Are you planning a visit to Marrakech and looking for ideas to organize your vacation? You've come to the right place! Whether you're wondering what activities to do, what tourist sites to see, or how to optimize your stay, this guide is for you. Marrakech what to do: Discover the 10 unmissable activities in Marrakech for an unforgettable stay, combining visits and moments of relaxation. Get inspired by this guide which will take you to the main activities of the city without wasting your time!
Marrakech: What to see? What to do?
Vibrant with its colors, its continuous animation and its mixtures of aromatic smells, the city mixes tradition and modernity. It is a city like no other that mixes all the senses at once, no wonder Marrakech has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marrakech what to do: 10 essential activities for a complete vacation schedule.
10 - Explore the Medina and the Souks
The Medina of Marrakech is the historic heart of the city , a maze of narrow streets where many treasures are hidden, entirely surrounded by light pink walls. To immerse yourself in the culture at the heart of the traditions of the old city, the ideal is to walk there on the first day of your arrival. It is an excellent way to familiarize yourself with the labyrinth of alleys as well as local customs.
👉🏻 The advantage of the Medina is that it is quite compact. It is easy to get around on foot. Stay vigilant when crossing the different alleys, you will most likely share them with small donkeys and their carts, motorcycles to name a few, but we leave you the pleasure of discovering them for yourself. 😉 The souks are the traditional markets of the medina, divided into different sectors according to the products sold. An essential activity in Marrakech , visiting the souks is diving into the soul of Marrakech. This is where you will feel the true rhythm of the city, between the negotiations of the merchants and the daily hustle and bustle. Do not hesitate to get lost in the alleys to discover hidden corners. Among the most famous, you will find:
- Souk Semmarine : The ideal tourist souk for souvenirs, carpets and textiles, with colorful fabrics and Berber carpets.
- Souk el Attarine : The spice souk, where the aromas of cumin, saffron, and other Moroccan spices fill the air.
- Souk Chouari : The souk of wood craftsmen, where you can admire hand-made objects.
👉🏻 The souks are open all day, but it's best to visit in the morning, before the crowds arrive, or in the late afternoon, when the heat dissipates.
9 - Eat local! (because eating is always a good idea 😋 )
The discovery of a country, well yes, it also happens on the plates! (In this case, maybe more in the Tajine 🥘). Moroccan cuisine is an explosion of flavors, with Arab, Berber, and Andalusian influences. Moreover, MOROCCAN CUISINE VOTED BEST CUISINE IN THE WORLD in July 2024! Bsartek to Moroccans! Here are some typical dishes that you must try during your stay in Marrakech:
The typical Moroccan breakfast to copy:
Msemen : Puff pastry pancakes, often served with honey or jam.
Baghrir : Pancakes with a thousand holes, usually served with honey and butter.
Bread : Usually khobz (Moroccan bread) or flatbreads like harcha.
Mint tea: The iconic hot, often sweetened drink that accompanies almost every meal.
Olives and olive oil : Sometimes included to add flavor and variety.
Cheese : Local varieties like jben.
Dates : Occasionally served for their natural sweetness.
Local lunch:
Moroccan salads : Cold varieties such as zaalouk salad (eggplant and tomatoes), mechouia salad (grilled peppers and tomatoes), or Moroccan salad (tomato, cucumbers, red onions).
Briouates : Small triangles of filo pastry stuffed with meat, cheese or vegetables.
Tajine : The most popular tajines include the chicken tajine with preserved lemons and olives or the lamb tajine with prunes . 🍽️ Forget the forks and knives! To get the full flavor of the tajine, equip yourself with a nice piece of bread and your fingers, that's how it's done and no other way! 😉
Couscous : Usually served in all restaurants on Fridays!
Dinner:
Pastilla : A traditional dish consisting of brick pastry stuffed with meat (often chicken or pigeon), almonds, and sprinkled with icing sugar and cinnamon.
Les Brochettes: Perfect for ending the day in style with a 'barbecue' dinner. The best ones are usually in butcher shops at gas stations ! And yes, it may seem strange but you will find meat of impeccable quality. The concept is very nice, you choose the pieces and the quantity you want, the catering team takes over and will sell you the accompaniments, drinks and service.
👉🏻 Our favorite for Skewers: Atlas cherifia by frikiss . The meat is incredibly good for unbeatable prices. Consider trying the traditional Tafernout bread cooked on stone! But be careful when eating it, you can find big stones in it! That's why Tafarnout bread is also known as "pebble bread".
