What to Do in Marrakech: 19 Top Attractions
Trying to figure out what to do in Marrakech? I get it, it can be tough to sift through all the options – there’s so much to experience here!
Every time I head back to Marrakech, I discover so many new favourite things. Of course, there’s the stunning architecture and the energetic chaos of the souks, but what I really love about Marrakech is that it consistently offers a full-on cultural experience.
Whether it’s your first time travelling to Marrakech or you’re returning like me, I’ve put together a list of the top things to see in Marrakech from my own adventures. Read on to find out my recommendations for the 19 must-visit spots and start planning your trip!
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What to Do and See in Marrakech, Morocco
Morocco Travel Planning Mini Guide
No time to read the whole article? Here’s a quick guide to help you start planning your trip to Morocco
Accommodation in Morocco
- Find the best places to stay in Morocco on booking.com
- I love the traditional Moroccan Riads here
Flights to Morocco
- Check and compare the best flight deals using Skyscanner
Tours and Experiences in Morocco
- I book my tours through either GetYourGuide or Viator
- Get the tickets sent straight to your phone
Travel Insurance for Morocco
- I use True Traveller (Europeans only), they have excellent customer support if something goes wrong
- For worldwide medical cover, I recommend Safetywing
Top Experiences in Morocco
- Glamping in the Desert
- Chefchaouen, the iconic blue city
- The souks of Marrakech
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- 12 Affordable and Traditional Riads in Marrakech
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1. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Experience the vibrant heart of Marrakech at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where the city’s culture bursts into life.
By day, it’s a relatively calm affair, with a handful of street performers, juice sellers, market stalls and the hum of daily life.
As night falls, the square transforms into a lively open-air food market, packed with sizzling grills and the sounds of musicians. From snake charmers to traditional Moroccan dishes, there’s always something happening here.
Why go? It’s the epicentre of Moroccan culture and social life, perfect for those who love vibrant, energetic environments.
📌 Location: Central Marrakech, within the Medina.
👉 Insider Tip: For a unique perspective, I recommend visiting one of the rooftop cafés – there are loads of choices from here. Go just before sunset and watch the square really come to life!
2. Souks of Marrakech
The souks of Marrakech are world-famous. You can buy pretty much anything here.
Expect to get lost in the labyrinth of narrow alleys lined with shops. Plenty will sell traditional Moroccan goods, but also general homewares and knock-off designerwear.
This marketplace is a sensory overload with its vivid colours, enticing aromas – and plenty of not-so-nice smells, and the energetic bargaining of vendors and shoppers.
Why go? Ideal for shoppers and cultural explorers looking to dive into the heart of Moroccan trade.
📌 Location: North of Jemaa el-Fnaa, sprawling throughout the Medina.
👉 Insider Tip: Allow plenty of time here. You will get lost. It’s also worth veering off the less frequented lanes where it’s a little calmer. Also, take care of your belongings here – I recommend leaving anything valuable at your accommodation, the souks are prime territory for pickpockets.
3. Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is a religious site and a prime example of the Almohad architectural style.
This is one of the iconic things to visit in Marrakech – its towering minaret is a landmark for locals and travellers, visible from various points in the city. If you’ve ever visited Seville, you will have seen a similar tower – the Giralda – attached to the Cathedral!
Why go? Perfect for architecture enthusiasts and anyone interested in the religious heritage of Marrakech.
📌 Location: Southwest of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.
👉 Insider Tip: Unfortunately, tourists can not enter – it’s strictly for Muslims only. However, you can explore the gardens – I suggest going at nightfall when the mosque is beautifully illuminated.
4. Majorelle Garden (Jardin Majorelle)
Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, Majorelle Garden is a peaceful spot in the city.
Its striking cobalt blue accents and lush greenery are a cooling respite from the Moroccan heat – especially if you’re visiting in the peak of summer.
Why go? A serene escape for nature lovers and anyone looking to escape the hectic city. It’s also popular with artists and photographers looking for inspiration.
📌 Location: In the New City, a short taxi ride from the Medina.
👉 Insider Tip: The gardens are located about 3km outside the historic centre, so you could opt to walk, or take a taxi. I also recommended getting there early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the tranquillity of the garden in solitude- at least for a short while. The place is popular!
5. Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. It features tons of intricate marquetry and expansive courtyards that once housed the vizier’s harem.
Here you’ll find some of the best of Islamic and Moroccan styles in the country, with beautifully decorated ceilings and gorgeous gardens.
Why go? Ideal for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts eager to explore the opulence of Moroccan palatial life.
📌 Location: In the southern part of the Medina.
6. Ben Youssef Madrasa
Ben Youssef Madrasa, once the largest Islamic school in North Africa, is famed for its stunning architecture. This historic madrasa has a large central courtyard surrounded by student rooms.
