Marrakesh: The Complete Guide

Marrakech, also spelled Marrakesh, is a city in western Morocco known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. Located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech has long been a major trading hub and cultural crossroads. It’s also a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its bustling medina, aromatic spice markets, and luxurious riads (traditional Moroccan houses with internal courtyards).

One of the most iconic landmarks in Marrakech is the Koutoubia Mosque, a towering minaret that can be seen from across the city. Built in the 12th century, the mosque is a beautiful example of Moroccan architectural style, with its intricate geometric patterns and ornate carvings. Nearby, the Saadian Tombs are a must-see for history buffs, as they contain the graves of the Saadi dynasty rulers who ruled Morocco in the 16th and 17th centuries.

For a taste of local culture, head to the Djemaa el-Fna, a large square in the heart of the medina. Here, you’ll find a vibrant scene filled with street performers, food stalls, and colorful stalls selling traditional Moroccan handicrafts. As the sun sets, the square comes alive with music and entertainment, making it the perfect place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere.

If you’re in the mood for shopping, Marrakech is the place to be. The medina is home to a number of bustling souks (markets) where you can find everything from handmade ceramics and textiles to spices and jewelry. Just be prepared to haggle for a good deal!

Beyond the city center, Marrakech is home to a number of beautiful gardens and parks. The Jardin Majorelle is a particularly popular spot, with its colorful buildings and exotic plants. It’s also home to the Berber Museum, which offers a fascinating look at the history and culture of Morocco’s indigenous people.

Overall, Marrakech is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just soaking up the local atmosphere, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. So, if you’re planning a trip to Morocco, be sure to put Marrakech on your list of must-visit destinations.

History of Marrakesh

Founded in 1070 by the Almoravid dynasty, Marrakesh has played a vital role in Moroccan history as a political, economic, and cultural center. Under its founders, it became an important city for the Islamic empire, marked by significant construction projects including mosques and fortifications. Marrakesh reached its zenith under the rule of the Almohads and Saadians, who embellished the city with palaces, schools, and gardens, leaving a legacy that attracts millions of tourists each year.

Marrakesh was once an imperial capital and a hub on the caravan trade routes across the Sahara. This history is visible in its red sandstone walls and buildings, which give it the nickname “The Red City.” The city’s historic medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its vibrant souks, traditional hammams, and the famous Koutoubia Mosque.

Today, Marrakesh is known for its unique blend of ancient traditions and contemporary life, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.

Visiting Marrakesh for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Marrakesh on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

23 Best places to See in Marrakesh

This complete guide to Marrakesh not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Marrakesh and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Marrakech Museum

Marrakesch Marrakesch Museum E1714451350128

CC BY-SA 3.0 / giggel

The Museum of Marrakech or Musee de Marrakech is a historic palace and museum located in the old center of Marrakesh, Morocco. In addition to its notable architecture, the museum's collection showcases various historic art objects and contemporary art from Morocco. History of Marrakech Museum The museum is housed in the Dar Mnebhi Palace, constructed at the beginning of the…

Visiting Marrakech Museum

Click here to read our blog about Best Trips from Marrakesh

Almoravid Koubba

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Michal Osmenda

The Almoravid Qubba, is a small monument in Marrakech, Morocco. It was erected by the Almoravid dynasty in the early 12th century. It is notable for its extraordinary decoration and for being one of the only remnants of Almoravid architecture in Marrakech. Where is the Almoravid Koubba located? The Almoravid Koubba is next to the Museum of Marrakech and about…

Location: Almoravid Koubba, Derb Souk Cheria, Marrakesh, Morocco | Distance: 0.6km

Visiting Almoravid Koubba

Click here to read our blog about Guide to the Valleys of the High Atlas Mountains

