marrakech information for travellers

Everything you need to know before going to Marrakesh

Nov 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Marrakesh can be a sensory overload for first-time visitors so read on for some local advice before you go © minoandriani / Getty Images

I lived in Marrakesh full-time for almost 10 years with no intention of leaving. My life in Morocco was colorful, diverse and endlessly inspiring for a curious, creative soul like me. And today the city’s intrigue and magic continues to pull me back. 

I will never tire of wandering the tiny alleyways of the Marrakesh medina, stopping for a nouss nouss at Cafe des Epices or gazing at the art deco architecture throughout my Gueliz neighborhood, stepping inside to discover independent art galleries . 

Picture-perfect guest houses, and chefs putting a creative spin on local cuisine, are also part of the charm. The design scene in Marrakesh is second-to-none, and in my opinion unique in Morocco as traditional artisans sell their wares alongside contemporary designers, putting a new touch on the traditional techniques and crafts.

A visit to Marrakesh is not about ticking sites off a must-see list but rather meandering – stumbling upon a historic site and watching the world go by from a street-side cafe – the city itself is a sight. Allow three days to see the main historical sites, sample local cuisine and take in a bit of shopping, but design lovers could easily spend a week here.  

1. Plan your days prior to arrival

While there is something to be said for spontaneous wanders and chance encounters, Marrakesh is the country’s leading tourist destination and guides, experiences and restaurants book up days, weeks and months in advance.

Jardin Majorelle  and the nearby Musée Yves Saint Laurent  require online advance bookings via their website. To ensure a table at popular restaurants like +61 , La Famille  and Nomad , book prior to arrival for best availability. 

2. Book an airport transfer or catch the local bus

It’s best to organize an airport transfer via your accommodation provider for a smooth arrival. Taxis have a reputation for overcharging clients, despite posted rates. A city bus departs frequently from the airport to Djemaa el Fna and destinations throughout Gueliz for Dh30 (cash only). Find the bus stop beyond the waiting taxis, near the car rental offices. 

3. Hone your negotiation skills in advance

From haggling in souqs to negotiating fares with taxi drivers, bargaining is commonplace in Marrakesh. Shopkeepers often state an offer and the buyer is expected to negotiate a price they are prepared to pay. I say: pay what the goods are worth to you . You may find the same item cheaper (or more expensive) elsewhere, but is that worth worrying about? It's all part of the Morocco experience.

Prior to hopping in a cab, negotiate a price in advance if the meter is not activated, or if it (notoriously) doesn’t work. The price within Marrakesh city limits shouldn’t cost more than Dh30 if the meter is activated. Daytime rates start at Dh1.70 – Dh2.40 at night – and increase based on distance. If the meter does not work, negotiate the price in advance and make sure you have small bills and coins to pay the exact amount agreed upon (the amount will already include a tip).

4. Be wise about the street food you eat

Some of the best food is served up street side in Marrakesh. When deciding where to eat, consider how many locals are pulling up a seat to tuck into the local delicacy like msemen (pancakes), harira (soup) or a tajine. In Djemaa el Fna , opt for stalls where the food is prepared in front of you. 

5. Stay current

Morocco’s Dirham is a closed currency, and visitors are permitted to arrive and leave with a maximum of 1,000 Dirhams. Most ATMs distribute up to Dh2,000 per transaction to a daily maximum of Dh4,000 per bank card, though this varies by international bank. All banks will charge a fee.

For the best currency exchange, head to Hotel Ali in Djemaa el Fna or Hotel Farouq on Avenue Hassan II near the train station. 

6. Dress like a local for a comfortable experience 

For women, I suggest ditching any belly tops and short shorts while wandering in the Marrakesh medina, one of the city’s most traditional neighborhoods. Instead, opt for dresses that fall below the knee or trousers and a shirt that covers your shoulders. For men, knee-length shorts or trousers are advised. For traversing the cobblestoned and uneven footpaths, flats are best, ideally close-toed.

7. Don’t avoid visiting Marrakesh just because it’s Ramadan

Don’t put off a trip to Marrakesh during the month of Ramadan. It provides an insight into another aspect of this rich culture. Locals will expect that visitors will want to eat and drink, even while out in public. Guides may join you at the table and won’t want you to feel guilty about eating or drinking. During this holy month it is even more important that you're mindful about alcohol consumption. 

8. Local table manners

When accepting a sample of olives or dates in the souqs, or sharing a tajine with locals, always use and eat with your right hand. If invited into a local’s home, arriving with some sweet treats will be graciously received, and bakeries – Amoud,  Pâtisserie Amandine and Café 16 – are local favorites. 

9. When it comes to love, discretion is key 

Sexual relations between non-married Moroccan men and women are not typically flaunted in public. It is illegal for an unmarried Moroccan to book a hotel room or self-catering apartment with a non-Moroccan. Discretion is recommended when it comes to flaunting one’s affection for their partner, regardless of nationality or sexual orientation.

10. Knowing a few words of Darija will earn you points

Though folks working in tourism often speak several languages, with English becoming increasingly common, learning a few words of Darija (Moroccan Arabic) will earn respect. Walking into a shop, it’s common to greet fellow customers and shopkeepers with an "Assalaamu alaykum"  (peace be with you) and respond with “Wa alaykum ssalaam”. “Chakrun” for thank you, “la chakrun” for no thank you, and “afak” for please are also key. 

11. Problems you may encounter in Marrakesh

Stumbling upon a faux guide either on foot in the medina, or a man on a bike who claims to work at your hotel with offers to visit the Berber market or another special, can’t-miss event may result in being led to a family member’s carpet or spice shop. A firm, but polite “no thank you” is often sufficient as you walk confidently in the direction you plan to go.

While it may cause frustration, getting lost in the Marrakesh medina is part of the fun – until it’s not. If and when this happens, remain confident in where you’re going. Ask an older gentleman in the souqs for directions if necessary. If engaging a local lad to show the way, expect to pay for their assistance (Dh20 is reasonable).

Plain-clothes police officers roam the medina frequently and are there to help, taking tourist concerns seriously. A central police station is located in Djemaa el Fna.

Also note: Although Morocco experienced a magnitude seven earthquake in September 2023, with the area surrounding Marrakesh heavily hit, natural disasters within the city are rare.

12. Keep these must-have items in your day bag 

Brushing one’s teeth with tap water is not likely to cause any health issues, but bottled or filtered water for hydrating is recommended. You’ll also want to pack hand sanitizer and wet wipes for days spent wandering, shopping and eating. Always keep a pack of tissues on hand for bathrooms which may not be stocked with toilet paper.   

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Marrakech   Travel Guide

Courtesy of hadynyah | Getty Images

Why Go To Marrakech

For the organized, logical traveler, Marrakech may seem like a nightmare. Its labyrinth of twisty alleyways are almost impossible to navigate, not that its array of snake charmers, fortune tellers and spice sellers will let you go anywhere fast. The problem here isn't the city: It's your state-of-mind. Leave your structured daily routine behind and let the ebb and flow of Marrakech draw you deeper into its colorful chaos.

Start your visit within the salmon-pink walls of the  Medina of Marrakech , which contrasts with the white, jagged peaks of the nearby Atlas Mountains and serves as the inspiration for the city's nickname, the Red City. This ancient part of Marrakech houses the famous Jemaa El Fna square that brims with food vendors selling everything from sheep's heads to snails beneath creamy awnings. From here, allow yourself to be lured down the shadowy alleyways to  souks (or markets) filled with cones of burgundy-, auburn- and citrine-hued spices exuding an aromatic haze. Stroll past the carpet sellers, with their cobalt-, jade-, and crimson-threaded merchandise, and make your way to architectural marvels like Koutoubia Mosque and the Bahia Palace . Should you desire a break from the medina's bustling streets, retreat to a hammam (public bath) or Majorelle Garden .

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Best of Marrakech

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• in La Sultana Marrakech
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Best Things to Do in Marrakech

• # 1 in Medina of Marrakesh
• # 2 in Jemaa El Fna
• # 3 in Bahia Palace (Palais Bahia)

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Marrakech Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Marrakech are from March to May and between September and November. These shoulder seasons are known for their desirable weather (with average daytime temps in the low 70s to low 90s) and affordable hotel rates. Avoid visiting in the brutally hot summer when highs regularly top 100 degrees and the city sees a large influx of tourists and expats. The winter months offer temperatures in the low 40s to upper 60s but also see a spike in tourism, with visitors from colder climates flocking to the Red City in search of warmer temps. Be mindful of religious holidays, such as Ramadan and Christmas, as well as national holidays that follow the lunar calendar, which can affect everything from public transportation to attraction hours to room rates. 

Weather in Marrakech

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

• Hire a guide Professional guides can help you navigate Marrakech's maze-like alleyways. But don't let them do your shopping for you: Some guides will steer you toward specific vendors (and higher prices) in exchange for a commission.
• Dress appropriately  Most Moroccans are Muslims, so pack conservative attire that covers your shoulders, chest, midriff and knees. You'll want to be especially mindful of your appearance while visiting  Koutoubia Mosque  and other religious sites.
• Watch your pockets  Pickpockets run rampant in heavily visited areas like  Jemaa El Fna . Carry any valuable items in zippered bags under your arm or in your front pockets.
• Choose your room wisely When making hotel or riad  (traditional guesthouse) reservations, ask where the nearest mosque is located. The first of six calls to prayer takes place between 3:30 and 6 a.m. and can wake even the heaviest sleeper.

How to Save Money in Marrakech

• Pay in cash You can use credit cards at some restaurants, but you'll avoid any problems with the exchange rate – not to mention credit card scams – if you pay with cash instead. Plus, most shopkeepers do not accept credit cards.
• Exercise willpower It's hard to resist the medina 's beautiful crafts, but don't let a hawker's stubborn sales pitch dupe you. If your bargaining skills don't sway them, walk away. There's always another shop.
• Eat in the streets Marrakech boasts an impressive array of restaurants, but you can savor authentic flavors and save some coin if you get your meals from street vendors. You'll find plenty of options in Jemaa El Fna.

Culture & Customs

Imagine holding the past in one hand, the present in the other and mashing them together – Marrakech would be the result. The ancient ramparts seem to keep time from escaping the medina  and its bustling Jemaa El Fna , which is filled with lively Berber chemists, snake charmers and more. Meanwhile, in Ville Nouvelle (New Town), located just outside the medina walls, you'll discover a city reminiscent of quintessential France. Wide boulevards contrast the old city's narrow alleyways, while chic cafes take the place of crowded spice stalls.

Marrakech's dueling influences – French and North African – have created a hybrid of cultural traditions. While you'll most likely hear locals speaking Darija (Moroccan Arabic), residents will often greet you with a hearty "bonjour" (hello). Many residents know limited English as well, but carrying around a French phrasebook and learning a few key phrases in Darija and French – such as " Labas?" and "Comment allez-vous?"  (How are you?), "Ma'arft" and  "Je ne comprend pas"  (I don't understand), and "shukran" and "merci"  (thank you) – won't hurt.

Christians and Jews make up a fair portion of Marrakech's population, but Islam is the dominant religion here. The city is speckled with dramatic domed mosques, including Koutoubia Mosque in the medina. Visitors can admire the ornate arches from the outside, but the interiors are reserved for practicing Muslims. Although strict dress codes aren't enforced, wearing conservative attire (think: shirts and pants that cover your shoulders, chest, midriff and knees) is strongly advised, especially in older parts of the city.

The Moroccan dirham is Morocco's official currency. One dirham is equal to $0.11. Euros (1 euro equals approximately $1.22) are also accepted by some vendors in Marrakech, but exchange rates are generally more favorable when using dirhams. Most shopkeepers and restaurants do not accept credit cards. Dirham to dollar rates often fluctuate, so check the latest exchange rate before you go.

There is no standard tipping policy in Morocco, but it is generally best to leave at least 10 percent of your restaurant bill when you receive great service. Some eateries in areas frequented by tourists will automatically add a tip to your bill, so be sure to check before tipping. For taxi services, round up to the nearest 5 dirhams. When visiting a hammam , it's customary to leave 20 to 25 dirhams (or $2 to $3) per attendant. And at hotels , expect to give 10 to 20 dirhams ($1 to $2) to bellhops and 20 dirhams (about $2) per day or 100 dirhams (less than $11) per week to housekeepers. Professional tour guides are paid well, so tipping for their services is not expected.

What to Eat

One of North Africa's most unique cuisines is Moroccan, and one of the best places to sample it is in Marrakech. Known for their unconventional flavor combinations and subtle spices (think: cinnamon, saffron, cumin and turmeric), Moroccan dishes are featured on many restaurant and cooking class menus throughout Marrakech. Must-try delicacies include tagines (stews baked in traditional clay, cone-shaped pots that go by the same name), couscous (a fine wheat pasta commonly served with a protein and vegetables) and salads made with ingredients like carrots and dates. Traveler-approved restaurants that specialize in authentic Moroccan fare include Corner Cafe , Dar Chef and Libzar .

No visit to Marrakech would be complete without savoring the city's world-renowned street fare. Areas like Jemaa El Fna are packed with food stalls selling an array of tasty items. Traditional options include b'stilla (a layered pastry made with pigeon, almonds, eggs and various spices), harira (a tomato-, chickpea- and lentil-based soup generally served during Ramadan) and snails simmered in a citrusy, herb-filled broth. Another delicacy prepared by some street vendors is steamed sheep's head, which is sold by the half or whole head. For less adventurous travelers, Marrakech also offers kabobs (grilled, skewered meats), makouda (deep-fried potato balls) and chebakia (fried sesame cookies molded into flower shapes).

To cool off after a long day in the sun, Moroccans love to sip orange juice, which is made with oranges grown in Marrakech's alleys and courtyards. Additionally, locals enjoy serving mint tea to guests or drinking it while catching up with friends. This flavorful tea combines gunpowder tea (a kind of Chinese green tea), sugar and fresh spearmint leaves, and is poured from high above the glass to create a crown (or froth). Both beverages are available at food stalls and restaurants throughout the city.

Getting Around Marrakech

The best way to get around Marrakech is on foot. Sure, this is a big city, but most of the main attractions are clustered at or within walking distance of the medina . Alternatively, if you're looking for a fun way to get from the medina to other parts of the city, consider taking a cal èche (horse-drawn carriage). Or, you can take one of ALSA's Tourist Buses to many popular Marrakech sights. Upon flying into Casablanca's Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) and taking a train to the Marrakech Train Station or continuing on to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), located about 5 miles southwest of the medina, you can either take a taxi or an ALSA bus to the city center. Many hotels also offer airport shuttle services.

Entry & Exit Requirements

You will need a valid passport with at least one blank page to enter Morocco, and you can stay up to 90 days without a visa. While in Marrakech, carry a photocopy of your passport (leave the physical copy in a secure location) in case local officials stop you to check your ID. To learn more about entry and exit requirements, visit the U.S. State Department's website .

Marrakech's iconic red walls are the inspiration behind the city's nickname: the Red City.

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• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to Marrakech

Prepare to be bewitched – there’s nothing quite like the blend of curious chaos and cultural diversity that epitomises Marrakech , and with riads and tours aplenty it’s perfectly set up for an unforgettable solo trip.

You’ll never forget your first time in this ancient city on the edge of the Sahara, fringed by the snow-tipped Atlas Mountains. Explore the centuries-old plaster-pink ramparts of the Medina, haggle for a bargain in the souks, take in the drama of Djemaa El Fna square while quietly sipping a cup of sugary mint tea – whatever you do, Marrakech is a book of magic any solo traveller won’t want to put down. In this guide, we give you the lowdown on what to do, where to stay and what to eat on a solo trip to Marrakech.

What’s the vibe?

Marrakech charms you in the way an eccentric aunt can be your favourite, with so much personality packed into a city whose soundtrack is the call to prayer ringing out from stork-topped minarets. Explore noisy souks lined with North African spices and handmade leather babouches, and admire exquisite examples of Islamic architecture. Stay as long as you can in the Djemaa El Fna, a central square alive with a giddying mix of musicians, snake charmers and spiced street food you’ll keep coming back for.

Where to stay in Marrakech as a solo traveller

1. riad le j.

Tucked away behind the Mouassine Mosque in the beating heart of the Medina – just five minutes’ walk from the Djemaa El Fna – this restored riad is run by designer-minded owners who are only too happy to guide you around the area. Cosy rooms feature restored carved ceilings you can admire from comfortable beds, with furnishings and paint in pretty shades of pink and green. Get to know your fellow guests by the courtyard fountain or over house-party style communal meals infused with spices, lentils, meat and fish.

2. La Mamounia

Spa Hotel, Hotel

Spoil yourself in this regal homage to Moorish opulence circled by acres of historic gardens atmospherically lit by lanterns each night. The location in the Hivernage neighbourhood means easy access to the Medina and the 12th-century Koutoubia minaret. Hot towels, dates and almond milk greet you before relaxation in rooms dressed in intricate tiling, lattice-wood screens and rich art deco shades. Mingle at the buffet breakfast served poolside, shaded by towering palm trees.

3. 2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

A blissful mix of Moroccan artistry and the art deco touch Marrakech is known for define this contemporary hotel, which overlooks palm-tree-lined El Harti Park in the fashionable Gueliz district. Monochrome tiles and potted plants frame turquoise pools you can cool off in after a day of getting to know the Red City. Unwind after a reviving hammam as you sip fresh mint tea or sample tapas in the rooftop bar with your eye on those soaring Atlas Mountains.

You’ll spend a night at 2Ciels Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa as part of Culture Trip’s exclusive six-day Moroccan trip .

Eat and drink in Marrakech

Restaurant, Moroccan

Within the sandstone walls of Riad Noir d’Ivoire, a lavish boutique hotel in the Medina, Oban’s modern-Moroccan menus will woo you with seasonal ingredients elevating dishes such as monkfish tagine or seafood pastilla. You can pair your meal with any one of the 3,000 bottles in the open-design wine cellar. Soft lighting creates an intimate space you’ll feel happy to dine in, alone or with a crowd.

5. Hotel Restaurant Café de France

Hotel Restaurant, Moroccan

One of the oldest and most famous cafes in Marrakech earns its bragging rights for the Djemaa El Fna location and rooftop terraces in view of the mountains. Locals mingle with tourists here for cups of mint tea on a street-side terrace. It’s also a local landmark for tour groups to meet before heading off on a cultural discovery.

Dreamy sunset cocktails and Mediterranean-inspired fusion created by an Ibizan chef keep travellers coming back to this design-forward spot – part cool lounge, part tropical-themed rooftop terrace in the heart of the Medina. If you’re here alone, it’s unlikely things will stay that way for long – what with the sumptuous sushi and cocktails such as Lavender Fizz.

What to do in Marrakech as a solo traveller

Hike the Atlas Mountains, stopping off at an ancient Berber village

Trade bustling souks and alleyways for soaring mountains and tiny villages on a day trip out of Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains. Led by a guide, you’ll discover the Berber community, explore ancient settlements, savour a slow-cooked tagine and – depending on what tour you choose – stay the night in a hilltop kasbah with panoramic dancing views of the rugged landscape.

A trip to the Atlas Mountains with an overnight stay in a local community is just one of many authentic activities you’ll experience on Culture Trip’s six-day Moroccan adventure , led by our Local Insider.

Soak up the natural beauty of Jardin Majorelle

A visit to this enchanting urban idyll should be near the top of the to-do list on any solo trip to Marrakech. Created in the 1920s by French painter Jacques Majorelle – before fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Berge took over – the garden is filled with cooling marble pools and lily-pad-topped ponds, creating a serene spot to reflect or relax in the shade of a banana tree.

Haggle for spices and slippers in the Medina

Only those who’ve lived here all their lives can navigate this crowded, cobblestoned network of alleyways, home to donkeys, leather shops and stalls piled high with fragrant spices. That’s where our small-group tour comes in handy – helping you haggle for handicrafts, traditional leathers and henna tattoos, with stacks of insider knowledge.

Stay safe, stay happy

Marrakech is generally a safe and friendly place to visit, whether you’re travelling solo or not. However, as with any city of this size, you should take care to avoid isolated areas when exploring alone – such as the mountains outside of the city or along the Medina’s quiet streets and alleyways at night. This is where an insider-led trip can provide that extra comfort blanket to allow you to explore at night, unperturbed.

Getting around Marrakech as a solo traveller

Near constant crowds and a web of narrow interlaced streets and squares make central Marrakech very much a place for getting around on foot. The benefit is that you can stop to marvel at an intricately carved doorway here or haggle over a woven rug there. Some streets are so narrow that bikes, scooters and the odd donkey cart struggle to pass.

Outside the Medina however, you can hop into a “petit taxi” and usually agree on a price with the driver before you set off. Then there’s the horse-drawn carriage ride, ultimately the most sedate way to see the sights from Djemaa El Fna or the Koutoubia Mosque.

Want to experience Marrakech with other culturally curious travellers? Share your travel experience by joining Culture Trip’s six-day Moroccan adventure to discover the whirlwind of sights, sounds and smells that make Marrakech so unique.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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The Ultimate Marrakech Travel Guide

Published: October 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Sella Benge

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• Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to the enchanting city of Marrakech, an exotic destination that seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy. Nestled in the heart of Morocco, Marrakech offers travelers a rich cultural experience, with its bustling markets, stunning architecture, and tantalizing cuisine.

Known as the “Red City” due to the distinctive hue of its ancient walls, Marrakech is a treat for the senses. From the vibrant colors of the souks to the aromatic spices that waft through the air, every corner of this city has a story to tell.

Stepping into Marrakech is like entering a time portal where the traditions of the past intertwine effortlessly with the contemporary spirit of the present. The city’s history dates back to the 11th century, and it has since become a hub for artists, musicians, and travelers from around the world.

As you explore the labyrinthine streets of the medina, you’ll be captivated by the intricate architecture, adorned with stunning tilework, carved wood, and ornate stucco. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to a myriad of hidden gems, including historic palaces, tranquil gardens, and ancient mosques.

But Marrakech is not all about history and culture. The city also offers a vibrant and modern side, with trendy cafes, stylish boutiques, and a thriving nightlife scene. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, Marrakech will leave you spellbound.

This ultimate travel guide to Marrakech will take you on a journey through all the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and insider tips to make the most of your visit. From navigating the bustling souks to savoring traditional Moroccan dishes, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to create unforgettable memories in this captivating city.

So, grab your passport, pack your bags, and get ready to immerse yourself in the colorful tapestry of Marrakech. Let the magic unfold as you embark on an adventure of a lifetime in this vibrant Moroccan city.

Getting to Marrakech

Getting to Marrakech is convenient as it is well connected to major cities around the world. The city is served by Marrakech Menara Airport, which offers regular flights from international destinations. Many airlines, including low-cost carriers, operate flights to Marrakech, making it accessible for travelers from different parts of the globe.

If you are coming from Europe, there are direct flights from major cities such as London, Paris, Madrid, and Rome, among others. The flight duration from these cities is relatively short, making Marrakech a popular weekend getaway destination.

For travelers from other continents, there are connecting flights available from major hubs like Dubai, Istanbul, New York, and Casablanca. Marrakech Menara Airport is located just a few kilometers from the city center, and you can easily reach your accommodation by taxi or shuttle service.

Another option to reach Marrakech is by train. Morocco has an extensive rail network, and there are trains connecting major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fes to Marrakech. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside and is a comfortable way to travel within the country.

If you prefer a road trip, you can consider renting a car and driving to Marrakech. The roads in Morocco are well-maintained, and there are major highways connecting Marrakech to other cities. However, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local traffic rules and regulations before embarking on a road trip.

Once you arrive in Marrakech, getting around the city is relatively easy. The most common mode of transportation within the city is by taxi. You can easily find taxis on the streets, or you can opt for the more convenient option of ordering a ride through a mobile app.

For a unique experience, you can also explore the city on foot. Marrakech is compact, and many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking through the narrow alleys of the medina allows you to soak in the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems along the way.

Now that you know how to get to Marrakech, it’s time to start planning your trip to this mesmerizing city. Whether you choose to fly, take the train, or embark on a road trip, get ready to immerse yourself in the colors, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant Moroccan destination.

Best Time to Visit Marrakech

Marrakech enjoys a warm climate throughout the year, but it’s important to consider the season and weather when planning your visit. The best time to visit Marrakech is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and mild.

During the spring, Marrakech is in full bloom, with colorful flowers adorning the city and the temperatures averaging between 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F). This is a great time to explore the outdoor attractions like the Majorelle Garden and wander around the medina without the scorching heat of the summer months.

In autumn, the weather starts to cool down, making it another ideal time to visit Marrakech. Temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), and the city experiences fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. You can enjoy comfortable outdoor activities and explore the bustling souks without feeling overwhelmed by the heat.

However, if you’re a sun-seeking traveler and don’t mind the heat, you can plan your visit during the summer months (June to August). Marrakech experiences high temperatures during this time, with averages ranging from 30°C to 45°C (86°F to 113°F). This is the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan your activities during the cooler parts of the day.

Winter (December to February) is also a viable time to visit Marrakech, especially if you prefer milder temperatures and fewer tourists. While the days are relatively sunny with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), the evenings can get chilly, dropping to around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). It’s advisable to pack layers and a light jacket for the cooler evenings.

It’s worth noting that Marrakech hosts several festivals throughout the year, which can add a unique experience to your visit. The Marrakech Popular Arts Festival takes place in July and is a celebration of Moroccan music, dance, and traditional arts. The International Film Festival in December attracts renowned filmmakers from around the world.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Marrakech depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Whether you choose to visit during the spring, autumn, summer, or winter, Marrakech will captivate you with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Marrakech offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you prefer a luxurious riad in the heart of the medina or a modern hotel in the newer parts of the city, Marrakech has something for everyone.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the old-world charm of Marrakech, staying in a traditional riad is a must. Riads are traditional Moroccan houses turned into boutique hotels, featuring stunning architecture, peaceful courtyards, and rooftop terraces. Many riads are located within the medina, offering easy access to the bustling souks and historical attractions. Some popular riads include Riad Yasmine, Riad BE Marrakech, and Riad Dar Anika.

