Marrakech is one of the most fascinating cities in Morocco, known for its colorful souks, historic landmarks, beautiful gardens, and vibrant atmosphere.
What to Expect in Marrakech
Marrakech is busy, chaotic, and full of life. Between the crowded markets, street performers, food stalls, and endless maze of alleys, the city can feel overwhelming at first, especially if it’s your first time in Morocco.
That said, it’s also one of the most rewarding places to visit in the country. We recommend spending at least three full days here to experience the city properly.
This guide covers the best things to do in Marrakech to help you plan your trip.
Table of Contents
- Walk in the Medina & Souks – Jemaa el-Fnaa Square & Koutoubia Mosque
- Visit the Jardin Majorelle
- Visit Le Jardin Secret
- Explore Madrassa Ben Youssef
- Visit El Badi Palace
- Relax at a Traditional Hammam
- Book a Reservation at the Emblematic Safran by Kôya Restaurant
- Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
- Take a Trip to the Merzouga Sahara Desert
- How many days should you spend in Marrakech?
1
Walk in the Medina & Souks
The Medina was the highlight of our stay in Marrakech. With its maze of narrow alleys, traditional markets, street food stalls, and historic buildings, it’s one of the most fascinating places to explore in the city.
The colors, scents, and energy make it an experience you’ll remember long after your trip.
What Is a Medina?
A medina is the historic center of a city and an important part of Moroccan culture. Here are some of its defining characteristics:
- Walled City: Many medinas are enclosed by walls and made up of narrow, winding streets.
- Traditional Architecture: You’ll find mosques, riads, palaces, and historic buildings that showcase Morocco’s rich heritage.
- Souks and Local Markets: The famous Marrakech souks are filled with spices, textiles, handmade crafts, leather goods, and street food. Exploring them is one of the top experiences in Marrakech.
While wandering through the Medina is an attraction in itself, here are two spots you shouldn’t miss.
1. Jemaa el-Fnaa
Jemaa el-Fnaa is the heart of Marrakech and the city’s main gathering place.
During the day, you’ll find markets, snake charmers, and street performers. At night, the square transforms with food stalls, fresh juice stands, music, and an incredible atmosphere.
Where to Eat in Jemaa el-Fnaa
We stopped at stand number 75 for dinner. Most stalls serve similar dishes, but the atmosphere is what makes the experience special.
The workers are singing, the square is buzzing with energy, and the food is incredibly affordable, usually between $1 and $5 CAD per plate.
It ended up being one of our favorite evenings in Marrakech, and it’s an experience we definitely recommend.
2. Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is one of Marrakech’s most recognizable landmarks and can be seen from many parts of the city.
Although non-Muslims are not permitted to enter, it’s still worth visiting from the outside. It’s located just a short walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa and is easy to add to your visit of the Medina.
Tips for Visiting the Medina
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat and biggest crowds.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, as the area can get very busy.
- Carry small bills and coins for purchases and tips.
- Don’t be afraid to bargain. Vendors often start with prices that are much higher than what they’re willing to accept.
SUPER IMPORTANT: Be cautious when locals or vendors offer to show you where a place is located, especially if you didn’t ask for help. While many people are genuinely friendly, some may expect money in return and can become very persistent if you don’t pay them.
This is one of the most common scams in Marrakech, so it’s best to politely decline and rely on Google Maps or ask staff at your riad or restaurant for directions instead.
2
Visit the Jardin Majorelle
The Jardin Majorelle is a botanical garden located just outside the Medina. It offers a peaceful break from the busy streets of Marrakech.
Originally created by Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, the garden is known for its exotic plants, vibrant blue buildings, and tranquil atmosphere. The site also includes the Berber Museum and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Price: Prices vary depending on the package selected, including museum access, age category, and student discounts.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance.
We highly recommend booking your tickets in advance online. This is one of the most popular attractions in Marrakech, and it gets extremely busy, even right at opening time.
Tips for This Activity
- Arrive at opening time to avoid the largest crowds.
- Visit early if you want better photo opportunities.
- The garden is relatively small, so 1 to 2 hours is enough to see everything.
Personal Experience
We visited Jardin Majorelle in December 2025, which is considered the low season. Even so, there was already a line outside before the garden opened at 8:00 AM.
