Marrakech Travel Guide: Best Things to Do & Tips

On By saar.decosterIn Morocco

Red streets, chaotic souks, incredible Moroccan food and one of the most overwhelming, but memorable, cities I’ve visited in Morocco.

Marrakech is probably the place most people think of when they think about travelling to Morocco.

And honestly, I get it.

I’ve been to Marrakech before, but I came back again during my most recent Morocco trip with my best friend. This time, I wanted to experience more of the city beyond just ticking off the famous sights.

Marrakech can definitely feel overwhelming at first. The medina is busy, the souks are chaotic, people will try to sell you things and it can sometimes feel like there is something happening in every direction.

But that’s also what makes Marrakech Marrakech.

From wandering through the souks and eating traditional Moroccan food to visiting beautiful palaces and escaping to the Agafay Desert, there is plenty to do here.

So if you’re planning a trip, this Marrakech travel guide covers where to stay, how to get around, the best things to do, food and drinks, the Agafay Desert and some practical tips I wish I’d known.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Where you stay can make a pretty big difference to your Marrakech experience.

If you want to be right in the middle of everything, I’d recommend staying inside or very close to the medina.

This puts you close to the souks, Jemaa el-Fnaa and many of Marrakech’s main sights.

Staying in the Medina

We stayed at Equity Point Marrakech, and honestly, I loved it.

The price-to-quality ratio was really good, and one of my favourite things about the hostel was the pool.

If you’re visiting Marrakech during a hot period, having somewhere to cool down at the end of the day is honestly such a luxury.

The hostel also puts you in a great position for exploring the centre on foot.

However, there is one important thing to know about staying right in the centre.

Cars can’t simply drive up to your accommodation in many parts of the medina.

So you may have to walk through the narrow streets with your backpack or suitcase.

This wasn’t a huge problem for us, but if you’re travelling with a lot of luggage, have mobility issues or simply don’t want to drag your suitcase through busy streets, it’s worth thinking about.

Saar relaxing in the swimming pool at Equity Point Hostel in Marrakech

Staying Outside the Medina

Another option is to stay just outside the medina.

This can be a little cheaper and can also be more convenient if you’re travelling with a family or a lot of luggage.

You’ll still be close enough to visit the main sights, while having easier access for taxis and cars.

So when choosing where to stay in Marrakech, I’d basically decide what matters more to you:

Location and atmosphere → Medina

More space, easier transport and potentially lower prices → Outside the Medina

If you’re still deciding which part of Morocco suits your trip best, my Marrakech vs Agadir comparison breaks down the differences in atmosphere, prices, weather, beaches and things to do.

Short on Time?

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Marrakech, here are 4 options I’d recommend:

Want to compare the different areas and see more accommodation options? Check out my full Where to Stay in Marrakech guide.

How to Get to Marrakech

Marrakech is one of Morocco’s main travel hubs, so getting there from other parts of the country is relatively straightforward.

By Bus

We used CTM, which is one of the main long-distance bus companies in Morocco.

It’s a convenient option if you’re travelling between cities such as Agadir, Essaouira, Casablanca or other destinations.

If you’re backpacking around Morocco, I’d definitely check CTM when planning your route.

By Taxi

Taxis are another option, especially if you’re travelling with several people and can split the cost.

If you’re arriving at Marrakech airport, make sure you agree on the price before getting into a taxi rather than assuming the first price you’re given is the final one.

If you’re travelling between several Moroccan destinations, my guide on how to get around Morocco compares buses, rental cars, taxis, inDrive and private transfers.

How to Get Around Marrakech

Once you’re staying in the central part of Marrakech, walking is by far one of the easiest ways to explore.

A lot of the main sights are relatively close together, especially around the medina.

And honestly, walking is part of the experience.

You’ll pass tiny shops, cafés, market stalls, locals going about their day and streets that you definitely wouldn’t discover if you were constantly sitting in a taxi.

Just be prepared for a lot of walking and a lot of people.