For a more modern and luxurious stay, there are numerous four and five-star hotels scattered throughout the city. These hotels often offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, spa facilities, and on-site restaurants. Some top-rated hotels in Marrakech include La Mamounia, Royal Mansour Marrakech, and Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech.

If you prefer a lively and energetic atmosphere, the Gueliz neighborhood is a great option. Here, you’ll find a range of mid-range and budget hotels, as well as trendy cafes, shopping centers, and art galleries. It’s a more modern part of the city, providing a different perspective on Marrakech without compromising its charm.

The Palmeraie district, located on the outskirts of Marrakech, offers a tranquil and luxurious escape from the bustling city center. This area is home to several high-end resorts and luxury villas, surrounded by palm groves and offering a serene retreat.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling on a budget or prefer a more social experience, you can consider staying in a hostel or guesthouse. Marrakech has a variety of affordable accommodations that cater to backpackers and budget-conscious travelers. Hostels often offer dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces where you can meet fellow travelers and exchange stories. Some popular hostels in Marrakech include Equity Point Marrakech and Riad Lola & Demeures.

When choosing your accommodation, it’s important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and your personal preferences. Whether you’re seeking a traditional riad experience, a luxurious hotel stay, or a budget-friendly option, Marrakech has a wide array of options to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Regardless of where you choose to stay, Marrakech will captivate you with its rich culture, vibrant atmosphere, and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions in Marrakech

Marrakech is a city that is brimming with history, culture, and stunning sights to explore. From ancient palaces to bustling markets, here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Marrakech:

• The Medina: The heart and soul of Marrakech, the medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit attraction. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets filled with colorful shops, handicrafts, and local vendors. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, which stands tall as a symbol of the city.
• Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: Located at the entrance of the medina, Jemaa el-Fnaa is a vibrant and bustling square that comes alive with performers, musicians, henna artists, and food stalls as the sun sets. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere, taste delicious Moroccan street food, and witness traditional storytellers and snake charmers.
• Majorelle Garden: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a stroll through the peaceful Majorelle Garden. Designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle, the garden features a beautiful collection of exotic plants, vibrant blue buildings, and a small museum dedicated to Berber culture.
• Bahia Palace: Step into the opulent world of the Bahia Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace that showcases the grandeur and beauty of Moroccan architecture. Meander through the intricately decorated courtyards, visit the luxurious rooms, and admire the exquisite mosaic work.
• Saadian Tombs: Discover the hidden treasure of Marrakech at the Saadian Tombs. Dating back to the 16th century, these tombs were rediscovered in 1917 and showcase exquisite craftsmanship and intricate tilework. Marvel at the beautifully decorated mausoleums and the tranquil garden surrounding them.
• El Badi Palace: Explore the ruins of the once grand El Badi Palace, which now stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history. Climb to the top of the ancient walls to enjoy panoramic views of Marrakech, and imagine the grandeur that once filled this palatial complex.
• Koranic School of Ben Youssef: Step into the past at the Koranic School of Ben Youssef, one of the largest theological colleges in North Africa. Admire the stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and the peaceful atmosphere of this historical site.
• Atlas Mountains: Escape the city and embark on a day trip to the magnificent Atlas Mountains. Just a short drive from Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains offer breathtaking scenery, traditional Berber villages, and opportunities for hiking, trekking, and immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Morocco.
• Menara Gardens: Enjoy a moment of tranquility at the Menara Gardens, located just outside the city center. Stroll around the expansive garden, centered around a large reflecting pool, and marvel at the views of the Atlas Mountains.
• Souks: Dive into the sensory overload of the Marrakech souks. These bustling markets are a shopper’s paradise, filled with a variety of goods, including textiles, spices, ceramics, leather goods, and traditional Moroccan handicrafts. Practice your negotiation skills to get the best deals and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.

These are just a few of the many incredible attractions that Marrakech has to offer. Whether you’re exploring the historical sites, indulging in mouth-watering Moroccan cuisine, or getting lost in the narrow alleys of the medina, Marrakech will capture your heart and leave you with unforgettable memories.

Exploring the Medina

The medina of Marrakech is a captivating maze of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and ancient architecture, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Exploring the medina is like stepping back in time, where the traditions of the past blend harmoniously with the modern influences of today.

As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, prepare to be enchanted by the sights, sounds, and aromas that fill the air. Admire the intricate tilework, carved wooden doors, and ornate stucco decorations that adorn the buildings, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Moroccan artisans.

One of the highlights of the medina is the bustling souks, where you can find a myriad of treasures waiting to be discovered. Lose yourself in the maze of narrow alleyways, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere as you browse through a wide range of goods, including traditional textiles, leather goods, spices, ceramics, and jewelry. Don’t forget to hone your bargaining skills as haggling is a common practice in the souks.

Among the souks, you’ll find the famous spice market, where piles of vibrant spices, dried fruits, and aromatic teas dazzle the senses. Let the enticing scents guide you through the market and consider purchasing some traditional Moroccan spices to take home with you.

Another must-see in the medina is the Koutoubia Mosque. With its towering minaret, the Koutoubia Mosque is an iconic landmark of Marrakech and serves as a reminder of the city’s strong Islamic heritage. Although non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque, you can appreciate its beauty from the outside and listen to the melodic calls to prayer echoing through the medina.

As you explore the medina, you’ll stumble upon hidden gems, such as the Mouassine Mosque and its beautiful courtyard, the peaceful Dar Si Said Museum, and the Maison de la Photographie, where you can discover a fascinating collection of historical photographs depicting life in Morocco over the years.

To escape the bustling streets, take a moment to relax in one of the traditional riads scattered throughout the medina. These peaceful oases offer a serene retreat from the busy city, where you can unwind in tranquil courtyards and enjoy a cup of refreshing mint tea.

Exploring the medina of Marrakech is a sensory adventure that will transport you to another time and place. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, interact with the friendly locals, and embrace the unique charm of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visiting the Majorelle Garden

Step into a world of botanical beauty and tranquility at the Majorelle Garden, an enchanting oasis nestled within the bustling city of Marrakech. Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this botanical garden is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

The Majorelle Garden is a haven of lush greenery, vibrant blue buildings, and serene pools that create a serene and captivating atmosphere. As you enter through the iconic blue gate, you’ll be greeted by a landscape of exotic plants from all corners of the world, including cacti, bamboo, palm trees, and colorful flowers.

Wander along the meandering paths, taking in the sights and sounds of nature, and discover hidden corners of tranquility. The garden provides plenty of shaded nooks where you can sit and relax, immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One of the highlights of the Majorelle Garden is the striking Villa Oasis, which houses the Berber Museum. Explore the museum to learn about the indigenous Berber people and their rich cultural heritage through a collection of artifacts, textiles, jewelry, and traditional crafts.

The vibrant blue building that serves as the focal point of the garden is known as the “Majorelle Blue.” This particular shade of blue is synonymous with the garden and has become an iconic symbol of Marrakech. The bold blue color creates a striking contrast against the greenery, making it a perfect backdrop for photos and a visual feast for the eyes.

Another highlight of the Majorelle Garden is the small but captivating Islamic Art Museum. Housed within a charming pavilion, the museum showcases a collection of ceramics, textiles, and artwork representing various periods and regions of Islamic art. The intricate designs and stunning craftsmanship on display provide insight into the cultural heritage of Morocco and the Islamic world.

To complete your visit, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the boutique located within the garden. Here, you can find a range of high-quality products inspired by Moroccan and Berber design, including clothing, accessories, and decorative objects. It’s a perfect place to find unique souvenirs or to simply indulge in some retail therapy.

Visiting the Majorelle Garden is a serene and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exploring the diverse plant life, admiring the iconic blue architecture, or delving into the rich cultural history within the museum, this botanical oasis will transport you to a world of beauty and tranquility.

Experiencing Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

No visit to Marrakech is complete without immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the beating heart of the city. This bustling square, located at the entrance of the medina, is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and flavors that will leave you captivated.

Jemaa el-Fnaa comes alive as the sun sets, transforming into a lively open-air theater where local performers, musicians, and storytellers gather to entertain the crowds. As you stroll through the square, you’ll encounter acrobats, snake charmers, henna artists, and traditional musicians, each showcasing their unique talents.

The square is a hub of activity and an excellent vantage point for people-watching and soaking up the vibrant street life of Marrakech. You’ll witness the buzz of locals and tourists mingling, food vendors sizzling up traditional Moroccan delicacies, and the constant rhythm of life in the city.

One of the highlights of Jemaa el-Fnaa is the mouthwatering street food. Tantalize your taste buds with an array of Moroccan culinary delights, from savory tagines and grilled meats to flavorful couscous and freshly squeezed fruit juices. Indulge in local specialties like Moroccan pastries, barbecued skewers, and the famous orange and avocado juice available from the numerous stalls.

For a truly immersive experience, venture into one of the many rooftop restaurants surrounding the square. From these elevated vantage points, you can savor delicious traditional dishes while marveling at the energetic scene below, with the distant sound of music and the aroma of food wafting through the air.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Jemaa el-Fnaa, you’ll find an array of market stalls offering an assortment of goods. From colorful textiles and leather bags to intricate metalwork and authentic Moroccan crafts, the market is a shopper’s paradise. Practice your negotiation skills and haggle for the best prices, but be prepared for the lively banter and friendly salesmanship that is synonymous with Moroccan markets.

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is also a gateway to the enchanting maze of the medina. From here, you can venture into the narrow alleyways, exploring the souks and discovering hidden gems along the way. Take a leisurely stroll through the medina, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and get lost in the myriad of sights and sounds that make Marrakech truly unique.

Visiting Jemaa el-Fnaa Square is an experience that will ignite your senses and stay with you long after you leave Marrakech. Embrace the energy, embrace the diversity, and embrace the magic that can only be found in this captivating square.

Discovering the Bahia Palace

Step into the opulent world of the Bahia Palace and immerse yourself in the beauty and grandeur of Moroccan architecture. Located in the heart of Marrakech, this magnificent 19th-century palace is a must-visit attraction that showcases the splendor of Moroccan craftsmanship and design.

As you enter the palace, you’ll be greeted by lush gardens, tranquil courtyards, and intricately carved wooden doors that lead to beautifully decorated rooms. The name “Bahia” translates to “brilliance,” and the palace lives up to its name with its stunning combination of Islamic and Moroccan architectural styles.

Originally built for Si Moussa, a former slave who rose to become the vizier of the sultan, the Bahia Palace was later expanded upon by his son Ba Ahmed, who added more extensive sections to the palace complex. The result is a sprawling masterpiece that is spread across a vast area.

As you wander through the palace, marvel at the elaborate stucco work, hand-painted ceilings, and the intricate zellige tilework that adorns the walls and floors. Each room tells a story of the luxury and opulence enjoyed by the families who once lived within its walls.

Some of the must-see areas within the Bahia Palace include the Grand Courtyard with its central fountain, surrounded by lush gardens and beautiful flower beds. The harem quarters, with their private gardens, offer a glimpse into the secluded world of the palace’s women.

Another highlight is the Council Chamber, an exquisitely decorated room adorned with ornate chandeliers and stunning stained glass windows. This chamber is a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who worked on the palace.

As you explore the palace, take a moment to pause in the peaceful courtyards, where you can admire the intricate details, listen to the soothing sounds of the water features, and appreciate the tranquility away from the bustling streets of Marrakech.

Visiting the Bahia Palace is like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the extravagant lives of Morocco’s elite. The palace allows you to appreciate the rich cultural heritage and exquisite craftsmanship of the country.

Make sure to allocate plenty of time for your visit to fully explore the palace and soak up its beauty. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a serene escape, the Bahia Palace will leave you awe-struck and inspired by its timeless elegance.

Enjoying Traditional Moroccan Cuisine

Indulging in the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine is an essential part of any visit to Marrakech. The country’s culinary traditions are a delightful blend of aromatic spices, succulent meats, and vibrant fruits, creating a rich tapestry of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

One of the signature dishes of Morocco is the tagine, a slow-cooked stew that derives its name from the conical clay pot in which it’s cooked. Tagines are made with a variety of ingredients, such as tender meats, aromatic vegetables, and an array of spices, resulting in a delectable and fragrant dish. Try the traditional lamb tagine or the vegetarian-friendly options like vegetable tagine or the popular tagine with preserved lemons and olives.

Couscous is another staple in Moroccan cuisine and is often considered the national dish. Made from finely ground semolina, couscous is usually served with a flavorful broth and a selection of vegetables and meats. The couscous is steamed to perfection, creating light and fluffy grains that soak up the delicious flavors of the accompanying ingredients.

Moroccan cuisine also showcases a variety of savory pastries and street food. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the famous Moroccan street food snack, the delicious and satisfying “b’stilla”. This pastry is filled with layers of flaky pastry, spiced meat (usually chicken, pigeon, or fish), and a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar, creating a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.

For those with a sweet tooth, Moroccan desserts will not disappoint. Treat yourself to traditional pastries such as “m’hanncha” (a coiled almond pastry) or “chebakia” (a fried sesame-coated cookie). Finish your meal with a cup of refreshing mint tea, a staple in Moroccan culture and a symbol of hospitality.

As you wander through the bustling streets of Marrakech, you’ll come across numerous food stalls and restaurants offering an array of Moroccan delicacies. Visit the food stalls at Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where you can sample an assortment of authentic street food, including grilled meats, aromatic spices, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.

For a more refined dining experience, visit one of Marrakech’s many restaurants that offer traditional Moroccan cuisine. These establishments often provide a cozy and elegant atmosphere, complete with richly adorned interiors and attentive service. Don’t be shy to try unfamiliar dishes and ask for recommendations from the friendly staff.

During your culinary journey in Marrakech, be prepared to indulge in the hearty flavors of Moroccan cuisine and embrace the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. From the aromatic spices to the rich and satisfying dishes, traditional Moroccan cuisine is truly a feast for the senses.

Shopping in Marrakech

Shopping in Marrakech is a vibrant and immersive experience that will delight any avid shopper or curious traveler. The city is renowned for its bustling souks, where you can find a treasure trove of traditional Moroccan goods and immerse yourself in the local culture.

One of the most iconic shopping destinations in Marrakech is the Medina, particularly the labyrinthine streets of the souks. Here, you’ll find a myriad of stalls and shops offering an array of goods, including textiles, leather goods, spices, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional Moroccan handicrafts.

The souks are a sensory overload of colors, scents, and sounds. Navigate your way through the bustling alleys, bargaining with friendly shopkeepers, and discovering unique items along the way. Take your time to explore the different sections of the souks, each dedicated to a specific craft, such as the leather souk, the carpet souk, or the spice souk.

When shopping in the souks, it’s important to embrace the art of negotiation. Haggling is a common practice in Moroccan markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate for the best prices. Remember to approach the process with a friendly and respectful attitude, and be prepared to meet in the middle to reach a fair deal.

If you’re looking for a more modern shopping experience, Marrakech also offers several shopping malls and boutiques. The Gueliz neighborhood is a popular area for modern shopping, with its trendy boutiques, designer stores, and stylish galleries. Here, you can find a mix of international and local brands, as well as contemporary fashion, homeware, and accessories.

For those interested in traditional Moroccan crafts, a visit to the Ensemble Artisanal is a must. This government-run artisan complex offers a selection of high-quality crafts, including handwoven textiles, intricate woodwork, ceramics, and metalwork. You can directly support local artisans here and have the opportunity to watch them work on their crafts.

When shopping in Marrakech, keep in mind a few useful tips. Be prepared to bring cash as many small shops in the medina may not accept card payments. It’s also a good idea to carry a bag or backpack to store your purchases, and be aware of your belongings in crowded areas.

Lastly, shopping in Marrakech is not just about acquiring souvenirs or material items, but also about immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture and supporting the talented artisans who keep traditional crafts alive.

Whether you’re hunting for unique treasures in the bustling souks or exploring the modern boutiques in Gueliz, shopping in Marrakech is an adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and one-of-a-kind souvenirs of your Moroccan journey.

Day Trips from Marrakech

While Marrakech offers an abundance of captivating sights and experiences, venturing beyond the city on a day trip allows you to explore the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures that Morocco has to offer. From stunning natural wonders to historical landmarks, here are some of the top day trips you can embark on from Marrakech.

Atlas Mountains: Escape the bustling city and venture into the magnificent Atlas Mountains. Just a short drive from Marrakech, this mountain range offers breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages, and opportunities for hiking or trekking. Explore the Ourika Valley, Imlil, or the Ouzoud Waterfalls for an unforgettable experience amidst stunning landscapes.

Essaouira: A visit to the charming coastal town of Essaouira is a popular day trip option. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sandy beaches, and vibrant blue and white medina, Essaouira offers a refreshing change of pace. Stroll along the historic ramparts, enjoy fresh seafood at the port, and soak in the artistic vibes that have attracted musicians and artists to this charming seaside town.

Ouarzazate: Embark on a journey to the “Gateway to the Sahara” – Ouarzazate. Located at the edge of the desert, this city is home to the exquisite Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a backdrop to many famous films and television shows. Explore the labyrinth of narrow alleys, admire the stunning architecture, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient fortified village.

High Atlas Berber Villages: Discover the unique Berber culture by visiting the traditional villages nestled in the High Atlas Mountains. Take a journey to remote settlements such as Imlil, Aroumd, or Amizmiz, and experience the hospitality of the locals. Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch, hike through scenic landscapes, and learn about the ancient customs and traditions of the Berber people.

Agafay Desert: Experience the desert landscape without venturing too far from Marrakech by visiting the Agafay Desert, also known as the “Desert of Marrakech”. Explore the vast expanse of golden sand dunes, enjoy camel rides, and savor a traditional Berber tea in a desert camp. This is a perfect option for those looking to have a taste of the desert experience within a short distance from the city.

These are just a few examples of the incredible day trip options available from Marrakech. Whether you choose to explore the majestic Atlas Mountains, stroll along the captivating Essaouira coastline, or delve into the rich history of Ouarzazate, each day trip will offer you a new perspective on the beauty and diversity of Morocco.

With so many diverse and fascinating destinations within reach, day trips from Marrakech are a fantastic way to complement your city adventure and create lasting memories of your journey through this enchanting country.

Safety Tips for Travelers in Marrakech

Marrakech is generally a safe city for travelers, but it’s always essential to take precautions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip. Here are some safety tips to consider when visiting Marrakech:

• Be cautious of your belongings: Like in any city, be mindful of your belongings and keep them secure. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so it’s advisable to use anti-theft bags or keep your valuables close to you. Avoid displaying expensive items, and always be aware of your surroundings.
• Dress modestly: Morocco has a conservative culture, and it’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and public places. Avoid overly revealing clothing and respect the local customs and traditions.
• Negotiate prices: Haggling is part of the Moroccan culture, particularly in the souks. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices for goods and services. However, be fair and respectful during the process.
• Use reputable taxis: When taking taxis, choose official taxis with the meter running or agree on a price in advance. Avoid unmarked or unofficial taxis, as they may overcharge or take longer routes.
• Drink bottled water: As tap water may not be safe to drink, it’s best to stick to bottled water and avoid consuming drinks with ice from unknown sources. Stay hydrated, especially during hot days, and carry a bottle of water with you.
• Plan ahead and use official guides: If you’re interested in taking tours or hiring guides, opt for licensed and reputable operators. Research and plan your activities in advance to ensure you choose trusted providers.
• Stay alert in busy areas: Places like Jemaa el-Fnaa Square can get crowded, so stay alert and keep an eye on your belongings. Be cautious of individuals trying to sell or offer services aggressively, as they may become persistent if declined.
• Follow local customs and traditions: Respect the local culture by observing customs and traditions. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in establishing goodwill with locals.
• Know emergency numbers and embassy information: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers, including those for the police and medical services. Also, make note of your embassy’s contact information in case of any emergency or assistance needed.
• Trust your instincts: Trust your instincts and use common sense throughout your trip. If a situation or place feels uncomfortable or unsafe, it’s best to remove yourself from it.

By practicing these safety tips, you can enjoy your time in Marrakech with peace of mind and make the most of your experience in this captivating Moroccan city.

Marrakech is a city that captivates visitors with its vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. From the bustling markets of the medina to the tranquil gardens and historic palaces, Marrakech offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

Throughout this ultimate travel guide, we have explored the best time to visit Marrakech, where to stay, top attractions, and must-try experiences. We’ve provided insight into the enchanting medina, the magnificent Majorelle Garden, the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the opulent Bahia Palace, and the tantalizing world of traditional Moroccan cuisine.

We have also discussed opportunities for day trips, allowing you to venture beyond the city and discover the stunning Atlas Mountains, charming Essaouira, historical Ouarzazate, thriving Berber villages, and the nearby Agafay Desert.

While exploring Marrakech, it’s important to prioritize your safety by being mindful of your belongings, respecting local customs, and staying alert in busy areas. By following the provided safety tips and planning ahead, you can navigate the city with confidence and peace of mind.

Marrakech is a city that stimulates all the senses, from the vibrant colors and aromatic spices to the sounds of laughter and music that fill the air. It’s a city where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with the modern world, offering a unique and immersive experience for travelers.

So, whether you’re strolling through the labyrinthine souks, sipping mint tea in a traditional riad, or marveling at the intricate architecture, Marrakech will leave an indelible mark on your heart.

Pack your bags, open your mind, and prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure in the enchanting city of Marrakech. Allow yourself to be swept away by the magic, warmth, and timeless beauty of Morocco.

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Marrakesh Travel Guide

TripSavvy / Chris VR 

Situated at the foot of the Atlas mountains, the imperial city of Marrakesh is large, noisy, polluted and smelly. But Marrakesh is also fascinating, full of history, the cultural center of Morocco and beautiful. If you enjoy a daily assault on all your senses then you'll have a lot of fun. When the most popular sights include numerous references to "tranquility" and "peace" like the Majorelle gardens or the gardens around the Saadian Tombs you know you're in for an interesting experience. If you find it a little overwhelming then get an official guide to take you around.

There are so many things to see, you should spend at least 3 days in Marrakesh. If you can afford it, treat yourself to a stay in a Riad so when you return from a hectic day amidst carpet salesman, fire jugglers and noisy souqs, you can relax and have a cup of mint tea in a nice quiet courtyard.

This guide to Marrakesh will help you figure out the best time to go; the best sights to see; how to get to Marrakesh and how to get around; and where to stay.

When to Go to Marrakesh

It is best to try and avoid the summer heat and crowds and visit Marrakesh in the cooler months between September and May. But, some annual events take place in summer which you may not want to miss.

• Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival in July. This annual festival attracts folk singers, dancers, fortune-tellers, acting troupes, snake charmers, fire-swallowers and more, from all over Morocco. Since 2000 the festival has also attracted many artists and entertainers from Europe and Asia. The main events take place in the ruins of the 16 century Badi Palace and the Djemma el Fna (main town square - see below).
• Fantasia is a horse-riding spectacle that includes hundreds of charging horsemen (and women) wearing traditional clothing. It's part of the Popular Arts Festival so it takes place at the same time in July. You can experience the Fantasia in the evenings outside the city walls near the Bab Jdid. If you don't get to see it in July, there's a restaurant that offers the Fantasia as entertainment while you dine, the Chez Ali . Up-market and touristy but I'm sure you won't forget the experience in a hurry.
• Imilchil Marriage Feast is a Berber marriage festival where up to forty couples tie the knot. It takes place in Imilchil in the Middle-High Atlas Mountains near Marrakesh. The festival is a great way to experience Berber culture including music and dance. The event takes place after harvest every year so the dates vary, it's usually held late August or early September.

Winter in Marrakech From mid-January to mid-February there is usually enough snowfall in the Atlas mountains to accommodate skiers . The Oukaimden ski resort is less than 50 miles away from Marrakech. There are several ski lifts and if they don't work you can always take a donkey up the slopes. If there's not enough snow the views are always spectacular and it's still worth the trip.

What to See in Marrakech

Djemma el Fna The Djemma el Fna is really the heart of Marrakech. It is a large central square in the old city (Medina) and during the day it's a perfect place to grab a freshly-squeezed orange juice and a handful of dates. At the end of the afternoon, the Djemma el Fna transforms into an entertainers paradise -- if you're into snake charming, juggling, music and that sort of thing. Snack stalls are replaced with stalls offering more substantial fare and the square comes alive with entertainment that hasn't changed much since medieval times.

The Djemma el Fna is surrounded by cafe's overlooking the square so you can just relax and watch the world go by if you're tired of jostling the crowds below. Be prepared to be asked for money when you take photos of the performers and stop to watch the entertainment.

Souqs The souqs are basically undercover markets that sell everything from chickens to high-quality crafts. The souqs of Marrakech are considered to be among the best in Morocco, so if you like  shopping and bargaining  you'll enjoy yourself tremendously. Even if you don't like shopping, the souqs are a cultural experience you wouldn't want to miss. Souqs are divided into small areas that specialize in a certain good or trade. The metal workers all have their little shops clustered together, as do the tailors, butchers, jewelers, wool dyers, spice merchants, carpet salesmen and so on.

The souqs are situated north of the Djemma el Fna and finding your way around the narrow alleyways can be a bit tricky. Guides are plentiful in Marrakech, so you can always use those services, but getting lost in the chaos is also part of the fun. It's often more interesting to peek into souqs where local wares are being produced than to be taken to yet another carpet shop by your guide. If you get lost, just ask for directions back to the Djemma el Fna.

Majorelle Gardens and the Museum of Islamic Art In the 1920's, French artists Jacques and Louis Majorelle created a stunning garden in the middle of Marrakech's new town. The Majorelle gardens are filled with color, plants of all shapes and sizes, flowers, fish ponds and perhaps the most pleasing aspect, tranquility. The designer Yves Saint Laurent now owns the gardens and has also built himself a house on the property. The building that gets most of the attention, however, is the bright blue and yellow building the Marjorelles used as their studio and which now houses the  Museum of Islamic Art . This small museum includes some good examples of Moroccan tribal art, carpets, jeweler, and pottery. The gardens and museum are  open daily  with a 2-hour lunch break from 12-2pm.

