Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech was created as a project by the French artist Jacques Majorelle between the 1920’s and 30’s and has grown to become one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
The gardens are most famous (and certainly Insta-famous) these days for the connection with Yves Saint Lauren. And often itineraries refer them as the YSL Gardens in Marrakech.
However, there are a few things you need to know. Mostly about the impact of this connection of YSL and Jardin Majorelle – and Instagram – and so I have shared everything below to plan your visit to Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech.
Along with a very honest reflection of whether Les Jardin Majorelle is worth a visit…
What makes the Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech so famous?
The Majorelle Garden is a one-hectare botanical garden and artist’s landscape garden in Marrakesh, Morocco.
It was created by the French Orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle in 1922. And over the next 40 years he planted Jardin Majorelle with exotic botanical specimens from the far corners of the world.
As well as the exotic plants and specimens from all around the world, the hardens are famous for the vibrant blue villa that Jacques Majorelle lived in.
In 1980, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé purchased the Jardin Majorelle to save it from destruction at the hands of hotel developers. They had been living in Morocco since 1966. But on purchasing the Jardin they decided to live in Jacques Majorelle’s villa, which they renamed the Villa Oasis.
- “For many years, the Jardin Majorelle has provided me with an endless source of inspiration, and I have often dreamt of its unique colours.” Yves Saint Laurent.
Today the gardens are often referred to as the Yves Saint Laurent gardens or YSL Gardens in Marrakech because of this connection. And the beautiful boldly-coloured buildings and contrasting exotic plant specimens have become an Insta-icon in Morocco.
Can you buy tickets on entry to Jardin Majorelle?
Yes; and no. There is no longer a kiosk for buying tickets on entry to Jardin Majorelle.
You cannot buy a ticket on-site to enter the YSL Majorelle Gardens. Tickets need to be purchased online.
However, it is relatively straightforward to purchase tickets for Jardin Majorelle online via their website. And you can purchase the ticket on your phone while you are physically standing at the entrance to the gardens.
- Buy tickets online for Jardin Majorelle.
At the entry to the gardens there is an entire (shaded) area dedicated to people purchasing their tickets online. There are even ticket-attendants to help you process the purchase online on your phone.
- Tip: You might need to use a VPN to purchase the ticket on your phone.
My card would not work despite multiple tries and I had almost given up! The attendants (in blue coats) standing outside helping visitors suggested I ask another person and give them the cash. And I was about to when I wondered if it might work with a VPN. Try a VPN to purchase your ticket for Jardin Majorelle.
How much does it cost?
Tickets for Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech are priced accordingly for tourists, citizens and residents as well as students.
- Tourist: 155 Dhs
- Moroccan Citizens and Residents: 75 Dhs
- Moroccan Students: 40 Dhs
- International Students: 80Dhs
Do I need to buy a ticket for my kids?
Children under 10 years old (accompanied by an adult) are free.
What is the best time to visit?
Considering temperature, lighting and crowds, the best time to visit the Majorelle Gardens is in the morning or 1-2 hours before closing.
The lighting in the late afternoon is popular for photography.
However, I recommend choosing the chance for less crowds by visiting in the morning. (Read more below about my honest experience with Jardin Majorelle and crowds).
- Jardin Majorelle is open every day of the week, from 8 a.m to 5 p.m. The last entry is at 4:30 p.m.
- The Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts is open every day of the week, from 8:30 a.m to 5 p.m. The last entry is at 4:30 p.m.
How much time do you need to visit Jardin Majorelle?
The garden can be visited in 45 minutes to an hour. (Depending on how fast or slow you stroll and how many pictures you stop to take).
There is a café on site and toilets inside the garden complex.
Is it worth visiting Jardin Majorelle?
It’s not often I go out exploring on my own.
But on this morning Gavin and the boys were working on maths (Geometry and measurement by the way) and I ventured out for a solo expedition to visit the famous Jardin Majorelle. After all, it is one of Marrakech’s most iconic sights.
It was a beautiful 30 minute walk from our park near Koutoubia Mosque and the medina. My route went past the busy area of the bus station and the outskirts of the ramparts.
But the gardens I’ve got to say was the first of Marrakech’s sights that – in my opinion – didn’t live up to the hype.
Was it worth the visit? I’m not sure…
Maybe I just missed my tribe for exploring?
Or maybe the small but beautifully manicured pathway through the gardens with attendants and security every 20m just isn’t really my thing.
It was hard to soak in the beauty of these famous gardens so filled with photoshoots and queues for a pose in the most Insta-famous spots.
I think I missed my tribe for exploring today…
But now I’ve seen the famous gardens. And of course I stopped in the busy old city to get my fix of the medina-bustle in the morning – and to grab a late street-food breakfast for those little and big mathematicians waiting back at home!
What to wear to Jardin Majorelle?
There is no dress code to visit the Majorelle Gardens. However, as with anywhere in Morocco, modest dress is advised and respectful while visiting.
How to get to Jardin Majorelle from Marrakech
The gardens are a 30 minute walk from the medina of Marrakech.
You can also take a bus to the Boukar Majorelle station. Or it’s easy to catch a cab from anywhere in the city to reach the garden.
The closest train station to Jardin Majorelle is Menara Gueliz. The gardens are 13 minutes’ walk away from there.
Where to stay in Marrakech
Marrakech is well known for its seemingly limitless range of beautiful accommodation. From traditional riads to modern hotels, AirBnB’s and campsites. You will definitely find something to match your budget.
Here is our pick of the best campsites plus a range of budget, mid-range and luxury hotels in Marrakech to choose from.
Budget riads in Marrakech:
Mid-range riads in Marrakech:
Luxury riads in Marrakech:
Thinking of trying a Moroccan hammam in Marrakech?
After more than eight months of travel in Morocco we have officially made Moroccan hammams part of our weekly routine!
