Best Things to See and Do in Marrakech: From Bustling Souks to Ornate Palaces

Marrakech is a city that overwhelms the senses in the best possible way: spice stalls and copper lanterns, the call to prayer echoing across rooftops, quiet gardens hidden behind high walls. Here's how to make the most of it.

In the medina

1. Jemaa el-Fnaa

The great square at the heart of the medina is the place to start. By day it's full of juice sellers and storytellers; at dusk, food stalls set up and the square fills with smoke, music and crowds. Watch it all from a rooftop café as the sun goes down.

2. The souks

North of the square, the souks are divided roughly by trade: leather, spices, carpets, lanterns, metalwork. Bargaining is expected – start well below the asking price, stay friendly and be prepared to walk away.

3. Ben Youssef Madrasa

This former Islamic school has one of the most beautiful courtyards in Morocco, decorated with carved cedar, stucco and zellige tilework.

4. Le Jardin Secret

A restored riad garden in the middle of the medina – a peaceful escape from the noise outside.

5. Koutoubia Mosque

The 12th-century minaret of the Koutoubia is Marrakech's most famous landmark. The mosque is closed to non-Muslims, but its gardens are pleasant for an evening walk.

Palaces and tombs

6. Bahia Palace

A 19th-century palace with painted ceilings, tiled courtyards and gardens of orange trees. Go early to avoid tour groups.

7. El Badi Palace

Once one of the most lavish palaces in the world, now atmospheric ruins with sunken gardens and storks nesting on the walls.

8. Saadian Tombs

The richly decorated burial place of the Saadian dynasty, hidden for centuries and rediscovered in the early 20th century.

Gardens

9. Jardin Majorelle and the YSL Museum

The cobalt-blue villa and cactus gardens created by the painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent are the most famous garden in Morocco. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum is next door. Book tickets online.

10. Menara Gardens

Olive groves around a large pool with a pavilion and the Atlas Mountains behind – best at sunset on a clear day.

Experiences

11. Take a hammam

Choose between a simple local hammam and a luxurious spa version. Either way, expect steam and a thorough black-soap scrub.

12. Stay in a riad

Traditional houses built around an inner courtyard, riads are peaceful, beautiful and often have rooftop terraces. They're the best way to experience the medina.

13. Take a cooking class

Shop for ingredients in the souk, then learn to make tagine, salads and bread.

Day trips

14. The Atlas Mountains

The Ourika Valley and the village of Imlil are about an hour or two from the city – perfect for a walk, lunch with a view and a glimpse of Berber village life.

15. Agafay desert

Closer than the Sahara, the stony Agafay desert offers camel rides, quad biking and dinner under the stars. For the real dunes, read about the Sahara in our guide to 10 experiences in Morocco you shouldn't miss.

When to go

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons. Summer is very hot, and winter evenings can be surprisingly cold.

Looking for another sunny city break with a very different feel? See our 4-day Dubai guide.