17 Best Things to Do in Marrakesh

Marrakesh (also spelled Marrakech) is the fourth-largest city in Morocco and is the perfect destination for a weekend trip or a longer vacation.

Each year, millions of visitors flock to this North African gem to discover the city’s famous ancient architecture, vibrant souks, and world-class cuisine. Marrakesh effortlessly blends old and new, and you’re certain to find something here that captivates you — from the medina that dates back 1,000 years to modern rooftop restaurants and contemporary art galleries.

If you’re planning a Moroccan adventure and want to experience as many of the city’s highlights as possible, here are the 17 best things to do in Marrakesh.

1. Explore the Medina

Photo Credit: Glen Berlin

Known as the Red City, Marrakesh Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place to soak up Moroccan culture. This walled old town was founded in 1070 and served as the Imperial capital on and off for hundreds of years (the rival Imperial city of Fez sometimes held the title of capital).

Give yourself a few hours to explore the sights and smells of the narrow paths and vibrant market stalls, and don’t miss these three important sites:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa – otherwise known as Jemaa el-Fna El Fna Square, this plaza is the bustling heart of the medina. Here, you’ll find snake charmers, henna artists, and dozens of food stalls selling tasty street food.
• Koutoubia Mosque – this is the largest mosque in Marrakesh and can be found in the southwest medina quarter. Dating back to the 12th century, its most famous feature is the minaret that towers above the medina.
• Saadian Tombs – these elaborate tombs are part of the legacy of Ahmed el Mansour — the most famous Sultan of the Saadi Dynasty. Visit the tombs for a fine example of Moroccan architecture.

2. Wander in Jardin Majorelle

Jardin Majorelle (Majorelle Garden) was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle. This botanical garden is known for its vast array of cacti and its striking blue Art Deco house that sits at its center.

The property was bought by designer Yves Saint Laurent in 1980 and now houses a Berber Museum and a vast collection of Moroccan fashion and jewelry.

Tip: Don’t miss the Musée Yves Saint Laurent next door, which features hundreds of YSL garments from the designer’s 40-year career.

3. Test Your Haggling Skills in Souk Semmarine

Photo Credit: SmallWorldProduction

Souk Semmarine is an excellent option if you’re looking for somewhere to spend your dirhams. Here, you’ll find handmade crafts, including leather accessories, brass lanterns, carpets, and textiles. Market traders expect shoppers to haggle, so be brave and test your bargaining skills to get the best deal possible.

4. Relax in a Traditional Hammam

Public bathhouses are a traditional element of Moroccan culture and the ultimate way to unwind during your visit to Marrakesh. A typical visit to a hammam includes a full body scrub, and some also offer skin masks and massages.

These are three of the most popular hammams in the city:

• Hammam Rosa Bonheur – a modern, tranquil hammam decorated with marble arches, columns, and mosaics.
• Heritage Spa – a luxury hammam offering traditional spa days and a wide range of massage and wellness services.
• Les Bains de Marrakesh – this newly renovated spa has been serving locals and tourists for more than 20 years and guarantees a relaxing experience.

5. See the Mosaics of the Bahia Palace

Photo Credit: Ungvari Attila

Bahia Palace is a 19th-century structure filled with breathtaking stuccos, paintings, and mosaics. Bahia roughly translates to brilliance in Arabic, and once you step inside this traditional Moroccan and Islamic building, you’ll agree that this is an appropriate name for it.

The surrounding gardens are equally stunning and make a peaceful place for an early morning stroll or to relax in a shady spot.

6. Feast on Moroccan Fine Dining

When you think of Moroccan food, fluffy couscous, and rich tagines probably spring to mind first. No visit is complete without trying those traditional dishes, but Marrakesh also has a thriving fine dining scene that encompasses both local and international cuisine.

Here are three spots to consider making a reservation at:

• Riad 72 – an elegant dining experience in a tranquil riad. Expect to see Moroccan and global options on the menu.
• Villa Makassar – contemporary rooftop dining with an authentic Marrakesh twist. Book a table for sunset cocktails or the evening dinner service.
• La Terrasse de la Brillante – European cuisine in the heart of the medina. The rooftop views are as impressive as the menu itself.

7. Marvel at Ben Youssef Madrasa’s Architecture

Photo Credit: Kadagan

Ben Youssef Madrasa is arguably the city’s most important monument, and gazing at its incredible architecture is a can’t-miss thing to do.

This 14th-century religious school has been carefully restored in recent years, and visitors can learn about the painstaking process during their visit.

8. Get to Know Gueliz’s Art Scene

Gueliz is located ten minutes from the medina and is known as the ‘New Town’ (even though it dates back to the 1930s). This area is popular for its shopping malls and cafes, but there’s also an eclectic art scene to discover, including these two exciting galleries:

• Galerie Siniya 28 – dedicated to supporting emerging Moroccan and international artists working in a wide range of mediums.
• Comptoir des Mines – a large space celebrating bold and contemporary art from new and established artists.

