Author: 
The Imperial city of Marrakesh (also spelled Marrakech) is one of the most visited cities on the African continent — and with good reason!
The area’s history dates back thousands of years, and over time, a rich and diverse cultural heritage has developed. As a result, visitors to this stunning city will discover countless attractions spanning history, architecture, art, food, and souks.
Marrakesh also offers easy access to the country’s star attractions, including the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains, making it the ideal base for an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
If you’re planning a trip to this majestic city, keep reading for 18 must-see attractions in Marrakesh.
1. Djemaa El Fna
Photo Credit: posztos
- Address: Avenue Mohammed V, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 24 hours
Djemaa El Fna, also known as Jemaa el-Fna, is the city’s main square and the entrance to the Marrakesh Medina (the old city). This is arguably the most famous tourist attraction in the country and an authentic Moroccan experience not to be missed.
Here, you’ll meet snake charmers, storytellers, and henna artists. If you need to refuel, head to one of the food stalls that line the square or to one of the rooftop cafes, where you can watch the action below.
Tip: The medina can be extremely busy and overwhelming, so take care of your belongings and arrange a meeting point in case you lose track of your travel companions.
2. Bahia Palace
- Website: bahia-palace.com
- Address: Rue Riad Zitoun el Jedid, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm daily
This breathtaking palace, constructed in the 19th century, is a superb example of Moroccan architecture. Bahia translates to “brilliance” in Arabic, and the painted ceilings, ornate features, and intricate tiling inside the palace perfectly embody its name. The external courtyard is a peaceful place to take a break from the chaos of the city.
3. Marrakesh Souks
Photo Credit: Steve Barze
- Address: Jemaa El Fna Square, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: souks are open daily, but hours of operation differ by stall
The souks of Marrakesh are a dream come true for retail therapy lovers. Here, you’ll find a huge range of food, clothing, Arabic handicrafts, accessories, and many hidden gems. Haggling is expected, so test your skills and snap up some bargains. Souk Semmarine is considered to be the main market, but don’t miss Souk el Attarine for antiques, Souk Smata for shoes, and Souk el Kebir for leather.
Tip: It’s easy to get lost in the maze of alleyways, so take care if you’re traveling with children.
4. Koutoubia Mosque
- Website: koutoubiamosque.com
- Address: Jemaa el-Fna Square, Avenue Mohammed V, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: The interior of the mosque is reserved for Muslims and is open for prayer five times per day / the mosque exterior and gardens are open for non-Muslims from sunrise to sunset
Koutoubia Mosque dates back to the 12th century, and its 70-meter-tall minaret can be seen from miles away. Although non-Muslims aren’t allowed inside the mosque itself, it’s still worth visiting to soak up the atmosphere and see the external architecture and tranquil gardens.
5. Majorelle Gardens
Photo Credit: Tupungato
- Website: jardinmajorelle.com
- Address: Rue Yves St Laurent, Gueliz, Marrakesh 40090
- Opening hours: 8.00 am – 6.30 pm daily
This lush two-acre botanical garden was designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle when he moved to Marrakesh for health reasons. The gardens are best known for the huge collection of cacti and the vibrant blue painting studio.
French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent bought the property in 1963, and his ashes were scattered here when he passed in 2008. The gardens are now open to the public, and the blue building is now a Berber museum.
6. Yves Saint Laurent Museum
- Website: museeyslmarrakech.com
- Address: Rue Yves St Laurent, Marrakesh 40090
- Opening hours: 10.00 am – 6.00 pm Thursday to Tuesday
Fans of Yves Saint Laurent shouldn’t miss this unique museum that houses 40 years of the designer’s work. Visitors can explore sumptuous displays of haut couture clothing and iconic accessories while learning about YSL’s fascinating life.
This fashion-focused museum is located next door to the Majorelle Gardens, so the two attractions combine to create a memorable afternoon of art and style.
7. Medersa Ben Youssef
Photo Credit: saiko3p
- Website: medersabenyoussef.ma
- Address: Rue Assouel, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 9.00 am – 8.00 pm daily
This madrasa dates back to the 14th century and is one of the best examples of Saadian-era artistry. At one time, it was the largest Islamic school in North Africa and has since been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit to admire the architecture — don’t miss the spectacular main internal courtyard!
8. Hammam Mouassine
- Website: hammammouassine.ma
- Address: Rue Sidi el Yamani, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 9.00 am – 9.00 pm daily
Hammams are traditional baths that are common in the Arab world and make a relaxing end to a busy day of sightseeing. A visit to a hammam includes steaming, cleansing, and exfoliating the skin, and some high-end spa facilities also offer massages and specialty services.
Hammam Mouassine is one of the most highly-rated options in Marrakesh and guarantees a rejuvenating experience that’ll leave you looking and feeling your best.
