to match your budget. 

Here is our pick of the best range of budget and mid-range riads and luxury hotels in Marrakech to choose from. 

Budget riads in Marrakech:

Mid-range riads in Marrakech:

Luxury riads in Marrakech:

Overnight motorhome parking in Marrakech  

There are a few campsites on the outskirts of Marrakech with motorhome parking and services.  

The best place to park with a motorhome close to all the things to do in Marrakech (walking distance) is in the guarded carpark near Koutoubia Mosque. 

 Parking Et Lavage La Koutoubia

About: A private guarded parking lot in the heart of Marrakech. Campers are parked at the end of the car parking area with 24-hour security.  

Motorhome parking within walking distance to the Medina. 

More about planning for travel in Morocco and beyond

These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel. 

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