Our Whirlwind Adventure Begins
Stepping off the train into Marrakesh feels like entering another world. As part of our week-long Moroccan adventure, we dedicated 48 hours in Marrakesh to explore what makes this destination Morocco's most visited city. After landing in Casablanca and adjusting to the culture for a day, we boarded a train heading south toward the famous "Red City" – named for its distinctive walls made from clay and chalk.
The journey itself offered our first taste of Moroccan travel. For $30 each, we secured first-class tickets for the three-hour ride. Though "first-class" turned out to be a bit of a misnomer (no air conditioning despite the sweltering heat and basic facilities), the scenery compensated as we watched the landscape transform from urban sprawl to glimpses of desert before arriving among Marrakesh's palm-lined streets.
First impressions? Much nicer than Casablanca! The city welcomed us with tropical vibes, heightened security (complete with police carrying AK-47s), and that familiar juxtaposition of traditional culture alongside global chains like KFC and McDonald's.
Where to Stay in Marrakesh
For our brief stay, we chose accommodation in Gueliz district, strategically located between the train station and the historic Medina. Our $100 Airbnb apartment provided comfortable lodging with modern amenities including a washing machine and even a bedroom projector (though we were too busy planning our desert adventure to use it).
If you're planning your own 48-hour Marrakesh itinerary, I recommend similar mid-range accommodation that balances convenience with comfort. Being within walking distance of the Medina saved us time and transportation costs while giving us a slightly more local experience than staying in heavily touristed areas.
Day 1: Diving into the Medina
Navigating the UNESCO World Heritage Site
Our first morning in Marrakesh had one clear mission: explore the famed Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site and arguably Morocco's most celebrated ancient district. This maze-like area with its endless souks (markets) has been the beating heart of Marrakesh for nearly a millennium, dating back to when it was an Imperial City and the center of an empire.
Walking through the imposing city walls transports you instantly to what feels like a photographer's paradise. The narrow streets filled with everyday life offer glimpses into a world where time moves differently. As we strolled, I couldn't help researching the economic context – the minimum wage here is roughly $2 US per hour, with public sector workers earning around $350 US monthly.
Unexpected Moments with Royal Guards
One of those spontaneous travel moments occurred as we passed some Royal Palace guards. Initially intimidating with their formal attire and serious demeanor, they surprisingly agreed to photos when asked. In a touching exchange that speaks volumes about Moroccan hospitality, they requested we send the images to them via WhatsApp – which we did immediately, grateful for our mobile data connection.
Having reliable internet access proved invaluable throughout our adventure, allowing us to navigate the labyrinthine streets, research attractions on the go, and stay connected with family. If you're planning your own 48 hours in Marrakesh, I strongly recommend securing mobile data before arrival.
Lost in the Souks
The heart of any Marrakesh experience lies in its souks – seemingly endless marketplaces where narrow alleys lead to everything imaginable. There are no cars here, just the occasional motorbike or donkey cart transporting goods the old-fashioned way.
What struck us most was the craftsmanship. Unlike back home in Australia where mass production dominates, here we witnessed artisans spending hours crafting items that would sell for just a few dollars. Leatherworkers, metalsmiths, woodcarvers – each stall showcased skills passed down through generations.
One particularly memorable encounter happened when I needed an extra hole punched in my belt. A leather craftsman happily assisted, refusing payment for such a simple task despite my offering 10 dirhams (about $1.50). These small moments of generosity colored our entire Marrakesh experience.
Among hundreds of colorful stalls, one particular vendor caught our attention – Pastry Belkabir, a family business operating for over 60 years. The friendly owner, Hajj Belkabir, invited us to sample his traditional sweets, including almond and sesame treats, coconut pastries, and marzipan-filled delicacies. Though swimming in sugar (and possibly of questionable age), the experience of connecting with a multi-generational business added authentic flavor to our souk exploration.
A Hidden Oasis: The 1112 Tea House
Just when the sensory overload of the souks began taking its toll, we stumbled upon a hidden gem – the 1112 Tea House. Completely unrecognizable from outside save for minimal signage, this tropical transformed riad provided the perfect respite from Marrakesh's hustle.
We learned that a "riad" is a traditional Moroccan house built around a central garden or courtyard (the word literally means "garden" in Arabic). Many former family homes like this have been lovingly restored and converted into boutique hotels or, in this case, exquisite tea houses.
