Top 10 things to do in Marrakech

1. Jemaa el-Fnaa

Jemaa el-Fnaa is the vibrant heart of Marrakech showcasing the rich heritage and communal spirit of Morocco, and an absolute must-do for all visitors to the city. It’s the busiest square in North Africa and famous throughout the Arab world.

As day turns to night, the square transforms into a lively hub filled with food stalls, traditional musicians, storytellers, and snake charmers. This is a place to taste local street food, explore local crafts, and soak in the atmosphere.

Its an incredible place to explore, but be prepared.

People will try and put a monkey on your shoulder, and others will get you to stroke and then hold a snake. In return they will expect payment. PLEASE AVOID THESE PEOPLE. The snakes have their mouths sewn shut so they can’t bite people, and the Barbary monkeys have been captured from the Atlas Mountains and treated poorly to perform for tourists (just have a look at their tiny blue cages). And any money you do give these people will go to them, with only the smallest amount possible being spent on the animals.

If it all becomes too much, just head to one of the many rooftop restaurants overlooking the square and view it all from a quiet spot.

To alleviate the hassle, you may want to book onto a Marrakech street food tour by night.

2. Koutoubia Mosque

Built in the 12th century, you can’t miss the towering minaret of Koutoubia Mosque overlooking the main square and protruding the medina skyline from almost every rooftop. It is believed that the 70m-tall minaret was modelled after the Giralda of Seville, reflecting the architectural exchange between the regions.

While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, the beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding it offer a peaceful retreat and stunning views. You will also spot horse and carriages nearby offering tours around the medina.

3. Shop the souks

No visit to Marrakech is complete without wondering around the labyrinth of souks around the medina. These bustling markets are home to a diverse array of artisanal goods, from intricately woven rugs and leather products to handmade pottery and textiles, as well as local spices, fragrant oils, jewellery and more. The most popular souk is Souk Semmarine.

Yes, you may get lost. But that’s part of the fun! Just ask a local to point you in the direction of ‘the square’ and you will find your way again.

Soak in the lively atmosphere, but remember that bargaining is part of the experience here. Sellers are a lot pushier here compared to shopping in Essaouira, but try and keep cool head. Our top tips for haggling in Morocco are:

• Ask around in different shops first to get an idea of prices
• Keep a poker face and never appear too eager
• Never accept the first price you are given, as it’s often three times the amount it should be
• Buying in bulk brings the price down
• Always keep it friendly and smile
• If you’re not reaching an agreed price, keep it pleasant, say Shokhran, and walk away
• Never say that you’ll come back another time unless you really mean it
• Keep a cool head with numbers, and know your currency exchange.
• Don’t rush, take your time. Don’t feel bad about leaving and saying you’ll (genuinely) come back another time (in fact this is a sure way to get them to lower the price).
• Check your change
• Be fair. The idea is to get to a price that both the seller and the buyer thinks is reasonable. It’s not a competition to see how cheap you can get an item. This is a family business and if you can afford to travel to Morocco, it’s probably the case that you have a larger disposable income than the seller.

4. Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs, situated south of the medina, date back to the late 16th century and serve as the final resting place for the Saadian dynasty, including sultans and their families. Hidden for centuries, they were rediscovered in 1917, revealing exquisite craftsmanship and artistry.

Visitors can admire the intricate tile work and ornate carvings that exemplify Islamic art, particularly in the main mausoleum, which features the stunning tomb of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur, adorned with vibrant zellige mosaics and carved cedar wood.

Surrounded by peaceful gardens, the site offers a serene escape from the bustling medina and is one of the most impressive example of Moroccan architecture in Marrakech.

The Saadian Tombs are open daily from 9am to 5pm. You can pre-book your tickets online here.

5. Bahia Palace

Bahia Palace is another example of impressive Moroccan architecture, although built later towards the end of the 19th century for the grand vizier (a high official), Si Moussa. The palace features beautiful gardens, spacious courtyards, and intricately designed rooms with colourful tiles and carved wood.

Spanning over eight hectares, it includes a grand salon and private quarters, showcasing the lifestyle of the era, as well as lush gardens filled with orange trees and fountains. It’s a stark contrast to the bustling city outside of its walls.

Bahia Palace is open daily from 9am to 5pm. You can pre-book your tickets online here.

6. Jardin Majorelle

Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s, Jardin Majorelle is a stunning botanical garden in Marrakech. It features a variety of exotic plants, vibrant blue buildings, and winding pathways inviting visitors to explore.

At the heart of the garden is the Berber Museum, which showcases the art and culture of Morocco’s indigenous people. The garden also pays homage to Yves Saint Laurent, who helped restore it in the 1980s.