And remember: Marrakech’s medina can be confusing. If Google Maps suddenly tells you to walk through a tiny alley that looks like it can’t possibly lead anywhere, there’s a decent chance it actually does.

Best Things to Do in Marrakech

Marrakech has plenty of famous sights, and I would definitely leave enough time to actually explore them rather than rushing through the city.

The Moroccan National Tourist Office also highlights places such as Jemaa el-Fna, Majorelle Garden, Koutoubia Mosque and Menara among Marrakech’s key sights.

1. Explore Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

Jemaa el-Fnaa is probably the most famous square in Marrakech.

During the day, you can wander around and see the city coming to life, while in the evening the square becomes much busier with food stalls, performers and activity.

It’s one of those places where you should just walk around and take everything in.

Don’t feel like you have to immediately buy something or stop at every stall.

Sometimes simply observing the chaos is enough.

2. Get Lost in the Medina & Souks

You can’t visit Marrakech without exploring the medina and souks.

This is probably one of the most iconic parts of the city.

You’ll find spices, clothes, leather goods, jewellery, lamps, ceramics, food and pretty much everything else you can imagine.

And yes, you’ll probably be approached by people trying to sell you things.

My biggest advice?

Souk in Marrakech, Morocco with colourful market stalls

Stay friendly, say no if you’re not interested and keep walking.

You don’t need to feel bad about not buying something.

The souks can be overwhelming, especially the first time, but once you accept the chaos, they’re actually really fun to explore.

3. See the Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is one of Marrakech’s most recognisable landmarks.

You can see its minaret from different parts of the city, and it’s particularly impressive when you’re walking around the medina.

The mosque itself is an important religious site, so visitors should be respectful of access restrictions.

Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth seeing from the outside.

4. Visit Medersa Ben Youssef

Medersa Ben Youssef is one of the places I would definitely put on your Marrakech itinerary.

The architecture and details are beautiful, with intricate Moroccan decoration throughout the building.

It’s also a nice break from the chaos of the souks because once you’re inside, everything suddenly feels much calmer.

Medersa Ben Youssef in Marrakech, Morocco

5. Visit Bahia Palace

If you like architecture, don’t skip Bahia Palace.

The palace is known for its Moroccan architecture, colourful zellige tilework, marble and gardens.

It’s one of those places where you can spend quite a while simply looking at the details.

And there are a LOT of details.

6. Wander Around Le Jardin Secret

Le Jardin Secret is another beautiful spot in the medina.

After all the noise and chaos of the souks, it’s a nice place to slow down and enjoy some greenery.

It’s particularly nice if you need a little break from the busy streets.

7. Visit Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden is probably one of the most photographed places in Marrakech.

The bright blue architecture, plants and gardens make it very different from the rest of the city.

It’s also home to the Berber Museum, so you can combine the two during the same visit.

If this is high on your list, I’d recommend planning ahead because it is a popular attraction.

8. Visit the Berber Museum

Located within the Majorelle Garden complex, the Berber Museum focuses on Amazigh culture and heritage.

It’s a good addition if you want your Marrakech trip to include more than just architecture, shopping and food.

9. Visit the Menara Gardens

If you want to get away from the busy medina, the Menara Gardens are another option.

The gardens have a large historic basin surrounded by olive trees and offer a very different atmosphere from the centre of Marrakech.

Take a Day Trip to the Agafay Desert

One of the things I would definitely recommend doing from Marrakech is a trip to the Agafay Desert.

And this is where you can get a LOT for your money.

We booked a tour that included camel riding, quad biking, dinner and a show, and we paid around €20 per person.

Friends riding a quad bike through the desert near Marrakech, Morocco

For that price, we were gone for hours.

We rode quads through the desert landscape, had a Moroccan dinner and watched a traditional-style evening show around the campfire.

The food was actually really good too, we had a great tagine.

Traditional Moroccan tagine served in Marrakech

The Camel Ride Wasn’t My Favourite

I do want to be honest about one part of the experience.

The camel ride was definitely my least favourite.

The camels’ mouths were fastened in a way that made me uncomfortable, and I didn’t really enjoy that part of the experience.