👉🏻 Some essential addresses to discover these dishes in Marrakech:
- The Garden : For a traditional tagine in a magnificent setting.
- Nomad : Revisited Moroccan cuisine, with a breathtaking view of the medina.
8 - Visit the Palaces of Marrakech!
The palaces of Marrakech are architectural masterpieces that bear witness to the city's rich past. These palaces are shining examples of Moroccan art and architecture. They offer a fascinating insight into royal life in Marrakech, adding a cultural touch to your holiday:
1. Bahia Palace:
A magnificent 19th century palace, built to be the largest of its time. It is famous for its lush gardens and beautifully decorated ceilings. Practical information: Bahia Palace is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with an entrance ticket at 70 MAD.
2. El Badi Palace:
Built in the 16th century, discover the El Badi Palace. Although it is marked by the temos, it is easy to take a trip back in time and imagine the beauty it once had. Be sure to go to the top of the walls to be able to admire the view overlooking the palace and the medina.
Practical information: The El Badi Palace is also open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with an entrance ticket at 70 MAD.
👉🏻 You may have recognized it? The Palais el Badi is the place that hosts the Marrakech du rire every year!
7. Relax with a Hammam and a Massage: a must-have vacation in Marrakech
The hammam is an ancestral Moroccan tradition, a steam bath where you relax while purifying your body. Combining a hammam with a massage is a total immersion in Moroccan culture , ideal for recharging your batteries after a day of sightseeing.
Why is it a must-see in Marrakech?
The hammam is much more than just a bath, it is a social ritual and a way to take care of your body. The massage, often with argan oil, completes this experience by offering a moment of deep relaxation.
Where to go?
Les Bains du Lotus is one of the best addresses in Marrakech, offering a sumptuous setting for a hammam followed by a massage. It is the perfect place for a couple's massage, in an elegant and soothing setting.
6. Visit Jema El Fna Square and climb the Koutoubia
The Koutoubia Mosque is the most iconic landmark in Marrakech. Built in the 12th century, this mosque is a masterpiece of Almohad architecture. Its 77-meter-high minaret dominates the city and is visible from miles around. The Koutoubia Mosque is not only a symbol of Marrakech, but it also offers an ideal landmark for exploring the city. Its unique architecture and proximity to Jema El Fna Square make it a must-see.
Practical information:
The Koutoubia Mosque is open to outside visitors all day, but the best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sunlight beautifully illuminates the minaret.
Jemaa El Fna Square is the beating heart of Marrakech, a bustling square that transforms throughout the day. In the morning, you'll find vendors selling fresh orange juice and stalls selling dried fruit . From the afternoon until the evening, the square fills with snake charmers, storytellers, musicians, and dancers .
Practical information:
✅ What time to visit Jemaa el Fna square?
To fully enjoy the unique atmosphere of Jema El Fna, it is advisable to visit in the late afternoon or evening. This is when the square comes alive with shows and food stalls.
✅ Can I eat in the snack bars at Jemaa el Fna Square?
The snacks and food stalls on Jemaa El Fna Square are renowned for their safety and hygiene. Due to the large number of tourists who eat there every day, local authorities strictly ensure that health standards are respected. You can enjoy meat skewers , spicy snails , or harira (Moroccan soup) in complete peace.
✅ How to avoid the crowds at Jemaa el Fna Square?
The square really comes alive in the evening and can be a bit overwhelming for some people due to the noise and crowds. To escape the din, you can head to one of the rooftop cafes next to the square which will give you a panoramic view of the square without the hassle. 😉
⚠️ Are there any scams in Jemaa el Fna square?
Be careful not to get too close to snakes or monkeys. It may happen that the trainers put them on you without your consent and then ask you for a ticket. If you do not want this, quickly decline their offer before having the animal on you.
5. Explore the Agafay Desert: a change of scenery 30km from Marrakech
The Agafay Desert, located about 30 kilometers from Marrakech, is a rocky desert with a lunar landscape. Unlike the Sahara, this desert is not made up of sand dunes, but vast arid plains dotted with stones. Despite this, it offers an equally magical and immersive experience. The Agafay Desert is a fun activity during a stay in Marrakech , ideal for immersing yourself in the raw beauty of Moroccan nature. It is also the perfect place for a romantic getaway or an adventure with friends.
✅ What activities to do in the Agafay desert ?:
In addition to exploring the landscapes, you can opt for a quad bike or camel ride. These activities are particularly popular at sunset, offering memories worthy of the tales of the Arabian Nights.