With the picturesque flora and fauna against the contrasting colourful backdrop, Jardin Majorelle is rather popular with Instagrammers. While it tries to create a tranquil atmosphere, it rather struggles with visitor numbers and can feel exceptionally busy at all times.

The Jardin Majorelle is open every day of the week, from 8:30am to 6pm (last entry is at 5:30pm).

7. Musée Yves Saint Laurent

The Musée Yves Saint Laurent, which opened in 2017 and is located right next to the Majorelle Garden, is a museum dedicated to the life and work of the iconic fashion designer.

It showcases a collection of Yves Saint Laurent’s most famous designs, sketches, and photographs, highlighting his significant impact on the fashion industry. In addition to the exhibits, the museum also features a research library and a temporary exhibition space.

By celebrating Yves Saint Laurent’s creativity and connection to Marrakech, the museum offers a unique perspective on his influence and the artistic environment that inspired him. While it’s a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts, anyone interested in the intersection of art and Moroccan culture will also find this a worthwhile visit.

Musée Yves Saint Laurent is open every day (except Wednesdays) from 10am to 6:30pm (last admission 6pm). You can pre-book your tickets online here.

8. Maison de la Photographie

Housed in a beautifully restored riad, Maison de la Photographie features a collection of over 5,000 photographs, ranging from historical images of Morocco to contemporary works by local and international photographers. The exhibits highlight various aspects of Moroccan life, culture, and landscapes, providing a unique perspective on the country’s evolution. The museum also regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and events.

Make sure you visit the rooftop terrace when you visit to enjoy the stunning views of the Atlas Mountains and the medina.

Maison de la Photographie is open every day from 9:30am to 7pm.

9. Hammam

Experiencing a traditional hammam is a bucket list item for any visit to Morocco and the perfect Marrakech activity after a morning spent shopping and sightseeing . It is a wonderfully rejuvenating experience and you will feel amazing afterwards. But be warned, all inhibitions need to go out of the window with a traditional Moroccan hammam, and especially if you opt for a local hammam (rather than a private one).

If you’re wondering what exactly a hammam is, it’s a cleansing ritual similar to a Turkish or Roman bath. Sat in a tiled steam room you are cleaned and scrubbed by a masseuse (also known as a Kessala). There are separate hammams for women and men; they are never mixed, unless you have a private couples hammam. But it’s more than a place to clean and relax. A hammam is a social gathering point, where people catch up and connections are made.

Unless you’re very brave, a private hammam is probably your best option. I’m a regular visitor of hammams in Essaouira, but have only tried a couple of Marrakech hammams. Recommended private hammams in Marrakech are Les Bains de Marrakech, Farnatchi Spa and Spa Royal Mansour Marrakech. However, if you want an authentic Moroccan experience you should try at public hammam (Hammam Essalama or Mouassine Hammam).

You generally need to pre-book with private hammams, whereas you can just turn up for the public hammams.

10. Explore the Palmarie and more on a side-car

For a truly unique way to experience Marrakech, jump in a side-car for a 1.5 hour tour beyond the medina. It’s fantastic fun!

You will be taken through three main parts of the Marrakech: non-touristy sections of the medina, the Guéliz district and its surrounding new town, and the Palmeraie (palm grove). Tours are entirely bespoke, focusing on off-the-beaten-path locations.

One sidecar can accommodate up to 2 passengers, suitable for ages 2-99 years. Helmets and water are included and you will be picked up / dropped off from the medina.

Click here to book your side-car tour.

How to get to and from Marrakech to Essaouira

There are really only three options for transport between Marrakech and Essaouira; bus, taxi, or private transfer. There is no train line to Essaouira and a one-way car hire is usually either difficult to arrange, or prohibitively expensive.

How to get from Essaouira to Marrakech

• Take a Grand Taxi
  The fee from Essaouira to Marrakech is also fixed at 600DH for a grand taxi. You will need to first get to the the Grand Taxi station to the north of the medina (click here for location). A petit taxi will take you here for DH8.
  
• Take the bus from Essaouira to Marrakech
  Supratours is the main bus company that travels between Essaouira and Marrakech. The journey takes 3 hours by bus, with a 20 minute comfort break en-route. There are six buses per day from Essaouira to Marrakech leaving at 07:00, 09:15, 11:15, 14:15, 15:30, and 17:00. Buses leave from the Supartours bus station next to Place Bab Marrakech (click here for location).
  
• Take a private transfer
  If there are 4-6 members in your party and you want to keep travel simple, a private transfer from Essaouira to Marrakech is your best option. It is also the most comfortable option. The easiest way to arrange a private transfer form Essaouira to Marrakech is to book online.