Top 20 UNIQUE Things to Do in Marrakech

The many things to do in Marrakech make the so-called Red City a real highlight in Morocco! Every year, countless visitors from all over the world come to visit this legendary royal city and experience the unique flair of the old town and the many outstanding attractions in Marrakech. In terms of activities, this metropolis has so much to offer, and travelers are overwhelmed by all the fantastic impressions. With the Atlas Mountains in the background, the city seems like a dream of 1001 nights. Walking through the Medina, the old town of Marrakech, and strolling through the famous marketplace called Djemaa el Fna, with its snake charmers and jugglers, one experiences the Moroccan culture first hand. So, what’s the best attractions in Marrakech, what are the insider tips, and where can you find great accommodation here?

In this complete travel guide, we show you the best things to do in Marrakech in Morocco. There are also great pictures, recommendations for excursions, information on entrance fees and many useful tips that are guaranteed to help you with your planning.

Djemaa el Fna

The huge traditional market square, Djemaa el Fna, is high up on any list of the best things to do in Marrakech and a visit is a must on any trip to Morocco. This square is actually as old as the city itself, as its history is said to date back to the 11th century. There are some exciting and curious things to discover while sightseeing here. Snake charmers, water sellers, drummers and dancers, storytellers and jugglers make a visit to the Djemaa el Fna an unforgettable experience. In the evening, the food market opens, where Moroccan specialties are prepared in countless stalls. This makes the Djemaa el Fna a great place to sample the local cuisine.

Tip: The best place to watch the hustle and bustle of Djemaa el Fna is from one of the rooftop cafés, where you can enjoy a delicious mint tea and a fantastic sunset.

Djemaa el Fna

El Badi Palace

One of the top 10 things to do in Marrakech is a visit to the El Badi Palace in the heart of the Medina. This once magnificent palace was built between 1578 and 1593 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur Saadi. Its name means “the incomparable”, and this historic building is truly a must-see in Marrakech. During a visit, you can stroll through the beautiful gardens, where lush orange trees now grow in the former water basins. The once magnificent residence had marble colonnades, gold decorations and 360 luxuriously appointed rooms. This building existed for just under a hundred years, and with a little imagination, you can imagine how uniquely beautiful this palace must have been. The view of the Atlas Mountains from the walls is also stunning.

El Badi Palace

Jardin Majorelle

The Jardin Majorelle, also known as the Majorelle Gardens, is a uniquely beautiful botanical garden created in 1923 by Orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle. In 1980, the famous designer Yves Saint-Laurent took over the overgrown garden and transformed it with great attention to detail into a blooming oasis in the middle of the city. Today, the Majorelle Gardens are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Marrakech and a famous photo spot in the city. The dominant color in the Jardin Majorelle is an intense cobalt blue, known as “Majorelle blue”, which has become the trademark of the garden. A visit to this complex, with its many plants and flowers from all over the world, its beautiful water features and its cobalt blue facades, is a real highlight and certainly, one of the best things to do in Marrakech.

Tip: The best time to visit the Jardin Majorelle is in the morning or just before closing time. There are fewer visitors at these times.

Jardin Majorelle

Koutoubia Mosque

The imposing Koutoubia Mosque is one of the landmarks of the Red City and one of the most famous attractions in Marrakech. The mosque was built in the 12th century and completed during the reign of the Almohad dynasty. A special feature of this building is that it was constructed largely from rammed earth. The minaret is particularly impressive, rising some 77 meters above the city. Unfortunately, non-Muslims are not allowed inside, but the exterior of the beautiful red mosque is also impressive. Surrounded by palm trees and rose gardens, this sacred building is an absolute eye-catcher, and the shady spots in the garden invite you to linger.

Koutoubia Mosque

Medersa Ben Youssef

The Medersa Ben Youssef is a former Koranic school located directly in the Medina of Marrakech. It was founded in 1340, but much of the interior dates from 1570, during the reign of the Saadian Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib. For many centuries, until 1960, the building served as an educational institution. There is a large fountain in the beautiful courtyard and the walls are beautifully decorated with colorful mosaics. The entire architecture of the madrasa is unique, especially the carved cedar pillars and the tile ornaments. The whole ambience of this school is unique, simply worth seeing, and therefore one of the best places to see in Marrakech.