Saadian Tombs The Saadian dynasty ruled much of southern Morocco during the 16th and 17th centuries. Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour created these tombs for himself and his family in the late 16th century, 66 of them are buried here. The tombs were sealed up rather than destroyed in the 17th century and were only re-discovered in 1917. Consequently, they are beautifully preserved and the intricate mosaic is stunning. Despite being situated in the heart of the somewhat hectic old town (medina) the tombs are surrounded by a nice peaceful garden. The tombs are open daily except for Tuesday. It's advisable to get there early and avoid the tour groups.

The Ramparts of Marrakech The walls of the Medina have been standing since the 13th century and make for a wonderful early morning stroll. Each gate is a work of art in themselves and the walls run for twelve miles. The Bab ed-Debbagh gate is the entry point for the  tanneries  and provides an excellent photo opportunity full of vivid colors from the dyes used. It is a little smelly though.

Palais Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts) A palace and museum in one and well worth a visit. The palace is opulent and beautiful in itself with a lovely courtyard where you can relax and take some pictures. The museum's displays are well laid out and include jewelry, costumes, ceramics, daggers and other artifacts. The museum is open daily with a couple of hours break for lunch.

Ali ben Youssef Medersa and Mosque The Medersa was built in the 16th century by the Saadians and could house up to 900 religious students. The architecture is beautifully preserved and you can explore the tiny rooms where the students used to live. The mosque is adjacent to the Medersa.

El Bahia Palace This palace is a wonderful example of the best of Moroccan architecture. There's lots of detail, arches, light, engravings and what's more, it was built as a harem's residence, which makes it even more interesting. The palace is open daily with a break for lunch although it is closed when the royal family visits.

Getting to Marrakech

By Air Marrakech has an international airport with direct scheduled flights coming in from London and Paris and many charter flights arriving from all over Europe. If you are flying from the US, Canada, Asia or elsewhere, you'll have to change planes in  Casablanca . The airport is only about 4 miles (15 minutes) from the city and buses, as well as taxis, operate throughout the day. You should set the taxi fare before you get in. The major car rental companies are represented at the airport.

By Train Trains  run regularly between Marrakech and Casablanca . The trip takes about 3 hours. If you want to go to Fez, Tangier or Meknes then you can take the train through Rabat (4 hours from Marrakech). There is also an  overnight train  between Tangier and Marrakech. It's best to take a taxi to the train station in Marrakech since it's quite far from the old town (if that's where you're staying).

By Bus There are three national bus companies that operate between Marrakech and most major towns and cities in Morocco. They are Supratours, CTM and SATAS. According to recent traveller accounts on VirtualTourist.com SATAS doesn't have a very good reputation. Long-distance buses are comfortable and usually air-conditioned. You can buy your tickets at the bus depot. Supratours buses are handy if you are travelling onward by train since they stop at the Marrakech train station. The other bus companies arrive and depart from the long distance bus station near Bab Doukkala, a 20-minute walk from Jema el-Fna.

Getting Around Marrakech

The best way to see Marrakech is on foot especially in the Medina. But it's a sizable town and you'll probably want to make use of some of the following options:

• Taxis  are readily available throughout town and probably the most efficient way of getting to the main sites.  Grand taxis  are old Mercedes cars that carry up to six people for a fixed fare. They usually keep to specific routes and you'll find them at the bus station, Djemaa el Fna and the main Post Office in Gueliz (new town).  Petit taxis  are a little more expensive but you get it to yourself and they'll take you anywhere you want to go. The meters aren't always used so either ask the driver to switch it on or bargain for your fare before you hop in. Ask your hotel staff what a reasonable fare is if you know where you're going. Petit taxis in Marrakech are usually beige and you can just flag them down.
• Caleche  is a horse-drawn carriage and a popular way to get around Marrakech. There are set prices for the more common routes, around the ramparts for example, but for other routes, you'll have to bargain with the driver. Set the price before you hop in. You can catch a Caleche in the garden square between the Koutoubia Mosque and Djemaa el Fna, El Badi Palace and the more expensive hotels.
• Buses  within the town are frequent and cheap but can get crowded. The central bus station, Place El Mouarabitene is just outside Bab Doukkala on the northwestern edge of the old city. You can pay the bus driver directly. The no 8 will take you to the train station; the no 10 to the central bus station and the no 1 travels between the Medina and Gueliz (new town). Most buses will stop at the Djemaa-el-Fna
• Moped or Bicycle  is also a popular way to get around Marrakech and you can cycle within the medina which is handy. Check out  Maroc deux Roues  to get an idea about rates.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Riads One of the most sought-after accommodations in Marrakech is a  Riad , a traditional Moroccan house situated in the Medina (old town). All riads have a central courtyard that will often have a fountain, restaurant or a pool. Some riads also have rooftop terraces where you can eat breakfast and look out over the city. A comprehensive list of riads in Marrakech including photos and prices can be found on the Riad Marrakech website . Riads are not all expensive, check out the  Maison Mnabha ,  Dar Mouassine  and the  Hotel Sherazade  where you can stay in style but pay less.

There are two Riads in Marrakech of note:

• La Maison Arabe ; a luxury riad in the heart of the Marrakech Medina. Famous for its restaurant it also offers 13 rooms overlooking two courtyards and a beautiful hammam (traditional Moroccan sauna). You can catch hourly shuttles to the hotel's cooking school (20 minutes away) with swimming pool and gardens. Check rates and reviews.
• Riad Kniza ; situated in the heart of Marrakech's Medina just a few minutes walk from the Djemma el Fna (the main square). This small, romantic, beautifully furnished traditional Riad has 7 rooms, two lounges, a courtyard and several patios. The owner is an antique dealer and extremely knowledgeable about Marrakech. The Riad Kniza comes very highly recommended with glowing  reviews  from all who stay here.

Hotels Marrakech has lots of  luxury hotels  available including the famous La Mamounia, featured in the  Sex and the City 2  movie and which Winston Churchill described as "the most beautiful place in the world". There are also several popular chain hotels like the  Le Meridien , and  Sofitel . These hotels are often housed in historic buildings and retain the Moroccan character and style. 

Budget hotels  are also plentiful and Bootsnall has a decent listing of affordable options. Since many of the smaller budget hotels won't have websites or online booking facilities you should get a good guidebook, like the Lonely Planet and follow their recommendations. Most budget accommodation is situated south of the Djemaa el Fna.

Top 10 Things to See and Do in Marrakesh, Morocco

Your Trip to Morocco: The Complete Guide

The Top 15 Things to See and Do in Morocco

Nightlife in Marrakesh: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

The 18 Top Things to Do in Meknes, Morocco

The 15 Best Restaurants in Marrakesh

10 of the Best Places to Visit in Morocco

The 8 Best Places to Shop in Marrakesh

Marrakesh Medina, Morocco: The Complete Guide

Top 10 Destinations in North Africa

Your Ultimate Guide to Essaouira, Morocco

The 9 Best Day Trips From Casablanca

El Bahia Palace, Marrakesh: The Complete Guide

Fez Travel Guide

The Complete Guide to Moroccan Riads

Tangier, Morocco: Planning Your Trip

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25 Tips for your First Trip to Marrakech, Morocco

By Brianna | January 27, 2020

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Few cities capture the imagination quite like Marrakech. A blend of Berber, Arabic and French influences give this UNESCO World Heritage site a timeless appeal. With the beautiful frenzy of the Medina, ornate Arabic architecture and one of the world’s greatest cuisines it’s no surprise that more people are traveling to Marrakech now more than ever. Whether you spell it Marrakech or Marrakesh (both are acceptable), a visit to Morocco’s Red City is surely an experience you will  never forget. Marrakech can be overwhelming to say the least, with a dizzying array of sights, smells and tastes providing a sensory overload; but armed with these tips you can find the best things to do in Marrakech and make your first trip one to remember.

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1.Airport/Transportation in Marrakech

Flights to Marrakech arrive at Menara Airport (RAK). A valid passport is required for entry into Morocco, currently for Americans visas are not required for visits less than 90 days ( check the State Department website for the latest requirements ).

Taxis are available but best to arrange transportation with your hotel. If you are staying in the Medina be aware that cars can’t make it through the narrow streets to drop you off directly at your accommodation. Your riad or hotel can arrange for staff to meet you at a drop off point and walk with you to your destination.

2.Money in Morocco

Cash is king in Marrakech as only resorts, riads, some restaurants and a handful of shops accept credit cards. ATMs can be hard to find in the Medina (much easier in the new city) so your best bet is to exchange money at the airport (this can be done for no fee). Some riads and resorts will also exchange money for you. The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham(MAD) and currently the exchange rate is approximately 9 MAD/1USD. Of note, it is also illegal to take dirham out of Morocco so make sure you spend or exchange your dirham before leaving the country.

3. Tipping in Morocco

Morocco has a big tipping culture and it is expected that you tip anyone you assists you (whether that help was wanted or not). Be sure to carry plenty of coins and small bills.

4. Dress for Women

I did not once feel unsafe as a woman travelling in Marrakech and while many women visit and have a great experience it is not uncommon to hear from women who have received unwanted attention or catcalls. Marrakech tends to be more accepting of Western attire but as Morocco is a Muslim country women are advised to dress conservatively. So what should you wear in Morocco ? This means making sure your knees and shoulders are covered ( save the halter top for Ibiza ladies ). I wore loose t shirts and lightweight pants or long skirts most days, with a wrap or scarf to cover up if I got chilly at night. Close toed shoes are also a good idea as donkeys and other animals (and what they leave behind) are a common sight in the Medina.

5. Stay in an Authentic Riad in Marrakech

For a more authentic Marrakech experience a stay in a riad is your best bet. Riads are traditional Moroccan homes centered around a courtyard located within the Medina, most are 10 rooms or less and offer up a more intimate experience. Most riads are decorated with handmade items from the local souks and many feature beautiful courtyard pools and gardens as well as rooftop terraces. There are beautiful riads throughout Marrakech for every budget, for less than $100 per night you can enjoy the boutique hospitality of Riad Al Loune  or if you’re looking to splash out  check in at the luxurious  El Fenn . I loved my stay at Riad Farnatchi , a beautifully restored guesthouse in the heart of the Medina (read my review of Riad Farnatchi here ).

Riads in Marrakech

Budget riads.

Riad Haraka

Mid-Range Riads

Riad Sapphire

Riad Annyssates

Luxury Riads

6. Luxury Resorts in Marrakech

Marrakech’s modern and fashionable Ville Nouvelle (new city) is home to some some of the world’s most glamorous resorts. For five star luxury with a decidedly Moroccan flair check out the Royal Mansour   and La Mamounia .

7.Weather in Marrakech

Marrakech is a popular destination with nearly year round sunshine. Summers (June-September) can get quite hot with temperature near 100 degrees F while the winter months can get chilly with night time temps dipping into the 30 degree F range. March-May and September-October are generally pleasant with highs in the 70s and 80s.

8.Shop the Souks in Marrakech

I’m typically not a big shopper when I travel but Marrakech is one of the few places where I wish I had shopped more. Morocco has a rich heritage of crafts and instead of the typical “made in China” souvenirs I found the souks filled with leather goods ( I got a pair of handmade leather shoes for $18 ), beautiful metal work, colorful ceramics and handmade rugs.

9.Buying Moroccan Rugs in Marrakech

I had zero intention of buying a rug went I visited Marrakech.

I now own a Moroccan rug.

Our tour guide brought us into the cooperative and I fully expected to enjoy the demonstration while sipping my mint tea and go on my way. I’m not sure if it was the intricate Berber patterns, or the softness of the camel wool but I soon found myself the proud owner of a Moroccan rug and I absolutely love it. The quality of this handmade Berber rug far surpasses any commercial rug I’ve owned before. You will find rugs of varying size and quality throughout the souks, be prepared to haggle or buy your rug from a cooperative that ensures a fair wage for the craftswomen.

10. Language in Morocco

The official languages in Morocco are Modern Standard Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) and additionally many Moroccans speak French. While most people I interacted with spoke English it’s always a good idea to learn a few words of the local language wherever you travel, here are a few common words in Arabic:

Hello -Al Salam Alaikum,

Thank You – Shukran,

Yes – naäam,

No – Laa

11. Scams in Marrakech

Scams are an unfortunate part of life in the Medina, often in the form of unsolicited help with directions, telling tourists that the street they are on is closed or “tannery tours” , all of which will then demand a payment for their services. My friend Amanda of Marocmama has excellent advice on various scams in Marrakech.

12.Consider Hiring a Guide in Marrakech

The winding streets of the Medina can be overwhelming for a first time visitor, I recommend hiring a guide for your first afternoon or morning out to get a feel for the city as well learn about the history and culture of Marrakech. Have your hotel or riad arrange a guide for you or if you hire one on your own make sure they are licensed( licensed guides will have a badge).

13. You Will Get Lost

With the narrow winding streets of the Medina and little signage the chances of you getting lost at some point is fairly high. Paper maps provided by your hotel immediately mark you as a tourist, a better option is to download an offline map via Google maps. Beware of unsolicited advice for directions ( see Scams above ), if you must ask for directions your best bet is asking a shopkeeper or restaurant staff.

14. Food in Marrakech

Food in Marrakech is a feast for all the senses. The souks are lined with rows of sweet oranges, plump dates and countless varieties of olives while the air is heavy with the scent of intensely fragrant spices from the spice market.  Gently spiced shakshuka (eggs cooked in a gently spiced tomato sauce) and spongy Moroccan pancakes are a must for breakfast. You can’t leave Marrakech without  having a tagine; a stew, usually with chicken, lamb, beef or vegetables cooked and served in a clay pot of the same name. Eating is one of the best ways to experience Marrakech and a few of my personal favorites were sfenj ( a fried doughnut drizzled with intensely floral honey), msemen (fried bread either served plain or stuffed with spices, meat or cheese),  and tanjia (succulent lamb slow roasted in clay pots for hours in underground ovens). To see where the locals eat join one of several tours offered by Marrakech Food Tours or take a Moroccan cooking class .

15. Mint Tea in Morocco

Whether served as a sign of welcome, sipped during a business transaction or enjoyed as a way to unwind in the afternoon mint tea is central to life in Marrakech. A blend of green tea and fresh mint it is traditionally served very sweet.

16. Alcohol in Marrakech

Being a Muslim country alcohol is not prevelant though you can increasingly find wine, beer and cocktails in restaurants and hotels catering to tourists (often at exhorbitant prices). Surprisingly there are even a handful of Moroccan vineyards producing Spanish style wines. Drinking to the point of intoxication (especially in public) is highly frowned upon.

17.Religion

Islam is the official state religion of Morocco, you will hear the call to prayer ring throughout the city 5 times per days and in general non-Muslims are not allowed inside mosques. Friday is the Muslim day of prayer and you may find some businesses and restaurants closed.

18. Jamma el fna

When night falls Marrakech’s main square comes alive in what’s some call the greatest show on Earth. One of North Africa’s oldest and busiest market squares it is home to a dizzying array of dancers, magicians and storytellers vying for your attention (and dirham) as well as food vendors hawking a variety of Moroccan specialties. Of note, the animals you see with the snake charmers and dancing monkey acts are usually poorly treated and it’s best not to patronize these acts.

19.Be Prepared to Bargain

Haggling is an essential part of the shopping experience in Morocco. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the vendor does not agree to a final price you are comfortable with.

20. Argan Oil and Traditional Medicine in Morocco

Argan oil is arguably one of Morocco’s best known exports, usually used for hair and skin care in the US. Many shops in the souks sell pure argan oil both for cosmetic and culinary uses. Morocco has a long tradition of using herbs as traditional medicine and I recommend a stop at an herbalist for everything from natural remedies to fragrant cooking spices.

21. Bottled Water

To avoid any tummy issues it is advised that you use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

22.Toilet Paper

Toilet paper in public restrooms is not a given in Marrakech so it’s best to carry your own. In places where there is a restroom attendant make sure you leave a small tip.

23. Going to a Hammam in Marrakech

A visit to a hammam, a traditional Moroccan bathhouse, is a must for any visit to Marrakech. A typical hammam experience starts with a steam room, a thorough scrubbing with a traditional kessa mitt and an olive based black soap and several rinses alternately with warm and cool water. For a traditional experience you can visit one of Marrakech’s community hammams ( be aware that community hammams are separated by gender, either with separate spaces or differing times for men and women) or treat yourself to an elevated hammam experience at one of Marrakech’s luxury spas. Whatever hammam experience you choose know you will be naked (or nearly naked) in front of others.

24. Top Marrakech Attractions

Ben youssef madersa.

One of the most popular sites in Marrakech, the Ben Youssef Madersa previously served as a center for Islamic learning for over 400 years.  Today visitors marvel at the intricately carved Moorish walls and stunning tile mosaics.

Majorelle Gardens

Once a private retreat for famed French designer Yves Saint Laurent the Majorelle Gardens are a beautiful mix of Berber and French cultures and provide a calming respite from the hustle of Marrakech.

Le Jardin Secret

An oasis from the chaos of the Medina, this beautifully restored courtyard features stunning tile work and lush gardens.

Bahia Palace

Considered one of the most lavish palaces in Marrakech, Bahia Palace features expansive courtyards, lush gardens and ornate architecture.

There are also many great day trips you can take from Marrakech , from the golden sands of the Sahara to the rugged peaks of the Atlas Mountains . You can also visit the blue city of Chefchaouen .

25. Photography in Marrakech

The sights and colors of Marrakech can be irresistible to photographers but before you start snapping away nonstop be aware that many people in Marrakech are not open to having their picture, or pictures of their products, taken. In fact, I saw several signs in the souks requesting no photography. The main thing is to ask permission to take pictures and be respectful if the answer is no.

More Marrakech Inspiration

Review of the Selman Hotel, a luxury hotel in Marrakech  

Make sure to include Marrakech when you’re traveling through Morocco with kids .

Planning a trip to Marrakech, Morocco? Pin this post for later!

About the Author

Freelance travel writer and blogger who seeks out laid back luxury. Focus on culinary, adventure and nature travel. [READ ALL ARTICLES]

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February 9, 2018 at 1:24 pm

This is sooo helpful as we’re likely taking our first trip to Marrakech this spring after two years of living close by in Spain! Especially BYOTP (bring your own toilet paper) – eek!

Absolutely beautiful photos too, now you’ve got me even more excited to visit!

Brianna says

March 2, 2018 at 10:31 pm

Thank you so much! Marrakech is an amazing destination.

Rhonda Albom says

February 10, 2018 at 6:02 am

The medinas in Moroccan cities were fascinating. I always stayed in riads whenever I could. The staff in the riads provided great tips on everything from where to eat down to which stalls in the souk to buy particular items from. Don’t forget, Friday is couscous day although my favourite dishes were chicken tajines with preserved lemon and olives or chicken with prunes.

March 2, 2018 at 10:32 pm

The couscous dishes were some of my favorites!

February 10, 2018 at 9:17 am

What beautiful photos you have of Marrakech!

Hannah says

February 10, 2018 at 10:24 am

This is a great list! I was nervous about visiting Marrakech because I’ve read so many negative things but your list makes it sound incredible and has totally changed my mind about going! Thanks so much for sharing 🙂

March 2, 2018 at 10:33 pm

Marrakech can be overwhelming at first but is an amazing destination!

Marissa says

February 10, 2018 at 11:21 am

I just got back from Morocco last week, so I 100% agree with all of these! I found the souks in Marrakech had the best options compared to other cities I visited. It’s also important that you mentioned you will get lost because it’s true, but it’s fine. I tried to embrace it and “purposely” get lost during the day to explore more.

March 2, 2018 at 10:34 pm

The streets can be crazy to navigate for sure!

Rocio Novarino says

February 10, 2018 at 11:41 am

Nice pictures!! I am a photographer, so I take a particular look at the pictures always!! Stunning ones!

March 2, 2018 at 10:35 pm

Brianne Miers says

February 10, 2018 at 12:10 pm

Thanks for such a thorough and helpful post, Brianna! Marrakech is very high on my list, so this will be a great resource for me. Jamma el fna sounds like an incredible sight to see! And very interesting about the sensitivities surrounding photography.

Carmelatte says

February 10, 2018 at 12:12 pm

I am totally in love with your pictures <3

http://carmelatte.co/dubai-tour-guide-firsttimers/

Esther says

February 10, 2018 at 2:57 pm

I totally agree on this. Husband and I travelled through Morocco and loved staying in Riads. Guides were worth our money, since we really didn’t like the scams. Also, after visiting Morroco twice, we now know that it can take quite a while to get into the country as queues for customs can be looong. In Casablanca I nearly finished my book waiting kn line for almost 2 hours!! #weekendwanderlust

March 2, 2018 at 10:36 pm

Hiring a guide in Marrakech was a life saver for us!

February 10, 2018 at 10:22 pm

Thanks for all the tips.. They will come handy when I plan for Morocco.. Would you recommend going solo in that country?

March 2, 2018 at 10:39 pm

I had several friends travel solo in Morocco. Like anywhere be sure to take your usual safety precautions and be aware.

February 11, 2018 at 5:21 am

Souks of Marrakech look so colorful. I am not sure if I will pick up a carpet as they are heavy to carry, but I know I will end up picking something or the other. Are there herbalists available to explain those herbs? Due to lack of explanation, I always find it difficult to buy herbs.

March 2, 2018 at 10:40 pm

The merchant was able to ship my rug to me. There was an herbalist and she was very helpful.

Claire says

February 11, 2018 at 7:03 am

Great tips! Especially for the closed shoes – I wouldn’t want to step in something unpleasant! The food sounds amazing, I love shakshuka and tagine, although the European versions of them – I’ve never had them in Morocco. I think I’d need to take a food tour to sample all the delicious dishes I can!

Carolina Colborn says

February 11, 2018 at 12:05 pm

Great tips. I remember our trip to Tangier and it is the same: getting lost in narrow alleys and poorly treated animals for show. But the colors and food are truly amazing. Lots of good photographs and meals!

Yvette Benhamou says

February 11, 2018 at 2:45 pm

My dad is from Casablanca and a Morocco has long been on my list of places I’d like to visit. Great tips and your photos are stunning.

Indrani says

February 12, 2018 at 4:29 am

You had an excellent tour there! I am relieved to know it isn’t so unsafe for women there as it sounds. Thanks for the tips on dressing. Lucky you got a rug from there, hope to have one myself. This no photography sign I saw in Sharjah, UAE too.

February 12, 2018 at 5:56 am

Great tips! Morocco is high on my list of places to visit. Actually hope to make it there around April after traveling through Asia. It just seems like a place full of life, color and more. Saving this one so I can start planning my trip there. #weekendwanderlust

February 13, 2018 at 8:14 am

Morocco seems to be a popular spot right now. It was not on my radar so you comprehensive set of tips are something I have pinned in case we travel there. It would be a toss up for me whether I stay in a traditional Riad or what looks to be great luxury accommodations. Maybe splitting my time would work. We did a hammam in Cordoba and it was so relaxing. I would definitely look for one here. I must admit I laughed when I heard you bought a rug. I too usually avoid places like this – maybe because I am afraid I too would go home with a rug!

Sandy N Vyjay says

February 13, 2018 at 12:21 pm

This is an exhaustive dossier on Marrakech. Indeed a ready reckoner for first time visitors to Marrakech. Marrakech and Morocco have been on our bucket list and we hope to get there some day. When we do this post and the tips therein are going to stand us in good stead. Who knows, we may end up being the proud owners of a Moroccan rug.

alison abbott says

February 13, 2018 at 10:14 pm

I hear you! I had no intention of purchasing a carpet either. It’s one of my most favorite purchases ever and takes me back to the medina each day I walk on it. Great tips-they are all spot on.

JeffNourse says

February 15, 2018 at 8:23 am

What a useful tips you shared with us. It is really interesting and informative post. Thank you so much for sharing it.

Kristin L. says

February 15, 2018 at 10:03 am

I remember going to Marrakech for the first time in 2005 and I was SO stressed about what to wear, so I made sure I had plenty of things that covered my knees and my shoulders. Then, to my surprise, I arrived and found all the young local women wearing the shortest mini-skirts and tank tops! I’ve been back to Morocco twice since then and don’t worry about my clothing, except if I’m going in a mosque.

Lauren Monitz says

February 15, 2018 at 1:58 pm

Morocco is just so hot right now! While I don’t like going to super trendy places, I keep seeing these amazing photos and feel like I must!

Mike from TravelAndDestinations says

February 17, 2018 at 1:34 pm

Definitely the best post I have read on Marrakech. Me and my gf are thinking of visiting this year so it’s super helpful and also good to know about the scams. I will also check out your friends post that you recommended. The city looks amazing and I can’t wait to visit!!

February 17, 2018 at 9:45 pm

Very useful tips! I’m looking at going to Morocco so this is very timely. thanks!

February 19, 2018 at 11:01 am

OMG I’ve been dying to go to Morocco all year. Your pictures made my wanderlust worse, I went back in 2008 but as a backpacker so I couldn’t bring any big souvenirs back, I want to go back with an empty suitcase and hit the souks hard!

Charlotte says

February 19, 2018 at 11:57 am

I loved this post, so many great tips! Marocco is high on my travel wish list. And I have every intention of buying one of those incredible rugs 😀 Can’t wait!

Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says

February 20, 2018 at 9:32 pm

What a great post! We are ashamed to say that we have not been to Morocco, and we even have friends to visit there! Shame Shame Shame on us. When we do go, though… we’ll be reading through your posts again! Meanwhile, your beautiful pictures are fueling our Moroccan day dreams. 🙂

March 2, 2018 at 8:15 am

Lovely post and great tips to get me ready for my trip to Morocco! Cheers!

