25 Best Things to Do in Marrakech (2026 Local Guide)

Marrakech is one of those cities that rewards curiosity. Behind the noise of the souks you find quiet riads, tiled palaces, rooftop cafés and gardens full of birdsong, and within an hour you can be in the desert or the Atlas mountains. This list is based on what our team recommends to the travellers we welcome every week.

The medina: the historic heart

1. Jemaa el-Fna at sunset

The main square changes all day long, but the best moment is the hour before sunset, when the food stalls set up and the musicians and storytellers gather. Watch it first from a rooftop café, then walk through it. Photographing performers usually means a tip, so ask first.

2. Get lost in the souks

North of the square, the souks are organised by trade: leather, lanterns, spices, carpets, metalwork. Wander without a plan, and use the Koutoubia minaret or the main square as landmarks to find your way back.

3. Koutoubia Mosque and gardens

The 12th-century minaret is the symbol of the city. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but the gardens around it are a pleasant, shaded walk.

4. Bahia Palace

A 19th-century palace with carved cedar ceilings, zellige tiles and peaceful courtyards. Go at opening time to enjoy it before the groups arrive.

5. Ben Youssef Madrasa

A former Koranic school with one of the most beautiful courtyards in Morocco: stucco, cedar wood and mosaics around a central pool.

6. Saadian Tombs

The burial place of the Saadian dynasty, hidden for centuries and rediscovered in the early 20th century. The Chamber of the Twelve Columns is the highlight.

7. El Badi Palace

The ruins of a once-magnificent palace, with sunken gardens and storks nesting on the walls. Climb to the terrace for a view over the medina.

8. Le Jardin Secret

A restored riad garden in the middle of the medina, calm and green, with a small tower offering views over the rooftops.

9. Dar El Bacha – Museum of Confluences

A beautifully restored palace hosting temporary exhibitions, with one of the city’s most elegant coffee rooms.

10. The Mellah

The old Jewish quarter, with its spice market, covered alleys and the Lazama synagogue, gives another view of the city’s history.

Gardens and modern Marrakech

11. Jardin Majorelle

The cobalt-blue villa and cactus garden created by the painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. Book tickets online and go early.

12. Musée Yves Saint Laurent

Next to the garden, a striking museum dedicated to the designer’s work and his love for Morocco.

13. Menara Gardens

Olive groves around a large basin and pavilion, with the Atlas mountains behind on clear days. Lovely in the late afternoon.

14. Guéliz and Hivernage

The modern districts, with galleries, concept stores, cafés and restaurants: a good contrast to the medina.

Food, wellness and experiences

15. Try a traditional hammam

A local hammam is an authentic experience; a spa hammam is more comfortable. Either way, it is the best way to recover after a day in the souks.

16. Take a cooking class

Learn to prepare a tagine, salads and mint tea, often starting with a market visit. A great activity for couples, families and groups.

17. Eat street food the right way

Choose busy stalls, where food is cooked fresh: grilled meats, harira soup, snails, msemen pancakes and fresh orange juice.

18. Dinner on a rooftop

Many riads and restaurants have terraces overlooking the medina. Book a table for sunset.

19. Hot-air balloon at sunrise

An early start and a silent flight over villages and stony desert, with the Atlas on the horizon. See our guide to balloon flights in Marrakech.

Easy day trips from Marrakech

20. The Agafay desert

Stony hills about an hour away, perfect for a sunset dinner, camel walks or quads. Not sure whether to choose Agafay or the Sahara? Read Agafay or Merzouga.

21. Ourika valley

Berber villages, terraced fields and small waterfalls in the foothills of the Atlas.

22. Imlil and the High Atlas

The starting point for walks and for Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Even a short hike gives spectacular views.

23. Essaouira

A fortified port on the Atlantic, with blue boats and a relaxed medina. See Essaouira from Marrakech.

24. Ouzoud waterfalls

Some of the highest waterfalls in North Africa, about 3 hours away. See our Ouzoud day trip guide.

25. A night in the Sahara

With three or four days, drive over the Atlas to the dunes of Merzouga. Our 4-day Sahara itinerary shows the route.

Practical tips

• Getting around: walk inside the medina; use a car or driver for day trips. Cars cannot enter most of the medina.
• Arriving: Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is about 15–20 minutes from the medina. Read how to get from Marrakech airport to the city.
• Best seasons: spring and autumn. Summer afternoons are very hot.
• Dress code: light, covering clothes are the most comfortable and respectful in the medina.
• How long to stay: three days is ideal for a first visit. See Marrakech in 3 days.

Want to explore beyond the city? Rent an automatic car at Marrakech airport, book a private transfer, or let us plan a tailor-made circuit.

Frequently asked questions

How many days do you need in Marrakech?

Three days is ideal for a first visit: one for the medina, one for gardens and museums, and one for a day trip to the Agafay desert, the Ourika valley or Essaouira.

What is the best area to stay in Marrakech?

Stay in a riad inside the medina for atmosphere and walking distance to the main sights, or in Guéliz or Hivernage for quieter streets and easier parking.

Is Marrakech worth visiting?

Yes. Marrakech combines historic palaces, lively souks, beautiful gardens and great food, and it is the best base for trips to the Atlas mountains and the desert.

Can you drive in the Marrakech medina?

Most of the medina is pedestrian. Park in a guarded car park near the walls and walk; use a car for day trips outside the city.