It took us about an hour to explore the gardens without visiting either museum. By that time, the site was already very crowded, which made the experience feel a bit overwhelming considering the ticket price.
Because Jardin Majorelle is on almost every Marrakech itinerary, we highly recommend booking the first time slot of the day and arriving before opening. You’ll get to enjoy the gardens with a little more peace and quiet before the crowds arrive.
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3
Visit Le Jardin Secret
Located in the heart of the Medina of Marrakech, Le Jardin Secret is another popular but smaller garden.
The site is made up of two gardens: an Islamic Garden and an Exotic Garden, both surrounding a beautifully restored traditional Moroccan palace. You’ll also find fountains, shaded walkways, and stunning examples of Moroccan architecture throughout the property.
One of the highlights of visiting Le Jardin Secret is climbing the tower for panoramic views over the rooftops of the Medina. There’s also a café on-site where you can enjoy a drink or a light meal in a peaceful setting.
Opening Hours
- February & October: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
- March to September: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- November to January: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- During Ramadan: Daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Price
- Up to 24 years old: 80 MAD ($13 CAD)
- Adults: 100 MAD ($15 CAD)
- Tower access: Additional 40 MAD ($6 CAD)
Tickets can be purchased on-site or online here.
Tips for This Activity
- Visit in the morning for a quieter experience.
- Plan between 30 minutes to 2 hours to explore the gardens and palace grounds.
- Bring a book. The gardens are relatively small, but there are plenty of benches where you can sit and relax.
Personal Experience
After spending hours navigating the busy streets of the Medina, Le Jardin Secret felt like a breath of fresh air.
While Jardin Majorelle was bigger, we found Le Jardin Secret much less crowded and more relaxing.
Unfortunately, we didn’t make it up to the tower, but we’ve heard that the rooftop offers one of the best viewpoints in Marrakech.
If you’re looking for a quieter attraction in the Medina or simply need a break from the crowds, Le Jardin Secret is a great addition to any Marrakech itinerary.
4
Explore Madrassa Ben Youssef
The Madrassa Ben Youssef is one of the most beautiful historic sites in Marrakech and a must-visit for anyone interested in Moroccan architecture.
Built in the 14th century and later expanded in the 16th century, this former Islamic school once welcomed hundreds of students from across Morocco. Today, visitors can explore its stunning courtyard, former student dormitories, and intricate decorative details.
What makes the madrassa so impressive is the craftsmanship. Everywhere you look, you’ll find carved cedar wood, colorful zellige tilework, marble floors, and detailed stucco patterns.
Even if you’re not particularly interested in history, the architecture alone makes it worth a visit.
Opening Hours
- Regular period: Daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- During Ramadan: Daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Price
- Children under 12 years old: 10 MAD ($2 CAD)
- Ages 12 and up: 50 MAD ($8 CAD)
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online here.
Tips for This Activity
- Arrive right at opening time if possible, as it gets busy later in the day with groups.
- Take time to explore the upper level, where you can see the former student rooms overlooking the main courtyard.
- Bring your camera: it’s one of the most photogenic places in Marrakech.
- Plan for about 1 hour to fully appreciate the site.
Personal Experience
The Madrassa Ben Youssef ended up being one of our favorite historical attractions in Marrakech.
We spent much longer here than we expected, simply admiring the incredible craftsmanship and all the small details carved into the walls. Exploring the former student rooms and seeing how the school was designed gave us a fascinating glimpse into what life must have been like centuries ago.
If you’re only planning to visit one historical monument in Marrakech, this would be one of my top recommendations.
5
Visit El Badi Palace
The El Badi Palace is one of the most fascinating historical sites in Marrakech. Although much of the palace is now in ruins, it’s easy to imagine how impressive it must have been when it was built in the 16th century.
Today, visitors can explore its massive courtyards, underground passages, gardens, and towering walls.
One of the highlights of visiting El Badi Palace is the famous sunken courtyard with its tiled floors, which you’ve probably seen all over Instagram and social media. It’s easily one of the most photogenic spots in Marrakech.
Opening Hours
- Daily: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- During Ramadan: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Price
- Adults: 100 MAD ($16 CAD)
- Children (ages 7-13): 30 MAD ($5 CAD)
Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
Tips for This Activity
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon, as there is very little shade throughout the palace.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during the warmer months.
