Quick Travel Guide • Morocco, North Africa
The Ultimate Travel Guide To Marrakech, Morocco
Last Updated On: May 4, 2023
Nothing can quite prepare you for the beautiful chaos of Marrakech, Morocco: the culture and the people, the sounds and smells, the souks, and the bargaining that comes with any purchase. The city can be split into two sections — Gueliz (the new town) and the Medina (the old town). The medina is almost 1000 years old and a UNESCO World Heritage site. What separates the medina from the rest of Marrakech are the ancient walls that surround this bustling place. The souks which make up a large portion of the medina, resemble a big maze of narrow alleyways protected by sky-high pink colored walls. These small paths aren’t just used by people. Expect to dodge donkeys pulling heavy carts, the occasional bicycle and motorbikes as well as desperate salesmen, and wandering tourists in search of oriental exoticism. The only thing that rivals the number of shops in the medina are the Riads. Over a thousand carefully designed Riads can be discovered daily when strolling through the streets of Marrakech and if you keep reading you will find our top Riad recommendations. Along with where to stay, we go into great detail about what to do in this fantastic city as well as where to eat. So, if you are looking for culture, a burst of color, and an experience for all your senses then you have come to the right place.
Nearest Airport:
Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK)
table of contents
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First Impressions of Marrakech
Morocco is full of life, culture, history, and crafts. But it can be overwhelming especially for those who have never been to Africa before. Since this was our first time traveling to Marrakech, we decided to arrange an airport pickup through our Riad. We honestly didn’t expect our driver to be at the airport on time, but to our surprise, he was already patiently waiting for us with a handwritten sign in his hands(if this is your first time traveling to Marrakech then I would highly recommend to organize your airport pick up through your Riad as well).Our driver's English was unexpectedly good as he gave us a little insight into the culture, the city, and all the sights while driving us to the old medina. After entering through one of the east gates the car stopped. Another member of the Riad was already awaiting our arrival, ready to transfer our luggage from the trunk of the car onto a Carrozza (a hand-drawn cart). What a service. Cars only have access to a limited area in the medina, so we had to walk the rest of the way. Once we entered the narrow alleys of the red city, the sound of little kids playing in the streets filled the air and the occasional mule loaded with goods passed in the distance. We followed our driver into a dark alley and I am not going to lie, I was a little skeptical and confused about the location of our Riad.
My favorite part about Marrakech is the juxtaposition between the buzzing medina and the peaceful Riads
We honestly didn’t know what to expect when we finally reached a plain, dark wooden door. The driver knocked and the door opened up. We entered and were welcomed with a refreshing cold towel, in a rather dark hallway closed off by a curtain. But once the white heavy curtain opened, our jaws dropped. There, right in front of our eyes, a beautiful open courtyard with a plunge pool in the middle appeared. The sound of prayer passed the open rooftop and here it was, the feeling of gratitude to have arrived in the safety of this sanctuary surrounded by all the unique facets that make Morocco so one of a kind. Welcome to Riad Anayela. Welcome to Marrakech.
What to do in Marrakech
1. Explore the Souks
Old Town
Free
Culture & History
Brunch, Dinner, Drinks
The Souks are a great place to get closer to the Moroccan culture and their impressive craftsmanship.
Here you will find locals selling everything: slippers, carpets, pottery spices, beauty products and so much more.
Just a word of caution to all you shopaholics out there like me, your bank account may be empty by the time you get home!
Even if you weren’t planning on shopping, it is almost impossible to return from the Souks empty-handed. With over 3000 stalls, you will be surprised how many goods they can squeeze in a cupboard-sized shop.
The tight alleys are filled with racks of soft leather babouches, colorful leather bags, dangling lamps, painted ceramics, and piles of vibrant rugs.
I remember the sweet taste of fresh mint tea like it was yesterday. The smell of the herbal shops still drifts through my nose and I remember vividly the impressive display of the colorful spice towers beside the carpet-covered walls.
