12 Top things to do in Marrakech, Morocco on your first visit.

Visiting Marrakech is a unique experience that blends history, culture, cuisine and energetic North African landscapes.  It is an ancient trading centre that has been welcoming travellers from across the Sahara and beyond for centuries.  There are all kinds of unique things to do in Marrakech. 

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…

What is it like to visit Marrakech as a tourist? 

As soon as you arrive in Marrakech there is an abundance of chaos and colours and opportunity for tours and sights you didn’t even know you needed to see!  It has fast become a popular city escape and destination easily accessible from Europe. 

With its rich history, vibrant markets and proximity to stunning natural landscapes, you can experience a lot in just a few days.

We had such an awesome first visit that we’ve been back three more times over eight months of travel in Morocco. 

Things to do in Marrakech.
Welcome to Marrakech and Morocco by the way.

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. 

How long do you need in Marrakech? 

Two days in Marrakech is enough to get a good feel for this North African city, which is an absolute must-visit on any Morocco itinerary. 

Two or three days in Marrakech is ideal.  

Marrakech is often a starting and/or end point for a Morocco itinerary so you could split your time with one or two days at the start and another day at the end (for shopping!) if you have more time. 

If you have two days in Marrakech you can see the main historical sites, sample local cuisine and enjoy wandering the Medina and souks. 

With three days in Marrakech you’ll be able to explore the medina, shop in the souks, and visit the museums without feeling rushed. You’ll even have time to relax at the Hammam and make the most of another rooftop mint tea! 

What is the best time of year to visit for things to do in Marrakech? 

The best time to visit Marrakech is in the spring and autumn when temperatures are consistently pleasant without getting unbearably hot.  March to May and September to October is high season for tourism and the best time for perfect weather. 

July is the hottest month of the year with an average daily max temp of 39°C and an average low of 22°C.

The winter months of December to February are popular with European overland travellers in motorhomes. Due to the 90-day entry visa many retired Europeans come for the winter sunshine and to exit the Schengen for three months. 

A winter evening during Ramadan in Morocco at Djmaa El Fnaa Square.
A winter evening during Ramadan in Jmaa El Fnaa Square.

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 on our list 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.  

Getting around in Marrakech.
There are all kinds of ways to get around in the city.

Top things to do in Marrakech

Here are the top things to do in Marrakech to add to your Morocco itinerary.

1. Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque or Kutubiyya Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakesh.  The chances are if you are parked and walking towards the famous Jmaa El-Fnaa Square 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 magnificent minaret is nearly 70m (226ft) tall and towers over the city. It is the highest building in Marrakech. 

Today the mosque is still in active use.  Although sadly if you are visiting Marrakech since the devastating earthquake in the High Atlas the minaret and much of the mosque is undergoing restoration after being damaged. 

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

We were in awe visiting Marrakech one year during Ramadan when the courtyard of the mosque was filled with worshippers for the evening prayers. 

The incredible Koutoubia Mosque.
The incredible Koutoubia Mosque.

2. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square – by day

Jemaa El Fnaa is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the main square of Marrakech.  This is the Marrakech tourists talk about when they picture the city life of Morocco.  It has become the symbol of the city and is always full of life.

While there are juice vendors (many) set up during the day.  The best time to experience Jemaa el-Fnaa is at sunset when the light faces, and the food stalls swing into action.  

Jmaa el Fnaa Square things to do in Marrakech.
All kinds of activities and games, henna artists, food vendors, fresh juices and more fill the square by sunset.

2. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square – by night

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.  

There are also the debatably ethical monkeys performing tricks and snake charmers blaring flutes and charming the tourists for their Dirham.  

But if you ignore those and instead be charmed by the exotic magic of the fading light and energy of this historic plaza it is a great Marrakech experience. 

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

  • Tip: Don’t fuss too much choosing one popup restaurant over another.  They pretty much serve similar foods and tell the same funny-not-funny welcoming jokes to lure you in! 
Hot kebabs sizzling and clay pots of traditionally cooked Mechoui meat.
Hot kebabs sizzling and clay pots of traditionally cooked Mechoui meat.
Things to do in Marrakech.
It is a fantastic atmosphere in the square at sundown.

3. Marrakech Medina

The medina is the old walled city of Marrakech.  It is known for its famous Jemaa el-Fna square, a dizzying maze of souks, and a magnificent array of mosques and palaces.  