This is one of the most photogenic buildings in Marrakech. Every surface is intricately decorated with cedar woodwork and marble.
Why go? A must-visit for anyone interested in Islamic art and architecture.
📌 Location: Near the Marrakech Museum in the Medina.
👉 Insider Tip: Look for the smaller details in the tilework and carvings, which tell stories of the Quran and Islamic traditions.
7. Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs date back to Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur (1578-1603). Over the centuries, they became lost to the elements and sat in ruins until they were rediscovered in the early 20th century.
These tombs are covered with intricate tile work and Arabic inscriptions and really show off the lavish lifestyles of Saadian royalty.
Why go? Perfect for those fascinated by Moroccan history and the architectural grandeur of royal sepulchres.
📌 Location: Next to the Kasbah Mosque, within the Royal Kasbah district.
👉 Insider Tip: The site is quite compact, and feels tranquil if you avoid the crowds. I spent about an hour here which gave me a decent amount of time to wander at a leisurely pace and take a ton of photos. If you hate crowds, then I recommend visiting either during the early morning or just before closing.
8. El Badi Palace
El Badi Palace, once a symbol of Saadian opulence, now stands in ruins. However, as an absolute fanatic of ancient temples and ruins, I loved this place!
What remains of this once-grand palace are the ancient walls, subterranean passages and a haunting glimpse into its past grandeur through its remaining tile work, structures and gardens.
The palace hosts the annual Marrakech Folklore Festival, in October.
Why go? An intriguing site for anyone interested in the stories embedded in ancient ruins.
📌 Location: In the Kasbah district, close to the Saadian Tombs.
👉 Insider Tip: If you’re after that iconic shot of the crumbling ruins and pretty checkered floor that you’ll see all over Instagram – and below – it’s here. You’ll probably have to queue to get the perfect shot with no one in it – or arrive as soon as the palace opens.
9. Stay in a Riad
Riads are traditional Moroccan houses with interior gardens or courtyards, often converted into intimate guesthouses.
Staying in a riad gives you an authentic glimpse into Moroccan life Although they have been renovated with all mod-cons, they are still packed with original features.
Most of them are located in the heart of the Medina.
Why go? Ideal for travellers who love authentic experiences packed with Moroccan hospitality.
📌 Location: Scattered throughout the Medina, with a range from basic to luxurious options.
👉 Insider Tip: Riads are suitable for every budget, from simple guest-house style to high-end luxury establishments. If you’re visiting Marrakech, I highly recommend staying at least a couple of nights in one of these traditional Moroccan homes.
Further Reading:
10. Hammam Experience
A hammam is a traditional Moroccan steam bath. It’s a deep-rooted, and essential part of the local lifestyle.
Public hammams cater more to locals, whereas private ones will have a multitude of luxurious treatments, including massages and body scrubs for deep cleansing and relaxation.
A hammam feels especially nice if you’re visiting Morocco in winter.
Why go? A rejuvenating experience for anyone looking for a local experience and a full-on pampering session.
📌 Location: Available across Marrakech, particularly in the Medina and newer parts of the city. Some of the high-end hotels and riads have an on-site hammam.
11. Try Moroccan Food
Moroccan cuisine is fragrant and bursting with flavour.
Staples here include tagine, couscous, and harira (a lentil, chickpea and tomato-based soup). I’m a veggie and had no problems finding authentic food to eat in Morocco.
Dishes will often contain cinnamon, dried fruits and nuts and are usually brought to the table in large platters so everyone can help themselves.
Who will love it? Foodies will love eating their way around the city and trying the wide variety of dishes.
📌 Location: Throughout Marrakech, especially around Jemaa el-Fnaa and in the souks.
👉 Insider Tip: In a country where you can not drink water, I always worry about getting sick. To avoid getting ill, I recommend looking for places where there’s a high turnover of locals and only eat food which has been freshly prepared. I never eat salads in destinations where the tap water isn’t safe.
12. Drink Moroccan Mint Tea
Moroccan mint tea is the national drink and is traditionally served sweet and hot.
You’ll be offered little cups of tea everywhere as it’s a sign of hospitality and friendship. If you get the opportunity, enjoying a cup of freshly brewed mint tea with locals is the top things to do in Marrakech!
It’s typically prepared with green tea, spearmint leaves, and sugar and then covered with boiling water. The tea is usually served from a cute decorative metal teapot. A word of warning based on experience: as tempting as it is, don’t touch it: it’s scalding hot!
📌 Location: Served in cafés, restaurants, and homes across Marrakech.
👉 Insider Tip: There’s a special way to pour the tea – watch how the locals do it. The tea is poured from a height to aerate it properly—the Moroccan way to enhance its flavour. Give it a go – expect to make a lot of mess on your first try.
