The old capital of Morocco is a magnificent city, packed with things to see and do.
Few cities capture the imagination quite like Marrakesh. A blend of Berber, Arabic and French influences give this UNESCO World Heritage site a timeless appeal. With the beautiful frenzy of the Medina, ornate Arabic architecture and one of the world’s greatest cuisines it’s no surprise that more people are travelling to Marrakesh now more than ever. Whether you spell it Marrakesh or Marrakech (both are acceptable), a visit to Morocco’s Red City is surely an experience you will never forget. Marrakesh can be overwhelming to say the least, with a dizzying array of sights, smells and tastes providing a sensory overload.
Between tradition and modernity, Marrakesh is the promise of unequalled sensations. Strolling the Jemaa el-Fnaa square and the souks with their shimmering colours and oriental smells, the red city offers you a complete change of scenery. Horse-drawn carriage rides, sunny terraces, travelling artists and other day and night activities will give a taste of wishful comeback.
With these tips you can find the best things to do in Marrakesh and make your first trip one to remember.
Airport to Old Town:
Book a taxi outside the airport. The fares are regulated so it cost 100 dirhams (£8) per taxi (Feb 2024).
Currency:
Do not convert in the airport. Rates are lower and they charge a commission. Maybe just change enough to pay the taxi fare. Once in the Old Town, there are many exchange bureaus offering a better rate and no commission. Note, Marrakesh is pretty much a cash-based city.
Hotels:
Riads and hotels are very cheap. Inside the city walls can be very busy so if you want a quiet area, look for accommodation in the Kasbah area outside the city walls.
Walking through the streets of the medina means being approached every 2 to 3 minutes (sometimes even less) to visit a particular shop or try something. If you are not interested, nod your head no, say a few words in French (for example, “no, merci”) or Arabic (“choukran”, which means “thank you”) and carry on.
No one will bother you anymore and you will only have to repeat it a few metres further when you are approached again.
Beware of motorbikes:
The motorbike is a very common means of transport inside the medina. This is also true even if the street is very narrow and crowded. Motorbikes are everywhere, they come when you least expect them, and some are faster than others.
Shopping in the souks:
Spend your time haggling. Usually, you can start with a third of the price that they say- some will think you’re mad and others will happily oblige.
Here is a 5-day itinerary:
Day 1
Bahia Palace
Visit the souks
Visit a leather tannery in the north end of the medina
Eat dinner at the Jemaa el-Fnaa night market
Day 2
Saadian Tombs
El Badi Palace
Kasbah Mosque
Day 3
Museum of Marrakesh
Ben Youssef Madrasa
House of Photography Museum
Day 4
Jardin Majorelle
Walk Marrakesh New Town
Menara Gardens
Koutoubia Mosque
Day 5
Spa day / Hammam / Turkish Bath
or
Book a tour to do:
Ouzoud Falls, The Atlas Mountains, Ourika Valley, Berber Villages, camel ride in the desert, Desert Quad Bike tour, Sunrise hot air balloon ride.
If you have more time, a list of things to do can be found at the link below. There are also some restaurant recommendations.
Enjoy and safe travels.
About the Author: My name is Yasmin and I am a South African expat who’s been living in London (UK) for over a decade. My passion is travel, visiting new places, seeking hidden gems, local specialties, off-the-beaten-track experiences, and jaw-dropping natural scenery. I aim to inspire others to travel, whether it’s by providing information and travel tips or showcasing a destination through photography. You can follow me on Instagram: @postcard786