Cory Lee says

March 2, 2018 at 9:33 am

This is such a great post! I’ll be going to Morocco next month and while I’ll be touring a lot of the country, I’m most excited for Marrakech. Awesome tips here!

Jossus Travelpics says

March 2, 2018 at 10:11 pm

I loved Marrakech and the Bahia Palace.

Bernie Watt says

April 25, 2018 at 12:27 pm

Great advice. We are so, so keen to get to Morocco and this is quite the inspiration.

Sebastian Vaz says

August 10, 2018 at 2:42 am

I haven’t been to Morocco. But I have heard lots of good things about the country. Must visit soon. Your guide will help me plan. Thanks 🙂

Violet Tellez says

August 30, 2018 at 1:29 pm

Thank you for the insightful info. I’m currently planning a trip for next spring and originally thought about joining a tour group but since I’d rather have a more relaxed schedule, an individual tour guide might be best to help me get around. Can you recommend a good company that does this, please?

We3Travel says

September 21, 2018 at 5:00 pm

Great tips and I’m glad I read them before our trip!

Marilyn Jacob says

June 21, 2019 at 1:14 am

We are travelling.to Morocco in December,so it’s our very first time.Looking forward to our.holiday.Good tips and advice made sense to.me,so I.am aware ,I will make the best and enjoy Morocco.

August 2, 2019 at 7:09 pm

the amount of times i got lost in Medina, sometimes it was fun – like in Essaouira, sometimes a bit scarry like in Marrakesh, but still at least i have stories to tell.

Katie Diederichs says

February 1, 2020 at 12:02 pm

This is SO helpful! We’ve been itching to get to Morocco, so I’m definitely saving this for later.

February 1, 2020 at 1:14 pm

The food and the night market look amazing! I always feel like Morocco is a mysterious place.

Linnea says

February 1, 2020 at 1:36 pm

Great guide! I appreciated the tip about cash. How much was your rug if you don’t mind me asking? Did you ship it home?

Kariss Ainsworth says

February 1, 2020 at 3:49 pm

I’ve been looking at going here, it is so colourful!

Diana Sahara says

October 24, 2020 at 3:08 am

yeah it s amazing. Colors and smells…

February 1, 2020 at 9:36 pm

This guide was so so helpful thank you so much and loved the recommendations and the pictures. Looking forward to go to Le Jardin Secret it makes me curious.

October 24, 2020 at 3:06 am

Very useful tips! There is also a bus to go to the medina for those traveling on budget and yeah! For sure everyone gets lost in the medina. I think it s important to point that someone will try to help you when you get lost (expecting some tip) so better to let him know you will not tip him in advance…

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Marrakech Travel Guide: Travel Tips and our Honest Review

Marrakech – just a four hour flight from Europe, but a totally different world . Marrakech is overwhelming yet full of life, it will fascinate you and take your breath away. Anyone who travels to Marrakech expects a dream from the Arabian nights but is brought to the ground of reality pretty quickly. Why? We will tell you about it in this blog article.

So if you are planning a trip to Marrakech and are looking for reviews, then you’ve landed in the right place on our travel blog. We show you the most beautiful sights and highlights in Marrakech and reveal our personal tips . Ready for a full-on experience? Let’s go!

1. Marrakech: Expectations vs. Reality

2. marrakech travel guide: best places to visit, 3. eating & drinking in marrakech: our tips, 4. where to stay: hotel tips for marrakech, 5. extra travel tips: transport and security in marrakech.

Marrakech – some love it, others hate it. Ok, hate may be an exaggeration, but let’s put it this way: we know enough people who traveled to Marrakech with very high expectations and were subsequently left very disappointed. The reason for this is quite simple: many associate Marrakech with a dream from 1001 Arabian nights. Unfortunately, this is not quite the reality . Let’s go into that a little more.

Marrakech: what REALLY awaits you

Almost nowhere in Morocco is tourism as strong as in Marrakech. The locals react with such behavior that you cannot even accuse them of: they are just trying to make as much money as possible. In the souks (the markets) you get ripped off quickly. And when you are invited to a mint tea, it is clear what follows: of course they want to sell you something.

In addition, there is of course the Arab culture : In patriarchal Morocco (sadly) men are in charge. And you can see that on the streets, too, because comparatively, you find few local women. As a European-looking woman, you immediately stand out and are often addressed.

The feeling that someone is constantly trying to sell you something is not a nice one. And after the 10th time “No, thank you.” It will – admittedly – also be annoying. In this respect we can understand people who find Marrakech exhausting.

The good news: if you adjust to it, it’s not half as bad. We personally have had no negative experiences in Marrakech. Sure, the dealers sometimes get uncomfortably close, but fortunately physical assaults are rare.

Marrakech is not the same everywhere as what Instagram shows

The hotels and riads (traditional Moroccan accommodation) in Marrakech are at least as nice as you would expect. To be honest, we have never traveled to a country where the hotels are as tasteful as in Morocco. If you are looking for the dream of 1001 nights in Marrakech, you will almost certainly find it in your own accommodation.

However, the streets are a different story. You have to be aware of that. The bustling souks, the people, the donkey carts and other animals, the rushing mopeds, the smells and new impressions that are pounding on you – all this can be overwhelming pretty quickly. Marrakech is an adventure – and not just a pretty Instagram feed.

How many days should I plan for a trip to Marrakech?

Our biggest recommendation to you is this: Please don’t just stay in Marrakech. Morocco has so much more to offer and we highly recommend exploring more of this country. (We also liked many other destinations, such as Fez , better than Marrakech.)

If you are planning a tour of Morocco , Marrakech is a good first stop. We would recommend that you stay here for about 3 to 4 nights . During this period you get a good insight and can easily visit the most important sights of Marrakech.

If Marrakech is your only travel destination in Morocco, we would stay a little longer, maybe about 5 nights . So you can take one or two extra day trips (e.g. to the Atlas Mountains).

Medina & Souks

Let’s start right here, where the action is: the medina. The medina is the old town of Marrakech and a labyrinth of allegedly narrow streets. Some of the sights that we will list here are also in the medina – nevertheless, the medina is definitely a highlight in itself, so we wanted to describe it separately.

Keeping your bearings in the medina is practically impossible. So just go ahead and see where your path leads you. It is particularly crowded in the souks , i.e. the markets of Marrakech. If you go north from Djemaa el Fnaa (the huge square – more on that in a moment), you will get straight to the souks.

Teapots, carpets, lamps, spices, shoes, scarves – if you want to buy souvenirs or new favorite items for your apartment, you’ve come to the right place. Very important: negotiating or bartering is part of the experience ! Traders will initially ask for at least double to three times what they imagine.

Would you prefer to visit the souks accompanied by an experienced guide? Then we can highly recommend a guided tour of the markets.

You can book the tour here: Tour of the souks of Marrakech

Djemaa el Fna

The infamous big square of Marrakech is the heart of the city and probably the most important sight of Marrakech . The official name of the square is Djemaa el Fna – in Marrakech, however, the French word “La place” is usually used interchangeably.

On the Djemaa el Fna, a vibrant, colorful hustle and bustle of jugglers, drummers and food stalls awaits you. The place is incredibly spacious, incredibly chaotic – and incredibly touristy. After the first sensations have pelted on you, someone will probably be standing in front of you trying to sell you something.

Important: On Djemaa el Fna, it is common for you to be asked for money as soon as you point your camera at locals. (Incidentally, this is the case in many larger cities in Morocco.) With the bustle you don’t even notice that you might have someone in front of your lens. So just stay polite and tip. But please leave the animal shows with snakes and monkeys!

The later the afternoon , the fuller it gets on the Djemaa el Fna. The flair becomes very special in the evening when the street restaurants start their grills and smoke plumes spread over the square.

Our tip: There are countless rooftop bars and restaurants on the edge of the square. You shouldn’t miss out on watching the sunset over the rooftops of Djemaa el Fna. The best thing to do is order a fresh mint tea and be a witness of how the place changes from minute to minute.

Bahia palace

One of the most beautiful sights in Marrakech is without a doubt the magnificent Bahia Palace. The palace dates back to the late 19th century and beautifully combines Andalusian and Moorish architecture .

When visiting, you usually follow the tour that leads you through countless rooms and courtyards . You will pass orange trees, fountains, elaborate carvings and mosaics – in short: a paradise for all those who can do something with Moroccan architecture.

Because the Bahia Palace is one of the highlights in Marrakech, the rush is usually quite large. We therefore recommend that you come as early as possible so that you can visit the palace in peace.

Admission: 70 Dirhams Opening times: 9 am to 5 pm

Ben Youssef Madrasa

One of our favorite places in Marrakech! The Ben Youssef Madrasa is a former Koran school . No kidding, it looks like a scene taken from a picture book! We have to say that we were really lucky because we came during a time slot in which there were hardly any other people on site. (A huge tour group arrived after us – so it’s unfortunately not always so ‘empty’.)

The Ben Youssef Madrasa probably dates back to the 14th century . Although the building is not too spacious, we spent at least an hour soaking up the flair and taking photos of the mosaics.

Current note: The Koran school is currently being renovated (early 2020), but should be opened again soon.

Entry: 50 Dirhams Opening times: 9 am to 5 pm

Koutoubia Mosque (= Kutubiyya Mosque)

The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech and the symbol of the city . Its impressive 77 meter high minaret is visible from many places in the city and is a good point of orientation. The mosque dates back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest in the country.

The downer: The Koutoubia mosque can only be visited by Muslims. Other believers are denied access. Even though we could only admire the mosque from the outside, it was still quite a highlight.

Majorelle Gardens (Jardin Majorelle)

The Jardin Majorelle is one of the most visited attractions in Marrakech and is highly praised in many travel guides. This botanical garden was once bought by the French artist Yves Saint Laurent and extensively redesigned in several stages.

The color scheme is rather strange: cobalt blue and yellow are predominant. In the midst of huge cacti and palm trees, cobalt blue and yellow elements such as pavilions or benches flash out.

The Jardin Majorelle is an oasis away from the hectic medina of Marrakech. But we have to be honest: personally, the garden didn’t impress us as much as we were expecting. Although we did find it a little overrated, the Jardin Majorelle is of course still worth a visit.

In addition to the Jardin Majorelle itself, you can also visit the Berber Museum and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum . We generally recommend that you avoid lunch time, because there is usually a lot going on at that time. It is not uncommon to have to queue at the entrance for a really long time.

Admission: 100 Dirhams (Jardin Majorelle only), 220 Dirhams (combined ticket for Jardin Majorelle, Berber Museum and Yves Saint Laurent Museum) Jardin Majorelle opening times: May to September from 8 am to 6 pm, October to April from 8 am to 5:30 pm, during Ramadan from 9 am to 4:30 pm

Anima: André Heller garden

One of the newest sights in Marrakech is André Heller’s garden called Anima. The garden is by no means as crowded as the Jardin Majorelle, but it is made a lot more impressive and complex.

What awaits you here? A three hectare (!) Large garden that combines wonderfully lush vegetation with art . You are surprised as you peer around every corner and there are so many botanical and artistic details that you can never pay attention to everything during a visit.

The Anima Garden is located a few kilometers outside the center of Marrakech. There is a free shuttle that runs about three times a day. Departure is from the parking lot behind the Koutoubia mosque (Parking + Lavage La Koutoubia). The journey takes about 40 minutes.

You should take enough time for your visit. You can stroll for several hours without any problems and you will always discover something new. There is also a nice café on the site, Café Paul Bowles , which is perfect for a break.

Entry: 120 Dirhams Opening times: 9 am to 6 pm

La Maison de la Photographie

The Maison de la Photographie is a photo museum that shows historical photographs from Morocco . The museum is housed in a beautifully renovated riad and is therefore worth visiting.

If you are interested in photography, we can warmly recommend a visit to this museum. We personally really enjoyed the Maison de la Photographie. It is a small oasis away from the lively medina.

Our tip: The pinnacle of the visit is waiting for you on the roof terrace of the museum. There is a small restaurant with a wonderful view – be sure to drop by!

Entry: 50 Dirhams Opening times: 9:30 am to 7 pm

Marrakech has an incredible variety of restaurants and cafes. There are simple, inexpensive street restaurants as well as hip, international trendy restaurants with fusion cuisine.

You shouldn’t miss two specialties in Morocco. First of all, there is fresh mint tea . This is drunk on almost every occasion in Morocco and is characterized by the fact that it is very sweetened. And the second specialty would be Tajine , a braised vegetable and meat dish that is prepared in the clay pot of the same name and is often served with couscous.

Tajine is often available as a vegetarian version, but unfortunately this is often the only meatless dish in traditional restaurants. If you have a vegetarian or vegan diet, we recommend the HappyCow app when searching for a restaurant.

Tips for restaurants and cafes in Marrakech

Nomad: trendy place with a beautiful roof terrace from which you can see the Atlas Mountains. Creative Moroccan dishes are on the menu.

M Rooftop: Very nice, young rooftop restaurant with a view of the minaret of the Koutoubia mosque. Traditional dishes with a modern touch are served at a very high level. Highly recommended!

Café Clock: Young, artistically inspired restaurant with good cuisine. Moroccan dishes are served.

The accommodations in Marrakech (and generally in all of Morocco) are to die for. If possible, we would recommend staying in a riad. Riads are traditional Moroccan houses with a beautiful courtyard. We stayed in two very different accommodations in Marrakech, both of which we highly recommend.

Tip for boutique riad: Riad dar Karma

The Riad dar Karma is a beautiful boutique riad located in a hidden alley in the center of Marrakech. From the outside you cannot imagine what kind of an oasis awaits you behind the gates.

You spend the night here in traditional and very tasteful rooms. There are only six rooms or suites in total, which is why the Riad dar Karma has a very personal, pleasant atmosphere. There is a small pool in one of the two courtyards. The highlight, however, is on the roof: the roof terrace is literally a dream. In good weather, breakfast is served here every day. There is no better way to start the day.

The Riad dar Karma is located in the so-called Kasbah district , which is about a 20-minute walk from Djemaa el Fna. The advantage: It is comparatively quiet in the Kasbah district, but you are pretty central and you can reach all sights on foot.

You can book the riad here: Riad dar Karma

Tip for luxury hotel: La Sultana Marrakech

Would you like to treat yourself to a little luxury ? Then we can recommend La Sultana Marrakech. We stayed here for one night. A palace-like, stately hotel with a unique flair awaits you here. There are 28 rooms, but over 100 employees – that actually says it all.

Breakfast is terrific and the spa is in a class of its own. The indoor pool is a dream of 1001 nights and rightly the most photographed motif in the whole hotel. Another highlight is the roof terrace, from which you can enjoy a wonderful view.

If you could find a fault in anything, it would be the location of some rooms on the ground floor, which get very little light entering the room. Nonetheless: a unique, highly recommended hotel.

You can book the hotel here: La Sultana Marrakech

Local transport: How do I get from A to B in Marrakech?

Most of the sights in the center of Marrakech can be easily reached on foot : The Djemaa el Fna, the souks, the Koutoubia mosque and the Ben Youssef Madrasa, for example, are all within walking distance. In addition, the alleys in the medina are sometimes so narrow that you cannot even get in with a car.

However, some distances (for example to the Jardin Majorelle) are too far to walk – or of course you are just too tired at some point. Then we recommend a so-called petit taxi.

Taxis in Marrakech

There are Grands Taxis (i.e. large) and Petits Taxis (i.e. small) in many cities in Morocco. Petits taxis are more for inner-city transportation. They are so small that they can drive in very narrow streets.

A petit taxi ride in Marrakech costs around 30 Dirhams . There should actually be a taximeter in every taxi, but the driver will almost certainly try to convince you that it doesn’t work. Arguing often makes little sense, so it’s best to set a fixed price. If the price seems clearly excessive (50 Dirhams or more are often asked for), just ask the next taxi driver.

From the airport to the city

The easiest way to get to the hotel from the airport is by taxi. You can take both a petit and a grand taxi for this. Be sure to set the price in advance! The trip should not cost more than 150 Dirhams – best case you are bartering down from there.

Travel Guide to Marrakech

Option 1: complete travel guide for morocco.

If your trip not only takes you to Marrakech, but also to other parts of Morocco, we can highly recommend the Rough Guide travel guide. Rough Guide travel guides are well-known by the fact that they are fairly detailed and very well researched.

The new edition of the Morocco travel guide by Rough Guide was published in 2019 and is therefore quite up to date. Our conclusion: perfect for all individual travelers!

You can buy the guide here: The Rough Guide Morocco

Option 2: Travel Guide to Marrakech

If you only travel to Marrakech, an entire Morocco travel guide makes no sense. In this case we recommend the Lonely Planet Pocket travel guide. This guide is rather compact, but sufficient for a city trip to Marrakech. We really like the clear design of this travel guide series.

You can buy the guide here: Lonely Planet Marrakech

Security in Marrakech

We have to honestly admit: In Marrakech we felt the most uncomfortable of all places in Morocco. Fortunately, nothing happened to us, but the narrow streets of the medina were really not a place to relax, especially at night.

As already described in the introduction to this blog article, some of the men are very pushy. Poverty is also a big issue in Morocco. Pickpocketing is just a norm. We therefore strongly recommend that you carry your valuables as close to your body as possible instead of simply hanging them loosely around your shoulders.

Would we still go back to Marrakech? For sure! Would we recommend women traveling alone to Marrakech? On condition, to be honest. But we wouldn’t specifically advise against it either. At any rate, we would only avoid the medina at night.

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

We were invited by La Sultana Marrakech for one night – thank you very much! This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, then we will receive a small commission. This will not change the prices for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you ever been to Marrakech? How did you like it? Are you perhaps one of those who were rather disappointed? Maybe you have other recommendations? We look forward to reading your comments with any extra tips!

You might also be interested in this

Morocco Travel Guide: How to prepare and plan your Trip

Fez Travel Guide: Best Sights and Tips for the Oldest Medina in Morocco

Casablanca Travel Guide: How to Spend the Perfect Day

2 responses.

We are traveling to Marrakech in November and your travel guide has been very useful, thank you.

Hello Ann, Thank you so much – really appreciated! :) Safe travels Kathi & Romeo

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With unique cultural features, Marrakech (Marrakesh) Morocco is the place for you to have many interesting discoveries about this North African country. There are a lot of things to start with Morocco but since Marrakech is one of my first destinations, I will give you an overview of my trip to Marrakech. So, is Marrakech worth visiting, what to do in Marrakesh and how to plan a budget trip to Marrakech perfectly? Let’s check out our Marrakech travel blog (Marrakesh blog) with the fullest Marrakech travel guide (guide to Marrakesh, Marrakesh tourist guide, Marrakech city guide, Marrakech guide, Marrakech tourist guide, Marrakesh guide) from how to get Marrakech, best places to do, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Marrakech to help you maximize your trip as follows!

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If you like the mystery and vibrant, a bit ancient, you will definitely like Marrakech. However, Morocco is not a developed country and modern civilization like Singapore or European countries, but this is a country for those who love to explore, experience and study because I think it’s a bit ancient and has a wild look.

Overview of Marrakech (#guide to marrakesh)

As one of the most beautiful and appealing cities in Morocco, Marrakech is a must-visit when traveling to North Africa. This city of over thousands of years was once a thriving city, a great shopping place and home to some of the most stunning architectures that you’ll hard to find anywhere else in the world. The Moroccan city of Marrakech is also famous for its beautiful, magnificent riads (hotels often converted from traditional houses in the past) and you’ll find great little shops dotted the winding streets throughout its Medina (Old Town).

Marrakech is the country’s fourth largest city, after Casablanca, Fes and Tangier. Marrakesh, located in the southwest, was once the capital of Morocco, playing an important role in the trans-Saharan trade route. The history of formation and development of Marrakesh goes through many periods. Since the 13th century, Marrakesh was no longer the capital, but is still one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, an important commercial center. Marrakesh is also one of Morocco’s art cities, a national and international tourist destination.

Until now, it’s still a pearl of the Orient as it was centuries ago, Marrakech attracts all kinds of visitors. There are few places where red is so overwhelming as in Marrakesh, houses, walls, even the streets are painted pink or red. Perhaps that’s why it dubbed the “red city”. I don’t know if it’s because of that bright color or not, but everyone who comes here has a feeling of optimism and joy. Here, everyone will find something interesting for themselves.

Marrakech is a favorite place for both backpackers, snacking in roadside stalls at the square and sleeping on bunk beds in budget inns to Hollywood stars who have their own rooms in splendid, luxury hotels.

When to visit? (#marrakech travel blog)

The time I went was summer and on their second big holiday – Aid el Kebir, which usually falls in July/August. This holiday season is when each family raises one sheep (the poorer family will raise a goat) and then slaughter it and give it to family, friends, and neighbors. Because wherever I go, there were people with their goats and sheep, which I admit is very foul. Just like Tet in Vietnam, at this time everyone is returning home, so bus tickets sell out quickly.

If I have a chance to go next time, I will try to avoid these holidays. In addition, you can go in other months that are quite cool (April and May is the peak time), the weather is pleasant. However, always bring a jacket because the temperature at night will be significantly lower than during the day (except in summer, it is always hot, peaking in July and August). It doesn’t rain much so you don’t have to worry.

Marrakech is warm all year round. The average temperature is around 12 degrees Celsius in the coldest months and 30 degrees Celsius in the summer. It can get super hot (more than 38 degrees Celsius) on summer afternoons.

How to get to Marrakech? (#marrakech travel guide)

Plane (#marrakech travel blog).

The city of Marrakech Morocco has an international airport Marrakesh Menara Airport (IATA: RAK, ICAO: GMMX) with direct scheduled flights to London and Paris and many arrivals from all over Europe. If you depart from Asia or elsewhere, you will have to transit in Casablanca. The airport is only about 4 miles (15 minutes) from the city center and buses, as well as taxis, operate all day. You should bargain taxi fare in advance.

Tips for check-in at the airport: When I flew to the airport, there was no issue at all. Standing in line waiting for security procedures to go out is a bit long, the airport is not too large, so it’s easy to navigate. However, when you take a return flight, you should note that although you can completely check in online, you still have to go to at Marrakech airport 3 hours in advance to bring the boarding pass to validate (get a stamp of confirmation) at the check-in counter of the airline. Last time I didn’t know, arrived 2 and a half hours in advance and was left behind, buying a new ticket to go back cost £350. After the trip, I learned the harsh lesson of not being careless, for air tickets, if there is any information, just read through it all because each airport will have a different regulation.

Train (#marrakech travel guide)

Regularly run between Marrakech and Casablanca. The trip takes about 3 hours. If you want to go to Fez, Tangier or Meknes then you can take the train via Rabat (4 hours from Marrakech). There is also a night train between Tangier and Marrakech. It’s the best to take a taxi to the train station in Marrakech as it’s quite far from the old town (if that’s where you stay).

There are three national bus companies operating between Marrakech and most major towns and cities in country of Morocco. They are Supratours, CTM and SATAS. Long-distance buses are comfortable and usually air-conditioned. The Supratours bus is handy if you’re traveling by train from Marrakech train station.

Getting around

From one province to another.

The main means of transportation are buses and trains. Taking the bus here is the most convenient and fastest (CTM or Supratours are both reputable and comfortable), if the bus tickets are sold out, you can always take the train as an alternative. However, you won’t like take a train because it’s hot and packed with passengers (stuffed like sardines, air conditioning is also not effect). Probably because the time I went was the big holiday season. If you don’t go on the holiday, it probably won’t be so bad.

Getting around the city

You can walk or take a taxi but remember to bargain! That is why you should stay in a place near the center, so it will be easier to move and more economical for you. Normally I would walk, but sometimes it’s too hot so I have to take a taxi.

Taxis are available all over town and are probably the most efficient way to get to tourist attractions. Large taxis are old Mercedes vehicles that carry up to six people at a fixed fare. They usually follow specific routes and you will find them at the bus stop, Djemaa el Fna and the main post office in Gueliz (new town). Taxis are usually a bit more expensive than other means of transport but it is convenient and you get to wherever you want. The meter on taxis is not always used, so ask the driver to turn it on or bargain the price before you get on any taxi.

Caleche is a horse-drawn carriage and a popular way to get around the city of Marrakech. For example, prices are clear for popular routes, but for other routes you will have to haggle with the driver. Should bid before you get in the car. You can catch a Caleche in the garden square between the Koutoubia mosque and Djemaa el Fna, El Badi Palace.

Buses in town are cheap but can be crowded. The central bus station, Place El Mouarabitene is located just outside Bab Doukkala on the northwest edge of the old town (Medina). You can buy tickets from the bus driver directly. Bus number 8 will take you to the train station, number 10 goes to the central bus station and number 1 runs between Medina and Gueliz (new town).

Motorcycles or bicycles are also a popular way to get around Marrakech and you can cycle in the medina which is very great.

What to do and where to go in Marrakesh? (#marrakech blog)

Majorelle garden and museum of islamic art.

Address: Rue Yves St Laurent, Marrakech 40090, Morocco Hours: 8AM–6PM

In the 1920s, French artists Jacques and Louis Majorelle created a beautiful garden in the middle of the new town of Marrakech. The Majorelle gardens are filled with colour, plants of all shapes and sizes, flowers, fish ponds. Designer Yves Saint Laurent currently owns the gardens and has also built a house on the site himself. The building that gets the most attention, however, is the bright blue and yellow building that Majorelle used as his studio and is now the Museum of Islamic Art. This small museum includes some good examples of Moroccan tribal art, rugs, goldsmiths and pottery. Gardens and museums open daily to visitors.

I fell in love with this place from the moment I walked in, a completely cool place in contrast to the 38 degrees Celsius outside. Except for the fact that it is popular tourist attraction. However, it is a place worth visiting. The history of the garden is also interesting as the garden was owned by an architect, then abandoned for a while and then bought by YSL, so you will see YSL’s museum in this lovely garden.

