15 Best Things to Do in Marrakech (Local Guide)

Looking for the best things to do in Marrakech? The Red City mixes busy souks, quiet gardens, palaces and rooftop terraces, and it is also the gateway to the Atlas Mountains and the Moroccan Sahara. Here are our 15 favourite experiences, chosen by local guides who show travellers the city every week.

Things to do in the Marrakech medina

1. Jemaa el-Fnaa square

The heart of Marrakech changes all day long. In the morning you see orange juice stalls and henna artists; at sunset, food stalls, musicians and storytellers take over. For the best view, have a mint tea on one of the terraces around the square.

2. Get lost in the souks

North of the square, the souks are divided by craft: leather, spices, lanterns, carpets and babouches. Bargaining is part of the game, so start at around half the first price and smile.

3. Koutoubia Mosque

Its 77-metre minaret is the city’s landmark. Non-Muslims cannot enter, but the gardens around it are lovely at sunset.

4. Bahia Palace

A 19th-century palace with painted cedar ceilings, zellige tiles and peaceful courtyards. Go early to avoid groups.

5. Ben Youssef Madrasa

This former Koranic school has some of the finest carved stucco and cedar wood in Morocco.

6. Saadian Tombs

Rediscovered in 1917, the tombs of the Saadian dynasty are richly decorated with marble and stucco.

7. Majorelle Garden

Cobalt-blue walls, cacti and bamboo make this garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, one of the most photographed places in Morocco. Buy tickets online in high season.

8. A traditional hammam

Try a local hammam for the real experience, or a spa hammam for more comfort. Either way, the black soap scrub is a must.

9. Explore with a private guide

The medina is a maze. A private tour in Marrakech lets you see the main sights, hidden riads and artisan workshops without stress.

Adventure activities around Marrakech

10. Hot air balloon at sunrise

Float over Berber villages with the Atlas Mountains on the horizon. Our balloon ride over Marrakech includes hotel pick-up and breakfast.

11. Quad biking and camel rides in the Palm Grove

Just 20 minutes from the centre, the Palmeraie is ideal for a quad biking and camel riding tour or a longer desert and Palm Grove quad tour.

Best day trips from Marrakech

12. Ourika Valley

An easy half day in the Atlas foothills, with riverside cafés and small waterfalls. See our Ourika Valley day trip.

13. Ouzoud Waterfalls

The highest waterfalls in North Africa, with Barbary macaques on the trail. Join our day trip to Ouzoud.

14. Essaouira and Aït Ben Haddou

Choose between the Atlantic breeze of Essaouira or the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou over the Tizi n’Tichka pass.

15. A night in the Sahara Desert

Finally, the experience most travellers remember forever: a camel trek at sunset and a night under the stars. Read about the Marrakech desert tour options, or book the 3-day tour to Merzouga.

Practical tips

Spend at least 2–3 days in Marrakech, plus extra days for excursions.
Carry small change in dirhams for taxis, tips and the souks. See our guide to the Morocco currency.
Check the best time to visit Morocco before you book.

Would you like help planning your days? Contact us and we will put together your perfect Marrakech itinerary.

15 Best Things to Do in Marrakech