Ben Youssef Madrasa

CC BY-SA 2.0 / yeowatzup

The Ben Youssef Madrasa is an Islamic madrasa (college) in Marrakesh, Morocco. Functioning today as a historical site, the Ben Youssef Madrasa was the largest Islamic college in Morocco at its height. The madrasa is named after the adjacent Ben Youssef Mosque founded by the Almoravid Sultan Ali ibn Yusuf (reigned 1106-1142). The madrasa building which stands today was commissioned…

Location: Ibn Youssef School, Rue Assouel, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 9am to 6pm | Price: General: 10 dh (£ 0.80) | Distance: 0.6km

Visiting Ben Youssef Madrasa

Click here to read our blog about The Gardens of Marrakesh

Souks of Marrakech

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Edviges

The souks, or markets, of Marrakech are a must-see for anyone visiting the city. These bustling, vibrant markets are a true reflection of Moroccan culture and offer a unique and authentic shopping experience. There are a number of different souks located throughout the city, each with its own specialty. Historically, all souks were divided and laid out according to the…

Location: Rahba Lakdima, Marrakech 40000, Morocco | Hours: Around 9am to 9pm, the best time to visit is in the cool of the morning, or in the evening | Distance: 0.7km

Visiting Souks of Marrakech

Explore Marrakesh yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Dar Si Said

CC BY-SA 4.0 / C messier

Dar Si Said is a museum located in Marrakech, Morocco. It is housed in a 19th century palace and is dedicated to showcasing traditional Moroccan art and craftsmanship. The museum was founded in the 1930s by Si Said, a wealthy Moroccan merchant and collector. Si Said spent much of his life amassing a collection of traditional Moroccan art and craftsmanship,…

Location: Dar Si Said, Rue de la Bahia, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: Daily 9 am to 12 pm and 3 pm to 6 pm | Price: General: 70 dh (US$ 6.70) | Distance: 0.7km

Visiting Dar Si Said

Explore Marrakesh yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Tiskiwin Museum

The Tiskiwin Museum , also known as the Bert Flint Museum and Casa Bert Flint ( French : Maison Bert Flint ), is a museum dedicated to Moroccan crafts located in the medina of Marrakech, next to the Bahia Palace . It is housed in a Moorish - style riad built at the beginning of the 20th century and which…

Location: Musée Tiskiwin Marrakech, Rue de la Bahia, Marrakesh, Morocco | Distance: 0.8km

Visiting Tiskiwin Museum

Le Jardin Secret

CC BY-SA 2.0 / duncan cumming

Le Jardin Secret (The Secret Garden) is a beautiful garden and museum located in the heart of the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco. The garden is a hidden oasis, hidden behind high walls and accessed through a narrow entrance. The garden is filled with a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, and features a number of terraces and courtyards.…

Location: Le Jardin Secret, Rue Mouassine, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 9.30am-7.30pm Apr-Sep, to 6.30pm Feb-Mar & Oct, to 6pm Nov-Jan | Price: adult/7-24 yr Dh50/40, tower Dh35/20 | Distance: 0.8km

Visiting Le Jardin Secret

Jemaa el-Fnaa

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Boris Macek

Jemaa el-Fnaa is a square and market place in Marrakesh's medina quarter (old city). It remains the main square of Marrakesh, used by locals and tourists. Where does the name Jemaa el-Fnaa come from? The origin of its name is unclear: jamaa means "congregation" or "mosque" in Arabic, probably referring to a destroyed mosque on the site. Fnaʼ or fanâʼ…

Location: Jemaa el-Fnaa, Rue des Banques, Marrakesh, Morocco | Distance: 0.8km

Visiting Jemaa el-Fnaa

Bahia Palace

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Val Traveler

The Bahia Palace is a mid to late 19th-century palace in Marrakesh, Morocco. The palace was first begun by Si Musa, grand vizier of Alaouite sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman, in 1859 and then continued and expanded by his son Si Ba Ahmed ibn Musa, grand vizier of Sultan Moulay Abdelaziz between 1894 and 1900. Today it is a well-known…