Medina (#marrakech blog)

Medina is the old quarter of Marrakech with maze-liked alleys, all kinds of shops where you can easily get lost. Even the map can’t update all medinas, so be careful. Normally, Riads will be located in the medina, so you should remember the way carefully.

The booked hotel is in the heart of the medina, so you must ask a guide to get to the right address. The zigzag alleys, the streets slanting into the street like the matrix of the Moroccan medina have been famous for a long time. As for its confusion, the houses are all shops selling or concurrently providing all kinds of repair services, crafting and handicrafts.

The wall of about 9 km long surrounding this labyrinth protected the dynasties many centuries ago, contributing to closing the life of the inhabitants inside. Therefore, the medina becomes more and more mysterious to strangers from afar. Just one day strolling in the old town of medina, a thousand and one interesting things can come to you.

The entrance to the doors of the mosques is the stopping line of the infidels, but it doesn’t matter. At Ben Youssef Madrasa Marrakech islamic school, visitors can visit its architectural masterpiece. In the center of the yard is a square lake lying close to the ground, reflecting the panorama of Medersa Ben Youssouf like a giant mirror.

Ben Youssef Madrasa is an ancient Islamic school in Morocco. Its mosaic entrance is always a “like” magnet for your photos. The wooden doors are carved in the Islamic style, the dome is in the Arabic style, and the top is filled with colorful tiles in geometric patterns.

Souqs (#marrakesh tourist guide)

Souqs (or Souks) are basically Moroccan traditional markets selling everything from food to high-quality crafts, so if you like  shopping and haggling, you’ll love this place. Even if you don’t like shopping, souqs are a cultural experience you don’t want to miss. Souqs is divided into small areas that specialize in a certain item such as apparel stores, jewelry, wool dyeing, spices, carpet sales, etc.

The souk is a must-visit place when traveling to Morocco if you like shopping or simply visit to know and try your bargain ability. You should buy a Moroccan rug as a souvenir, or buy a traditional djellaba (a long, loose-fitting unisex outer robe with full sleeves) here. Djellaba is the type of costume that two characters Yoda and Obi-Wan Kenobi wore in the hit “Star Wars” series. The souk located in the Medina is an old and attractive market in Marrakech, when you come here you will have the opportunity to shop to your heart’s content at affordable prices.

Musee Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts)

Address: 8 Rue de la Bahia, Marrakech 40000, Morocco Hours: 10AM–6PM/Tuesday: Closed

A 2 in 1 palace and museum well worth a visit. The palace is luxurious and beautiful with a lovely courtyard where you can relax and take some pictures. The museum is a place to display jewelry, costumes, ceramics, daggers…

El Bahia Palace

Address: Rue Riad Zitoun el Jdid, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco Hours: 9AM–5PM

This place is a great example of the finest Moroccan architecture. There are a lot of details, arches, lighting, carvings and it was built as a harem residence, which makes it even more interesting. The palace is open daily and has a lunch break but will be closed when the royal family visits.

Bahia Palace with its beautiful royal garden and hundreds of elaborately carved rooms, full of precious items is the most vivid evidence showing the luxurious life of the Moroccan royal family in previous centuries.

Bahia Palace is known as one of the most typical works for Nouveau Riche architecture (architectural style inspired by spacious nature) of the 19th and 20th centuries. The garden is fragrant with fresh citrus scent, the fountains placed throughout the palace hall or the traditional zouak motifs of the Middle East blend in the whole to create a magnificent construction.

It is a cultural and historical site with a long history and unique architecture that every visitor to Marrakech should not miss. The palace was built in 1578 with 360 rooms, a large outer courtyard and used a large amount of gold imported from Sudan to decorate El Bahia. Especially underground contains a small prison used by the king to imprison prisoners.

Conquering the Atlas Mountains (#marrakesh blog)

Cross the hills to conquer the Atlas Mountains or climb Mount Toubkal – North Africa’s highest peak. If that’s still not special enough, you can cross the mountains and go to the desert camping of the Dar Ahlam hotel right in the middle of the dunes, at the gateway to the Sahara.

Zagora desert tour

There will be different types of tours, 3 days 2 nights, 2 days 1 night… but because we didn’t have enough time and probably can’t stand it if we don’t shower and go to the toilet in the desert in hot weather, so we chose the tour of 2 days 1 night only. However, there are many different places and tours, I recommend you to take 3 days and 2 nights tour because you will go deep into the Merzouga desert, the scenery will be more beautiful, but it takes time to travel from Marrakech to the campsite, from 9-12 hours, very tired because of the zigzag road, those who are prone to motion sickness with car should prepare mentally, take medicine and remember to have breakfast before going. If you do not want to go far, you can refer to other desert tours closer (Scarabeo Camp). If you choose to go to another desert closer but still want to visit other places far from the city, you can find day tours and return, so it will be less tiring.

Tour prices are vary, depending on your budget, luxury also, affordable also. As for us, we are only students, so the tour is not very expensive and I booked that tour in the Riad.

Itinerary: You will be taken by car to places in desert, however, the way is very long (as I mentioned above), stopping at rest points and a village recognized by UNESCO. Once you arrive, you will be able to ride camel into the campsite with tents. I have to admit that the feeling of riding a camel is fun and interesting but very painful, the next day I can’t go all the way back.

In terms of my own experience:

It was a fun experience with new friends from Germany, Italy, and Spain. However, I don’t like the fact that the tour has many stops and a tour guide will ask you for a tip after the trip (which I did not expect). You’ll also be taken through the filming location of Game Of Thrones, beautiful as recognized by Unesco. A small note is that to cross that village you have to cross a stream or river, there will be sandbags for you to go up, however, there are children there who will be eager to take you over and ask for money, so remember that you can go by yourself.

Another experience is to remember to bring enough money, because the tour only includes dinner and 1 breakfast in the tent for you and then you also have to give the guide (useless) tips, if possible you could deal the tip with the guide in advance like I did. At first, he asked for 80 dh, I paid it down to 60 dh. Remember to buy a lot of bottled water to go to the desert to drink, brush your teeth and wash your face.

My most favorite thing is when I was immersed in quiet nature, there are rugs spread out on the sand for you to sit and play. After dinner in the main tent, you will have free time. Just lying on the rug, listening to the drums and singing of the locals, looking up at the starry sky with sand grains blown by the wind in the desert, you will forget all the fatigue on the way here. The laughter, stories and new friends are memories that I will never forget.

Beautiful scenery and cute camels! In short, it’s a great experience.

Jemaa el-Fnaa

The center of Marrakech’s old town is a rather large square – Jemaa el Fnaa was once a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can see the sunrise in the morning. At night, this place turns into a “sanctuary” for you to discover local cuisine with countless street foods. In particular, you can strolling around to see street artists perform. You will enjoy watching them hypnotize snakes, acrobatics on ropes, contortion.

One of the biggest flea markets in the world and it’s absolutely crazy and bustling, especially at night. Prices in this area are relatively high compared to other local markets. I really love the atmosphere and vibe here.

There’s a very big cafe near the center of the market, I can’t remember the name, but it’s on the rooftop, looking down is a stunning market scene. But I think you passing by can see it. Popular cafe, with a large space on the right hand side from the entrance, when you see the ATM, you go straight a little to come.

In the afternoon, the heat was dissipated, people and people bustled about walking on the square recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 2001. The smoke from the barbecue shops covered a large corner of the square, the smell of food attracts more people.

The minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, located behind the gate of the city wall, with a height of 77m, is known as the Eiffel Tower of Morocco, is a famous work of art in North Africa, typical of Islamic Spanish architecture. Four spheres surround the top of the tower with the largest being 2m wide, symbolizing the Sun, Moon and stars.

The Koutoubia Mosque was built in 1184 and completed in 1199. It is therefore considered one of the oldest and largest mosques in Marrakech. The church has an ancient and sacred architecture, so when visitors want to visit the church, they must dress modestly and appropriately.

What to eat and drink? (#marrakesh tourist guide)

• Chicken Tagine: Chicken stew with lemon, potatoes and some other tubers (chicken tagine with lemon) is one of their signature dishes, quite tasty and easy to eat, not too greasy. It usually served with bread, but it must be said that their bread is very dry, because this country was very poor before and is still developing, so obviously some of their dishes will not be as good as already developed countries (I heard people tell).
• Barbecue (chicken, beef, etc.) in the night market is also delicious and cheap. Since their main religion is Islam, they do not eat pork.
• Méchoui: Made from lamb meat on skewers or grilled in the oven, served with salad.
• Ghoriba Bahla Moroccan Shortbread Cookies: The ghoriba is made from flour, sesame and almonds mixed together and baked in the oven. Enjoy this cake with a cup of hot ginger tea.
• Zaalouk: Grilled eggplant and tomato salad mixed together with garlic.
• Snail: The snail dish there is very simple, so I don’t like it very much (it must be said that it is as bland as snail broth without salt or spices) but because of the experience, why not?
• The fruit of the cactus (cactus pear or prickly pear): This fruit is very watery, and it’s cheap, but just eat 3-4 fruits, eating a lot is “cool in the gut”. You go along the road and you will see carts full of those fruits, like in Vietnam, there are carts selling fruit.
• Mint tea: Chilly with mint leaves and is a perfect drink to cool down in scorching hot weather and high humidity. People here do not use ice like ours in Vietnam, they will drink hot tea because this is the best way to reduce body temperature.
• At any riad you will be invited to drink mint tea like this. If you ask me what to buy as a gift, I recommend you buy mint or Moroccan tea here.
• Mixed tea: Because I can’t remember the exact name of the tea, but as far as I remember, it was combined and cooked by many different types of leaves and herbs. Drinking will have a feeling of heat from the throat to the abdomen, a drink suitable for the cold season. You can try it in the Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
• Smoothies: Their fruit is excellently juicy, probably because it was hot summer when we go. It’s so sweet that they make smoothies without sugar or milk, just chilled and ground fruit. Even kiwi is still sweet. The price is also quite cheap, so I drunk a lot, orange juice is 4 dh, other smoothies are 10 dh.

Lunch’s French and Moroccan fusion menu is the perfect match when you visit the famous souk flea markets. But you have to accept that the eateries here do not serve alcoholic beverages.

Moroccans drink tea from noon to night. The good news is that you won’t get bored drinking tea here as they have a wide variety of teas to choose from, and especially tea-based cocktails.

Try to find and dine at the restaurant Terrasse des Épices (Address: Sidi Abdel Aziz، 15 souk cherifia, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco/Hours: 12–5PM, 6:30PM–12AM) which is very special in Marrakech. From here you can also see the city and the mountains in the distance.

Where to stay? (#marrakech guide)

One of the most searched places in Marrakech is the Riad, a traditional Moroccan house located in the Medina (old town). All riads will have a central courtyard that will usually have a fountain, restaurant or pool. Some riads also have rooftop terraces where you can have breakfast and look out over the city. A complete list of riads in Marrakech including photos and prices can be found here.

Compared to a 5-star hotel, this is a place to help you get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and find peace. You can choose a famous riad like EL Fenn with beautiful design and luxurious interior. Riad Farnatchi and Maison MK are also good choices.

Elegant and luxurious hotel La Mamounia in the heart of Marrakech was built in 1923 when Morocco was still under the French protectorate. Hotel Mamounia is a blend of elegant Art Deco style with traditional Arabic interior decoration. President Franklin used to relax at La Mamounia after a World War II strategy talks. And this is also the place to save the mark of clown Charlie Chaplin, the Rolling Stones and many other Hollywood stars for nearly a century.

Not overwhelming luxury and splendor, the hotels in Marrakech are unique in their own way. It is the villa Le Riad Yasmine ( Agoda , Booking ) with a swimming pool that caused an Instagram storm through the photo frame of blogger GypseaLust – a true ‘oasis’ on the edge of the desert, green and grassy for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of life.

Sofitel Marrakech Lounge & Spa ( Agoda , Booking ) is as splendid as a palace, where you can experience all of the most expensive and vibrant pleasures of this Muslim city. If you like sophisticated and elegant architecture, Royal Mansour Marrakech is definitely a great choice for an interesting vacation in Morocco.

Budget hotels are also plentiful as many smaller budget hotels will not have a website or online booking apps. These accommodation are usually located south of Djemaa el Fna.

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Movenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi Marrakech ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hôtel Racine
• Almas ( Agoda , Booking )
• La Maison Arabe ( Agoda , Booking )
• Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hôtel Ibn Batouta
• Riad Houdou ( Agoda , Booking )
• Riad Dar Anika ( Agoda , Booking )
• Aqua Fun Club Marrakech

Check out more top and best hotels in Marrakesh on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Marrakech itinerary 4 days

I stayed in Marrakech for 4 days and 3 nights. In which, I had to book separate days because I had 1 night in the desert, so I booked the same place for convenient luggage storage. The trip itinerary I designed is as follows: the first night in Marrakech, the next night in the desert and send luggage at the Riad, the last night in the city). There are also hotels here, but because the experience will be more local if you stay in the Riad. Riad is a type of villa in the past that rich people built for the mistress (little wife, little girlfriend…) to live in, so it was divided into many rooms, usually with a courtyard with a swimming pool in the middle of that yard. Quite beautiful and close to the center. I stay at Riad Fabiola which is also very beautiful, walk about 15 minutes to the big square.

Tips & experiences

Eating and drinking, because I ate a lot of junk, drank a lot of water and had an upscale meal, so it cost me about $150. In addition, there will be other costs incurred, read in the article you can refer to it. In addition, you can exchange money at the airport, the exchange rate was quite good and more convenient, when you exchange you will be given a card like a bank card, you can receive completely cash send some cash in the card, where you can use the card, swipe, if not, you can withdraw money from ATMs. I recommend getting a card because keeping a lot of cash is also quite dangerous.

Regarding on how to dress, limit wearing clothes that are too open, revealing because after all, this is a country with Islam as the main religion, so the way you dress shows respect for people’s culture. Wear something compact, easy to move because you will have to go a lot, but when you go to dinner, feel free to dress up in beautiful clothes.

Some of the locals here really make the most of exploit tourists. After helping you (maybe they will enthusiastically guide you or lead you to a place to eat), they will ask for money as a fee of about 2 euros as the minimum. However, not all locals here are the same, some are very friendly and kind (but in the center or  tourism in Marrakech , remember to be careful).

Languages:  In the city of Marrakech Morocco you can find a wide range of languages including French, Spanish, Arabic and Berber. English is common wherever there are tourists, but it is certainly helpful to know a few French words.

Currency: Morocco uses dirhams and US dollars. It is best to bring cash and change as it is a bit difficult to find an ATM.

SIM: It can be helpful to buy a local SIM (with Morocco Telecom), the signal is pretty good throughout Morocco, even in the mountains, and then you can find your way around the city using Google Maps.

Clothing: Morocco is a Muslim country, so you will notice some cultural differences. I recommend wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Customs: When you communicate with people, remember that the left hand is considered unclean so people always use the right hand to interact and eat. Also, if you’re there on a weekend, Friday is a holy day so some places will close.

Few people know, the name Marrakech in Moroccan literally meaning the “Land of God”. But surely, the special impression of visitors about the city Marrakech is not the purity, but the excitement in the colorful old town (medina) of the Middle East, the never sleep nights on Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the thousand and one night markets and luxury hotels like an oasis on the edge of the desert.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Marrakech you can refer to

• Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech
• Marrakech: Private Transfer to or from RAK Airport
• From Marrakesh: Sunset and Magical Dinner in Agafay Desert
• Marrakech: Camel Ride in the Oasis Palmeraie
• From Marrakech: Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike and Boat Trip
• Marrakech: Atlas Mountains and Agafay Desert Day Trip
• From Marrakech: 3-Day Sahara Tour to Merzouga Erg Chebbi
• Marrakech Quad Bike Experience: Desert and Palmeraie
• Marrakesh: Full-Day Desert and Mountain Tour with Camel Ride
• From Marrakech: Essaouira Full-Day Trip
• Marrakech: Street Food Tour by Night
• From Marrakech: Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou
• From Marrakech: Merzouga 3-Day Desert Safari with Food
• Marrakech: Half-Day Historical and Cultural Tour
• From Marrakesh: Ourika Valley & Atlas Mountains Day Tour

Read more Morocco guide here .

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Home » Africa » Marrakech

INSIDER MARRAKECH ITINERARY for 2024

Marrakech is a destination like no other! This vibrant city is an explosion of the senses, with things to see, touch, smell, and hear wherever you go. It is an essential part of any trip to Morocco, as this city has so much to offer its visitors. Our Marrakech itinerary will show you just what.

As you walk down the busy streets of Marrakech, you will  be inspired by the colorful walls, decorated doors, pristine piles of spices, the busy shops and the unique Moroccan charm found wherever you go. Read on to discover our ultimate Marrakech itinerary guide. You’ll undoubtedly fall in love with this magnificent destination.

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Best Time To Visit Marrakech

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There is certainly no bad time to visit Morocco, as the weather here is pleasant all year round. However, there are definitely ideal seasons that will make your weekend in Marrakech as enjoyable as possible.

The best time to travel to Marrakech would have to be during the shoulder seasons. This would be from March to May, and September to November. These seasons provide the most desirable weather conditions – sunny skies with moderate temperatures. Not only this, but the city is more affordable during these periods, with accommodation prices often dropping a little. 

Be aware that the summer months here can be scorching hot! If you don’t deal well with the heat, then consider visiting during winter. While Morocco’s warmth and sunny skies may seem appealing, the summer heat can get a little bit unbearable. While the winter months have great weather, the city also fills up with tourists over this period. 

Wondering when to visit Marrakech? Take a look at our detailed weather guide below. 

Choosing the best place to stay in Marrakech can be difficult. This vibrant city is split into two different sections – Medina (the historic part) and the European District (the new town). The different areas in Marrakech are all unique, giving you many different places to experience during your Marrakech itinerary. 

The most popular and possibly best choice of areas to stay in Marrakech would be Medina. This is the heart of old-world Marrakech, with all kinds of charming winding streets, alleys, and points of interest. There are many great accommodation choices in this part of the city, and it is the ideal base for exploring the rest of Marrakech, as everything is within easy reach! 

If you would like to stay somewhere a little bit less visited by tourists, then Gueliz is a great area. Gueliz is part of the more modern European District and is a super trendy hub of shops, restaurants, and nightlife hotspots. If you would like to experience the modern side of Morocco, then this is the place to be. 

Now that you know where to stay, its time to choose your accommodation! Here are some of the best accommodation options for your Marrakech itinerary. 

Best Hostel in Marrakech – Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel

• Has an authentic Moroccan feel to it
• Central location
• Awesome rooftop terrace

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel is the ultimate place to stay in this city! With an ideal Medina location, clean modern facilities and comfortable rooms, everything you need is right here! The rooftop terrace, bar, and pool make this a really fun place to stay!

For more cool hostel options, check out our Best Hostels in Marrakech guide!

Best Airbnb in Marrakech – Beautiful home with a lot of space

Riad Barbmar is a renovated traditional Moroccan riad in the Marrakech Medina. A riad is a type of traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. It accommodates up to eight guests in four bedrooms. Regardless of whether you are 1 traveller or a group of 2-8 people, you will have the private use of the entire house and will not share with other guests. The indoor pool is perfect for cooling off after sightseeing. The third floor roof terrace is a great space for socialising with family and friends. The upper terrace on the fourth floor is shaded and ideal for outdoor meals. From there you look over the entire Medina.

Best Budget Hotel in Marrakech – Hotel & Spa Riad El Walaa

• Excellent location
• Fantastic facilities
• A beautiful outdoor terrace

Hotel & Spa Riad El Walaa is a brilliant accommodation choice for your trip to Marrakech. This place offers affordable luxury, with amazing rooms, thoughtful facilities, and a top location in the heart of Marrakech. Enjoy the authentic Moroccan decor, the stunning outdoor terrace, and the relaxing spa. 

Best Luxury Hotel in Marrakech – Four Seasons Resort Marrakech

• Luxurious rooms and facilities
• Loads of thoughtful touches
• An amazing pool area

For the absolute best that Marrakech has to offer, consider checking into the Four Seasons Resort here. This place has world-class modern facilities, well-equipped rooms, and all kinds of thoughtful touches across the hotel. The service is excellent, and the pool is a great place to relax!

Before you start to plan your itinerary for Marrakech, it is important to know how to get around this awesome city. When you are in the medina old town, walking around is one of the best things to do in Marrakech . This way you get to see and experience all the magic that this city has to offer. However, walking around here can also be pretty intimidating and confusing at times. 

In terms of public transport taxis, are your best options. Taxis are easy to catch and will take you wherever you want to go without any stress. They are also very cheap – just be sure to agree on a price before you get in! The bus network in Marrakech is also pretty good, allowing you to travel all over the different parts of the city but it can be slow and can get hot. 

It’s time to start planning your trip! Here are some of the best things to include in your Marrakech itinerary. 

Jemaa el-Fnaa | Koutoubia Mosque | Hammam | Saadian Tombs | Marrakech Museum | Souk | Bahia Palace

Your 2 days in Marrakech will start off with some of the top sights and landmarks in the city. This first day will show you some of the most iconic Moroccan points of interest and cultural attractions. Here is what to do in Marrakech on your first day.

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Jemaa el-Fnaa

• Why it’s awesome: The main central hub of Marrakech
• Cost: Free to explore
• Food recommendation: There are all kinds of delicious local foods on offer at the stalls here. Grab a fresh orange juice in the morning, a delicious lamb dish at night, or even some boiled snails if you are feeling adventurous!

Jemaa el-Fnaa is an essential addition to any Marrakech itinerary! When in the city, you just have to wander through this central hub in order to really experience the place properly. This is one of the top Marrakech points of interest due to its bustling walkways and truly Moroccan atmosphere. 

Take a walk through here and take in all of the stalls and entertainers around you. You will pass snake charmers, henna tattoo artists, huge piles of spices, dates, olives, and more! As this square is the heart of Marrakech, it is always busy no matter what time you visit! 

This is a brilliant place to try some delicious local foods, buy something to take home or to just soak up the unique culture in this city. No Marrakech itinerary would be complete without a trip to Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Insiders tip: This square can get very busy and a little overwhelming, so visit early to avoid crowds. 

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Koutoubia Mosque

• Why it’s awesome: The largest mosque in Marrakech
• Food recommendation: Cafe Kif Kif is located nearby the Koutoubia Mosque, offering the perfect place to grab a bite to eat or a pot of local mint tea. The menu boasts some of the best Moroccan classics. This is a great setting to try some of the best local food in Marrakech. 

Mosques play a huge role throughout Marrakech and these buildings have great historical and spiritual importance to the locals. Not only this, but they also offer some of the best architectural points of interest in the city. 

During your Marrakech itinerary, be sure to visit the Koutoubia Mosque – the largest in the city! This stunning 12th-century mosque is a marvel to look at, being an iconic structure in the city. 

Visit during the call to prayer to take in one of the most important sites in the city. It is important to understand and appreciate the various mosques here during your Marrakech itinerary, as this will give you a stronger understanding of the city. 

Insider tip: The call to prayer occurs five times a day from the top of the minaret. This is great to experience up close. 

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Experience a Hammam

• Why it’s awesome: Traditional local bathhouses found throughout the city
• Cost: Entry to local hammams usually costs around USD $4, while different treatments and establishments differ in price
• Food recommendation: Patisserie Anjar is located near the popular Hammam Ziani, offering the perfect place to grab a treat after your relaxing experience. Choose between many local delicacies, teas and sweet treats at the authentic patisserie. 

When in Morocco, treating yourself to a relaxing hammam experience is a must. Hammams are local bathhouses/spas that are found throughout the city. These are popular attractions for locals and tourists and they will be sure to leave you relaxed, clean, and glowing.

Enjoy a massage, a steam in the sauna, or a dip in the different thermal pools. This is such a great way to escape the frenzy of the busy city and enjoy a peaceful, quiet moment relaxing inside. You can choose between busy local hammams and secluded private hammams.

Some of the most popular hammams in Marrakech include Hammam Ziani, Hammam De La Rose, Hammam-e Sultan Mir, Les Bains de Marrakech Morocco, and Hammam Mouassine. A treatment at a hammam is an essential addition to your Marrakech itinerary! 

Insider Tip: Consider booking a private hammam experience if public nudity is not your thing

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Saadian Tombs

• Why it’s awesome: Historic tombs for many important rulers of the Saadi Dynasty
• Cost: USD $1
• Food recommendation: Dar Cherifa is the ideal place to grab an authentic Moroccan meal nearby these tombs. You must try the tagine and Moroccan couscous in this Marrakech gem. 

The Saadian Tombs are one of the most popular Marrakech landmarks, offering visitors a great historical place of interest. These tombs are where many of the most important rulers and members of the Saadi Dynasty are buried. The tombs were rediscovered in 1917 after they had been sealed for centuries! 

The Saadian Tombs are beautifully decorated with colorful tiles, carvings, and Arabic calligraphy. This is a wonderful site to explore, as you will learn all about the rich history of the area as you witness some stunning decorated tombs. 

If you love history and want to learn more about this ancient city, then a visit to the Saadian Tombs should be an essential addition to your Marrakech itinerary. 

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Marrakech Museum

• Why it’s awesome: An amazing art museum in the center of Marrakech
• Cost: USD $4
• Food recommendation: Le Trou au Mur is an excellent restaurant near the museum. With a stylish interior and delicious cuisine, this is a fantastic place for a sightseeing break!

Marrakech boasts many brilliant museums, with the Marrakech Museum being one of the best! This is an art museum located in the heart of the city. Expect to see loads of modern and traditional Moroccan art, as well as many other interesting displays. 

While the museum is a fascinating place to visit with all its exhibitions, the building itself is definitely worth adding to your Marrakech itinerary! Housed in a 19th-century palace, this is a grand building to explore. 

Admire the magnificent Moroccan architecture and details throughout this museum. Soak up art, history, and culture as well! This is one of the best Marrakech attractions for those wanting to discover more about the city and its interesting past. 