- Plan for about 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the site.
Personal Experience
We visited El Badi Palace on one of our first days in Marrakech and were surprised by how much we enjoyed it.
Unlike some of the city’s more ornate attractions, the palace is largely made up of ruins, but that’s exactly what makes it so unique. Walking through the underground passages and enormous courtyards felt like stepping back in time.
The palace is also incredibly popular for photos, so don’t be surprised to see people waiting their turn to take pictures. Despite the crowds, the tiled floors, ruins, and hidden passageways make El Badi Palace one of the most unique places to visit in Marrakech and honestly one of the most fun historical sites to explore.
6
Relax at a Traditional Hammam
Experiencing a traditional hammam in Marrakech is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture while giving your body a well-deserved break from sightseeing.
A hammam is a traditional steam bath that has been part of daily life in Morocco for centuries. Depending on the package you choose, the experience typically includes time in a heated steam room, a full-body exfoliation with a kessa glove, a black soap treatment, and sometimes a relaxing massage.
Why You Should Try a Hammam
Experience an Important Moroccan Tradition
Visiting a hammam is more than just a spa treatment. It’s a long-standing part of Moroccan culture and a unique experience that many travelers remember as one of the highlights of their trip.
Popular Hammams in Marrakech
Some of the most popular options include:
- Hammam de la Rose
- Les Bains de Marrakech
- Heritage Spa
- Hammam Rosa Bonheur
Price
Prices vary depending on the experience and treatments included.
Expect to pay approximately:
- 200 to 400 MAD ($20-$40 CAD) for a traditional hammam.
- 400 to 1,000+ MAD ($40-$100+ CAD) for a luxury hammam experience that includes massages and additional treatments.
Tips for This Activity
- Book in advance, especially during high season.
- Bring a swimsuit if you’re not comfortable being partially uncovered (requirements vary by hammam).
- If it’s your first hammam experience, consider booking a tourist-friendly hammam rather than a local neighborhood hammam.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here are a few options we believe are among the best.
7
Book a Reservation at Safran by Kôya Restaurant
If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience in Marrakech, make sure to reserve a table at Safran by Kôya.
Located just outside the Medina, this beautifully designed restaurant combines Moroccan flavors with a modern twist in an elegant setting. It’s especially known for its lively atmosphere and evening entertainment, making it one of the trendiest restaurants in Marrakech.
Why We Recommend It
- Beautiful atmosphere and interior design
- Creative dishes inspired by Moroccan cuisine
- Perfect for a date night, special occasion or just a fun dinner
- One of the most aesthetically pleasing restaurants in Marrakech
- A unique dinner-and-show experience
The Show
One of the highlights of dining at Safran by Kôya is the live entertainment.
The show features a talented violinist, saxophonist, oriental and baladi dancers, and a Gnawa fusion troupe. The atmosphere becomes more lively as the evening goes on, with many guests eventually joining the dancers and celebrating together.
The show typically runs from 9:00 PM to around 11:45 PM.
To make a reservation or learn more, visit the Safran by Kiôya website.
Opening Hours
Daily from 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- First seating (before 10:00 PM): Reservations are limited to approximately 2 hours to accommodate the second seating. If the restaurant isn’t fully booked, you may be able to keep your table longer.
- Second seating (from 10:00 PM): There is no time limit on your table, and you can stay until the end of the evening. Please note that there may be a short wait at the bar before your table is ready.
Price
A minimum order of either an appetizer and a main course or a main course and dessert is required per person.
Expect higher prices than local restaurants in the Medina, but reasonable prices for a more upscale dining experience.
Tips for This Activity
- Reservations are essential, especially during high season.
- Book around 8:30 PM if you’d like enough time to enjoy your meal before the show starts.
- Dress up: the restaurant has a more elegant vibe than most places in Marrakech.
Personal Experience
We booked our table for 8:30 PM, which gave us plenty of time to settle in and enjoy our meal before the show began.
As the night went on, the atmosphere became more energetic, and by around 11:30 PM, guests were dancing alongside the performers. It was such a fun experience and one of the liveliest nights we had in Marrakech.