It has numerous impressive monuments dating to 1070 AD when the city was an important political, economic and cultural centre for North Africa and Andalusia.  

But today as a visitor just wandering the narrow labyrinth of laneways that comprise the Medina is Marrakech’s most atmospheric experience.  

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

4. Souk Semmarine

The main artery of retail and shopping in the Medina is Souk Semmarine.  This is the main passageway in the Marrakesh medina. It runs north from the Djemaa el-Fna Square to the Ben Youssef Medersa and merges with Souk Nejjarine and Souk El-Kebir. 

But Souk Semmarine isn’t the only souk in the Marrakech medina.  From Souk Semmarine there is a slew of smaller souks dedicated to particular crafts and traditional trades.  

  • Souk Haddadine: The Blacksmiths Souk is a metalwork section where pots, trays, lampshades, trinkets and jewellery are crafted and displayed. 
  • Souk des Teinturiers: The colourful wool-dying souk. 
  • Souk Cherratine: This is the leather goods souk with row upon row of handmade bags and leather goods on display. 
  • La Criee Berbere: This is the souk of colourful Amazigh/Berber carpets. 
  • Smata Souk (Souk des Babouche): An entire part of the medina dedicated to the brightly coloured traditional Moroccan leather slippers. 

Shopping in the souks is the quintessential Marrakech experience.  Don’t worry too much about which direction each souk should supposedly be.  Rather just embrace the maze of the Medina. 

  • Tip: If you aren’t ready for the crowds just yet try to visit in the morning when it is generally quieter and less crowded.  
Brightly coloured Babouches (shoes) on sale in the Medina.
Brightly coloured Babouches (shoes) on sale in the Medina.

5. Rahba Kedima / Places des Epices – Things to do in Marrakech 

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

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

  • Tip: If you are ready for a tea break, take a seat a Café des Epices for a breather and refreshments amid the bustle. 
Sticky 'Beldi' soap (for the Hammam) on sale in the Place des Epices.
Sticky ‘Beldi’ soap (for the Hammam) on sale in the Place des Epices.

6. Marrakech Mellah – Things to do in Marrakech 

The Mellah is the old Jewish Quarter of Marrakech.  In the mid-1550’s, Sultan Abdallah Al Ghalib moved the Jewish population of the city into the Mellah.  

Several synagogues were built, and it became a neighbourhood of spices 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. 

Some things to look out for in the Mellah neighbourhood: 

  • Jewish Cemetery
  • Slat Al Azama Synagogue
  • Place des Ferblantiers
  • Grand Bijouterie (Jewellery Souk) 

The oldest Synagogue Lazama is still in use today. 

Mellah things to do in Marrakech with kids.
Walking back through the Mellah after an evening Hammam.

7. Bahia Palace – Things to do in Marrakech 

Bahia aptly translates in Arabic to ‘beautiful’.  It is a fitting name for what is arguably the most photographed of things to do in Marrakech.  

Bahia Palace is exquisitely decorated.  

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

The palace site covers two acres and contains domestic rooms for the family, administrative halls, dining rooms, studying and learning rooms, Riads, and a Garden.

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. The palace was later expanded and renovated with more flair and extravagance over the early 1900s.

  • Tip: The shady garden at the entrance to Bahia Palace is a good place to take a wee break before facing the bustle of the Medina once more. It is a 15-minute walk to Jmaa el-Fnaa. 
Beautiful tilework and the iconic red-hued architecture.
Beautiful tilework and the iconic red-hued architecture.

8. Madrasa Ben Youssef – Things to do in Marrakech

The Ben Youssef Madrasa is one of Morocco’s most famous Islamic schools. 

The mosques in Marrakech contain some of the city’s most historic and impressive artistry.  However, as with most mosques in Morocco, the local mosques are closed to non-Muslims.  

But the Madrasa Ben Youssef is open to the public.  

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.  

  • Open: 9:00am – 7:00pm
  • Cost: 50 MAD (5 EUR)
  • Location: Rue Assouel (10-min walk to Jmaa el-Fnaa)

9. Saadian Tombs

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 in this historic necropolis inside the royal Kasbah (citadel) district of the city. 

The intricately designed space houses the tombs of three of the most important Sultans of the dynasty.  Though altogether there are about 170 tombs in the complex set around a beautiful garden.