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Old Town Souk

• Why it’s awesome: The old town trading hub offers the most authentic Moroccan market experience
• Cost: Free to browse
• Food recommendation: Terrace des Epices is the perfect place to grab something to eat between shopping in the busy souks. This rooftop terrace provides a peaceful escape from the busy streets below, with some fantastic food options!

Exploring the bustling souks of Medina is an essential addition to any Marrakech itinerary. Souks are the traditional market streets that are found all over the city. 

These originate from the times when merchants would sell their goods that were transported by camel across the desert into Marrakech. There may not be the camels anymore, but souks today are just as vibrant and important to the Moroccan lifestyle as they have always been! 

Wander through the busy market streets and admire all of the goods for sale. Carpets, lamps, leather products, spices, foods, and all kinds of other things will be on offer here. If you are after a truly authentic Marrakech experience, then the souks of the Old Town/Medina are the places to be.

Insiders tip: While the souks are a lot of fun, they can also be pretty intimidating. Merchants will often try to rip off tourists, and taking in all of the stalls on offer can be overwhelming. Try to bring your negotiating skills and a firm attitude when navigating through the busy souks. 

Day 1 / Stop 7 – Bahia Palace

• Why it’s awesome: Magnificent 19th-century palace and gardens
• Food recommendation: La Table de Marrakech is the perfect place to grab something to eat or drink after a long day of sightseeing. Sit outside next to the palace and enjoy some quality Moroccan cuisine. 

The Bahia Palace is a 19th-century building that was designed to be the greatest palace of its time. This stunning structure is a real marvel to take in, with its iconic Islamic and Moroccan style. Bahia translates to brilliance, and you will see why when you visit.

The palace is a great place to explore and learn more about the history and cultural traditions of Marrakech. It is also the perfect place to take in some of the best architecture in the city. Beyond the amazing palace building, there are also beautiful gardens located here. These are well worth spending some time exploring. 

For a look into the royal life of this old city, be sure to add the Bahia Palace to your Marrakech trip itinerary! 

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Jardin Majorelle | El Badi Palace | Ben Youssef Madrassa | Maison De La Photographie | Menara Gardens

Day 2 of our 3-day itinerary in Marrakech will give you a deeper insight into the history, culture, and atmosphere in the city. Here are some must-do attractions for you if you are seeing Marrakech in 2 days. 

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Jardin Majorelle

• Why it’s awesome: A stunning botanical garden to add to your itinerary for Marrakech
• Cost: USD $20
• Food recommendation: Cafe Jardin Majorelle Marrakech is the perfect place to grab some food, tea or coffee during your trip to the garden. Enjoy local favorites in a beautiful setting. 

Jardin Majorelle is a two and a half acre botanical garden in Marrakech, but really it is so much more than that! This beautiful attraction is a kind of artistic landscape created by the French artist Jacques Majorelle over a period of almost 40 years. The garden was then acquired by the famous designer Yves Saint-Laurent who restored it to its glory.

As you walk through this amazing garden, you will pass through an absolute Eden. There are many magnificent plants, water features, trees, and sculptures. Beyond the gardens, the space also houses the Berber Museum and the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech. Both of these cultural institutions are well worth the visit. 

If you are after amazing art, culture, history, and an unbeatable garden oases, then Jardin Majorelle is the place to go. This stunning city attraction will certainly be a highlight of your Marrakech itinerary. 

Insider Tip: These gardens and museums are not to be confused with the Yves Saint-Laurent museum nearby (which is also well worth the visit!)

Day 2 / Stop 2 – El Badi Palace

• Why it’s awesome: An ancient ruined palace
• Food recommendation: Dar Marjana, located close to El Badi Palace, is one of the best traditional Marrakech riad restaurants. Try some of the tastiest authentic Moroccan food here in a charming setting! 

El Badi Palace is one of the world’s greatest examples of ancient ruins. Comparable to the Roman Forum, or the Acropolis in Athens, this enormous building shows off the ancient past of Marrakech. 

Explore the huge ruins of El Badi Palace to experience just how grand this place must have been back in its time. The palace was built in the 16th century to commemorate the victory of The Battle of the Three Kings. The palace consisted of 300 rooms, decorated in gold, turquoise, and crystal. 

Visiting this site will teach you a great deal of the history behind Marrakech. Experience first hand what the ancient city might have looked like, and learn about its interesting past. This is a must-do activity for history lovers! 

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Ben Youssef Madrassa

• Why it’s awesome: A beautiful 14th-century Islamic school
• Cost: USD $6
• Food recommendation: Jnane Tamsna is a brilliant place to grab a bite to eat or some relaxing tea when visiting Ben Youssef Madrassa. Enjoy the tranquil setting and excellent food!

Ben Youssef Madrassa is a former Islamic school dating all the way back to the 14th century. Ben Youssef Madrassa is a popular attraction in Marrakech for anyone wanting to get a glimpse into the magnificent past of this city. 

While it is old, the Madrassa is beautifully preserved providing an unbeatable example of Moroccan architecture and design. 

Admire the detailed tiles and unique curves of the building. As you explore the Ben Youssef Madrassa, take some time to appreciate the tiny rooms that once held 900 students. Enjoy the peaceful courtyard and stunning wooden windows throughout the building. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Marrakech for an authentic look into Moroccan design and architecture. This is also an interesting historical stop in the city. 

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Maison De La Photographie

• Why it’s awesome: An interesting Moroccan photography museum
• Cost: USD $11
• Food recommendation: Enjoy a great pot of mint tea or a bite to eat from the rooftop cafe here. Not only is the food and service excellent, but the view from here is definitely worth the visit!

Maison De La Photographie is an excellent museum to add to your Marrakech itinerary. This may be a fairly small gallery, but it really has a great deal to offer. During your visit here, you can expect some of the best photography from Marrakech.

The museum mostly displays excellent street photography and portraits, but there are also some interesting photographs dating back over 150 years. This offers an amazing insight into Moroccan life and history. 

The small building housing the museum is also lovely to explore, with beautiful colorful tiles and a magnificent rooftop. This is a really special addition to your 2-day itinerary in Marrakech . 

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Menara Gardens

• Why it’s awesome: 12th-century botanical gardens
• Food recommendation: Cafe Oasis et Tafernout is a great spot to stop and enjoy a cup of coffee or bite to eat while exploring the Menara Gardens. 

The Menara Gardens are the most popular landscaped gardens in Marrakech. The gardens can be found near the Atlas Mountains, to the west of Medina. These beautiful gardens surround a lake, and they offer the perfect breath of fresh air from the busy city. The gardens date back to the 12th century, and so they have an interesting history as well!

Enjoy walking around the pristine lake, and appreciate the wonderful pavilion alongside it. Explore the gardens and take in all of the different flowerbeds, trees, and lush green spaces. If the streets of Marrakech are getting too much, then escaping to this peaceful oasis is the perfect thing to do! 

Insider Tip: Visit on a sunny day and enjoy relaxing under a tree in this picture-perfect garden

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel

Rodamon Riad Marrakech Hostel is the ultimate place to stay in this city! With an ideal Medina location, clean modern facilities and comfortable rooms, everything you need is right here!

• Linen Included

Souk Place des Epices | Gueliz | Hot Air Balloon | Dar Si Said Museum | Quad Bike Tour

If you are looking for more places to visit in Marrakech, then here are some excellent ideas. There is so much to see and do around this city, so planning at least 3 days in Morocco is always a good idea. 

Souk Place des Epices

• A lively souk
• Famous for its many spice traders
• These spices are an essential part of Moroccan culture

Souk Place des Epices is a large square-based souk in the heart of Marrakech. When you are in this bustling city, visiting the different souks is a vital way to really experience the local culture and buzz. This souk, in particular, is special due to its piles of colorful spices!

Morocco is world-famous for its unique cuisine, something that comes from its many flavorsome spices. Wandering through this souk will show you the many immaculately piled spices. The kind of smells and sights that you take in here really could never be found anywhere else in the world.

Whether you are looking to purchase some of these amazing spices to take home, or simply want to admire them in their tall piles, a visit to Souk Place des Epices will always be worth it! Exploring this busy souk is one of the best ways to get an authentic insight into Moroccan life and culture, and it is a great place to learn more about this country’s delicious cuisine.

• The most modern and trendy area of Marrakech
• Offers excellent shopping and restaurants
• Often called the European district

When exploring Marrakech, chances are you will be spending most of your time within the old town. This is where the majority of landmark attractions and riad accommodation options can be found. If you have 3 days in Marrakech, or if you would just like a change of scene, consider visiting the trendy district of Gueliz. 

Gueliz offers you an insight into what modern-day Morocco looks like. This is a super trendy part of the city. Spend your time enjoying the vast array of boutique shops, malls, and beautiful homeware stores. Between this, there are also some of the best restaurants and cafes in the city – perfect for a break between your retail therapy! 

Gueliz also boasts some of the best nightlife in Marrakech. There are plenty of fun and lively bars here to visit for an unforgettable night out! 

In order to truly understand Marrakech, you will need to experience both the new and the old. This is why spending an afternoon wandering around Gueliz can be highly rewarding for any Marrakech itinerary.

Ride a Hot Air Balloon

• This is a must-do activity in Morocco
• The best views in Marrakech
• A fun and unique experience

There are many different ways to see and experience Marrakech, but a hot air balloon is possibly the best. Taking an exciting and absolutely breathtaking hot air balloon flight is one of the most popular activities for tourists in Marrakech,

The best hot air balloon flights in Marrakech will start at dawn, allowing you to witness the magnificent sunrise during your flight. As you rise up, you will get the most unbelievable panoramic views across Marrakech. 

As you float across the stunning desert and towards the Atlas Mountains, you will get to experience the true majesty of this destination. Beyond the amazing views though, hot air balloon rides are such a fun experience. This way of flying cannot be compared to anything else. This is a truly unique thing to do in Marrakech, and an experience you will certainly remember! 

There are a number of hot air balloon companies that operate from Marrakech. Flights generally last about an hour, giving you plenty of time to soak up all of the incredible views around you. 

Dar Si Said Museum of Weaving and Carpets

• A fascinating museum
• The museum is focused towards Berber carpets
• A great place to learn more about Moroccan cultural heritage

A museum completely dedicated to carpets may not sound that exciting to everyone, but this Marrakech attraction is seriously worth the visit. Whether you are interested in Berber carpets or not, you will be sure to learn a great deal of interesting information here, as well as admire some very impressive exhibitions! 

The museum will teach you all about the unique Berber carpets in Marrakech. There are all sorts of fascinating displays devoted to this. There is also a central focus on the art of weaving these products, and what kind of role that has played in Morocco. 

As you will learn from a visit here, these carpets are truly special parts of the cultural heritage in this country. They have a rich and interesting history and have helped to shape Marrakech in many ways. Beyond the carpets though, this museum is an awesome building to visit!

There are some seriously impressive halls here, as well as stunning courtyards and gardens within the museum. This is a great place to take in some beautiful examples of Moroccan architecture while learning about some of the country’s most iconic designs and products. 

Quad Bike Tour

• Quad bike tours are available through the desert
• A fun way to see the area
• Explore the rugged surrounding desert

Now that you have seen some of the best sights and attractions within Marrakech, its time to do some exploring in the surrounding desert. If you would like to experience the breathtaking desert through one of the most exciting ways possible, then consider taking a quad bike tour! 

Not only is speeding along in a quad bike loads of fun, but it is also the best way to navigate the desert landscape. You will get to ride between the stone desert, the dramatic valley found here, and the famous palm groves. 

There are a number of quad bike experiences available in Marrakech. While each may be unique, they will all offer a valuable insight into the life and scenery of the harsh desert. This is a really great way to experience the dramatic landscape around Marrakech. 

Marrakech received loads of each year and most end without incident. While safety does not need to be a major concern while you are here, it is important to understand any potential safety precautions that you might want to take in Marrakech. 

The souks are super busy, small spaces. If you are not careful, these can be easy places for thieves and pickpockets to do their work. When walking through the souks, always keep your belongings close. Also, try to avoid walking through the souks at night. 

Scams are also pretty common in Marrakech, so always be on the lookout for these. Tourists can often look like easy targets for scammers or people trying to rip you off, so keep your wits about you! Also avoid walking alone at night, and stay away from empty alleys.

Shopkeepers, hawkers and unsolicited guides can be persistent and a real nuisance.  Be firm and if anybody bothers you too much, use the magic word “police” and they will disappear.

Be sure to always drink bottled water, and try to avoid ice (as this may contain bacteria). You may also want to avoid eating from street vendors, as there is always the chance of getting ill.

Besides exercising regular caution and following standard safety procedures of a big city, Marrakech should be a safe destination for all visitors! 

If you are also visiting other places in Morocco, you will be pleased to know that on the whole Morocco is a safe country .

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If you are planning a 3-day itinerary in Marrakech, then you may want to consider exploring some more of Morocco . This city serves as the perfect base for your Moroccan travels, allowing you to do so much more while touring Marrakech. 

Here are some of the best day trips from Marrakech to experience during your visit. 

Full-Day Tour to Ouzoud Waterfalls

Marrakech is an amazing city to experience, but there is also plenty of natural splendor just beyond the city itself. Spend a day taking in the magnificent Ouzoud Waterfalls on this sightseeing tour from Marrakech. 

The highlight of this tour is, of course, witnessing the incredible cascades of the Ouzoud Waterfalls. Your day will also be filled with plenty of other exciting activities, such as swimming in nature in the Al Abib River, and seeing local monkeys in the mountains! The tour includes round trip transportation and an expert Marrakech tour guide. 

Take a Trip to the Atlas Mountains

Just beyond the city of Marrakech tower the impressive Atlas Mountains. These mountains are not just a breathtaking sight to see, but they are brimming with Moroccan Berber culture and picturesque villages. Take this exciting day trip to escape the busy city and explore a more peaceful side of Morocco. 

The trip will include a visit to the village of Imlil, as well as a fun camel ride. You will get to drink mint tea, admire the highest peak in North Africa, and learn all about traditional Berber culture. This is one of the best day trips from Marrakech for those wanting to discover more about the interesting culture and natural beauty of the area. 

Tour Essaouira and the Atlantic Coast

Morocco is famous for its magnificent desert landscapes, but there is also an amazing coast to discover in this country. To experience the best of the Atlantic Coast here, take a full day trip out to Essaouira. 

This is a beautiful coastal town that you will be able to explore at your own pace. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, the historic medina in the town, and the long stretches of pristine beaches. This day trip will show you a great deal more of the unspoiled and absolutely beautiful Moroccan landscape. 

Visit Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Across the Atlas Mountains lie two of the most majestic deserts in Morocco. Enjoy a day trip out to this area to take in some of the most impressive and important sites in the area. The day will include a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou kasbah, a crossing over the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, and a journey through Ouarzazate. 

This area is referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa” as famous films such as The Mummy, Lawrence of Arabia, and Gladiator were filmed here. Needless to say, this day trip will show you some of the most magnificent landscapes in Morocco! 

Explore the Berber Villages and 3 Valleys

If you are planning a trip to Marrakech, exploring the unique Berber culture here is a great idea. If this sounds like fun, consider taking this day trip out to the beautiful Berber settlements high up in the Atlas Mountains.

You will get to trek through beautiful hamlets and valleys, and soak up some of the best scenic views in the area. You will get to stop for lunch in a traditional Berber home in one of the stunning villages that you visit. This is a truly unforgettable experience that could only be enjoyed during your Marrakech itinerary! 

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Marrakech itinerary.

How many days do you need in Marrakech?

To see all the main highlights, I would allow 3 days to see everything. However, you could easily stay 4-5 days and enjoy the cities unique charm.

Is Marrakech worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Marrakesh is the most famous and unique city in Morocco and there’s no where else like it.

What is the best month to visit Marrakesh?

The best time to visit Marrakesh is during the Spring (March-May) when the weather is at its nicest.

Is Marrakesh safe for tourists?

Marrakesh is on the whole quite safe for tourists, but you should keep your eyes on the look out for petty crimes such as pick pocketing and bag snatching.

Marrakech is a busy and vibrant city, with so much going on in every street. Walking through the old town truly is an explosion of the senses, as there is just always such a great deal to take in. This city has such a unique charm to it, and should be a definite bucket-list destination for any traveler.

Marrakech is famous for its spices and cuisine, its peaceful riads, bustling souks, visible history, and beautiful desert landscapes. As you walk down the streets here, you will notice the iconic Moroccan design and sights that just can’t be experienced anywhere else. 

Marrakech really is a destination like no other! With so much to do and see in this city, one day in Marrakech probably isn’t enough. You could spend weeks here without getting bored. We hope our ultimate Marrakech itinerary helps you to make the most of your time in this epic North African destination! 

If your plan is to travel around Morocco and you need to sort your accommodations, check out our Best Hostels in Morocco guide!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Marrakech travel guide

Marrakech tourism | marrakech guide, you're going to love marrakech.

Ancient, cosmopolitan Marrakech is a city that bursts with life as a religious, business, and cultural center of the region, and is renowned for its open and welcoming spirit.

Medina is the old city that lies inside the sandstone walls that gave Morocco the nickname "Ochre City," and is a place of narrow, winding streets and street markets that operate at a hectic pace. Modern suburbs surround the ancient hub, extending in all directions and putting a contemporary face on the city.

Marrakech is set in the dramatic shadow of the Atlas Mountains. The chaos of the markets gives way to the delightful serenity of the city's many spas and green spaces. There are numerous lush gardens dating from the Imperial era, including Majorelle Gardens and Menara Gardens.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Marrakech

1. the golden age.

Marrakech is one of the four imperial cities of the ancient Berber empire of Morocco, and has been inhabited since the Neolithic Period. There are many monuments to its glorious past, from the red walls constructed in 1122 to the glittering El Badi Palace, built in 1578, Koutoubia Mosque completed in 1199, the largest mosque in the city, and much more.

2. Shopping, Souk Style

Souk Semmarine and rue Mouassine lead you to the magical world of souks - traditional open markets - in Medina. North of the Jemaa el-Fnaa, you'll find a network of souks that offer everything from rugs to textiles to jewelry on offer - with haggling a must. The Ets Bouchaib Complexe D'Artisanat on the Rue de la Kasbah is a unique department store where you'll find elegant antiques and other wares unique to the region.

3. Fabulous Cuisine

At the crossroads of Arabic, Andalusian, Mediterranean, and Berber culture, the cuisine of Marrakech is rich and flavorful. Couscous is a staple, along with olive oil, and the fragrant spices that grow in the region, like mint, cinnamon, ginger, and many more. Traditional dishes include the tagine, or a kind of spicy hot pot stew, and pastilla, a spicy meat pie in flaky pastry.

4. The Spa Experience

The spa or hammam is an ancient tradition in Marrakech, where you can try out ancient beauty rituals. Spas are everywhere, including most of the city's popular hotels and riyad. Along with luxury private spas, there are public spas and baths like the Hammam Dar el-Bacha, the city's largest, and where you may just find staff from the royal palace.

5. Natural Wow

Marrakech is located just north of the Atlas Mountain range, where you can ski on the slopes or hike in the foothills. To the south, you'll find the Ourika River valley, where you can hike in the shadow of snow-covered peaks.

What to do in Marrakech

1. jamaa el fna: the spectacle of life.

Your journey through Marakkesh starts at the vibrant Djemaa el-Fna square, pulsing with the excitement of social life. Vendors left and right offer enticing street food and refreshing orange juice, while less conventional businesses are run by snake charmers, fortune tellers, and henna artists. With the minaret of Koutoubia Mosque standing tall in the background, dancers and musicians flow back and forth in a constant celebration of Berber and Moroccan culture.

2. Medina: Mystical Maze

Endless alleyways and ancient streets make up the alluring center of Marrakesh. Within thick walls and behind the gorgeous gates of the riads, a frenzy of city life plays out as it has for centuries. The Souks, the largest ensemble of markets in Morocco, are dedicated to every product imaginable, from carpets to ceramics to fabric. Tanneries prepare perfectly dyed leather with traditional techniques, and the archaic Ben Youssef Madrasa school exhibits the pinnacle of Islamic art and architecture.

3. Majorelle Garden: Oasis in Blue

Garden and Museum at once, the Jardin Majorelle is divine. Twelve acres of local flora are landscaped against cobalt blue walls. Also home to a variety of fascinating birds, the gardens are a colorful treat for all living things. The Islamic Art Museum of Marrakesh also beckons visitors to appreciate the history that influenced the garden's pristine design. For those seeking peace and space over crowds the Menara Gardens offer a glorious alternative.

4. Bahia Palace: Place of All Intrigues

Islamic architecture reaches impressive levels of refinement in the 19th-century Bahia Palace. Let the beautiful symmetry of engravings and mosaics wash over you, and explore the vast and luscious harem once home to Grand Viziers and their countless wives. For a history lesson going even further back, visit the timeworn El Badi Palace, quiet and magical.

5. Toubkal National Park: Climb the Atlas

Berber communities have lived in the steep valleys of the Atlas Mountains for centuries, and hiking excursions from the city of Imlil take you in their footsteps, through old-age villages suspended in time. For ambitious mountaineers, the peak of Djebel Toubkal presents an exciting climb up the tallest point in North Africa.

Activities & attractions in Marrakech

Other activities

Where to Eat in Marrakech

From multi-course meals served in palatial grandeur to delicious street food at bargain prices, Marrakech offers a full range of culinary options. Al Fassia is run entirely by women, and serves up traditional Moroccan favorites. Tagines start at DH140. Gastro MK, located in an ornate building in Medina, offers a menu of European-style cuisine, with a 5-course tasting menu that begins at DH650 per person. Cafes are everywhere, like the Bakchich, offering salads, sandwiches, and beghrir (like pancakes,) starting from DH15.

When to visit Marrakech

Marrakech enjoys a hot, semi-arid climate that sees dramatic temperature swings between day and night. Average daytime temperatures in July and August rise to just under 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a slower season for tourism. Spring and fall, with temperatures between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit on average, see more tourists.

How to Get to Marrakech

Marrakech Menara International Airport (RAK) is located just over six miles from the Medina or old city center. Direct flights are available from many European capitals, while North American travelers typically have to transfer in Casablanca. Taxis are a good option to get to the city, and drivers will approach you as you exit the airport, competing for your business. Bartering is a must, and the one-way ride should run you no more than DH50-100. The number 19 airport bus is an inexpensive alternative at DH30 for a one-way ticket.

The Marrakech railway station (Gare de Marrakech) is the last stop on the southern leg of the national railway line, connecting the city to Casablanca, Tangier, and Fes. Transfers are also available to destinations in Algier. It is located in the city center near the Royal Theatre.

Marrakech is connected to the rest of Morocco via major highways and routes. Highway N8 (National Route 8) intersects with Marrakech from east to west, while N9 travels north to south. The A7 express route skirts the city to the west, leading from Casablanca to Agadir.

CTM, Pullman du sud, and Supratours are the major tourist bus companies operating in and out of Marrakech through the gare routière, or bus station, which is located outside the old city walls at Bab Doukkala. Connections are available to many cities and towns in Morocco, including Agadir, Casablanca, Fes, Rabat, and Tangier.

Airports near Marrakech

Airlines serving marrakech, where to stay in marrakech.

There is a wealth of accommodation options in Marrakech, from sleek, modern suites to the gracious riyad (or riad) - traditional mansions built around a central courtyard - of the Medina. The Hotel La Maison Arabe is a luxury boutique hotel in a beautifully preserved riyad, incorporating a jazz bar and outdoor pool. For full-service luxury, stay at the Hotel Pullman Marrakech Palmeraie Resort and Spa, a 5-star property. At the very high end, you'll find stunning modern hotels like the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech.

Popular Neighborhoods in Marrakech

Medina - the oldest part and the true heart of Marrakech, this neighborhood is a must-see. This designated UNESCO World Heritage site is an intricate place of narrow streets full of historic tombs, monuments, mosques, cafes, and shopping in the oldest and largest souk in North Africa. It also incorporates Mellah, the ancient walled Jewish quarter of the city.

Gueliz - this is the modern face of Marrakech. It is the home of the Royal Theatre and the new train station, along with the iconic Majorelle Gardens, a 12-acre botanical oasis that incorporates the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech.

Hivernage - this modern neighborhood in the Ville Nouvelle district is home to stylish night clubs and lounges, and a thriving restaurant scene. Many of the city's newer luxury hotels and resorts are located here.

Where to stay in popular areas of Marrakech

Most booked hotels in marrakech, how to get around marrakech, public transportation.

The city's public transportation network is called Alsa, with a central hub in Bab Doukkala. Bus service covers most of the city and beyond. Single-ride tickets within the city cost DH4. Tourist passes are available for DH145 for 24 hours, with a better bargain at DH165 for 48 hours.

Taxi fares are negotiable by a bartering system. You may find several drivers arguing for your business, and you will be able to get a deal by persevering. A trip of about three miles should cost no more than DH40.

Car rentals from Sixt and Medloc Maroc are available at the airport and in locations in the city, and start at about DH190 for a compact vehicle. Moroccan roads can be chaotic and unruly. Add to that the fact that many of the side streets are one way and driving becomes an option many tourists find they can do without. If you do drive, you'll find cheap parking in public lots at DH25 for a full 24-hour period, but parking in the city is at a premium most of the time.

Car rental agencies in Marrakech

The cost of living in marrakech, shopping streets.

Along with the lively souks of the Medina, you'll find many modern shopping opportunities along Avenue Mohammed V in the Gueliz area of the city, including the large Carré Eden Shopping Center and Menara Mall. Al Mazar, near the Agdal Gardens, is a modern shopping mall with movie theaters and a kids' play area. High-end designer shops are to be found in Sidi Ghanem, an industrial area of the city.

Groceries and Other

Supermarket chains in Marrakech include Metro, Marjane, Aswak Assalam, and Carrefour, offering the usual range of goods at reasonable prices. A gallon of milk should run about DH27, and a dozen eggs about DH14 on average. Corner shops are very common and sell staples like oil, tea, sugar, eggs, flour, and more.

