Salam! Welcome to the magical Red City of Marrakech, one of Morocco's most vibrant destinations. After countless visits and recently traveling with my friends, I'm excited to share the best things to do in Marrakech for 2025, along with insider tips to help you navigate this enchanting city.
Sitting at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech has been a cultural and trading hub for centuries. The city is famous for its bustling souks, historical palaces, and stunning gardens. But beyond its rich history and culture, Marrakech is also a city of adventure and unique experiences.
Where to Stay in Marrakech: Medina vs. Modern City
One of the first decisions you'll need to make when planning your trip is where to stay. Marrakech is divided into two distinct parts:
The Old Medina
If it's your first time visiting, I strongly recommend staying in the Medina.This ancient walled city center is the best way to experience Marrakech's history and authentic culture. The narrow winding streets might seem chaotic at first, but they hold countless treasures waiting to be discovered.
For the ultimate Moroccan experience, book a stay in a traditional riad. These historic houses feature beautiful inner courtyards and offer a peaceful retreat from the busy streets. During my recent trip, we stayed at Riad Itrane, which had such a tranquil atmosphere - it felt like a little escape from the city's energetic chaos. The peaceful courtyard with its small pool was perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.
The Modern City (Gueliz)
The modern part of Marrakech is strikingly different from the Medina. Here you'll find wider roads, international hotels, modern shops, and cafés. While it lacks some of the charm of the old city, it offers more familiar conveniences.
If you have an early train departure or flight, staying in the modern district for your final night might be more convenient. On our last trip, we stayed in Gueliz before flying home, and the easier access to transportation was definitely helpful.
Best Things to Do in Marrakech
1. Get Lost in the Souks
The souks (markets) are the beating heart of Marrakech's Medina. This maze of market streets is filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to handmade crafts and traditional Moroccan lamps.
Walking through the souks is an adventure in itself - you never know what's around the next corner! One moment you might be admiring handcrafted leather goods, and the next you'll need to press yourself against a wall as a motorbike zooms past. It's chaotic, yes, but in the most exciting way.
Shopping Tip: Most items don't have price tags, and shopkeepers usually set the price based on how you look. The initial prices you're quoted are typically inflated "tourist prices." Don't be afraid to haggle - it's expected! I've found that prices in Marrakech are generally higher compared to other parts of Morocco, so be prepared to negotiate.
While many travelers worry about aggressive vendors, my experience has been relatively positive. Yes, shop owners will invite you to look at their goods, but most aren't overly pushy. A polite "no, thank you" is usually respected. That said, my friend Shamima wasn't the most successful negotiator - she only managed to get 5 dirhams off a 50-dirham item during our last visit!
2. Visit Historical Palaces and Madrasas
Most of Marrakech's main attractions are within walking distance of each other in the Medina, making it easy to explore on foot.
Madrasa Ben Youssef
This former Islamic school was built in the 14th century and was once the largest madrasa in North Africa. Students lived and studied religion, philosophy, and science within its walls. Today, it's one of the most photogenic spots in Marrakech, featuring stunning geometric patterns, intricate woodwork, and beautiful tiles. The central courtyard with its reflecting pool is particularly impressive.
Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is one of the best-preserved palaces in Marrakech. Built in the 19th century as a residence for a grand vizier, it features beautiful courtyards and stunning tile decorations. When I visited, I was struck by the peaceful atmosphere and the incredible craftsmanship. Note that photography isn't always permitted inside.
El Badi Palace
Located very close to Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace is mostly in ruins but still impressive. Built in the 16th century, it was once a lavish palace known for its grandeur and wealth. Though much of it has been destroyed, walking through its remains gives you a sense of how powerful the Moroccan sultans once were.
What I love about El Badi Palace is how peaceful it feels compared to the chaotic streets of the Medina. It's spacious enough that visitors spread out, and you can find quiet corners to enjoy the sun, watch the birds, or admire the orange groves. Even though it's a tourist attraction, it offers a welcome respite from the city's energy.
One interesting feature is the many stork nests on the walls - these massive birds have made the ancient ruins their home, adding to the unique atmosphere.
3. Experience Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle is one of the most famous attractions in Marrakech. Originally designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle, the garden was later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, who fell in love with the place.
The garden is known for its striking cobalt blue buildings (the famous "Majorelle Blue"), exotic plants, and peaceful atmosphere. It's incredibly popular, so you must book your ticket and time slot online in advance - tickets sell out quickly!
Honestly, I had high expectations for Jardin Majorelle, and while it is beautiful, it didn't quite meet my expectations. It's a nice place to walk around and offers great photo opportunities, but if you're expecting something truly extraordinary, you might find it a bit underwhelming. That said, it's still worth visiting for its cultural significance and unique aesthetic.
4. Explore Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Jemaa el-Fnaa is the famous main square of Marrakech, filled with street performers, food stalls, and market vendors. It's hard to miss and will probably be one of the first places you see when exploring the city.
The square is always buzzing with activity, especially in the evening when it comes alive with food stalls, storytellers, and musicians. While it's a lively and iconic spot, it's also where you'll find the most tourist traps and scams.
