Nothing can fully prepare you for the chaotic, bustling city that is Marrakesh. The experience is a complete sensory overload: the vibrant colors, the aroma of exotic spices, the clash of indistinguishable sounds. Some first-time visitors might describe it as overwhelming. There’s a mixed consensus of people’s opinions on Marrakesh, but one thing is for certain – everyone needs to experience Marrakesh at least once in their life. There’s a reason why Marrakesh is the most visited city in Morocco. Marrakesh is a treasure trove of mosques, palaces, and museums. Find out the 10 best things to do in Marrakesh!
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Best Things to do in Marrakesh
1. Get lost in the Marrakesh Medina
Get lost in the old town of Marrakesh if you truly want to experience Marrakesh. The medina is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking the site of what once was the political, economic, and cultural center of Morocco.
No visit to Marrakesh is complete without wandering through Jemaa el-Fnaa. Find yourself going down narrow alleys, into dimly lit shops, and through crowded streets. I loved being able to stop navigating and put my phone away to enjoy all that the medina has to offer. There are so many hidden shops and treasures to be discovered.
2. Bargain in the Souks
Wondering through the medina, you are bound to see some goods that catch your eyes whether it be colorfully woven scarves, leather goods, wooden figurines, or intricate lamps. However, don’t purchase any goods before bargaining with the shopkeepers over the price. Bantering with the shopkeepers is part of the fun of shopping in the souks. The goods are priced to be bargained with so you will be able to bring the price down even if just by a little.
3. See the Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakesh with a towering minaret and a voice that calls out five times a day for prayer. It is quite a sight to be seen. Most can only admire from the outside as non-muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque.
4. Tour Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is a grand palace that was built in the 19th century. It is an extravagant work of art and display of Islamic architecture. I visited right before closing time and found the palace to be quiet and non-crowded, but make sure to have plenty of time to explore the grounds.
5. Have a photoshoot at Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle is a botanical garden created by French artist, Jacques Majorelle. It took over 40 years to create this stunning work of art. It is any photographer’s dream to shoot in such an enchanting space filled with exotic plants and painted in vibrant colors. Don’t miss out on the Berber Museum and the Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) Museum within the garden grounds. This is a popular attraction so I recommend visiting during opening hours to avoid the crowds.
6. Find peace in Le Jardin Secret
Tucked away in the midst of the chaos of the souks, Le Jardin Secret or the Secret Garden offers some tranquility and a break from the outside world. You can stroll through the gardens, admire the architecture, and enjoy a mint tea at the cafe within.
7. Spend the day at La Mamounia
La Mamounia is a 5-star luxurious hotel right outside the walls of the medina. The hotel is a beautiful work of art and a stay here would be like staying in a palace. However, a night’s stay here does come with a price tag and you would need to book your stay in advance during peak season. You could still visit this iconic hotel without staying here by booking a spa visit or purchasing a day pass known as a “Season Pass”. The pass includes lunch in the Pavilion Piscine (excluding beverages), a 60-minute spa treatment (either a massage or hammam and scrub), as well as access to the indoor and outdoor swimming pools, the jacuzzi, the sauna, and the gym.
8. Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa
The Ben Youssef Madrasa is the largest Islamic religious school in Morocco that was founded in the 14th century and once had over 900 students. Although it ceased to be a school in 1960, it is still one of the most impressive buildings in Marrakesh. You will find yourself marveling at the intricate designs and architecture.
9. Stay at a traditional riad
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard and staying at a riad is a must when visiting Marrakesh – the good news is that are plenty to choose from. There are so many beautiful riads, but here is a sneak-peak of some of my favorites:
Check out my guide on the amazing riads you have to stay at in Marrakesh!
10. Watch the sunset over Plaza Jemaa El-Fnaa
Plaza Jemaa El-Fnaa is ever-changing throughout the day and a visit during the day is drastically different than venturing around at night. Watch the magic of the change during sunset. You can go to any of the restaurants surrounding the plaza and sit on the balcony to watch the sunset. Be sure to head to a viewing area plenty of time before the sun sets so you can get a good spot.
Final Thoughts
Marrakesh is a city that I would visit over and over again! There are so many things to do and it is such a colorful and vibrant city. I could never get bored in Marrakesh from simply wandering around. Enjoy Marrakesh and take in the freshly squeezed juices, delicious Moroccan cuisine, beautiful riads, and stunning views of the nearby Atlas Mountains.
Marrakesh is also the starting point for tours to the Sahara Desert and if you have the time, I definitely recommend visiting the Sahara Desert. Find out what to know before booking a Sahara Desert tour in Morocco.
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