Marrakech

What are the most recommended things to do in Marrakech?

Wander through the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square, famous for street performers, food stalls, and local markets.
Explore the Medina’s souks for traditional Moroccan crafts, spices, and textiles.
Visit the stunning Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs for history and architecture.
Relax in Jardin Majorelle, a colorful botanical garden once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
Discover Islamic art and culture at the Museum of Marrakech.
Experience a traditional Moroccan hammam (bathhouse).
Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or the Agafay Desert for outdoor adventures.

Introducing Marrakech

Marrakech, Morocco's historic city, is the country's third-largest city and the political center of the southern region. Known internationally as the Red City, it is one of Morocco's most important ancient capitals and the capital of the Marrakech-Tensift-El Haouz economic zone, which stretches from central to southwestern Morocco. Located in the southern part of the country, despite its location on the edge of the desert, it boasts a mild climate, lush forests, and abundant fruits and flowers. It is renowned for its numerous historical sites and tranquil gardens, earning it the nickname "the Pearl of Southern Morocco."

As a nomadic enclave and the capital of the southern region, Marrakech, like a magnet in the interior, attracts vast camel caravans from the south. For these travelers, this oasis is the most beautiful city they have ever seen. Today, Marrakech exudes a unique charm, attracting countless tourists seeking to explore its medieval legends and mysteries. On the gently sloping square, belly dancers, veiled in ethereal veils, flaunt their charms, while Gnawa musicians perform a seamless backflip, brushing past speeding scooters. The heat, dust, and mud-brick fortresses make Marrakech a uniquely Moroccan city.

Climate and best time to travel

Spring and autumn are the best seasons for travel

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Marrakech Museum

The museum itself is a building from the Andalusian period. It is very distinctive and worth a visit. Its biggest feature is that there is a large courtyard in the center of the building.

Majorelle Gardens

The beautiful 12-hectare botanical garden is also an art sanctuary for artists in Marrakech, Morocco. The garden was designed by the famous French designer Jacqueline in the 1920s and 1930s, when Morocco was still a French protectorate.

Royal Palace of Bahia

Built in the 19th century, it was the private palace of the Grand Vizier of the Sultanate at that time and means the Palace of Wisdom.

Plaza de la Démagui

This World Heritage-listed square is home to the largest night market in Marrakech and even in Morocco.

Recommended number of days for a visit: 2-3 days

Most Popular FAQs for Marrakech

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Marrakech, founded in 1062 by the Almoravid dynasty, was a major imperial city of Morocco. Known as the “Red City” due to its red sandstone buildings, it was an important political, cultural, and economic center. Its Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflecting centuries of Islamic art, architecture, and trade.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in western Morocco, near the Atlas Mountains.
Marrakech Menara Airport serves international flights and is about 15 minutes by taxi from the Medina.
Within the city, taxis, buses, and walking are the main transport options. The Medina is largely pedestrian-friendly.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa are generally open all day, but most lively in the evenings.
Palaces, museums, and gardens usually open from 9:00 AM to 5:00–6:00 PM.
Best months: March–May and September–November for pleasant weather.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Jardin Majorelle: ~120 MAD.
Bahia Palace: ~70 MAD.
Museums: 30–70 MAD depending on site.
Tickets can be purchased on-site; some major attractions also offer online booking.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended for Jardin Majorelle and popular museums, especially during peak tourist seasons. For most palaces and souks, on-site tickets are sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the Medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa: half a day to a full day.
Main palaces, tombs, and gardens: 2–3 days in total.
A well-rounded trip usually requires 3–4 days in Marrakech.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
The Medina and souks (leather, spices, carpets).
Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs.
Koutoubia Mosque (viewable from outside).
Jardin Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent Museum.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Yes, guided tours are available in English, French, Spanish, German, and Arabic. Some museums and gardens provide audio guides in multiple languages.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Terraces overlooking Jemaa el-Fnaa at sunset.
Inside Jardin Majorelle with its cobalt-blue walls and greenery.
Bahia Palace courtyards.
Ben Youssef Madrasa for Islamic architecture details.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Jemaa el-Fnaa, then explore the Medina souks.
Visit Koutoubia Mosque (outside), Bahia Palace, and Saadian Tombs.
End the day in Jardin Majorelle or enjoy a rooftop dinner overlooking the Medina.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Jemaa el-Fnaa comes alive at night with performers, storytellers, and food stalls. Some gardens and palaces host cultural events or evening concerts occasionally.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Jemaa el-Fnaa and souks are busiest in the evenings and weekends.
Palaces and gardens are less crowded early in the morning.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Restaurants and cafes inside and around Jemaa el-Fnaa.
Restrooms in major attractions and gardens.
Shops and stalls throughout the Medina.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Medina’s narrow alleys can be challenging, but main attractions like Jardin Majorelle and Bahia Palace are more accessible. Families with children usually find Marrakech manageable with planning.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (Moroccan dirham) is essential in souks, small shops, and food stalls. Larger restaurants, hotels, and museums accept credit cards. Mobile payments are less common.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Café de France (rooftop views of Jemaa el-Fnaa).
Nomad (modern Moroccan cuisine with terrace views).
Dar Yacout (traditional Moroccan fine dining).

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, Moroccan cuisine is largely halal. Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many restaurants, including vegetable tagines, couscous, and lentil dishes.