*Last updated: March 2025*
Looking for the perfect Marrakech weekend itinerary? After nearly 12 years of calling Morocco home, I've spent countless weekends exploring the vibrant streets of Marrakech and crafting the ideal 48-hour experience. The Red City never fails to enchant me with its labyrinthine medina, bustling souks, and hidden riads. Friends visiting Morocco often ask me, "Monika, what should I absolutely not miss if I only have a weekend in Marrakech?" So, I've finally put together my tried-and-tested itinerary for making the most of 48 magical hours in this captivating Moroccan city!
Day 1: Immerse Yourself in Marrakech's Must-See Attractions
A perfect blend of cultural discovery and adventure - from the mesmerizing Ben Youssef Medersa to the maze-like souks, followed by an exhilarating ATV tour, a relaxing swim, and finishing with authentic street food experiences.
🕌 9am – Ben Youssef Medersa
Start your Marrakech adventure at one of the city's most spectacular historical sites. The Ben Youssef Medersa is an ancient Islamic college dating back to the 14th century, though the stunning structure you'll see today was built in the 1560s. I still remember the first time I stepped into its central courtyard – my jaw literally dropped at the intricate zellige tilework, carved cedar, and delicate stucco.
Insider tip: Arrive right when it opens at 9am to beat the crowds and capture those Instagram-worthy photos without strangers in the background. The morning light filtering through the latticed windows creates magical patterns across the courtyard.
🛍️ 10am – Souk Semmarine
After soaking in the serene beauty of Ben Youssef, it's time to dive into the controlled chaos of Marrakech's famous souks! Souk Semmarine is the main artery of the marketplace, branching off into specialized sections selling everything from ornate lanterns to handwoven carpets and aromatic spices.
What I've learned: Don't buy from the first shop you see – prices tend to be better the deeper you venture into the souk. And yes, bargaining is expected, but remember to keep it friendly! I usually aim for about 40-50% of the initial asking price, but be prepared to meet somewhere in the middle.
🏍️ 11:30am – ATV Tour
Time to escape the city and experience the rugged beauty of Marrakech's outskirts! ATV tours take you through palm groves, traditional Berber villages, and across the dusty terrain with the Atlas Mountains creating a dramatic backdrop.
Personal experience: The first time I did this, I was nervous about driving an ATV, but the guides are patient and the routes are suitable for beginners. The transition from the hustle of the medina to the tranquility of the countryside in just minutes is one of Marrakech's most wonderful contrasts.
🍽️ 2:30pm – Lunch
After working up an appetite on your ATV adventure, treat yourself to a leisurely lunch. My personal recommendations:
- For traditional Moroccan: Dar Zellij in the medina offers authentic tagines in a gorgeous riad setting
- For something different: NOMAD serves modern takes on Moroccan classics with a rooftop view
- For vegetarians: Le Jardin offers plenty of plant-based options in a garden oasis
🏊 4pm – Afternoon swim
Marrakech afternoons can be scorching, especially from May through September. A dip in a pool is the perfect refresher! If your riad doesn't have a pool, consider booking a pool pass at La Mamounia or Le Jardin Secret for a few hours of luxurious relaxation.
My ritual: I always pack a book and alternate between swimming and reading under the shade of a palm tree. Pure bliss!
🍢 7pm – Street Food Tour
As the day cools off, Jemaa el-Fna square transforms into a massive open-air dining room. Join a guided street food tour to sample authentic Moroccan treats while learning about the culinary history of the city.
What to try: My absolute favorites are the tanjia (Marrakech's special meat stew), msemen (flaky square pancakes) with honey, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Day 2: Explore Marrakech's Best Hidden Gems
A more relaxed day focused on indulgence and local secrets - starting with premium coffee at a historic café, followed by the iconic Majorelle Gardens, rejuvenating spa treatments, and concluding with sunset drinks overlooking the city.
☕ 10am – Bacha Coffee
Start your second day at this colonial-era coffee house that's been beautifully restored to its former glory. Located in Dar el Bacha, this elegant café serves over 200 varieties of single-origin coffees from around the world.
What makes it special: Beyond the exceptional coffee, the space itself is a feast for the eyes with its black and white tiles, copper tables, and comfortable orange sofas. I like to splurge on their coffee and pancakes with fresh berries – a perfect fuel for the day ahead!
🌵 12pm – Jardin Majorelle
No trip to Marrakech is complete without visiting the electric-blue villa and botanical gardens created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
Lesser-known fact: While most visitors make a beeline for the famous blue house, take time to appreciate the cacti collection – it's one of the most extensive in North Africa and absolutely fascinating!
💆♀️ 3pm – Spa Treatment
Moroccan hammams are an integral part of the culture, and experiencing one should be on every visitor's list. Traditional hammams involve steam, black soap scrubs, and a vigorous exfoliation that will leave your skin incredibly soft.
My recommendation: I love Heritage Spa for their authentic yet luxurious hammam experience. Book the "Traditional Hammam & Massage" package for the full experience.
🍹 7pm – DarDar Rooftop
End your Marrakech weekend with sunset drinks at one of the city's best rooftop bars. DarDar offers panoramic views of the medina with the Atlas Mountains in the distance, and their cocktail menu features creative concoctions using local ingredients like mint, saffron, and orange blossom.
Perfect ending: Order a "Marrakech Mule" (their take on a Moscow Mule with ginger and rosewater) and watch as the setting sun paints the entire city in golden hues while the call to prayer echoes across the rooftops. It's a sensory experience that encapsulates everything magical about Marrakech.
What's Your Marrakech Weekend Must-Do?
Planning your Marrakech weekend? Let me help! Have you visited the Red City before? I'd love to hear about your favorite spots or answer any questions about creating your perfect 48-hour Marrakech adventure! Drop your questions below or Contact Us Now!