My Top 23 Essential Marrakesh Travel Tips (You Can Thank Me Later)

Marrakech is a fabulous city, full of intrigue and wonder, but it is chaotic and can be intimidating when you visit for the first time, or maybe even the second or third time.

Morocco’s Red City is a different world, so having an idea on what to expect, where to go, what to do, how to dress, how to get around and how to handle the medina is great to have in the back of your mind before you even arrive so that you are fully prepared for the adventure ahead.

Please Note:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate sales help with the running costs of this site, so thank you for your support!

Table of Contents

My Top Tips for Marrakesh

Take a tour with marrakech by locals.

Saeed of Marrakech By Locals was a great guide, full of knowledge and very engaging. He gave us a potted history of the city as well as lots of useful tips for visiting Marrakech and we went to lots of places we would never have found on our own.

He’s very strict, absolutely NO SHOPPING! Which personally I think is a great rule as it’s really annoying waiting around for other people to shop, especially in a city like Marrakech.

But you will see lots of cool stuff that you will want to buy so just take note of where you are so that you can go back. I did this by taking screenshots on my phone and writing in my notes, but I’m sure there’s probably a more high tech way to do it!

I’d highly recommend doing this tour on your first day so that it helps you get your bearings and know where to go, where to shop and where to eat.

Wear Comfy Shoes 

You are going to do a lot of walking in Marrakech, so make sure your shoes are comfy as can be. On Saeed’s tour alone, I think we walked around 6 miles, so a pair of comfy pumps or sandals are a must.

How to Find Your Way Around the Medina

Finding your way around the medina (old walled city) can be tricky, but taking a tour near the beginning of your stay definitely helps.

By day, you can ask the way, but by night when everything has closed and there are very few people about, it becomes a little more difficult to navigate.

As you walk from your riad or hotel to Jemaa el Fna (the main square) for the first time, take note of a few landmarks that will help you find your way home, your breadcrumbs, if you will. But just be aware, that just like in Hansel and Gretel, the breadcrumbs can disappear, as by night the shops all close and get boarded up and you can’t tell them apart. So make sure your markers are fixed and that they won’t change when night falls.

As you enter the square, remember which cafes or restaurants are on each side of the street you come out of. That way you’re at least heading in the right direction when you go home.

I would maybe just avoid walking home too late at night.

It may also be helpful to buy a local SIM (I’m with Maroc Telecom) as the signal is pretty good all over Morocco, even in the mountains (the only place it wasn’t great was in the Sahara) and I was able to find my way around the city using Google Maps just fine. If you don’t have an unlocked phone, download MAPS.ME or a similar app.

For those staying outside the medina, you can get taxis from near Koutoubia Mosque or Bahia Palace.

How to Find Your Way Around the Souk

Saeed told us that the souk (market in the medina where you can buy anything and everything) is like a fishbone, with one main spine running through it. From this main street, you can pretty much find your way to all the other parts of the market and just keep coming back to the main street. But I do also think there’s something fabulous about just wandering aimlessly and seeing where you end up.

There are parts of the souk that specialise in specific products and you can actually see some of the products being made there, including shoes, rugs, lanterns, and leather goods, whereas a lot of shops on the main stretches sell more of a mix. If your bargaining skills are good, you should definitely head to where they make the items as you may get a good deal as this is where the other traders buy from.

If you get lost, don’t panic. As someone once told me “that is the charm of the city, to always be lost” and it’s not that big, so you will eventually find your way out and all you need to do to get your bearings is head back towards Jemaa-el-Fna.

But again, Google Maps works pretty well in the souk too!

Shopkeepers Are Your Friends

If you want some help navigating, the best people to ask are shopkeepers or those that are working in the souk. They will point you in the right direction usually without wanting anything in return and they also can’t leave their shops.

I always try to walk with purpose and try not to look lost, even when I am. That way someone is less likely to try and take advantage of my situation.

Generally, people in Morocco are very lovely and helpful, but it has been known for some (especially in the cities) to come up to you and offer to show you the way and either take you somewhere else (their friend’s shop) or turnaround and ask you for money, however, I believe the government has clamped down on this anyway (I think it’s actually illegal now- but don’t quote me on that). We did get a few people offering to show us where to go, but none asked for money, although a couple did the first time I was there a few years ago.

Build-in Time for Shopping & Leave Room in Your Suitcase

If you hadn’t worked it out, Marrakech is a shoppers paradise, so build in some time for shopping. Then you’re going to need to leave a bit of room in your suitcase to fit all your souvenirs in and lots of cash to buy them with.

I wasn’t going to buy anything this time and my backpack was full when I left home, however, somehow, I came back with a jumpsuit, 7 scarves (yes 7), a pair of earrings, a bracelet, a pair of shoes, a painting and an all in one kaftan thing that makes me look like Jasmine from Aladdin and that was me bring restrained.

My friend came back with even more stuff, including a rug, a wooden camel, jewellery, some wooden boxes, a game, a bag, ceramics…

Bargain Hard

Haggling is a national sport in Morocco and I don’t want to say that everyone is trying to rip you off, but most will give it a good go. If they did it at the Olympics, the Moroccans would win every time. It’s in their blood.

A lot of shops sell the same stuff, so you can definitely get a good price if you shop around and aren’t too hasty in your purchases. I bought a pair of shoes (they were similar to the sky blue ones above) for 180 dirhams bringing the guy down from his initial 250. He was a little old man so I figured he wasn’t ripping me off.

Later on, I saw a very similar pair of shoes in another shop. When I asked the price, the guy said 100 dirhams. So the little old fella had definitely seen me coming!

My main rules of haggling:

• Go in with a sense of humour and a smile. Moroccans have an excellent sense of humour, so have a bit of banter with the shopkeepers. It can be really fun.
• Look disinterested. Whilst I was waiting for my friend outside a shop the other day, a guy tried to sell me a bag. I’d actually seen it a few days earlier and quite liked it, but I knew I couldn’t get it home with my luggage restrictions and on closer inspection, it looked a bit dirty. I kept saying no, no, no. He started his price at 700 dirhams, he thought I was driving a hard bargain, but I actually just didn’t want to pay the excess baggage fee and wasn’t so keen anymore, so he kept dropping his price and eventually was saying 250 dirhams. He dropped his price by 550 dirhams, that’s £42 or $60. If this guy came down that much, just think how much he was trying to rip me off in the first place.
• Walk away if you need to, just to emphasise your disinterest.
• Go in with a price in your head that you are happy with. When the salesperson gives you their price, drop it right down, to maybe a third of the price or less if you’re feeling feisty. They say 800, you say 200, meet somewhere in the middle that you are happy with. They’ll never sell for less than it’s worth so don’t feel bad about starting low (see number 2).
• Be firm. Sometimes I just keep repeating the price I want to pay until they give in.
• Don’t let anyone bully you into buying something you don’t want. I cannot even tell you how many times I used to get home and be like ‘why did I buy that?’ – but I’m much better at saying these days!
• Check it’s real. Before you buy anything and pay a lot for it, check it’s authenticity. If they say it’s real leather, drop some water on it . If they say it’s a rug made from wool, take a lighter to it (real wool won’t light). If they say it’s real silver, check for the stamp or test it with a magnet (real silver is not magnetic). Not always easy (I mean who carries a magnet round with them?), but just don’t always believe everything the sellers tell you.

Play the Happy Imbecile (if you need to)

As you walk through the markets, lots of people will call you and try to get you to go into their shop, buy their stuff, drink their orange juice and they can be persistent. So I just smile, wave, and carry on wandering, looking around smiling like an idiot so they think that I’m in my own little world.

As I walk away I’ll often hear ‘miss, miss, excuse me, hello miss’ and I just keep on walking. That way I don’t appear rude, just a bit stupid.

This is one of my favourite tricks, which I have been doing for years, however, a Dutch guy I met in Mozambique hit the nail on the head with this description. This was his tactic for avoiding the notoriously corrupt Mozambican police. As they tried to flag him down, he would wave and smile like a maniac and just keep on driving.

Learn the Word “Inshallah”

A favourite phrase of mine in ‘Inshallah’ which means ‘God willing’ in Arabic. It’s used commonly in Morocco, for when you hope to see someone again, or if you’re hoping something good will happen.

People also use it in the context of time, as in the same way the Spanish use ‘manyana’. Morocco is in Africa, so it’s not immune to good old ‘African time’, you get there when you get there at an unspecified time in the future, ‘Inshallah’.

Although nowadays, a lot of people use it to get out of situations that they don’t want to be in. For example:

A shopkeeper says ‘Come in and see my shop, just look, not buy’ (you will hear this a lot) and you really don’t want to, you say ‘Inshallah’ with a smile and keep on walking. Probably not the right use for the word, maybe you will go back to that shop, maybe you won’t but when you say it, the shopkeepers generally find it funny and understand you’re not in the mood right now.

Pronounce it ‘In-SHA-LAH’ with the emphasis on the ‘sha’ and the ‘lah’.

Advice on Getting Taxis

When you need to get a taxi, always ask a local (maybe the people who work at your hotel) how much a taxi will be from A to B.  They can usually give you an approximate price so you know what you are working with.

Just be aware that when you go to get your taxi, the taxi drivers will always quote you a higher price – tourist price.

There is some negotiation, but some will just walk away if you don’t give them what they ask for. There are usually a few taxis around though, so you can just move on to the next, but very rarely will they go down to the price that it actually probably should be, so you just need to find a price that works for you both, without you getting totally ripped off. This is how my conversation went earlier today:

Me: How much is a taxi to the bus station? (The owner of my riad told me it should be about 50 dirhams)

Taxi Driver: 70 dirhams.

Taxi Driver: 60

Taxi Driver: Ok 50.

So just be firm. If you find a good taxi driver, who gives you a fair price the first time, take his number and please send it to me.

Taking Photographs

General street scenes are fine, but if you take pictures of a specific person or someone’s stall without asking they may get offended or ask for money.

If you want to take photos of the street performers (musicians, snake charmers, or the guys in traditional costume in the square, etc), you will need to pay for the privilege. They sometimes tell you to take a photo and then demand money after, so just be aware that this may happen and try to agree on the price before if you really want that photo.

When you’re watching the busier performances in the square it’s usually fine and you won’t need to pay (maybe give a tip if you feel like it), but if you want a posed photo, then be prepared to cough up.

12. Avoid the Men with the Monkeys & Snakes in Jemaa el Fna

Speaking of the guys with the monkeys…

One of the things I don’t like about Marrakech is the men in Jemaa el Fna (the main square) with the chained up monkeys and the Snake Charmers. They like to get you to take pictures with the animals for money. It’s cruel (they often mistreat the animals) and the men can be aggressive.

I was walking through the square when one of the monkey guys came towards me, trying to get me to touch his monkey (this is not a euphemism) and I kind of ducked out of his way “What, you don’t like monkeys?” He said. “No, I don’t like the fact that you have chained the monkey up.” His response? Shouting “You are ugly as fuck!” in my face. As I walked away he shouted “Nice ass.” 

I just ignored it. Do I wish I’d said something, maybe? But would it have achieved anything? Probably not.

But it’s ok, I go to sleep happy in the knowledge that I travel the world for a living and he is an asshole that walks around a square all day chained to a monkey.

Dealing With Male Harassment

I’ve heard stories of women being catcalled or even having stones thrown at them in Morocco, but I hadn’t personally had any real negativity or harassment thrown my way until the dude with the monkey.

I get the odd “beautiful” or “hey Shakira” but I just give them a polite yet tight-lipped smile and keep on walking so as not to encourage that behaviour. I often pretend that I haven’t heard, or I just raise my eyebrows, roll my eyes, and give a wry smile and just keep on going.

This time I was there I had a guy whisper ‘sex’ into my ear as he walked past me at night and another creepy guy tapped his lips as if to say ‘give me a kiss’ when he was showing us where they dye the materials to make the rugs. He then kept following us around and trying to get us up to a rooftop restaurant to see the ‘views’. We quickly made our excuses and left.

I find the best way to deal with this kind of behaviour is just to not rise to it. Keeping relatively covered up and wearing a wedding ring also helps.

If you are alone, do not let anyone show you a ‘secret’ place and don’t walk alone late at night in the quieter parts of the medina.

Bring a European Plug Adapter

Take a Food Tour with Marrakech Food Tours

I honestly can’t rate this tour highly enough and it’s definitely one of my top Marrakech tips!

Run by Amanda, the blogger behind Maroc Mama and her husband Youssef (who was our guide that night), Marrakech Food Tours is a great way to get an insight into Marrakech (and Morocco) through the heart of the city – the food, the souks, and the people.

Again, they will take you to local places that you would never find on your own and you’ll get to try all kinds of different Moroccan dishes, including sheep’s head (you get a sticker if you eat the eyeball – I passed on that one) and THE BEST couscous I’ve ever tasted.

Book in advance as the tours fill up pretty quickly and I’d say not to do this tour on the same day as you do Saeed’s tour as you will be exhausted.

If you can’t book onto Amanda’s tour, you could try this tour which also gets rave reviews.

Don’t Drink the Tap Water

The tap water in Morocco is not known for being particularly drinkable, so it’s probably best to avoid it, especially if you are prone to a dodgy tummy every now and again.

I am one of those people who brushes their teeth with the water, with the thought in mind that I’m building up my immunity, but I definitely wouldn’t encourage anyone else to do it!

Bring a LifeStraw bottle (or similar) with you and then you don’t have to keep buying bottles of water.

Where to Find Alcohol in Marrakech

So many people asked me about where they could find alcohol in the Marrakech medina because only a few bars and restaurants sell it and those that do, tend to be quite expensive.

The nightlife in the medina is pretty chilled, but the places that I know do sell alcohol are Cafe Arabe, Dar Anika, the Piano Bar at Les Jardins De La Koutoubia, Le Tanjia, Le Salama, Kosybar and the Churchill Bar at La Mamounia (just outside the medina).

But if you want more lively nightlife (and alcohol) head to the modern parts of the city, Gueliz, and Hivernage, which are a short taxi ride away from Jemaa-el-Fna. A taxi should probably only be about 30 – 50 dirhams, but you’ll likely be charged around 80 dirhams one way.

Bigger supermarkets like Carrefour and some riads also sell alcohol.

Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

The medina, souks and Jemaa el Fna are all very busy and therefore it’s an ideal place for pickpockets to lurk.

Keep your wallet and phone safe within your bag or about your person and if you have a bag, keep it zipped and close to you.

Skip Jardin Majorelle

Some people are bound to disagree with me on this, however, I honestly think Jardin Majorelle is one of the most over-hyped, boring tourist attractions I have ever visited. It might be ok if you’re a big fan of Yves Saint Laurent or really into art deco design, but even then, I’d say it wasn’t that great compared to other places you can visit in Marrakech.

I do love a garden, but there are others that I much prefer to Jardin Majorelle. It’s also usually pretty busy so you need to go early to avoid the crowds.

However they have now opened the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door, so if you combine the two, it’s probably much better. I like the look of Anima Garden instead, but I haven’t been there yet!

Swat up on Your French, Arabic or Berber

A lot of people can speak English, but knowing a little bit of French is useful, especially in restaurants, as most of the menus are in French and a lot of people speak it.

The two official languages are Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) and even if you don’t speak a lot, attempting a few words will always go down well. The most important probably being thank you, which is ‘shukraan’ (I’ve seen it spelled various ways) in Arabic and ‘sahit’ in Berber. And of course the best word in Arabic… ‘Inshallah’.

Always Make Time for Tea

When you’ve had enough of the madness of the medina, head indoors to a nice riad courtyard or a rooftop terrace to partake in one of Morocco’s favourite pastimes – drinking traditional mint tea. It’s delicious!

You can get mint tea almost anywhere, but we had a lovely pot at Riad Yima , which is an art gallery, shop, and tea room all in one.

Dress Appropriately

Marrakech is pretty conservative and the local women are usually very covered up especially in the medina, however, it is a cosmopolitan city and they are used to tourists, so you don’t have to go to extremes.

Keeping knees and cleavage covered is definitely a good idea, so no shorts or short skirts or plunging tops, if just to avoid any unwanted attention if nothing else. I generally prefer to keep my shoulders relatively covered out of respect for the local culture, but I wouldn’t feel uncomfortable if they weren’t. Saying that I usually carry a scarf with me at all times – you can easily buy them in Morocco if you don’t have any at home.

You’ll also need to take note of the weather too. If you go in the summer months, Marrakech gets very hot, so breathable, lightweight clothing is good. Marrakech can also get cold and wet at certain times of the year, so take something warm and/or waterproof with you. I was just there in April and it was freezing and raining.

When it rains in Marrakech the souks become very waterlogged as the drainage system isn’t great, so you may want to take some closed-toe shoes that will withstand a little bit of water.

Just Let Marrakech Happen

One of my best tips for Marrakech is to just go with the flow. It’s good to have a bit of a plan for Marrakech and some things do book up in advance (good restaurants/food tour etc) but you should leave a bit of time to just let Marrakech happen, to wander, to get a bit lost, let the chaos unfold around you and to just to sit and people watch for a while.

I hope this helps you get prepared for your trip to Marrakech!

Other Morocco posts you might enjoy…

• The Perfect 2-Week Morocco Itinerary
• Surfing in Morocco – The Complete Tagazout Travel Guide
• The Charm of Marrakesh
• Highlights of the Rock My Morocco Adventure
• 16 of Africa’s Most Incredible Hiking Destinations
• Morocco – Yoga, Surf Sleep, Repeat
• Camping Under the Stars in the Sahara Desert, Morocco

I love to travel all over the world, but it's Africa that holds a special place in my heart. My mission is to help people travel Africa in an authentic, safe, fun, adventurous and ethical way.

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I was in Marrakech last month, and I heartily agree with all of Helen’s advice (except skipping the Jardin Majorelle, but then I’m really into gardens). Here are a few little doodads by way of addition. My Parisian French helped quite a bit, but be aware that Moroccan Arabic is its own creature and Egyptian or Gulf Arabic will be of limited utility. A pleasant surprise for me in Marrakech is that the ice cream is quite good. If you’re into architecture and decorative arts, I recommend the Marrakech Museum (next to the Merdersa Ben Yousef). The building is the star attraction there. In most ‘restored’ historic buildings, the marvelous, ornate plaster and stucco work is restored structurally, but it is left white. At the Marrakech Museum, that decorative work is restored to its polychrome glory.

Thanks Tom! Great tips! 🙂

Great list! I wish I had seen this before I went… My husband and I had a bit of a confrontation with the snake guys in the square our first day (he gave them $20 to end it, smh) and also had a guy in Essaouira try to take us to his friend’s restaurant and then demand money. We refused, and he popped up in 3 different places around the city shouting that the Americans owed him money. Those are definitely two very real things to try to avoid.

However, I LOVED the Maroc Mama food tour- so delicious! It was definitely the best thing we did in Marrakech and the street vendors were much less aggressive when we were with Youssef. And the shopping was unreal!

Yeah, the snake and monkey guys are just horrible people who can become aggressive very quickly – best avoided. and wow, the guy in Essaouira sounds really persistent. I’m really on my guard now when anyone offers to show me the way, I always refuse but some people just genuinely want to help. Then I feel bad I was so adamant! 🙂

I haven’t been to Marrakech but seeing your photo it looks like the place has a lot of fun and lively colors from shops to cafes. I would definitely like to visit the country soon but for now I will add it to my “must travel places” on my bucket list.

It’s amazing!!! 🙂

It is absolutely beautiful. The culture looks like my local swap shop. I haven’t been yet but I would love to go just to try their food and shop haha! We might go to Marrakech this summer If we have enough saved up but the tickets are super expensive $1100+.

Ow wow, that’s expensive! Marrakech itself is pretty reasonable though – except to eat and drink in fancy restaurants! 🙂

Such a detailed post full of useful tips. I really want to go to Marrakech but am a bit nervous about going there alone. Thanks for sharing these advice. Just what I was looking for!

Thank you! Honestly, don’t be scared, it’s a great place to travel, just keep your wits about you.

Thanks for sharing all of these. Totally agree with all your tips! We loved Marrakech and didn’t encounter any problems like I heard so many others unfortunately did. Like you, we always walk with purpose and look like we know where we are going even if we are slightly lost. The men that try to “guide” you were a pain but we were able to mostly avoid them. Definitely agree with wearing comfy shoes and bargaining hard!

Very informative post and enjoyable to read! I’m thinking about taking a trip to Morocco towards the end of the year so I’ve saved this post. Thank you for writing it 🙂

Thanks Sandy! Hope you have an amazing time!

So helpful! Thank you so much! You sure had me in stitches with the monkey man!!!

Ha ha, no worries! 🙂 Hope you are well!!!

Your post is so useuful and I love it. Marrakech is on my bucket list for one year now and I can’t wait to see it.

Wow, first of all, thanks so much for this lovely article with these colorful pictures. I really like it. I’m definitely going to try some of these tips for my next trip.

Such an amazing post.

Thanks for sharing wonderful tips with us. I really loved your post.

Keep Sharing…!!!!

Amazing list Helen, Loved it.

Great Post Helen

I love the pictures . Very nice article . Also taking Moroccan cooking class is a good experience as well as trying the Moroccan Hammam (spa).

Excellent blog post, and thank you for sharing some very helpful thoughts!!! Best of luck with your travels.

What a great article! Marrakech is such a great place but I definitely wish I did more research before I went! Thanks for all the info!

I have been to Marrakesh before, long ago, and am about to visit with my partner and our 5 year old girl. This blog is by far the best of of all the travel tips I have seen, all very wise. It seems like the place has calmed down a little since I was last there 10 years’ ago so am a little less nervous about launching into the souks with my little girl in tow!

Vive l’adventure!

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Are you thinking of visiting Marrakech (Marrakesh) , but aren’t sure what to see ?  How many days you should stay in the city? What the Moroccan cuisine  is like? The purpose of this travel guide is to answer all your questions about Marrakech and its surroundings.

Marrakesh Travel Guide

• General Information
• Top Attractions
• Getting to Marrakech
• Local Transport
• Where to Eat
• Where to Stay

Why visit Marrakech?

The old capital of Morocco is a magnificent city, packed with things to see and do. Exploring Marrakech will provide you with a fascinating sensorial experience:  the colors, tastes, and smells will hit you as soon as you get off the plane and remain with you for weeks after your return.

Marrakech is a city that offers tourists numerous exciting activities and cultural visits. And after having explored the city, you can do various day trips or multi-day trips from Marrakech to  Essaouira , Ouarzazate , the Ouzoud Falls , and the Ourika Valley .

How to organize your trip?

If you’ve never been to Marrakech or Morocco before, we recommend reading about the city’s history and general information first to get a broad idea about your next destination. Next, you could read about the city’s means of transport and its top attractions to organize your trip before getting there.  

Still haven’t booked your accommodation?

Marrakech’s popularity as a tourist destination is increasing and the best hotels and riads are quickly fully booked. Reserve in advance and get up to 75% off.

• Hotels and riads in Marrakech – Book online with the best price guarantee.

top activities

Escape from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech in favour of the tranquil Agafay Desert -  enjoy a traditional dinner and show and then sleep under the stars ! 

3 Day Sahara Desert Tour Immerse yourself in the most surprising part of the Moroccan desert , and contemplate the contrasts offered by its different landscapes

Merzouga to Fez Trip: 3 Days Enter the immensity of the desert and enjoy an adventure visiting locations such as Ouarzazate and the Erg Chebbi dunes with this Merzouga to Fez Trip: 3 Days.

Private Tour of Marrakech On this private tour of Marrakech , you'll have an exclusive guide at your disposal to take you around one of the most fascinating cities in Morocco .

Marrakech Palm Grove Camel Ride Explore Marrakech's palmeraie with over 100,000 palm trees as you gently sway from side to side on camelback. One of the most popular activities in Marrakech!

On this Atlas Mountains tour, we'll visit the villages of this North African mountain range , learn about the Amazigh culture, and paraglide over the peaks.

Marrakech Palm Grove Quad Bike Tour Dirt roads, traditional hamlets, picturesque landscapes, and pure excitement make this quad-bike tour unmissable while in Marrakech .

Palm Grove Quad Biking and Camel Riding Tour Discover the stunning landscape of the High Atlas as you drive your own quad bike . Followed by an lovely  camel ride along the Palm Grove of Marrakech.

Desert Camel Ride with Dinner Enjoy a unique and unforgettable experience in the desert as you ride a camel along its dunes and enjoy a traditional dinner accompanied by a live musical show.

2 Day Zagora Desert Trip If you're in Marrakech for longer than a weekend, there's nothing more authentic than a desert trip where you spend the night in a traditional Amazigh tent .

Full-Day High Atlas Quad Biking Penetrate deep into the High Atlas Mountains on an unforgettable quad biking experience and marvel at the natural landscape on the edge of Marrakech.

Bath and Massage in a Traditional Hammam Spa Relax in the old town of Marrakech & enjoy an Arab bath , where you can disconnect from the daily grind with a massage using all-natural products.

Dinner and Fantasy Show in Chez Ali Enjoy a different evening in Chez Ali, the best-known restaurant in all Morocco, where every night horsemen, musicians and dancers meet in a fantasy spectacle.

Agafay Desert Quad Biking Immerse yourself in the Agafay Desert and admire the manmade Lalla Takerkoust Lake while you test your quad biking skills. You don’t need a driver’s license!

Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip Escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech on this day trip to the spectacular Ouzoud Waterfalls . See a new side of Morocco !

Private Day Trip from Marrakech Ouzod, Essaouira, Ouarzazate, the Ourika Valley...  Discover the surrounding regions of Marrakech with a private excursion. You'll have an exclusive guide!

Agafay Deserty Day Trip On this trip from Marrakech, you'll spend a full day in the Agafay Desert . You'll be able to ride on a camel , tour the dunes on a quadbike  and much more!