During our recent visit, we were lucky to avoid major scams, but Jemaa el-Fnaa was probably our least favorite place in Marrakech. Be aware that people may try to put henna on your hands without permission (which I don't recommend as you might have allergic reactions), or place monkeys on your shoulders for photos (which I consider animal abuse and strongly discourage).
Another thing to watch out for is diluted fruit juices. I ordered what looked like pomegranate juice, but it was just red-colored water. Stick to reputable vendors away from the main square for authentic fresh juices.
5. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
If you're looking for a truly memorable experience in Marrakech, I highly recommend taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. Yes, it means waking up well before dawn, but it's absolutely worth it to catch the first light of day from the sky.
During our trip, we booked this tour, and it was a fantastic choice. Floating above the desert with views of the Atlas Mountains as the sun rises is simply magical. From a kilometer above sea level, you can see everything - the sprawling city, surrounding villages, and the mountain range in the distance.
The experience includes pickup from your accommodation before dawn, a light breakfast, the balloon flight, and a more substantial breakfast after landing. The landing itself is quite an operation, with the ground crew helping to guide the balloon down safely.
This was my first time in a hot air balloon, and I couldn't have asked for a better setting than the Moroccan desert at sunrise. It's definitely one of the best things to do in Marrakech, providing a completely different perspective of the region.
Delicious Moroccan Cuisine to Try in Marrakech
Fresh Juices
Juice vendors are everywhere in Marrakech, making it a great place to try different fresh fruit drinks. Pomegranate juice is my personal favorite, and I always seek it out wherever I travel. For the best experience, avoid the main square vendors (who often dilute their juices) and look for local shops in the smaller streets.
Moroccan Pastries and Desserts
Pastries and desserts are a significant part of Moroccan cuisine, and many are made with almond, honey, and spices. During our exploration of Marrakech, we found a local pastry shop where we could learn about traditional Moroccan sweets.
One typical Moroccan pastry we tried was made with almonds and Moroccan spices. These treats are always present during Moroccan feasts, Ramadan celebrations, and weddings. They're typically sold by weight rather than by piece.
The pastries we sampled were deliciously nutty without being too sweet, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture reminiscent of marzipan. The almond flavor was prominent, and each variety had slightly different colors and tastes. It's definitely worth seeking out authentic Moroccan pastries during your visit.
Practical Tips for Visiting Marrakech
Getting Around
Most of the main attractions in Marrakech's Medina are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot. Just be prepared for narrow, winding streets and the occasional motorbike zooming past!
For longer distances or trips outside the city, taxis are readily available. Always negotiate the price before getting in, as most taxis don't use meters.
Best Time to Visit
Marrakech can get extremely hot in the summer months (June-August), with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C). Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer more pleasant temperatures for exploration.
If you're interested in experiencing Ramadan in Morocco, check out my guide to Ramadan in Morocco. It's a fascinating time to visit but does come with some adjustments to opening hours and daily rhythms.
Safety and Scams
While Marrakech is generally safe for tourists, it's also known for scams targeting visitors. Here are some tips to help you avoid common pitfalls:
- Beware of "helpful" locals who offer to guide you, then demand payment
- Don't let anyone put henna on your hands without agreement on price first
- Avoid animal handlers in Jemaa el-Fnaa square
- Always negotiate prices before purchasing anything
- Stick to bottled water and be cautious with street food
- Keep valuables secure and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas
Despite these warnings, don't let fear prevent you from enjoying Marrakech. Most locals are genuinely friendly and helpful. With reasonable precautions, you'll likely have a trouble-free visit.
Roof Terrace Views
Many cafés and restaurants in Marrakech have roof terraces that offer beautiful views of the city, especially at sunset. These make perfect spots to relax with a mint tea after a day of exploration while watching the city transition from day to night.
Beyond Marrakech: Day Trips and Extensions
While Marrakech offers plenty to keep you busy, it also serves as an excellent base for exploring more of Morocco. Consider adding these experiences to your itinerary:
- Atlas Mountains: Just a couple of hours from Marrakech, the Atlas Mountains offer hiking opportunities and Berber villages to explore
- Essaouira: This coastal town is about 2.5 hours from Marrakech and offers a more relaxed atmosphere with beautiful beaches and fresh seafood
- Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou: Famous for film locations including Game of Thrones and Gladiator
- Agafay Desert: For those who can't make it to the Sahara, this rocky desert just outside Marrakech offers a similar experience without the long journey
Final Thoughts on Marrakech
Marrakech is a city of contrasts - ancient and modern, chaotic and peaceful, familiar yet exotic. It's a place where every alley might lead to a hidden gem, every meal introduces new flavors, and every day brings unexpected adventures.
My time in Marrakech has been filled with unforgettable moments, from peaceful mornings on riad rooftops to exciting explorations of the maze-like souks. While the city can be overwhelming at times, it's precisely this intensity that makes it so captivating.
Whether you're seeking cultural immersion, historical wonders, culinary delights, or simply a destination unlike any other, Marrakech delivers on all fronts. Just remember to embrace the city's unique rhythm rather than fighting it - sometimes getting a little lost is the best way to discover something amazing.
Have you visited Marrakech? What were your favorite experiences? Are you planning a trip and have questions I can answer? Share your thoughts and questions in the comments below!