Tip: If you like, you can have your name written in Arabic calligraphy in the courtyard of the Medersa Ben Youssef.

Medersa Ben Youssef

Old Town & Markets (Souks)

The Medina of Marrakech is the beating heart of the city, and a tour of the old town is one of the best things to do in the Red City. Particularly worth seeing are the various markets, the souks, a veritable labyrinth of narrow alleyways and shops lined up close together. People trade and bargain there. The air is filled with the scent of spices and beautiful Moroccan handicrafts. The famous handmade Moroccan lamps are particularly impressive. A stroll through the souks is both beautiful and exciting, with something new to discover around every corner. For sure one of the best places for Shopping in Morocco! There are many other places to see in the Medina of Marrakech, including galleries and exhibitions. An insider’s tip is the Maison de la Photographie, a photography museum in the heart of the old city that is well worth a visit. It displays photographic treasures from days gone by.

Marrakech Old Town

Maison de la Photographie

The Maison de la Photographie is a unique museum located in the historic center of Marrakech and is definitely an insider tip for anyone interested in photography. It offers an absolutely fascinating insight into Morocco’s photographic history, with the aim of showcasing the country’s extraordinary diversity. Founded in 2009, it houses an impressive collection of over 6,000 photographs dating from 1879 to 1960. Many of the exhibits are portraits, street scenes, or landscapes that capture everyday life in Morocco in an incredible way. Old postcards, newspapers and maps are also on display.

Maison de la Photographie

Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace is a must-see in Marrakech, and a visit to this attraction should not be missed on any city walk. It was built in 1866 and has been continuously expanded over the years. Its name translates to “brilliance” and indeed, this palace is breathtakingly beautiful. With ornate courtyards, gardens, mosaics, wood carvings and stucco work, it is considered a wonderful example of traditional Moroccan architecture. Plan to spend some time walking around the magnificent palace complex. The 8,000 m2 of impressive rooms and picturesque courtyards are decorated with colorful marble tiles and stunning mosaics. The Bahia Palace is one of the most beautiful attractions in Marrakech, and its unique setting has been used as a filming location for several Hollywood movies.

Bahia Palace

Riads in Marrakech

A stay in one of the beautiful riads in Marrakech is almost a must on any trip to the Red City. These enchanting accommodations are renovated, traditional Moroccan mansions that impress above all with their fairytale architectural style. A special feature is the central, artistically designed courtyard, which is surrounded by the guest rooms. There are over 1000 riads in Marrakech, many of which are now run as small hotels. From budget options to luxurious 5-star riads with pool and spa, there is something for everyone. Many riads also have a roof terrace, from which you can often enjoy a fantastic view of Marrakech.

Tip: An insider tip in the heart of Marrakech is the Riad Agathe & Spa. A true oasis of calm awaits you here, and the Moroccan breakfast is absolutely delicious.

Riad in Marrakesch

Bab Agnaou

The Bab Agnaou, also known as the “Black Gate” or “Gate of the Blacks”, is a beautiful historic city gate in Marrakech. The old city, the Medina of Marrakech, is surrounded by an ancient rammed earth wall and several large gates provide access to the city center. The Bab Agnaou, located in the southwest of the old town, is probably one of the most interesting of the 19 gates. This magnificent structure was built during the Almohad dynasty, between 1185 and 1190, under Yacoub el-Mansour, and still marks the border between the Medina and the former government quarter.

 Tip: There are several other attractions worth seeing nearby, including the Saadian tombs, the Medina’s catacombs.

Bab Agnaou

Saadian Tombs

A visit to the Saadian Tombs is one of the most interesting things to do in Marrakech. Along with the city center, they are on the UNESCO World Heritage List and are a must-see on any trip. They date back to the Saadian dynasty and were used as a necropolis between 1557 and 1664. However, the tombs were not discovered until 1917. It is the final resting place of seven sultans and 62 members of their families. On a tour, you can visit 2 main sections, including the large mausoleum with the “Hall of Twelve Columns” and the small mausoleum with its elaborate stucco work and precious mosaics.