9. Take a Tour of the Jewish Quarter

Photo Credit: Patricia van der Velden

Marrakesh’s Jewish heritage dates back 2,000 years and before the founding of Israel, the area known as Mellah was one of the largest Jewish communities in the Muslim world.

Taking a tour of this historic area is the best way to appreciate Mellah’s importance to the city’s Jewish community. You’ll discover the largest Jewish cemetery in Morocco and learn about the architecture and street names that are unique to this part of Marrakesh.

10. Take a Cooking Class with a Local Family

You’re pretty much guaranteed to fall in love with Moroccan cuisine during your visit, so why not learn how to cook it yourself? Cooking Class with Family was founded by Brahim, along with his wife and mother, to share their family recipes and the art of Moroccan hospitality. You’re certain to leave with a full stomach and an even fuller heart.

11. Go on a Camel Ride in the Agafay Desert

Photo Credit: Jesus Salas Dual

Camels were once used for transporting goods between the Sahara Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, and today, visitors can experience what those journeys were like by taking a day tour to the Agafay Desert.

Located just an hour from Marrakesh, guests can soak in the peaceful atmosphere on a camelback desert tour while en route to drink mint tea in a traditional Berber village.

12. Sip Coffee like a Local

Morocco may be best known for its mint tea, but there’s also a thriving coffee culture to discover. Locals sit for hours sipping coffee and chatting, and doing the same is the perfect way to refuel after a busy morning of souk shopping.

These three coffee shops are popular options:

• Chez Bismilah – owner Bismilah takes great care while preparing ground coffee with water and spices before gently warming it in a brass pot over hot sand.
• Le Grand Cafe de la Poste – a classy establishment with monochrome tiled floors and a pretty terrace with palm trees.
• Bacha Coffee – there’s often a queue here, but it’s worth the wait for a perfect cup of 100% Arabica coffee in a stunning location.

13. Take a Side Trip to Fez

Photo Credit: Alexey Pevnev

Fez (sometimes spelled Fes) is the second-largest city in the country and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit spot in Morocco. It’s possible to visit from Marrakesh as a day trip, but at over five hours one way or two, it’s wise to dedicate a full day or two to this mystical destination.

Here are the must-see attractions in Fez:

• Jnan Sbil Gardens (Bou Jeloud) – the only public garden in the medina. Head here to stroll tree-lined paths and admire lush flowers and plants.
• Bou Inania Madrasa – an iconic religious building with intricate green mosaic tilework and a peaceful marble courtyard.
• Kairaouine Mosque – the world’s oldest university and the second-largest mosque in Morocco.

14. Explore the Palmeraie Desert by Quad Bike

Zooming around in nature on a quad bike is a great option for a break from the hectic heart of the city, and La Palmeraie is the perfect place to do it. Head out to this desert oasis to feel the wind in your hair as you zip around palm groves and admire the scarlet soil of this rugged area.

Note: La Palmeraie is a huge place, so it’s recommended that you go with a guide to avoid getting lost.

15. Cool off in the Ouzoud Waterfalls

Photo Credit: taskalia

It can get incredibly hot in Morocco, and a trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls is the perfect way to cool off. There are seven waterfalls in total, and the most dramatic is 110 meters high. Some are easier to access than others, so a guide is recommended if you want to discover the less-visited falls located furthest from the surrounding villages.

16. Experience Morocco’s Golden Age at El Badi Place

El Badi Palace was built in the 16th century, and at one time, the palace was home to the Sultan’s harem, which had more than 500 women. The structure was built as a symbol of the power and grandeur of the Saadian Dynasty, and its architecture combines Moroccan and European styles. El Badi Palace remains important to Marrakesh to this day, and a visit is highly recommended.

17. Immerse Yourself in Morocco’s Cities & Villages

Photo Credit: Balate.Dorin

There are so many things to do in Marrakesh that you could easily fill your time without ever leaving the city. However, if you find yourself craving a change of scenery, these three spots make fun weekend jaunts and day trips:

• Essaouira – a popular oceanfront destination with a beautiful beach and an impressive 18th-century walled city.
• Casablanca – the largest city in Morocco and the country’s commercial hub. Visit for its French colonial architecture and the huge Hassan II Mosque.
• Merzouga – a tranquil village in the Sahara Desert. The enormous sand dunes are breathtaking to see.

Experience the Magic of North Africa

Morocco is a place like nowhere else, and its intoxicating sights, sounds, and smells will stay with you long after your trip is over. Which of these 17 activities will be at the top of your to-do list when you visit Marrakesh?