For visitors today it is the incredibly detailed architecture and intricate marble work that makes this another of the most popular things to do in Marrakech.  The queues to enter can be very long. 

There is only one entrance, located at the end of a small passageway next to the 10th-century Kasbah Mosque.

  • Tip: There can be huge (HUGE) queues to enter the Saadian Tombs so if you want to visit go early in the morning or late after the tour groups. 
  • Open: 9:00am – 5:00pm 
  • Cost: 70 MAD (7 EUR)
  • Location: Next to the Kasbah Mosque
Saadian Tombs.
Inside the central tombs.
Saadian Tombs things to do in Marrakech.
There are more than 170 tombs in the complex.

10. Jardin Majorelle / Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum 

Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech was 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 gardens are famous for the vibrant blue villa that Jacques Majorelle lived in until 1962. 

Then Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Berge restored the gardens in the 1980s and owned the iconic blue villa until 2008. 

  • Open: 8:30am – 6:00pm 
  • Cost: 70 MAD (7 EUR)
  • Location: Rue Yves St Laurent
The now Insta-famous bright blue house of Yves Saint Laurent things to do in Marrakech.
The now Insta-famous bright blue house of Yves Saint Laurent.

11. Le Jardin Secret / The Secret Gardens of Marrakech

The riad-museum Le Jardin Secret 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.  

The descriptions describe the word ‘paradise’ as derived from the Persian word ‘Pairi Daeza’.  This translates to ‘Walled Garden’ and is symbolic of the idea of Jannah or paradise in Islam.  

Jannah is described as a beautiful garden in the Qur’an, where the righteous go after death.  The description includes a lush garden with glowing rivers, abundant fruits and unimaginable beauty. 

Thus, the Secret Gardens in Marrakech depict the beauty and symbolism of Islamic gardens and the city’s rich history. 

  • Tip: There is a fantastic view of the Medina from the rooftop viewing terrace. 
  • Open: 9:30am – 6:30pm
  • Cost: 80 MAD (8 EUR)
  • Location: Rue Mouassine (Medina)

12. Hammam Mouassine 

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. It will have you feeling cleaner and fresher than you’ve ever been before!

After more than eight months of travel in Morocco we have officially made Hammams part of our weekly routine!

It is an amazing Moroccan experience. 

  • Open: 8:00am – 10:00pm 
  • Cost: 150 MAD (15 EUR)
  • Location: Mouassine Complex (Medina)
Moroccan Hammam Mouassine things to do in Marrakech.
Because where else can you try a Hammam that has been operating since 1562?

The verdict? 

Marrakech is an amazing city to explore.  It truly exemplifies the incredibly rich history and culture of North Africa. 

Wandering the maze of the Medina or enjoying a scrub at the centuries-old Hammam feels like a world away from Europe.  Though it is hard to fathom that Morocco is only a couple of hours from the northern continent! 

With two days you can make the most of the food, culture and history with plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy all the incredible things to do in Marrakech. 

Other things to do in Marrakech 

The things to do in Marrakech listed above are the main highlights.  These you could do all or most of with just two days in Marrakech. 

But obviously, there are literally LOADS of amazing things to do in Marrakech.  The city is full of history, shopping, culture and experiences that are unique to Morocco.  

However, if you have more time there is more to see. 

  • El Badi Palace 
  • Yves St Laurent Museum 
  • Marrakech Museum 
  • Tinsmiths Square 
  • Maison Tiskiwin
  • La Mamounia Hotel & Spa 
  • Souk El-Khemis (Flea Market) 
  • Dar Bellarj Arts & Cultural Centre
  • Bab Debbagh Tannery 
  • Musee de la Musique 
There are many - traditional and otherwise - things to do in Marrakech.
There are many – traditional and otherwise – things to do in Marrakech.

Other things to do in Marrakech with kids 

Marrakech does have a lot of history and sightseeing but that doesn’t mean it’s boring for kids. There are plenty of other things to do in Marrakech for kids of all ages.  