Saadian Tombs

Place des Ferblantiers

The Place des Ferblantiers is an insider’s tip among the best things to do in Marrakech. It is located in the south of the medina and is easily accessible by walking around the city. It has a wonderful atmosphere and many shops, many with traditional Moroccan lamps, invite you to shop. This pretty square, lined with palm trees, is surrounded by small workshops where the typical Moroccan lamps are made. Some spice merchants have also set up shop here, and cozy cafés like the charming Mazel Cafe invite you to linger and enjoy.

Place des Ferblantiers

Le Jardin Secret

The Le Jardin Secret is a true oasis of peace and an insider’s tip in Marrakech. This botanical garden is located in the heart of the vibrant capital, and the “secret garden” offers many beautiful photo opportunities during a tour. Le Jardin Secret also boasts over 400 years of history. Once a palace of the Saadian dynasty, it was rebuilt in the 19th century and now, thanks to extensive renovation and loving garden design, can be experienced in all its splendor. During a visit, you will be amazed by the numerous exotic plants, beautiful fountains, waterways and a pretty café where you can linger.

Le Jardin Secret

Yves Saint Laurent Museum

One of the best museums in Marrakech is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. It is located just outside the old city, not far from the famous Majorelle Gardens. This attraction is a wonderful recommendation for anyone interested in design and fashion. Just opened in 2017, it is dedicated to the work of the famous fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, who had a very special connection with Morocco throughout his life. The extraordinary architecture of the museum alone is a highlight and well worth a visit! Inside you will also find an interesting collection of clothing, accessories and sketches.

Tip: You can save money with a combined ticket. It includes admission to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, the Jardin Majorelle and the Pierre Bergé Museum.

Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Menara Gardens

The Menara Gardens, also known as the Jardin Menara, is a huge garden with countless olive trees, a large fish tank and a charming pavilion. This attraction is located about 5 kilometers outside the Medina and is best reached by taxi. A walk through the large grounds and around the large pool offers a magnificent view of the Atlas Mountains. Most of the people here are locals, so it is a bit quieter than in the city center. The Menara Gardens were laid out in the 12th century during the reign of the Almohad dynasty. Today, the most characteristic feature is the large olive grove that surrounds the garden and consists of several thousand olive trees.

Menara Gardens – Jardin Manara

Marrakech: Excursions, Tickets & More

Not only is Marrakech worth seeing, also numerous possibilities for excursions and things to do around are ingenious. Here are the best attractions and most popular tours in the area summarized at a glance.

Very popular are excursions to the fortified village Ait-Ben Haddou in the south of the country, tours to the beautiful Ozoud Waterfalls or to Essaouira on the Atlantic coast.

If you would like to go on a desert safari with camel riding or quad tours, you can book a trip to Merzouga from Marrakech. These unique tours are usually 2 or 3-day trips.

On the online portal GetyourGuide you will find all the unforgettable excursions and experiences. In addition, city tours and food tours, as well as cheap entrance tickets, are offered.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

In Marrakech, you’ll find a great range of fantastic places to stay. From cheap backpacker hostels to hotels with pools and romantic riads with roof terraces, everything is offered here. If you are looking for a recommended accommodation in Marrakech, then we can give you these tips along the way…It’s worth a look!

• Riad with Pool: The elegant Riad Kniza is in an excellent location within the medina. The furnishings and pool are beautiful here!
• Riad with Roof Terrace: The Dar Andamaure is a beautiful accommodation in the old town of Marrakech. Guests love the delicious breakfast and the cozy rooftop terrace.
• Backpacker Hostel: The Rooftop Hostel is the address for backpackers. Here the cozy atmosphere, the cleanliness and the reasonable price enchants!
• Boutique Hotel with Pool: The 2Ciels Boutique Hôtel is a really chic 4-star hotel with a great restaurant and a wonderful pool area.

Find the best accommodation in Marrakech:

Booking.com

Read more about Morocco:

• Marrakech in 3 days: Itinerary and Tips for Marrakech

• 15 Best Things to do in Morocco

• 2 Weeks in Morocco: A perfect Road Trip Itinerary

• Dades Gorge and the winding road in Morocco

• Tinghir Oasis and the spectacular Todra Gorge

• 10 Best Things to do in Fez | Morocco

More tips & information about Marrakech:

• Marrakech with kids? Check out here what to do if you are in Marrakech with Kids.

• Here is a travel bloggers selection of the best Riads in Marrakech!

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