Location: Bahia Palace, Rue Riad Zitoun el Jdid, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: Friday: 8am to 5pm Rest of the week: 9am to 4:30pm. | Price: adult/child Dh70/30 | Distance: 1.0km

Visiting Bahia Palace

Dar el Bacha

CC BY-SA 4.0 / 74913002A

Dar el Bacha or 'House of the Pasha' is a palace located in the old medina of Marrakesh, Morocco. The museum also houses the Bacha Coffee House, an opulent period cafe specialising in arabica coffee. Visiting the Museum The museum is open all week, except Monday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The entrance fee for nationals is 30 dhs…

Location: Dar El Bacha, Rue Fatima Zahra, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 10am-6pm Tue-Sun | Price: adult/child Dh60/free | Distance: 1.1km

Visiting Dar el Bacha

Badi/Badia Palace

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Pedro

El Badi Palace or the 'Palace of Wonder/Brilliance', or Badi' Palace is a ruined palace located in Marrakesh, Morocco. It was commissioned by the sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty a few months after his accession in 1578, with construction and embellishment continuing throughout most of his reign. The palace, decorated with materials imported from numerous countries ranging from…

Location: Badi Palace, Ksibat Nhass, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 9am-5pm | Price: adult/child Dh70/30 | Website | Distance: 1.3km

Visiting Badi/Badia Palace

Kasbah Mosque

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Yastay

The Kasbah Mosque is a historic mosque in Marrakesh, Morocco. It was originally built by the Almohad caliph Yaqub al-Mansour in 1185-1190 CE. It is located in the Kasbah district, the city's former citadel, near the site of its historic royal palaces. Along with the Kutubiyya Mosque, it is one of the most important historic mosques in Marrakesh. Where is…

Location: Koutoubia, جامع الكتبية،، Avenue Mohammed V،، Marrakesh, Morocco | Distance: 1.4km

Visiting Kasbah Mosque

Koutoubia Mosque

CC BY-SA 4.0 / C messier

The Koutoubia Mosque is a large mosque located in the medina (old city) of Marrakech, Morocco. It is named after the many booksellers who once lined the streets around the mosque. The mosque was built in the 12th century and is an important religious and cultural site in Marrakech. The Koutoubia Mosque is known for its distinctive minaret, which is…

Location: Koutoubia Mosque, جامع الكتبية،، Avenue Mohammed V،، Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: Non-Muslims can’t go inside the Koutoubia Mosque or minaret but are most likely to get a glimpse inside on a Friday when the doors are open for prayers. | Distance: 1.4km

Visiting Koutoubia Mosque

Koutoubia Gardens (Lalla Hassna Park)

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Max221B

The Koutoubia Gardens also known as the Lalla Hassna Park, are a public park located in Marrakech, Morocco, near the Koutoubia Mosque at the heart of the Medina. The park itself spreads across two hectares and provides a pleasant green paradise of immaculately trimmed rose bushes, perfectly symmetrical walkways and plenty of shade-covered benches; it is easy to see why…

Location: Parc Lalla Hasna, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: Daylight Hours | Price: Free | Distance: 1.5km

Visiting Koutoubia Gardens (Lalla Hassna Park)

Walls of Marrakesh

CC BY-SA 2.0 / János Korom Dr

The Walls of Marrakesh are a set of defensive ramparts which enclose the historic medina districts of Marrakesh, Morocco. They were first laid out in the early 12th century by the Almoravid dynasty which founded the city in 1070 CE as their new capital. The walls have since been expanded several times by the addition of the Kasbah to the…

Location: Bab Agnaou, Marrakesh, Morocco | Distance: 1.6km

Visiting Walls of Marrakesh

Saadian Tombs

CC BY-SA 2.0 / David Stanley

The Saadian Tombs are a historic royal necropolis in Marrakesh, Morocco, located on the south side of the Kasbah Mosque, inside the royal kasbah (citadel) district of the city. They date to the time of the Saadian dynasty and in particular to the reign of Ahmad al-Mansur (1578–1603), though members of Morocco's monarchy continued to be buried here for a…