So if you’re considering a similar tour, I’d personally be more excited about the quad biking, dinner and show than the camel ride.

There are currently several Agafay tours on GetYourGuide that combine activities such as quad biking or camel riding with dinner and a fire show, with pickup from Marrakech included.

Check Agafay Desert tours on GetYourGuide →

Overall, though, I thought the experience was fantastic value for money.

We were away for hours, got transport there and back, did several activities, ate dinner and watched a show, all for around €20.

I’d definitely do it again.

If you’re trying to fit Marrakech into a bigger trip, my 10-Day Morocco Itinerary shows how I’d combine Marrakech with the Sahara, Fes and Morocco’s Atlantic coast.

This is the one I did:

Powered by GetYourGuide

Where to Eat in Marrakech

Okay, I’m going to say something that might be slightly controversial.

I know Marrakech has SO many cute coffee shops with matcha, aesthetic interiors and pretty plates.

But personally?

I’m not travelling all the way to Morocco to drink an overpriced matcha in an Instagram café.

Give me a proper Moroccan breakfast instead.

And Marrakech is absolutely full of places where you can eat traditional Moroccan food.

Traditional Moroccan breakfast with bread, eggs and fresh ingredients in Marrakech

Eat Traditional Moroccan Food

Look for places serving things like:

  • Tagine
  • Couscous
  • Msemen
  • Moroccan breakfast
  • Moroccan tea
  • Fresh bread
  • Amlou
  • Fresh juice

Some of my favourite meals in Morocco were actually very simple.

A traditional breakfast with bread, eggs, tomatoes, msemen, tea and amlou beats a fancy brunch for me every single time.

And Marrakech gives you plenty of opportunities to try this kind of food.

Don’t Only Eat in Tourist Restaurants

One of my biggest food tips is to look beyond the most obviously touristy restaurants.

Walk around, look at where locals are eating and don’t be afraid to try smaller restaurants.

You can find some incredibly good Moroccan food without spending much money.

And honestly, this is one of the things I love most about travelling in Morocco.

If you’re wondering how much food and other everyday expenses actually cost, I’ve also shared the real prices I paid in Morocco in my Morocco Cost Guide.

The Social Side of Marrakech

Marrakech definitely has a social side, especially if you’re staying in a hostel.

We met people through our accommodation and it was an easy way to connect with other travellers.

But compared with somewhere like Taghazout, I wouldn’t say Marrakech is primarily a social backpacker destination.

It’s much more focused on sightseeing, culture, food, shopping and exploring.

You’re more likely to spend your day visiting palaces and wandering through souks than sitting around a beach with a group of people you’ve just met.

And that’s completely fine.

It’s just a different kind of travel experience.

If you’re travelling solo, staying in a social hostel can still make a big difference.

My Marrakech Travel Tips

Bring Cash

I’d definitely make sure you have some Moroccan dirhams with you.

Smaller shops, market stalls and local places may prefer cash, and having some on hand makes life much easier.

I’d also avoid waiting until you’re at the airport to get all your cash if you can avoid it, as airport exchange options aren’t always the most attractive.

Get an eSIM

If you’re travelling around Morocco, I’d definitely recommend having mobile data.

Google Maps is extremely useful, especially when you’re wandering around the medina.

I use Holafly for eSIMs when travelling and you can get 5% off with the code LIFEASSAAR.

Pre-Book Popular Restaurants

If there’s a particular restaurant you really want to visit, I’d recommend booking ahead.

Some of the more popular and highly recommended places can get busy, especially during peak travel periods.

Don’t leave your one dream dinner until the last night and then discover there’s no table.

Trust me.

Be Ready for the Medina

The medina can be overwhelming.

You’ll have scooters coming past, people trying to sell things, narrow streets, crowds and Google Maps occasionally questioning every life decision you’ve ever made.

Take your time.

You don’t need to see everything in one afternoon.

Just walk around and let yourself experience it.

Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?

If you’re travelling to Morocco for the first time, I’d definitely include Marrakech in your trip.

It’s busy and sometimes overwhelming, but that’s part of the experience.