13. Maison de la Photographie
This museum houses a large collection of photographs, glass negatives, and original prints that capture Moroccan life from the 1870s to the 1950s.
It gives a visual history of the landscapes, Moroccan people, and their daily activities and is a fascinating place if you’re a fan of history – or even just nosey to see how the city has changed over the decades.
Why go? A must-see for history fans and photography enthusiasts who want to see Morocco through the ages.
📌 Location: In the northern part of the Medina, close to the Medersa Ben Youssef.
👉 Insider Tip: There’s a really cute terrace cafe at the museum. Even if you don’t stop for a drink, it’s worth going up for a look at the view over the Medina.
14. Dar Si Said Museum
Today, this building is known as the Museum of Moroccan Arts.
Dar Si Said is dedicated to the region’s craft heritage. You’ll find colourful displays of artefacts like jewellery, pottery, and weapons all housed in a gorgeously decorated palace.
Why go? Perfect for anyone interested in crafts and the decorative arts.
📌 Location: Just south of the Bahia Palace, in the Medina.
15. The Walls of Marrakech
The historic walls that encircle Marrakech date back to the Berber Empire. Back then, they served as both fortifications and defence.
You can walk around the old city’s boundaries, large chunks of them are still intact as are several gates.
📌 Location: Encircling the Medina.
👉 Insider Tip: If you only manage to visit the walls briefly, I highly recommend seeing Bab Agnaou and Bab Fes, these two were by far my favourite gates.
16. The Jewish Cemetery
Marrakech’s Jewish Cemetery in the Mellah is one of the largest in Morocco, reflecting the historical presence of the Jewish community in the city.
The cemetery is famous for its stark white tombs and tranquil atmosphere amongst the chaos of the city.
📌 Location: In the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter.
👉 Insider Tip: Visit during golden hour (the hour just before sunset, or just after sunrise) when the white tombs glow a warm orange colour.
17. Secret Garden (Le Jardin Secret)
Another gorgeous garden is the Secret Garden.
Unlike the Jardin Majorelle, which certainly has a modern feel, this one dates back hundreds of years. It’s been recently restored, you can even see sections of the ancient plumbing which still works today bringing water to the gardens.
This Islamic garden is located in the heart of the Medina with plenty of shaded places to sit and relax on hot days.
Why go? A gorgeous green spot, perfect for anyone looking for a quiet place to spend a couple of hours away from the hectic city streets.
📌 Location: Central Medina, near the Souk Semmarine.
👉 Insider Tip: Climb the tower in the garden for a panoramic view of Marrakech.
18. Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip
You can spot the Atlas Mountains in the distance from most high spots in the city which give Marrakech a dramatic backdrop.
If you’re travelling in Marrakech for more than a few days, then it’s worth visiting some of the towns which mark the starting point of the Atlas Mountains. Waters from the High Atlas Mountains feed the Ouzoud Waterfalls – which is also one of the most popular day trips from Marrakech.
They are easily accessible and a great spot for hiking, visiting Berber villages, and enjoying gorgeous landscapes.
Why go? Nature enthusiasts and adventurers will appreciate the change in scenery and the opportunity to experience rural Moroccan life.
📌 Location: The mountain range starts approximately an hour’s drive from Marrakech, with various points of interest along the way.
👉 Insider Tip: Although you could rent a car and self-drive the 150km route, it’s best to join a guided tour which includes transportation and a guide to visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls.
19. Overnight Desert Camping
Camping in the desert was one of the highlights of my trip to Morocco. You can easily do an overnight camping trip to the Agafay Desert just outside Marrakech.
You’ll get to experience the vastness of the terrain under a star-filled sky.
There is a wide range of accommodations available, but even the traditional tents, can feel luxurious and are equipped with all the comforts.
These set the scene for an evening of traditional music, Moroccan cuisine, and storytelling.
Why go? Perfect for adventure seekers and anyone looking for a truly epic bucket-list experience.
📌 Location: Trips usually start from Marrakech, with the Agafay Desert being popular because it’s close to the city.
👉 Insider Tip: Opt for a camp that does extra activities like quad-biking over the dunes for the full desert experience.
Further Reading:
Best Things to Do in Marrakech: Final Thoughts
In this guide, I’ve outlined what I think are the very best things to see in Marrakech, but there’s so much more to see. Every time I visit, I find new things that grab my attention and make me eager to come back for more.
Marrakech has a ton of unforgettable experiences from the busy markets to the tranquillity of Majorelle Garden and the iconic Koutoubia Mosque. There really is something for every type of traveller, and I’m sure you’re going to love this destination as much as I do.
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