Explore Morocco
Marrakech
The Red City — souks, palaces and rooftop sunsets
Overview
Discover Marrakech
Marrakech is where most Morocco journeys begin, and for good reason. Behind the rose-colored ramparts of the medina lies a maze of souks, hidden riads and centuries-old monuments, while the city's newer districts offer design hotels, galleries and some of the best dining in North Africa.
It is also a superb base. Within an hour or two you can be having lunch in a Berber village in the High Atlas, watching the sun set over the stony plateau of Agafay, or heading toward the coast at Essaouira.
Things to do
Top things to do in Marrakech
- 01
Jemaa el-Fna at dusk
The main square transforms at sunset into an open-air stage of storytellers, musicians and food stalls. Its oral traditions are recognized by UNESCO.
- 02
The souks with a local guide
Leatherworkers, metalsmiths, dyers and spice merchants — a guide helps you find genuine craftsmanship and navigate with ease.
- 03
Bahia Palace & Saadian Tombs
Carved cedar, zellige tilework and painted ceilings: two of the finest examples of Moroccan decorative arts.
- 04
Jardin Majorelle
The cobalt-blue garden restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, next to the YSL Museum. Timed tickets are usually required.
- 05
Ben Youssef Madrasa
A former Quranic school with a serene marble courtyard and extraordinary stucco work.
- 06
A traditional hammam
From a neighborhood bathhouse to a luxury spa ritual — a Moroccan must.
Best experiences
Our favorite ways to enjoy it
- Sunrise hot air balloon flight over the plains
- Private cooking class in a riad
- Evening food tour of the medina
- Day trip to the Agafay Desert or the Ourika Valley
Travel tips
- Stay in a riad inside the medina for atmosphere, or in Hivernage / the Palmeraie for more space and calm.
- Cars cannot reach most riads; porters with carts usually meet you at the nearest drop-off point.
- Agree on prices before taking a taxi without a meter, and expect polite but persistent offers in the souks.
- Summer afternoons are very hot — plan sightseeing for the morning and late afternoon.
Signature experience
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon over Marrakech
Rise with the sun above the plains and Berber villages, with the snow-capped Atlas on the horizon — then land for a traditional breakfast and mint tea.
- At dawnEarly hotel pickup
- About 1 hourin the air, weather permitting
- Shared or privatebasket options
FAQ
Marrakech: your questions
How many days do I need in Marrakech?
Three days lets you see the medina's main sights at a relaxed pace and add one day trip. If Marrakech is part of a longer Morocco itinerary, two nights is a good minimum.
Is it easy to find your way around the medina?
The medina is a dense network of alleys and many streets look alike. A guide for your first half-day makes it far easier, and most visitors feel confident exploring on their own afterwards.
What day trips can I take from Marrakech?
Popular options include the Agafay Desert, the Ourika Valley and Imlil in the High Atlas, Essaouira on the Atlantic coast, and Aït Ben Haddou (a long but rewarding day).
Tailor-made Morocco
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