Imperial Cities & Merzouga Desert Tour Package: 6 Days Discover Morocco's former capital on this 6-day tour package. You'll visit Casablanca, Fez, Meknes and Rabat as well as the breathtaking Merzouga Desert.

Desert Buggy Tour Tour the desert of Marrakech with this buggy route which will allow you to explore the beautiful natural landscapes of the High Atlas .

4 Day Merzouga Desert Trip Visit the enchanting Sahara Desert on a 4-day trip from Marrakech. Explore the valleys, gorges, dunes & picturesque villages of these unique landscapes!

Essaouira Day Trip Visit the city loved by Jimi Hendrix and Orson Welles: Essaouira , The Pearl of the Atlantic a city of fishermen where friendliness is the main virtue. 

Ourika Valley Day Trip Amazing landscapes, breathtaking routes and beautiful traditional villages make the Ourika Valley one of the most popular day trips from Marrakech.

4-Day Trip from Marrakech to Fez On this incredible 4-day trip from Marrakech to Fez , we'll enjoy the best the interior of Morocco has to offer, such as the spectacular desert of Merzouga .

Imlil Village and Kik Plateau Day Trip Explore the stunning landscapes of the High Atlas on a day trip to the picturesque Imlil village and the famous Kik Plateau – an unforgettable experience!

Ouarzazate Trip Are you a cinema buff? Want to get to know Morocco outside Marrakech? On this trip to Ouarzazate you will enjoy something a little different.

Private Desert Trip Make the most of your time in Marrakech exploring its spectacular desert landscapes on a private tour: discover Merzouga or Zagora!

Marrakech Food Tour Enticing aromas, vibrant colours and mouth-watering tastes: indulge your senses with Moroccan cuisine on this unmissable food tour of Marrakech .

Quad Bike, Camel Ride & Hammam Tour Experience an unforgettable day of adventure in Marrakech  on this fun-filled day that includes quad biking, camel riding and relaxing in a Hammam.

Buggy Tour and Camel Ride Explore the Moroccan desert by buggy with this fun packed tour which also allows you to enjoy a camel ride through the palm groves of Marrakech.

Three Valleys + Atlas Mountains Tour Enter the Atlas Mountain Range on this tour of the Three Valleys from Marrakech . Enjoy camel rides, waterfall hikes and much more!

Anima Garden Ticket Experience a different kind of day, far from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech with this trip to Anima Garden .   The colorful sculptures will amaze you!

Private 8 Day Tour of Morocco Explore the  Merzouga desert , Erg Chebbi & the four Imperial Cities of Morocco on this complete private 8-day trip of the country.

Agafay Desert and Lake Takerkoust Buggy Tour In this buggy tour through the Agafay desert and Lake Takerkoust , we'll cross the dunes of the High Atlas plateaus at full speed – pure excitement and fun!

Balloon Ride over the North of Marrakech Leave behind the bustling Marrakech old town and allow yourself the pleasure of flying over Morocco's most beautiful landscapes in total silence.

Marrakech to Fez 5 Day Private Trip The Atlas Mountains, the Dades Valley, the Merzouga dunes ... Discover the beautiful treasures of the Moroccan hinterland with this Marrakech to Fez 5 Day Trip.

Dinner & Show in the Agafay Desert ​ Tradition , local customs , and cuisine merge in this dinner and show experience in the Agafay Desert . It'll be an unforgettable evening!

Bath or Massage at Les Sources Berbères Spa Essential oils, massages and relaxation. In this activity, you'll enjoy a bath or a massage in the Les Sources Berbères Spa , in the heart of Marrakech.

5 Day Dakar Track and Merzouga Desert Trip Immerse yourself in the depths of the Sahara Desert as you drive along the Dakar Rally track on a 5-day private trip from Marrakech.

Marrakech, Fez, Meknes, Rabat ... Visit the county's main historical sites on this 5-day tour of the Imperial Cities of Morocco .

3-day Trek in Mount Toubkal Discover the rugged landscapes of Mount Toubkal and Imlil with this 3-day trekking route that runs through the highest parts of the interior of Morocco.

Mount Toubkal & Sahara Desert Trekking Package: 5 Days On this 5-day tour, we'll enjoy an incredible  trekking route to Mount Toubkal and admire the landscapes of the Sahara desert .

Mount Toubkal 2-day Trekking Tour Come and join us to climb Mount Toubkal, the highest summit in Morocco with this 2-day trek from Marrakech. Ready for an unforgettable adventure?

Four Valleys & Amazigh Villages 4-Day Tour Enjoy 4 days of trekking in the interior of Morocco ! With this trekking route, you'll discover some of the most famous valleys of the Atlas .

Atlas + Sahara Desert Trekking Tour Package: 6 days Enjoy 6 unforgettable days in Morocco on this trekking tour through the Atlas Mountains and the  Sahara Desert . You'll even go on a camel ride !

Zip Lining in Marrakech On this zip lining activity in Marrakech, we'll have some exhilarating fun  flying over the treetops of the natural reserve Terres d'Amour .

Marrakech Bike Tour Join us on this bike tour of Marrakech and visit the charms of one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco in the most comfortable and quickest way.

Mhamid, Sidi Naji & Erg Bertham 4-Day Hiking Tour On this 4-day trekking route through Mhamid, Sidi Naji, and Erg Bertham , we'll follow the footprints of the Bedouins through the Sahara Desert dunes.

Atlas Mountains Electric Bike Tour Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking landscapes in Morocco  as you embark on an electric bike tour through the Atlas Mountains .

Moroccan Cooking Class with a Family in Atlas Embark on a journey to explore Morocco's rich culture and cuisine  in a cooking class with a Moroccan family —a tasty and enriching experience!

The best Marrakech travel guide

Introducing Marrakech is the best travel guide of the city. Unlike other guides, we describe it as it really is . We highlight both the positive and negative aspects of the visit and include information on the city’s safety and security .

The information provided in this guide has been updated in February 2024.  If you find a mistake or would like to make a suggestion, please do not hesitate to contact us .

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Marrakech Travel Guide

Marrakech, also spelt Marrakesh, is an intoxicating city known for its souks, spices and snake charmers, though these days it is also prized as much for its trendy art galleries, classy boutique hotels and luxurious hammams. Offering a tantalising taste of Africa within easy reach of Europe, it certainly allows visitors to immerse in a world where the hubbub of modern life whirs around its rich cultural traditions.

It is to the medina that most visitors will gravitate. This UNESCO-listed site has been welcoming Berber merchants and weary travellers since the 11th century. Today, its rich architecture from yesteryears – the Koutoubia Mosque, Bab Agnaou, gardens, monumental ramparts and gates – still delight many travellers.

To soak up the atmosphere, wander into the central square, Jemaa el-Fna, which is like a potent cocktail overflowing with colour and energy. Every evening when the setting sun casts a golden glow on the desert floors, food vendors set up rows of trestle tables and serve up boiled snails and grilled meats, along with fresh orange juice and sweet mint tea. Then come the musicians, fortune-tellers and snake charmers, all here to put on a show that has changed little since medieval times.

Around Jemaa el-Fna stretch the alleyways of the souks – a vast marketplace that sells everything from carpets to candles, tiny bottles of homemade concoction to big bundles of cinnamon. If you intend to shop here, remember that haggling is expected.

Beyond old Marrakesh, a modern, 21st-century city is fast developing, particularly in the pulsating district known as Guéliz, part of the wider area known as Ville Nouevelle. Indeed, the city that lured hedonists and idealists in the 20th century now attracts fashionistas and trendy couples in search of luxury shops, chic cafés and clubs. Guéliz's flourishing arts and music scene is also doing its part to solidify Marrakech's spot on the cultural map.

It is the contrast between old and new that makes today's Marrakech so interesting. With its maze of lanes and entrancing past, the medina will always have its appeal. As you sip cocktails tea on a roof-top terrace and watch the sun smoulder behind the distant peaks, remember Marrakech's legacy: this is the gateway to the immortal Atlas Mountains and the vast Sahara beyond.

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Book Accommodation

Featured hotels, riad dar aby.

Situated just outside the Medina, Riad Dar Aby houses a number of en-suite rooms circled around a bright, tiled courtyard. The daily breakfast of Moroccan pancakes with lashings of jam provides a homely touch, while free Wi-Fi access, optional specialised tours and friendly staff complete the package.

Riad Cherihane

Notable for its vibrant rooftop garden where tortoises laze in sun, the well-priced Riad Chrihane is situated near the northern edge of the Medina, roughly a 15-minute walk from Jemaa el Fna. Though it can be tough to track down, due to its location down a quiet side alley, complimentary Moroccan tea and biscuits greet wearisome guests.

Riad L'Etoile D'Orient

Restored in 2010, this tastefully appointed riad mixes the modern with the traditional, meaning guests can upload snaps of the refined Moroccan decor using the speedy free Wi-Fi service. Just minutes from Jemaa el Fna, rooms here include flatscreen TVs and gorgeous bathrooms. There's also a rooftop terrace to enjoy.

Riad Al Massarah

This riad is the definition of Marrakech cool, with its blend of traditional lofty architecture, handsome custom-made furnishings and ultramodern bathroom fittings by Philippe Starck. Proprietors Michael and Michel are blazing the trail for responsible tourism with clever use of natural light and solar energy, contributions to local charities, and standard-setting wages for staff.

Riyad El Cadi

This elegant guesthouse is a maze of historic riads set around five courtyards and faceted with private balconies, terraces, staircases and light wells. Each of the rooms has its own décor scheme (stay in the cupola-capped Ottoman suite with Turkish tile and latticework harem balcony). It also has a pool with Jacuzzi, subterranean hammam and well-stocked wine cellar.

La Maison Arabe Marrakech

Opened in the 1940s, La Maison Arabe was a popular dining place for the rich and famous (Winston Churchill was a patron). It closed in the 1980s but reopened in 1998 as a hotel with Italian blueblood and African antiques collector Frederic Ruspoli at the helm. His collection is now the centrepiece of the hotel's luxuriously restored suites and rooms.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

Morocco - level 2: exercise increased caution.

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Exercise increased caution in Morocco due to  terrorism .

Country Summary : Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Morocco. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to Morocco.

If you decide to travel to Morocco:

• Stay alert in locations frequented by tourists.
• Avoid demonstrations and crowds.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
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• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Passports and Visas:

• You must have a valid passport with at least one blank page.
• Visas are not required for visits lasting less than 90 days. Visit the  Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco  website for the most current visa information.
• Overstays: If you remain in Morocco beyond 90 days without having requested an extension of stay, you will need to appear before a judge prior to departing Morocco. Please contact the immigration office at your local police station for details. Clearance may include the payment of a fine.
• Lost/Stolen Passports: Please obtain a police report for a lost or stolen passport in the area where the loss or theft occurred.  Recently, police have required evidence of U.S. citizenship prior to issuing the report of loss. In these cases, U.S. citizens may visit U.S. Consulate General Casablanca to obtain a temporary emergency passport prior to obtaining a report of loss.
• Travelers who plan to reside in Morocco must obtain a residence permit, (Certificat d’Immatriculation) Applications should be submitted to the Bureau des Etrangers of the Prefecture de Police or Commissariat Central in major cities, and to the Gendarmerie in remote areas and villages. Please see Residency Permits section under the Local Laws & Special Circumstances tab.
• Carry a copy of your U.S. passport with you at all times to have proof of identity and U.S. citizenship readily available, if needed.
• Children who possess U.S. passports and who are born to a Moroccan father may experience difficulty leaving Morocco without the father's permission, even if the parents are divorced and the mother has legal custody. Under Moroccan law, these children are considered Moroccan citizens.  
• U.S. citizen women married to Moroccans do not need their spouse's permission to leave Morocco.

HIV/AIDS:   The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Morocco. 

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction , and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

All countries in the region remain vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations or individuals inspired by extremist ideology with little or no warning. The potential for terrorist violence against U.S. interests and citizens exists in Morocco. Long an important counterterrorism partner with the United States, Morocco’s capable security services have taken robust actions to guard against terrorist attacks. Moroccan authorities continue to disrupt groups seeking to attack U.S. or Western-affiliated and Moroccan government targets, arresting numerous individuals associated with international terrorist groups. Nevertheless, credible information indicates terrorist groups continue to plot potential attacks in the region, including Morocco. Lone wolf attacks are difficult to detect and disrupt and can occur without warning. In December 2018, two Scandinavian tourists were murdered by three Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) supporters in the Imlil Mountains near Marrakesh. U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant with regards to their personal security.

Establishments that are identifiable with the United States are potential targets for attacks. These may include facilities where U.S. citizens and other foreigners congregate, including clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, hotels, movie theaters, U.S. brand establishments, and other public areas.  U.S. citizen campers should camp in guarded campgrounds rather than isolated campsites.

Demonstrations: Demonstrations occur frequently in Morocco, are typically focused on political or social issues, and are only rarely confrontational or violent.

• During periods of heightened regional tension, large demonstrations may take place in major cities.
• By law, all demonstrations require a government permit, but spontaneous unauthorized demonstrations, which have greater potential for violence, can occur. In addition, different unions or groups may organize strikes to protest an emerging issue or government policy.
• Travelers should be aware of current events in Morocco and stay informed of regional issues that could resonate in Morocco and create an anti-American response.
• Avoid demonstrations if at all possible.
• If caught in a demonstration, remain calm and move away immediately when provided the opportunity.
• Exercise increased vigilance in areas that attract large crowds, such as sporting events.

Western Sahara: From 1975 to 1991, Western Sahara was the site of armed conflict between Moroccan government forces and the POLISARIO Front, which continues to seek independence for the territory. Tensions along the border in Western Sahara heightened in November 2020 when Moroccan forces conducted an operation on the border to clear a blockade by the POLISARIO Front; both sides have since engaged in a low intensity conflict along the border. There are thousands of unexploded mines in the Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent to the Western Saharan border. Exploding mines are occasionally reported and have caused death and injury. There have been instances in which U.S. citizens suspected of being participants in political protests or of supporting NGOs that are critical of Moroccan policies have been expelled from, or not been allowed to enter, Western Sahara.

Crime: Crime in Morocco is a serious concern, particularly in major cities and tourist areas.

• Use common sense and the same personal security measures you would normally use in a large U.S. city or tourist destination. 
• Do not leave bags unattended. Keep them in sight and avoid placing passports, cash, cell phones, or other valuables in the outer pockets of backpacks or purses, or on tables in public places. Do not leave bags slung over the backs of chairs, on hotel or store counters, on top of your suitcase or larger travel bag, or out of your physical control in hotel lobbies, train stations, restaurants, and other public locations.
• Aggressive panhandling, pick-pocketing, purse-snatching, theft from unoccupied vehicles, and harassment of women are the most frequently reported issues.
• Criminals use weapons, primarily knives, during some street robberies and burglaries. These crimes have occurred at any time of day or night, not only in isolated places or areas less frequented by visitors, but in crowded areas as well.
• Residential break-ins also occur and have on occasion turned violent, but most criminals look for opportunities based on stealth rather than confrontation.
• Travelers should avoid soccer stadiums and their environs on days of scheduled matches as large groups of team supporters have been known to become unruly and harass and assault bystanders. 
• Joggers should be mindful of traffic and remain in more heavily populated areas. It is always best to have a jogging companion, dress modestly, and avoid isolated areas or jogging at night.
• At night and when moving about unfamiliar areas, avoid traveling alone and utilize “petit” taxis which vary by color in the major cities (Casablanca-Red, Rabat-Blue, Marrakech-Tan, etc.).
• Taxis* in Morocco are generally crime-free during day time, although city buses are not considered safe.
• Trains are generally safe, but theft, regardless of the time of day, sometimes occurs.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash and be particularly alert when using ATM machines. In the event you are victimized by crime or an attempted crime, please report the incident to the local police and the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca as soon as possible.

* NOTE: Some popular web-based ride-sharing services have operated in Morocco; however, the French-based company Heetch is currently the only service legally authorized to operate by the Moroccan Government. Media report that drivers of web-based ride-sharing services have been harassed and assaulted by regular taxi drivers in the recent past.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of crimes should contact the local police at 19 from a land line or 190 from a mobile phone, and the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca at (212) 522 64 20 99. Remember that the local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care;
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police;
• with written consent, contact your relatives or friends;
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms;
• provide a list of local attorneys;
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States;
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution;
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home;
• replace a stolen or lost passport.

Tourism : The tourism industry is generally regulated in major tourist areas.  Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. However, outside of these areas, the tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities.  Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. In some places you may be taken in for questioning if you don’t have your passport with you.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the U.S., regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification : If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Consulate immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

• Crimes of fraud, including passing bad checks, non-payment of bills (including hotel bills), or breach of contract are considered serious in Morocco and can often result in imprisonment and/or fines.
• Bail generally is not available to non-residents of Morocco who are arrested for crimes involving fraud.
• Debtors can be held in prison until their debts are paid or until an agreement is reached between the parties. 
• Passports may be seized by the Moroccan government to guarantee that debtors settle their cases. 
• Debtors may be unable to work in Morocco without passports while still being held responsible for their debts. 
• Prior to entering into a contract, you may want to consider consulting an attorney.

Faith-Based Travelers : Islam is the official religion in Morocco. However, the constitution provides for the freedom to practice one's religion. The Moroccan government does not interfere with public worship by the country’s Jewish minority or by expatriate Christians. Proselytizing is, however, prohibited. In the past, U.S. citizens have been arrested, detained, and/or expelled for discussing or trying to engage Moroccans in debate about Christianity. In February 2014, several U.S. citizens were expelled from Morocco for alleged proselytizing. Many of those expelled were long-time Moroccan residents. In these cases, U.S. citizens were given no more than 48 hours to gather their belongings or settle their affairs before being expelled. See the  Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .

LGBTI Travelers: Consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Morocco. Penalties include fines and jail time. See   our  LGBTI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While in Morocco, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different from what is customary in the United States. 

Students: See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers : Women walking alone in certain areas of cities and rural areas are particularly vulnerable to assault by men. They should exercise caution when in public spaces, including nightclubs or other social establishments. Women are advised to travel with a companion or in a group when possible and to ignore any harassment. See our tips for  Women Travelers .

Customs: Travelers must declare large quantities of U.S. dollars brought into the country at the port of entry. The export of Moroccan currency (dirhams) is prohibited; however, Moroccan currency can be converted back into U.S. dollars prior to departure only if the traveler has a bank or money transfer receipt indicating he or she exchanged dollars for dirhams while in Morocco.

Moroccan customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from Morocco of items such as firearms, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drones, religious materials, antiquities, business equipment, and large quantities of currency. It is advisable to contact the  Embassy of Morocco in Washington, D.C.,  or the  Moroccan Consulate General in New York  for specific information concerning customs requirements.

Please see our information on  Customs and Import Restrictions.

Citizenship : The Government of Morocco considers all persons born to Moroccan fathers to be Moroccan citizens. In addition to being subject to all U.S. laws, U.S. citizens who also possess the nationality of Morocco may be subject to other laws that impose special obligations on citizens of Morocco. Recently, Morocco has begun allowing Moroccan mothers of children born outside Morocco to petition for their children’s citizenship. For further information on that process, please contact the  Embassy of Morocco in Washington, D.C.,  or the  Moroccan Consulate General in New York .

Residency Permits: In order to obtain a residence permit, travelers must present (among other requirements) a criminal history record check. This record check can only be obtained in the United States. The U.S. Consulate and Embassy are unable to take fingerprints to send for FBI record requests. For specific information, individuals seeking residency should visit their local police station. 

The following documents must accompany a residency renewal application:

• Birth Certificate
• Copy of the current passport
• Copy of the current Moroccan residency card
• Medical certificate from a doctor stating that the requester is free from any contagious disease
• Court record (Casier Judiciaire) obtained from the Ministry of Justice in Rabat
• 100 MAD stamp

Individuals planning on residing in Morocco or relocating to the U.S. may be asked to provide a notarized change of residence form. This form is available at the U.S. Consulate by appointment.

Sending Passports through the Mail: According to Moroccan law, it is prohibited to send passports by mail across international borders. Passports sent to or through Morocco via Fedex, DHL, or other courier will be confiscated by Moroccan authorities. Confiscated U.S. passports are eventually sent to the U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca after being processed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. If your passport has been confiscated, you can contact the American Citizens Services section at  [email protected] to ask if it has been received.

Property: U.S. consular officers are prohibited by law and regulation from accepting personal property for safekeeping regardless of the circumstances involved. If there is concern over the protection of property left behind in Morocco due to confiscation or deportation for political, legal, or other reasons, U.S. citizens should take every precaution to ensure that available legal safeguards are in place either before, or immediately after, purchasing property in Morocco or taking up residence there. U.S. citizens are also encouraged to consider assigning a Power of Attorney, or Procuration, to be used in Morocco if necessary. More information and sample Power of Attorney forms are available on the  Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco in New York  website.

Photographing Sensitive Locations: Taking photographs of anything that could be perceived as being of military or security interest may result in problems with the authorities. As a general rule, travelers should not photograph palaces, diplomatic missions, government buildings, or other sensitive facilities and when in doubt should ask permission from the appropriate Moroccan authorities.

Professional Basketball in Morocco: The U.S. Consulate General in Casablanca is aware that there are local professional basketball teams who have made contracts with U.S. citizens to play on Moroccan teams. Some of these players have subsequently claimed they were not paid as stipulated per the terms of the contract.  Individuals considering playing basketball professionally in Morocco may wish to consult with a lawyer regarding the terms of their contract prior to signing. A  list of lawyers  can be found on the Embassy's webpage.

Adequate medical care is available in Morocco’s largest cities, particularly in Rabat and Casablanca, although not all facilities meet Western standards.

• Emergency and specialized care outside the major cities is far below U.S. standards and may not be available at all.
• Most medical staff will have limited or no English-speaking ability.
• Most ordinary prescription and over-the-counter medicines are widely available.
• Specialized prescriptions may be difficult to fill and availability of all medicines in rural areas is unreliable. 
• Travelers should not ask friends or relatives to send medications through the mail, FedEx, or UPS since Moroccan customs will impound the delivery and not release it to the recipient.
• Travelers planning to drive in the mountains and other remote areas may wish to carry a medical kit and a Moroccan phone card for emergencies.
• In the event of vehicle accidents involving injuries, immediate ambulance service is usually not available. The police emergency services telephone number is “190” (see Traffic Safety and Road Conditions section below).

The U.S. Mission in Morocco is unable to pay your medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. You may also be required to pay a deposit before being admitted for treatment. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the  Government of Morocco Ministry of Foreign Affairs  to ensure the medication is legal in Morocco. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. 

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Traffic accidents are a significant hazard in Morocco. Driving practices are very poor and have resulted in serious injuries to and fatalities of U.S. citizens. This is particularly true at dusk during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, when adherence to traffic regulations is lax, and from July to September when Moroccans resident abroad return from Europe by car in large numbers. 

• Drivers should exercise extreme caution when driving at night due to poor lighting systems along roads.
• Traffic signals do not always function, and are sometimes difficult to see.
• Modern freeways link the cities of Tangier, Rabat, Fez, Casablanca, and Marrakesh. Two-lane highways link other major cities.
• Secondary routes in rural areas are often narrow and poorly paved. Roads through the Rif and Atlas mountains are steep, narrow, windy, and dangerous.
• Pedestrians, scooters, and animal-drawn conveyances are common on all roadways, including the freeways, and driving at night should be avoided if possible.
• During the rainy season (November - March), flash flooding is frequent and sometimes severe, washing away roads and vehicles in rural areas.

Traffic Laws: In the event of a traffic accident, including accidents involving injuries, the parties are required to remain at the scene and not move their vehicles until the police have arrived and documented all necessary information. The police emergency services telephone number is “190”. Often Moroccan police officers pull over drivers for inspection within the city and on highways. 

Traffic Fines: Confiscation of a driver’s license is possible if a violator is unable or unwilling to settle a fine at the time of a traffic stop. 

If you are stopped for a speeding violation, you have the right to request the video footage documenting the infraction. Once the speeding violation is confirmed, you have three options: 

• Pay the fine on the spot and obtain a receipt of payment;
• Pay at the local city’s treasury (La Perception). The police/gendarme officer will issue you a ‘ticket’ indicating the amount of the fine and keep your driver’s license until you pay the fine.
• Should you wish to contest a violation, you may file a complaint at court; however, Moroccan authorities may keep your driver’s license and vehicle registration while this lengthy process takes place.

Foreign driver’s licenses are valid for use in Morocco for up to one year. After that, foreign residents must pass the Moroccan driver’s test and obtain a Moroccan driver’s license. The test is conducted in Arabic and French. Speakers of other languages are allowed to have a sworn translator with them when taking the test.

Public Transportation: While public buses and taxis are inexpensive, driving habits are poor, and buses are frequently overcrowded. City buses are not considered safe. The train system has a good safety record. Trains, while sometimes crowded, are comfortable and generally on time. See our  Road Safety page  for more information. Visit Morocco’s  National Tourism  website for additional information.

• Train Station Hotline: 0890 20 30 40
• Bus Station Hotline: 0800 09 00 30
• Directory Enquiry- 160

Web-based ride-sharing services are not legal in Morocco; however, some well-known companies (UBER and Careem) have attempted operations with limited success. Media reports of ride-sharing drivers being harassed and assaulted by regular taxi drivers were common.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Morocco’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Morocco’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Morocco should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website (https://homeport.uscg.mil), and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal (select “broadcast warnings”).

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  Morocco . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

WH Smith shares fall on lower growth after travel boom

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Reporting by Prerna Bedi in Bengaluru; Editing by Varun H K

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A Russian court has ordered a journalist for the Russian edition of Forbes, Sergei Mingazov, to be placed under house arrest, Russia's state-owned RIA news agency reported on Saturday.

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China Q1 industrial profits' growth pace stirs doubts about economic recovery

China's industrial profits fell in March and slowed gains for the quarter compared to the first two months, official data showed on Saturday, raising doubts about the strength of a recovery for the world's second-biggest economy.