  • Jmaa el-Fnaa: The main square of Marrakech is alive with all sorts to entertain the kids.  From wandering candy floss vendors to monkeys and musicians there is a lot to see! 
  • Laser Games Marrakech: Our kids had loads of fun at the Laser Games in Marrakech with another travelling family.  
  • Oasiria Water Park: Ideal for a family day out to cool off in the heat with easy catering and a few ‘quiet’ swimming pools to relax. 
  • Menara Gardens: A peaceful spot with a large reflecting pool where you can picnic. 
  • Kidzo: This is an arcade type amusement playground on the top floors of Menara Mall most suited for young kids.  There are games, rides, ice skating, bumper cars, and an indoor playground with slides, swings and a ball pit.
  • Palooza Park: Amusement park recommended for kids over the age of five. Some of the rides have height restrictions. 
  • Cinema Megarama: Shows movies in English once a day. 

You will do a lot of walking in Marrakech. So if you’re traveling with younger kids I recommend bringing an umbrella stroller (small) or baby-carrier.

Travel to Morocco things to do in Marrakech with kids.
Marrakech is an incredible destination with kids.

Day trips and nearby things to do from Marrakech 

If you would like to explore some beautiful places in the nearby Ourika Valley and Atlas Mountains, foresee at least a couple of days in the region.

  • Ourika Valley: Known for spectacular scenery, colourful villages, rushing rivers, snow-capped peaks (truly) and the beautiful Seven Waterfalls of Ourika. Read about a day trip to Ourika Valley.
  • Ouzoud Waterfalls: Located just 150km northeast of Marrakech these are the highest waterfalls in North Africa.
  • Ait Ben Haddou: A UNESCO historic Ksar (fortified village) along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh. Approximately 180 kilometres from the city.
  • Agafay Desert: A popular daytrip for people visiting Marrakech. It’s known for its white dunes, mountain views and camel safari tours. 
Exploring the village with local guide Mohammed at Ourika Valley.

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. 

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

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 Air Ben Haddou and the desert of Zagora and Merzouga.  

  • Casablanca to Marrakech: 2 hr 42 min (243.4 km) via A3
  • Essaouria to Marrakech: 2 hr 35 min (176.7 km)
  • Ait Bedhaddou: 3 hr 11 min (193.1 km)

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

Restaurants, cafes and where to eat 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! 

A walk through the medina will eventually land you at one of the many food streets.  These are laneways lined with stands and small kiosks set up with pastries, cooked street food and freshly squeezed juices. 

  • Chez Lamine: If I had to narrow it down and pick one place to recommend you eat at in Marrakech, it would be Chez Lamine. It is notably famous with locals and differs from the usual tourist restaurants. It offers a typical, local atmosphere serving authentic meat dishes that have made it famous. 
  • Café de Espices: Located in the spice market at Rahba Kedima Square this place does delicious fresh orange juice and the best hummus in Marrakech!
  • Nomad: A modern Moroccan rooftop restaurant set over four floors in the heart of Medina. Nomad has a killer view of the old city’s minarets from its twin rooftop terraces. Easily one of the most popular places for tourists.
  • L’Mida: Another rooftop restaurant with splendid views over the Medina and towards the Atlas Mountains. We shared a vegetable tajine and treated the kids to the mini burgers on the Kids Menu. 
  • Le Jardin: This is a small 1960’s riad turned into a restaurant with a good mix of Moroccan and European dishes. 

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! 

Where to eat cafes in Marrakech Chez Lamine.
You must try the famous Lamb Mechoui at Chez Lamine (where Gordon Ramsay ate!).

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

  • Location: Avenue Hommane Al Fatouaki 
  • Type: Paying Motorhome Area
  • Park4Night: #29651
  • Cost: 150 MAD 24hr
  • Facilities: Toilets, Rubbish.

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.  

There are basic (very) toilets in the carpark.  But the best thing about it is the proximity to all the things to do in Marrakech. 

Motorhome parking overnight near Marrakech Medina.
Motorhome parking within walking distance to the Medina.

Where to next on your Morocco itinerary? 

Marrakech is centrally located in Morocco. By road it is within a few hours’ drive to other key destinations.   

More about planning for travel in Morocco and beyond

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

  • Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally. 
  • 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online. 
  • Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.  
  • GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
  • SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country. 
  • World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before embarking on all the great things to see in Marrakech, Morocco!
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Oscar, Sarah, Harry and Gavin

Hi! We are the Steiners.
We’re a family from New Zealand with a love of travel and adventure – especially where it takes us off the beaten track!

We’ve been travelling full-time for over five years now all around the world and our favourite thing is to share that joy of adventure. This site is our way of paying it forward with all the tips and tricks we have learnt along the way. 

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