The food was excellent, and the décor alone makes the restaurant worth visiting. The entire experience felt a little more elevated than many of the other restaurants we tried during our trip.
We did unfortunately have an issue with one of our main dishes, which arrived about 30 minutes after everyone else’s meals. While it was disappointing, the staff offered us complimentary shots as compensation.
Overall, we can definitely understand why Safran by Kôya has become so popular on social media. Between the beautiful setting, the entertainment, and the lively atmosphere, it’s easy to see why so many visitors leave with great memories.
8
Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
If you’re looking to escape the busy streets of Marrakech for a day, a trip to the Atlas Mountains is one of the best excursions you can take.
Located less than two hours from the city, the Atlas Mountains offer a completely different side of Morocco, with traditional Berber villages, stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and beautiful mountain views.
Most tours include transportation, a local guide, and several stops throughout the day. Prices typically range from 200 to 500 MAD ($20-$50 CAD) per person.
Personal Experience
We booked our tour through GetYourGuide, and it ended up being one of our favorite experiences in Morocco. We learned so much about Berber culture and argan oil production, and the local lunch was one of the best meals we had during our trip.
If you’re spending several days in Marrakech, I highly recommend setting aside one day to explore the Atlas Mountains.
Here are some of the highest-rated tours on GetYourGuide below:
9
Take a Trip to the Merzouga Sahara Desert
If you have a few extra days in Morocco, we highly recommend taking a trip to the Merzouga Sahara Desert. It was easily the highlight of my trip and remains one of our favorite travel experiences to this day.
From riding camels across the dunes at sunset to spending the night in a desert camp under the stars, the Sahara offers a completely different side of Morocco than you’ll find in cities like Marrakech or Fes.
Most Sahara Desert tours from Marrakech last 3 days and 2 nights and include stops at the Atlas Mountains, Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and the stunning dunes of Erg Chebbi.
Personal Experience
Our Merzouga Sahara Desert tour was one of the most memorable experiences we’ve ever had while traveling.
Watching the sunset over the dunes, riding camels through the desert, and spending the evening dancing around a campfire with our group, who quickly became friends, under a sky full of stars felt like something straight out of a movie.
We booked our tour through GetYourGuide, which made everything incredibly easy to organize.
If you’re only going to splurge on one experience in Morocco, make it the Sahara Desert. You won’t regret it.
You can check out the exact tour we booked through GetYourGuide here:
10
How many days should you spend in Marrakech?
We recommend spending at least 3 full days in Marrakech. This gives you enough time to explore the Medina, visit the city’s main attractions, experience a traditional hammam, and even take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains.
FAQ – 9 Best Things to Do in Marrakech, Morocco (2026 Guide)
Is Marrakech worth visiting?
Absolutely. Marrakech is one of the most vibrant and unique cities in Morocco. Between the colorful souks, beautiful gardens, historic landmarks, traditional hammams, and incredible food, there’s something for every type of traveler.
How many days should you spend in Marrakech?
We recommend spending at least 3 full days in Marrakech. This gives you enough time to explore the city’s main attractions, experience the Medina, and even take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains.
What is the best thing to do in Marrakech?
If we had to choose just one experience, it would be exploring the Medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa. It’s the heart of the city and the best place to experience Marrakech’s atmosphere, markets, street food, and culture.
Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
Yes, Marrakech is generally safe for tourists. However, like in any major city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings, keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious of common scams, especially in the Medina.
Is Jardin Majorelle worth visiting?
Yes, but arrive early. Jardin Majorelle is one of Marrakech’s most popular attractions and gets crowded very quickly. Booking the first time slot of the day will give you the best experience.
Can you visit the Sahara Desert from Marrakech?
Yes! Most tours depart directly from Marrakech and last 3 days and 2 nights. If you have the time, it’s one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have in Morocco.
Is the Atlas Mountains day trip worth it?
Definitely. It’s a great way to escape the busy streets of Marrakech and discover Berber villages, mountain scenery, waterfalls, and local culture in just one day.
What should I wear in Marrakech?
Light, breathable clothing is ideal, especially during the warmer months. While Marrakech is tourist-friendly, dressing modestly by covering your shoulders and knees is recommended when visiting religious or traditional areas.
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