9. Palmeraie
Photo Credit: Annuk
Palmeraie is an expansive grove on the outskirts of Marrakesh that has an estimated 50,000 date palm trees. There are several luxury resorts located here, but it’s worth a visit even if you aren’t staying at one of them. Book a quad bike tour, a camel ride, or a cycling adventure to explore the rugged landscape and discover traditional Berber villages.
10. Day Trip to Essaouira
Essaouira is a laid-back coastal city less than three hours from Marrakesh that makes a fun destination for a chilled day tour.
The ocean breeze means the climate is cooler, and you can relax on the beach, take a dip in the sea, or test out your surfing skills. History lovers will appreciate the UNESCO-recognized medina and the well-preserved walls that surround the city. The fascinating Jewish Museum is well worth a visit, too.
11. Dar Si Said Museum
- Website: darsisaid.com
- Address: 8 Rue de la Bahia, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 10.00 am – 6.00 pm daily
Dar Si Said Museum guides visitors through Morocco’s famed arts and handicrafts. Housed in what was originally a residential palace, you can easily spend a few hours here exploring exhibits ranging from traditional Moroccan doors and windows to hand-made pottery and Berber jewelry.
12. Marrakesh Museum
Photo Credit: Ana del Castillo
- Website: marrakechmuseum.com
- Address: Place Ben Youssef, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 9.30 am – 6.00 pm daily
Musee de Marrakesh was opened to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Morocco, where you can see Qur’anic inscriptions, local textiles, contemporary art, and a collection of old coins.
Even if you don’t have time to see the exhibitions inside, it’s worth a visit to admire the building itself, which was once the home of Pasha Thami Glaoui, the former ruler of Marrakesh.
13. Saadian Tombs
Photo Credit: Cesare Palma
- Website: saadiantombs.com
- Address: Rue de La Kasbah, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
- Opening hours: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm daily
This 16th-century burial ground is the final resting place of 66 members of the Saadian dynasty that ruled Marrakesh between 1524 and 1668. Located to the south of Kasbah Mosque, the tombs were walled up and weren’t uncovered until the early 20th century.
Spend an atmospheric hour admiring the grand mausoleums and exploring the wild gardens that surround them.
14. Day Trip to Casablanca
The vibrant city of Casablanca is the country’s commercial hub that seamlessly blends modern Moroccan culture with French colonial architecture. The huge waterfront Hassan II Mosque is a popular attraction — come after dark to see the lasers that shine from the 210-meter minaret towards Mecca.
Tip: The journey takes between three and four hours each way, so consider spending a night here if you have time.
15. El Badi Palace
Photo Credit: Ipek Morel
- Website: badipalace.com
- Address: Ksibat Nhass, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 9.00 am – 5.00 pm daily
This historic palace was built in 1578 by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur, who was a ruler of the Saadian Dynasty. It was constructed using Moroccan and European architectural styles to display the incredible wealth and power of the dynasty but was ruined by enemies soon after.
Today, the palace ruins are one of Marrakesh’s most interesting attractions. Take a tour to see the remains of intricately tiled flooring, destroyed pavilions, and the external walls that still stand. El Badi Palace is near Mellah — the old Jewish quarter of Marrakesh — so consider heading there afterward to see the pretty synagogue and vast Jewish cemetery.
16. Menara Gardens
- Website: menaragardens.com
- Address: Les Jardin De La, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 8.00 am – 6.00 pm daily
Menara Gardens were once used for royal retreats and are where you can find a moment of peace in the heart of Marrakesh. You’ll likely find locals enjoying a moment away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and you’ll be thankful you decided to join them.
Tip: Try to go on a clear day for a chance to snap a photo of the Atlas Mountains reflected in the garden’s pool.
17. Maison de la Photographie
- Website: maisondelaphotographie.ma
- Address: Rue Ahl Fes, 46 Rue Bin Lafnadek, Marrakesh 40030
- Opening hours: 9.30 am – 7.00 pm daily
This gallery is home to an eclectic archive of Moroccan photography, newspapers, maps, and documentaries, among other mediums. There are over 5,000 photos alone that document life in Morocco during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s a can’t-miss attraction if you’re looking for a unique perspective on Marrakesh’s unique culture and communities.
18. Almoravid Koubba
Photo Credit: Ivan Soto Cobos
- Website: almoravidkoubba.com
- Address: 75 Derb Souk Cheria, Marrakesh 40000
- Opening hours: 8.30 am – 6.00 pm, Monday to Friday
Almoravid Koubba is also known as Koubba Ba’adiyn and is the oldest monument still standing in Marrakesh. It isn’t certain what the structure was originally used for when it was built in the 12th century during Ben Youssef’s reign, but some speculate that it was the ablution house of the mosque that once sat next to it.
Discover the Best Marrakesh’s Attractions
You’re certain to fall in love with Marrakesh’s rich history, culture, and charm the moment you step off the plane. Your only challenge will be deciding which attraction to visit first. Which of these 18 activities is number one on your travel itinerary?