Many camps in the Agafay Desert combine bohemian and Berber style, offering unique bivouac experiences .
You can also enjoy a pool day with lunch at places like Le Bédouin , starting at €45 per pass.
✅ How to get from Marrakech to the Agafay desert? :
To get to the Agafay desert, you can take a "grand taxi" , but it is essential to agree on a return time with the driver.
Most camps also offer their own shuttle service , making it easy to organise your visit. Feel free to contact them directly to find out more.
4. Visit the Green Spaces
Marrakech, despite its arid climate, is home to several green oases where you can cool off and relax. These parks and gardens are must-see stops during your visit, offering a welcome respite from the heat.
1. Paid visit 👛 :
The Majorelle Garden is arguably the most famous park in Marrakech. Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s, this exotic garden is a true masterpiece of color and tranquility. With its shaded paths, water basins, and plants from five continents, the Jardin Majorelle is a haven of peace in the heart of the city.
Practical information:
✅ Why is it so famous?
The Jardin Majorelle is also famous for having been purchased and restored by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his companion Pierre Bergé. Today it houses the Berber Museum and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, which display art and fashion collections.
✅ Prices and opening hours:
The Majorelle Garden is open every day from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Entrance tickets cost 150 MAD for the garden and an additional 100 MAD for the Yves Saint Laurent Museum . It is highly recommended to book your tickets online to avoid long lines.
✅ Practical advice:
At the exit of the garden, many taxis will offer their services, but to avoid paying a high price, it is advisable to join the road parallel to the garden and find a taxi there.
2. Free visit 🆓 :
Menara Park is an equally impressive free alternative. Located a few kilometers from the city center, this vast green space is famous for its large pond surrounded by olive trees, with the Atlas Mountains as a backdrop.
Practical information:
✅ Why visit it?
Menara Park is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, especially at sunset.
✅ Opening hours:
It is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. , and its peaceful setting makes it a popular spot for families and photography enthusiasts.
✅ Nearby:
The park is located next to M'Avenue , a modern and trendy area where you can walk after your visit to discover shops, restaurants, and cafes.
3. Take advantage of a Pool Pass
When temperatures rise in Marrakech, one of the best ways to cool off is to spend a day by the pool. Many hotels and riads offer pool passes, which usually include pool access and lunch.
A pool day is a true escape , allowing you to relax in luxurious surroundings while enjoying the amenities of Marrakech’s finest hotels. Whether you’re looking for a trendy atmosphere with music and cocktails, or a more intimate and traditional setting, there’s something for everyone.
👉🏻 Recommended options:
- Nikki Beach : For a festive atmosphere, with DJ and cocktails by the pool.
- Riad Anya : An intimate setting in the medina, ideal for feeling like you're in a tale from the Thousand and One Nights.
- Manzil La Tortue : Our favorite for a day of absolute calm and a delicious meal, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
2. Smoke a Shisha
Smoking a shisha is a very popular activity among visitors to Marrakech , especially in the evening.
Morocco, with its rich cultural heritage, has perfected the art of hookah, making it a symbol of conviviality and relaxation. Moroccan hookahs are distinguished by the quality of their tobacco blends and the finesse of their preparation, often in traditionally decorated environments, adding to the charm of the experience.
👉🏻 Recommended options:
Azar in Gueliz: If you want to enjoy a quality shisha, Azar in Gueliz is a must-visit. Renowned for its shisha, this venue also offers excellent Moroccan and international cuisine, and has an alcohol license, making it an ideal place for an evening with friends. Azar combines a chic atmosphere with impeccable service, ensuring a memorable experience in an elegant setting.
1. Get your adrenaline pumping by visiting the Palmeraie by Quad
For an adrenaline rush in Marrakech, nothing beats a quad bike tour through the palm grove. The Marrakech palm grove is an oasis of tranquility with its palm trees and arid landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. In addition to discovering this unique setting, the quad bike tour also takes you through the Moroccan countryside and the more isolated hinterland. It is a fun and dynamic way to spend time together, creating unforgettable memories.
👉🏻The tour:
Quad bike tour usually lasts 2 hours and includes a well-deserved break. During this break, you will be invited to enjoy Moroccan tea accompanied by traditional bread, honey, and olives, in a typical Berber setting. It is an experience that perfectly combines adventure and local culture , offering a moment of relaxation before getting back on the road.