Location: Saadien's Tombs, Rue de La Kasbah, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 9am-5pm | Price: adult/child Dh70/30 | Distance: 1.6km

Visiting Saadian Tombs

Musée Yves Saint Laurent

https://www.museeyslmarrakech.com/en/votre-visite/ / museeyslmarrakech

The Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech is a museum dedicated to the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent located in Marrakesh, Morocco. History of the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Two museums have been established to display the works of Yves Saint Laurent and the collection of the Pierre Bergé - Yves Saint Laurent Foundation: one in Marrakesh and the other…

Location: musée YVES SAINT LAURENT marrakech, Rue Yves Saint Laurent, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 10am-6pm Thu-Tue | Price: Dh100 | Website | Distance: 2.5km

Visiting Musée Yves Saint Laurent

Jardin Majorelle

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Viault

The Majorelle Garden or Jardin Majorelle is a one-hectare (two-acre) botanical garden and artist's landscape garden in Marrakech, Morocco. It was created by the French Orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle over almost forty years, starting in 1923, and features a Cubist villa designed by the French architect, Paul Sinoir in the 1930s. The property was the residence of the artist and…

Location: Jardin Majorelle, Rue Yves Saint Laurent, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 8am-6pm May-Sep, to 5.30pm Oct-Apr, Musée Berbère closed Wed | Price: adult/child Dh70/free, incl Musée Berbère Dh100, incl Musée YSL Dh200 | | Distance: 2.5km

Visiting Jardin Majorelle

Agdal Gardens (Aguedal Park Gardens)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / mwanasimba

The Agdal Gardens of Marrakech form the oldest preserved park of the city. Along with the Medina of Marrakech and the Menara gardens, they have been put on the list of “World Cultural Heritage Sites” by the UNESCO in 1985. The Agdal garden in Marrakesh was established by the Almoravids in the 12th century and takes its name from the…

Location: Agdal Gardens, Routes des remparts, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: Friday and Sunday from 9 am to 6 pm. | Price: Free | Distance: 3.0km

Visiting Agdal Gardens (Aguedal Park Gardens)

Palmeraie (Marrakesh)

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Viault

Palmeraie (palm grove) is a palm oasis of several hundred thousand trees outside of Marrakesh, Morocco. Situated at the edge of the city's northern section, it measures 5 miles (8.0 km) in length, and covers an area of 54 square miles (140 km2). It is known for its eponymous palm trees and resorts, as well as the Palmeraie Rotana Resort,…

Location: Musée de la palmeraie, Art contemporain et nature, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 9am-5.30pm | Price: adult/child Dh40/free | | Distance: 4.0km

Visiting Palmeraie (Marrakesh)

Menara Gardens

The Menara Gardens are a historic public garden and orchard in Marrakech, Morocco. They were established in the 12th century (circa 1157) by the Almohad Caliphate ruler Abd al-Mu'min. Along with the Agdal Gardens and the historic walled city of Marrakesh, the gardens have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. The gardens are laid out around a…

Location: Menara Gardens, Marrakesh, Morocco | Hours: 08:30 a.m. to 06:00 p.m. | Price: Free | Distance: 4.2km

Visiting Menara Gardens

Agafay Desert

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Pierre.hamelin

The Agafay desert is a desert which is located about thirty kilometers from the red city of Marrakech , on the first heights of the High Atlas massif in Morocco . It is a reg or a stony desert that extends over several hundred hectares. It is covered with stones and rocks in a hilly environment made up of dunes…

Visiting Agafay Desert

Cascades D’ouzoud

The Ouzoud Falls also known as the Cascades d'Ouzoud, are located in the Atlas Mountains about 100 miles northeast of Marrakech. They are a popular tourist destination known for their beautiful scenery and Berber cultural heritage. This vast site is an important Moroccan tourist spot, 30 km from Azilal, 120 km from Beni Mellal, and 150 km northeast of Marrakech. A Description…

Location: Ouzoud Falls, Waterfalls les cascades d'ouzoud waterfalls, Ouzoud, Morocco | Hours: Open 24 Hours | Distance: 126.9km

Visiting Cascades D’ouzoud

Where to Stay in Marrakesh

The best place to stay is in the Medina, where traditional riads offer an immersive experience near Jemaa el-Fnaa square and the souks. For a more luxurious retreat, Palmeraie provides resort-style accommodations with gardens and pools.

