Morocco
Things to do in Marrakech
Marrakech's walled medina is a maze of souks, riads and palaces that opens onto Jemaa el-Fnaa, the square that turns into an open-air food market every evening. The High Atlas starts about an hour south of the city, so mountain villages, the Agafay stone desert and even the coast at Essaouira are all realistic day trips.
- Medina and souks tour with a licensed guide
- Jemaa el-Fnaa street food at night
- Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum
- Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef Madrasa
Experiences in Marrakech
Top-rated experiences in Marrakech
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Highlights
- Medina and souks tour with a licensed guide
- Jemaa el-Fnaa street food at night
- Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum
- Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef Madrasa
- Atlas Mountains and Imlil day trip
- Agafay desert sunset and dinner
Best time to visit
March to May and October to November are warm and pleasant. July and August regularly pass 40C, and winter nights are cold, with snow on the Atlas peaks.
Getting around
The medina is walkable and largely closed to cars; outside it, use the red petits taxis and insist on the meter or agree a price first. Marrakech Menara Airport is about 15 minutes from the medina by taxi or by the airport bus.
Local tips
- Book Jardin Majorelle timed tickets online in advance, and go at opening to avoid queues.
- Only use guides with an official badge, and expect anyone who offers directions in the souks to ask for a tip or steer you to a shop.
- Riads are often deep inside the medina, so ask yours to send someone to meet your taxi at the nearest gate.
Day trips from Marrakech
- Atlas Mountains and Imlil
- Ourika Valley
- Essaouira
- Ouzoud Falls
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Marrakech?
The most booked experiences in Marrakech are Medina and souks tour with a licensed guide, Jemaa el-Fnaa street food at night, Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum and Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef Madrasa.
When is the best time to visit Marrakech?
March to May and October to November are warm and pleasant. July and August regularly pass 40C, and winter nights are cold, with snow on the Atlas peaks.
How do I get around Marrakech?
The medina is walkable and largely closed to cars; outside it, use the red petits taxis and insist on the meter or agree a price first. Marrakech Menara Airport is about 15 minutes from the medina by taxi or by the airport bus.
Do I need to book tours in Marrakech in advance?
For headline sights and small-group tours, yes: popular slots sell out in high season. Most partners offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
How many days do I need in Marrakech?
Two to three full days cover the main sights, plus one day for each day trip you want to add.