Inside, we ordered rose petal tea and coffee accompanied by traditional honey-almond-cinnamon dessert – the same energy-packed treat Moroccans consume during Ramadan. As luck would have it, we encountered the owner who provided an impromptu hour-long tour and cultural lesson that, as we agreed afterward, "beats any museum or guided tour we've ever experienced."
This unexpected discovery exemplifies why allowing time for wandering is essential during your 48 hours in Marrakesh. Some of the most memorable experiences aren't found in guidebooks but revealed through chance encounters.
The Main Square: Jemaa el-Fnaa and Our Snake Charmer Encounter
No visit to Marrakesh is complete without experiencing Jemaa el-Fnaa, the famous main square just a ten-minute walk from the tea house. However, this vibrant hub comes with warnings we wish we'd heeded more carefully.
As soon as we arrived, we spotted the iconic snake charmers with their cobras, the distinctive sound of their instruments filling the air. Wanting to capture this cultural phenomenon for our blog while respecting the performers' livelihood, I prepared a 20-dirham note (about $2) as contribution.
What unfolded next happened too quickly to process in real-time. Making eye contact while holding my money visibly, I approached to film. Suddenly, one performer took my phone while another directed us toward the snakes, simultaneously draping one around John's neck. Before we could fully comprehend what was happening, they were demanding 200 dirhams – ten times what we'd intended to pay.
We managed to extricate ourselves by explaining we simply didn't have that much money on hand, but the experience left us shaken. This common scam targets tourists daily, with performers intentionally creating awkward situations that pressure visitors into paying inflated prices.
My advice for anyone planning 48 hours in Marrakesh: observe the square's activities from a distance first. If you want photos or videos with performers, negotiate prices clearly before any interaction begins, and don't allow anyone to take control of your devices or personal space.
Day 2: Final Marrakesh Moments Before Desert Adventure
Our second day in Marrakesh was largely spent preparing for the next leg of our Moroccan journey – a self-drive adventure toward the Sahara Desert. Rather than booking through an agency, we decided to rent a car and embark on the nine-hour journey ourselves, with planned stops at sites like Aït Benhaddou, a preserved fortified village where blockbusters like Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed.
While our 48 hours in Marrakesh flew by quicker than expected, the city served as both an enthralling destination and the perfect launching point for exploring Morocco's diverse landscapes – from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara's endless dunes.
Practical Tips for Your 48 Hours in Marrakesh
Based on our experience, here are some essential tips for making the most of your brief stay:
Transportation
- First-class train tickets from Casablanca cost around $30 but don't expect Western luxury
- The Medina is pedestrian-only (except for motorbikes and donkey carts)
- Consider staying in Gueliz district for easy access to both the train station and Medina
Safety and Cultural Awareness
- Pickpocketing is common in crowded areas – keep bags secure and in front of you
- Negotiate prices for goods and services before engaging
- Be wary of "friendly" guides who may expect payment later
- Have small denominations ready for appropriate tipping
- Police presence is strong, particularly around tourist areas
Must-Visit Spots
- The Medina's labyrinthine souks
- Hidden riads converted into tea houses or restaurants
- Jemaa el-Fnaa square (with appropriate caution)
- City walls that give Marrakesh its "Red City" nickname
Budgeting
- Mid-range accommodation: $100/night
- Large breakfast at local cafes: $6-10
- Souvenirs and crafts: prices vary widely, always negotiate
- Mobile data: essential investment for navigation and safety
Final Thoughts: Is 48 Hours in Marrakesh Enough?
Honestly? We could have easily spent a week exploring just this one city. Between the endless souks, hidden riads, historical sites, and vibrant cultural experiences, Marrakesh demands more time than our brief stay allowed. However, our 48 hours in Marrakesh provided an intoxicating taste of what makes this destination Morocco's tourism crown jewel.
If you're planning your own visit, consider extending your stay if possible. And if, like us, you're using Marrakesh as a gateway to broader Moroccan adventures, at least ensure you have two full days to absorb the city's unique atmosphere before venturing onward.
Have you visited Marrakesh? How long did you stay, and what were your favorite discoveries? Share your experiences in the comments below – I'd love to hear how your adventures compared to our whirlwind 48 hours in Marrakesh!
Looking for more Morocco inspiration? Check out our Complete 7-Day Morocco Itinerary or Desert Camping Guide for planning your own Moroccan adventure!