The 12 Best Things to Do in Marrakech ~ Vip en Voyage

I first went to Morocco when I was studying abroad in Italy in 2013. I remember feeling a bit overwhelmed by the chaos of Marrakech, but absolutely loving it by the end. Since then, I’ve managed to return three more times and really experience everything the Red City has to offer. I can confidently say that there are plenty of activities for all budgets and timeframes. Whether it’s a low-budget trip, a romantic couples getaway, or a lively girl’s weekend, these are the best things to do in Marrakech.

WHAT NOT TO MISS IN THE RED CITY

HOW LONG TO STAY

After having been to Marrakech on three different occasions, I would say that 3/4 days is the perfect amount of time in the city. It gives you time to explore everything in the city at your own pace and even fit in a day trip.

WHEN TO VISIT

In my opinion, shoulder season (between April and June and September to November) are the best times to visit Marrakech. However, winter months are pretty mild and flight prices are usually cheaper if you want to take advantage! I would say to avoid the summer months as it is way too hot and you probably won’t be able to enjoy any of the local attractions.

THINGS TO DO IN MARRAKECH

Badi Palace

Marrakech is home to several historic palaces, yet Badi Palace is definitely one of the most important. The palace ruins date back to the 16th century and are a symbol of the city’s rich past. The complex in itself is quite large so plan to dedicate at least an hour to explore all the halls, tunnels and artifacts. It’s open everyday from 9am to 5pm and tickets costs around 70 Dirham (7 euros).

Medersa Ben Youssef

Hidden within the small winding roads of the Medina, you’ll find the Medersa Ben Youssef. This stunning building from the 14th century was once one of the largest and most important schools in Morocco, and is now a UNESCO site. Once inside you won’t actually find any remnants of a school building as it was abandoned in the 18th century. I will admit that I was hesitant about paying to visit an abandoned building but the architecture alone is worth the visit! The entrance leads to an incredible courtyard covered in colorful Moroccan tiles, perfect for a photo moment! Entrance to the Medersa Ben Youssef cost about 40DH (4 euros).

Coffee at Bacha Coffee

If you’re a coffee lover you won’t want to miss this famous cafe! Located inside the museum of Confluences, Dar el Bacha Coffee is one of the most extravagant coffee shops I’ve ever been to. Established in 1910, they offer over 200 types of coffee from all over the world! You can opt for a blended variety or a single flavor coffee which comes in a beautiful and large individual pot. Make sure to also try one of the many delicious pastries to accompany your coffee! The prices are a bit higher than other local shops in Marrakech, but I had about three cups worth of coffee in my pot so would say it was worth it!

Keep in mind that Dar el Bacha Coffee has become a popular spot in Marrakech, and you cannot make a reservation beforehand. Therefore, I highly recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid disappointment. We arrived 20 minutes after opening time and had to wait around 25 minutes for a table. However, I have heard of some who had almost two hour wait times for a table!

Rooftop Hopping

Surprisingly, Marrakech has gained a reputation for its many rooftops! Definitely add one (or multiple) to your Marrakech itinerary. La Pergola rooftop was by far one of my favorites and a must for dinner and drinks. They even have live jazz music in the evenings! It does get very crowded, especially during the jazz evenings, so make sure to make a reservation. Some other rooftops worth a visit are Kabana and Nomad near the Koutobia Mosque (also make sure to reserve beforehand).

Pamper Yourself

There’s no better way to relax after several days of sightseeing than with a visit to the hammam! These Arab baths are a place of purification of the body and soul. There are several bath houses all over Marrakech depending on what kind of experience you prefer. You can chose from the local Hammams or splurge on a more luxe experience at a high-end hotel.

We chose something in the middle at Les Bains Bleu, a privately owned bath house in the Medina. Another good option upon researching was Les Bains de Marrakech but there wasn’t availability for the day we wanted to visit. We opted for the hammam experience followed by a 45 minute massage which was perfect. We left feeling incredibly relaxed and ready for our final days of exploring! The package with Hammam and Massage at Les Bains Bleu was around 70 euros each, although prices can vary drastically depending on package and location.

Wander the Souks

If you’re hoping to pick up some local treasures and souvenirs to bring home, then a visit to the souks is a must. They sell everything from cosmetics, to pottery, leather goods, and even carpets. Afterward, stop by the colorful spice market for some new herbs and spices. Regardless of what you purchase, get your haggling skills ready to negotiate!

Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is an iconic building in Marrakech that dates back to the 12th century, making it one of the oldest mosques in Morocco. Non-muslim visitors aren’t allowed inside, but you can still admire the architecture from the outside. Take a stroll in the surround gardens for some impressive views and photos of this landmark!

Visit the Gardens

The Red City is home to a few parks and gardens but the most famous ones are Le Jardin Secret and the Jardin Majorelle. Le Jardin Secret is a botanical garden lost within the winding streets of the Medina. It might be where the name “Secret Garden” comes from! Inside you’ll find beautiful Islamic architecture and plenty of lush vegetation. The garden is open from 9:30am to 6:30pm and costs 100 dirhams (10 euros) to enter.

Jardin Majorelle is less traditional and has become famous over the years due to its location next to the Yves Saint Laurent museum. Inside you’ll find bright art deco architecture and unique plants. It’s definitely an instagram worthy spot! It is a bit more expensive, as a ticket to the garden costs 150 Dhs (15 euros). You can also opt for the combo ticket for 30 euros which includes entrance to the two museums onsite.

Get Lost in the Medina

Some words of caution: there is about a 90% chance that you will get lost in the Medina as not even Google Maps can pick up some of the streets. But don’t panic because you will eventually reach a familiar crossroad and find your way! The Medina is chaotic and full of people and motorbikes, but it’s also the life and soul of Marrakech. Try wandering the streets with no definite end point in mind and see what you find!

People Watch at Jemaa El Fnaa Square

No matter where you go in Marrakech you will probably have to cross the Jemaa El Fnaa Square at least once. The enormous square is filled with vendors trying to sell you everything from freshly squeezed orange juice to photos with dancing snakes. The best place to observe and take in all of the movement in the square is from one of the surrounding bars or restaurants. Find one with a rooftop terrace for even better views.

Bahia Palace

For one last dose of Moroccan architecture make a stop at the famous Bahia Palace. Located in the heart of the Medina, the 19th century palace is home to 150 rooms, gardens, and beautiful tile work. It definitely deserves a place in your Marrakech itinerary! Entrance tickets cost around 70 Dirhams (7 euros).

Discover the Rock Desert

Visiting the Sahara Desert is one of the most magical experiences I’ve had to this day and one that many people hope to fit it when in Morocco. However, for those that aren’t good at geography or simply didn’t look at a map, the Sahara Desert is quite FAR from Marrakech. If you have time to include it in your Morocco itinerary then I highly recommend it, but if you are solely based in Marrakech for a few days then a visit to the Agafay Desert is the next best thing!

Agafay Desert, or the rock desert is less than an hour outside the red city and is known for its luxe glamping. You can book a day tour for some quad riding or camel riding, but I highly recommend spending a night in one of the camp sites if your budget allows! We spent the night at Yes We Camp and it was everything I was hoping for. We had a spacious ensuite “tent” and our stay included a traditional Moroccan dinner and breakfast the next morning. Not to mention the breathtaking pool area overlooking the desert dunes!