Marrakesh has a way of capturing your heart. Marrakesh travel tips I should know. It’s a city filled with color, chaos, creativity, and charm. Whether you're sipping nouss nouss in the Medina or browsing handmade rugs in the souks, Marrakesh is less about checking off sights and more about soaking up the atmosphere.

But to truly enjoy it—especially on your first visit—there are some things you need to know. Consider this your personal guide to Marrakesh, with local insights and expert tips to help you navigate Morocco’s most visited city like a pro.

Marrakesh travel tips

1. Book Ahead: The City Fills Up Fast

Marrakesh is one of Morocco’s most popular destinations, which means tours, restaurants, and attractions can book out weeks or even months in advance—especially during high season.

To avoid missing out:

  • Reserve tables at favorites like Nomad, +61, or La Famille before you arrive.
  • Book tickets online for Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
  • Schedule desert tours or city experiences early—Go Yaalah offers great deals on car rentals and custom itineraries too!

2. Smooth Airport Arrivals: Transfer or Local Bus?

Touching down at Menara Airport? You’ve got options:

Marrakech City Airport

Airport Menara - Marrakesh travel tips

  • Ask your hotel or riad to arrange a transfer.
  • Take a regulated taxi (prices are fixed now!).
  • Or hop on the L19 airport shuttle to Djemaa el Fna or Gueliz for just 30 dirhams (~$3). Find it just past the taxi area, near car rental offices.

3. Master the Art of Haggling

Negotiation is a big part of the local culture. Whether you're in a souk or catching a cab, bargaining is expected and even fun!

  • Start with a smile, and always counter with a fair price.
  • Taxi meters often "don’t work," so agree on a price before getting in.
  • A typical city fare is around 30–50 dirhams ($3–$5) during the day.

4. Enjoy Street Food—Safely

Marrakesh travel tips-Street Food

Some of the most delicious Moroccan meals are found at curbside stalls.

  • Eat where the locals eat. Long lines are a great sign!
  • Look for fresh-prepped items like msemen, harira, or sizzling tagines.
  • In Jemaa el Fna, pick stalls where food is cooked in front of you.

5. Currency Tips: Get the Best Exchange Rates

  • Morocco’s dirham is a closed currency—you can only bring in/out 1000 MAD (~$100).
  • ATMs usually limit withdrawals to 2000 MAD (~$200) per transaction.
  • Best currency exchanges: Hotel Ali (Djemaa el Fna) or Hotel Farouq (Avenue Hassan II).

6. Dress Respectfully, Blend In Comfortably

Marrakesh is modern, but tradition still matters—especially in the Medina.

Women should opt for:

  • Dresses/skirts below the knee
  • Tops that cover the shoulders

Men should avoid sleeveless shirts and very short shorts.
Footwear? Closed-toe shoes are ideal for cobbled streets and alleyways.

7. Ramadan Travel? Don’t Worry

Traveling during Ramadan offers a deeper cultural experience.

  • Locals understand that visitors still eat and drink during the day.
  • Be respectful with alcohol consumption.
  • Don’t hesitate to join a guide or local friend for an iftar meal!

8. Learn Local Table Manners

Moroccans appreciate small gestures of respect.

  • Always eat with your right hand—especially when sharing dishes.
  • If invited to a home, bring sweets from a local bakery like Amoud or Pâtisserie Amandine.
  • Say "Bismillah" (in the name of God) before eating—it's a lovely touch.

9. Be Discreet With Public Affection

Love is love—but PDA is not a common sight in Morocco. Whether you’re traveling with a partner or not, it’s best to keep things low-key, especially in traditional areas.

10. Learn a Few Words in Darija (Moroccan Arabic)

Even basic phrases go a long way:

  • “Salam alaykum” – Hello (Peace be upon you)
  • “Shukran” – Thank you
  • “La shukran” – No, thank you
  • “Afak” – Please

11. Watch for Faux Guides in the Medina

You might meet someone who “works at your hotel” and wants to show you a hidden market—often leading you to a cousin’s carpet shop. Just smile and say “La shukran” and keep walking with confidence.

Pro tip: If you get lost, ask an older shopkeeper or engage a kid to guide you—with a tip of 20 dirhams ready.

Final Thoughts

Everything you need to know before going to Marrakesh comes down to one thing: be prepared, stay open-minded, and embrace the unexpected.

This city will charm you with its beauty, surprise you with its contrasts, and leave you with stories you’ll share for a lifetime. And if you need wheels to explore Morocco beyond the red walls? Go Yaalah has you covered.