The combination of the medina, souks, architecture, Moroccan food, gardens and nearby desert experiences gives you a completely different side of Morocco compared with coastal destinations such as Agadir and Taghazout.

And that’s exactly why I think Marrakech works so well as part of a bigger Morocco itinerary.

You get the chaotic city experience, then you can head to the coast for something much slower.

For example, my route included Marrakech, Agadir and Taghazout, and I loved how different each place felt.

How Many Days Do You Need in Marrakech?

I’d recommend around 2–3 full days for a first visit.

That gives you enough time to explore the medina and souks, visit the main sights, eat plenty of Moroccan food and fit in an activity such as the Agafay Desert.

If you want to take things slower or add more day trips, you could easily stay longer.

You don’t need to spend every minute sightseeing.

Some of my favourite moments were simply walking around, eating something good and seeing where the streets took us.

If you’re unsure whether Marrakech deserves a place on your Morocco itinerary at all, read my Is Marrakech Worth Visiting? article for my honest opinion after visiting the city more than once.

Final Thoughts

Marrakech is chaotic.

It’s busy, colourful, loud, sometimes overwhelming and completely different from what I’m used to at home.

But that’s also what makes it so memorable.

I wouldn’t come here expecting a quiet, relaxing city break.

I’d come ready to walk, explore, eat, bargain, get slightly lost and embrace the chaos.

And make sure you leave some time for the things that aren’t on your itinerary.

Because sometimes the best Marrakech moments are simply walking through a random street, finding a tiny restaurant or sitting down with a Moroccan tea.

Marrakech isn’t always easy, but it is definitely an experience.

And if you’re travelling through Morocco, I’d absolutely put it on your list.

Planning Your Morocco Trip

If you’re planning your own Morocco adventure, I’ve put together all my guides from the trip, including Marrakech, Agadir and Taghazout, plus practical tips, things to do, food and places to stay.

→ START HERE: Morocco Travel Guide

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FAQ: Marrakech Travel Guide

Is Marrakech worth visiting?

Yes. Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most famous destinations and is worth visiting for its medina, souks, architecture, food, gardens and unique atmosphere.

How many days do you need in Marrakech?

I’d recommend 2–3 full days for a first visit. You can stay longer if you want to take day trips or explore the city at a slower pace.

What are the best things to do in Marrakech?

Some of the main highlights include Jemaa el-Fnaa, the medina and souks, Koutoubia Mosque, Medersa Ben Youssef, Bahia Palace, Majorelle Garden, Le Jardin Secret and Menara Gardens.

Where should you stay in Marrakech?

Staying in the medina is ideal if you want to be close to the main sights and atmosphere. Staying just outside the medina can be more convenient if you’re travelling with lots of luggage or as a family.

Is Marrakech walkable?

Yes, especially within the medina and central areas. Walking is one of the best ways to explore Marrakech, although the streets can be crowded and confusing.

Is Marrakech expensive?

Marrakech can be relatively affordable, especially for accommodation and local food. Costs vary considerably depending on whether you choose budget local restaurants and hostels or more upscale hotels and restaurants.

Can you visit the Agafay Desert from Marrakech?

Yes. Agafay is a popular day or half-day trip from Marrakech, with tours offering activities such as quad biking, camel rides, dinner and entertainment.

Is Marrakech good for solo travellers?

Yes. Staying in a hostel can make it easy to meet other travellers, while the city itself has plenty to explore independently.

What should you eat in Marrakech?

Don’t leave without trying traditional Moroccan food such as tagine, couscous, msemen, Moroccan tea, fresh bread and amlou.

Is Marrakech good for a family trip?

Yes, but your choice of accommodation matters. Staying just outside the busiest parts of the medina may be more convenient if you’re travelling with children or lots of luggage.

What is Marrakech known for?

Marrakech is particularly known for its historic medina, souks, Jemaa el-Fnaa, Moroccan architecture, gardens, food and vibrant atmosphere. The Moroccan tourism board describes the medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa as central parts of the city’s cultural experience.

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