A 3 to 4-day stay is ideal for exploring Marrakesh’s vibrant markets, historic palaces, and gardens. A 5-day stay allows for excursions to the Atlas Mountains, the Agafay Desert, or nearby Essaouira.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Marrakesh. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Marrakesh Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Marrakesh

Marrakesh, a vibrant city at the foot of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, offers distinct seasonal experiences, each with its charm and activities:

Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the best times to visit Marrakesh. The weather is warm but not oppressively hot, and the city bursts into bloom with vibrant colors and scents. This period is ideal for exploring the bustling souks, majestic palaces, and beautiful gardens without the extreme heat of summer.

Fall (October to November): Autumn is another great time to visit Marrakesh. The temperatures are comfortable, making it pleasant to explore the city’s outdoor attractions and historical sites. The tourist crowds are also thinner, which means more opportunities to enjoy Marrakesh’s sights without long waits.

Summer (June to September): Summer in Marrakesh can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). If you plan to visit during this time, schedule activities in the early morning or late evening to avoid the midday heat. Despite the heat, summer evenings are lively, with night markets and cultural festivals adding to the city’s allure.

Winter (December to February): Winters are mild and can be a lovely time to visit, especially if you prefer a quieter experience. However, nights can be cold, so it’s wise to pack accordingly. This season is also ideal for day trips to the nearby Atlas Mountains for some winter sports.

Annual Weather Overview

January 21°C
February 24°C
March 28°C
April 29°C
May 29°C
June 32°C
July 36°C
August 35°C
September 30°C
October 30°C
November 26°C
December 21°C

How to get to Marrakesh

By Air:

Marrakesh is served by Marrakesh Menara Airport, which accommodates flights from major cities across Europe, the Middle East, and more. The airport is just a few kilometers from the city center, with taxis and buses available for easy transfers.

By Train:

If you’re traveling from within Morocco, trains are a comfortable and efficient option. Marrakesh is connected by rail to major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fez. The train station in Marrakesh is well-equipped and centrally located.

By Bus:

Buses are another viable option for getting to Marrakesh from other Moroccan cities. CTM and other companies offer frequent and reliable services. Buses may offer a more economical alternative to trains, with the central bus station located near the city center.

By Car:

Driving to Marrakesh can be an adventure itself, especially if you’re coming from a city like Casablanca or Agadir. The roads are generally in good condition, and the journey offers scenic views of the Moroccan landscape.

Similar Blogs

Best Trips from Marrakesh

Marrakech is a renowned tourist destination in Morocco, known for its rich culture and history. The city evokes images of vibrant spices, bustling markets, and traditional architecture, including riads and ancient walled streets. Visitors can expect a vibrant and colorful experience, with a bustling energy that can be both captivating and overwhelming. The city boasts […]

11th January 2023

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Mustaphabelkasse

Guide to the Valleys of the High Atlas Mountains

The three valleys in the Atlas mountains are an easy day trip from Marrakech. What are they and why should you visit them? The Atlas Mountains separate the Sahara Desert from the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean; the name “Atlantic” is derived from the mountain range. It stretches around 2,500 km (1,600 mi) through […]

8th January 2023

The Gardens of Marrakesh

If you’re planning on spending some time in Marrakesh and want to avoid feeling overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of the city, it’s a good idea to take breaks in the many beautiful gardens and parks scattered throughout the city. These green spaces not only offer a chance to relax and get back to […]