There is absolutely no reason to spend time figuring out the logic of the alleyways in the medina. It is comparable to a Labyrinth and this is on purpose. It was built in a way to confuse enemies when entering the city and let me tell you it works! Prepare yourself to get lost and be okay with it. While I don’t recommend anyone to look lost in the Souks, it is okay to ask for directions. Just make sure to ask shop owners instead of passing locals, as most don’t pass up any opportunity to guide you to the closest tannery or their uncle’s carpet shop. You will most likely find someone to take you to where you need to go, but be prepared to pay a fee. Thus, having small notes handy is highly recommended.
Quick Travel Tip: A great way to explore the medina without getting lost is to download the offline Maps app Maps.me and the free Marrakech Guide written by Mark Wood a British ex-pat.
Just remember that eventually, all streets lead back to the big square: Jemaâ El Fna. Once you get there, grab a mint tea or a cold soda on a rooftop terrace and watch the square come alive at dusk with storytellers, snake charmers, and dancers.
We recommend either Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier or Hôtel Restaurant Café de France. Both are located on Jamaâ El Fna, with prime views. I would never recommend ordering any food here, but it is a great place for people-watching with a fantastic top view of the famous square.
Photographers (like us) tend to hide up here as it allows us to snap some great shots without locals trying to charge us for it.
2. Take a Guided Tour
If it is your first time in Morocco and especially in Marrakech, then I would recommend booking a guided tour to get an insider view of the city and the souks.
Venture deep into the souks and watch the skilled artisans go after their trade, admire the beautiful carpets Morocco is known for, and pass by shelves of brilliant colored products while learning all about the tricks and the trades.
Guided tours are the quickest way to get familiar with the old medina as well as the Moroccan culture and customs.
There are a lot of different tours available online. Most include visits to local craft cooperatives or artists’ workshops as well as guided tours to the main sights such as the Souks, Jemma El-Fna, El Badi Palace, and the Bahia Palace
For the best experience, we recommend booking a private tour that can be tailor-made. With these tours you choose your personal points of interest, sights you would love to see, and more. We personally recommend Marrakech Guided Tours. Abdul is not only a fabulous guide, but he is also quick to reply and happy to customize your guided tour exactly how you want it!
For some more tours, check out our recommendations below:
3. Visit Jemaâ El Fna in the afternoon or at night
Jemaâ El-Fna comes to life at nightfall. Snake-charmers bewitch their cobras with the sound of their flutes, while fortune-tellers and dancers fill the central square of the medina.
You will also find a multitude of refreshments and snacks. From freshly squeezed juices to dried fruits and nuts piled high.
Whenever you order juice or even food here, it is always wise to agree on the price before you order. Usually, the prices are not posted, so if you forget to do this, you will most likely be overcharged. I would also insist on having the juice pressed in front of you, otherwise, you may end up with watered-down juice.
Many locals and some brave tourists dine at the onsite stalls offering all kinds of Moroccan dishes. I personally prefer to eat in carefully selected restaurants, but that’s just me.
Jemaâ El-Fna is a great place and should be experienced at least once during your visit to Marrakech. It is vibrant, buzzing, loud, and entertaining. but there are just a few things to watch out for
- Approaching musicians or storytellers, asking for a contribution. It is best to just keep walking and not fall for the usual tourist traps.
- Women with henna paste-filled bags offer their service for free, but the minute they start drawing on your hand they ask for an outrageous amount for their often terrible work of art.
4. Check out Plaza de las Especias:This small and authentic square is one of my favorite little corners in Marrakech. Here you will find colorful baskets, straw hats, and scents that emanate from the bags of spices and cosmetic products made out of argan and amber. Enjoy some sweet Moroccan mint tea or dinner at one of the many cafes surrounding the square. One of my all-time favorite restaurants is Nomad with its uninterrupted views over the Palace des Epices from the rooftop terrace. Another option would be Café des Épices right across the street Right behind the square, you will find a large covered hall filled to the brim with carpets. Each carpet is more beautiful than the next. This is where we bought our rugs and are super happy with our finds. Reach out to us directly if you are looking for some good recommendations we would be happy to provide you with our contact.
5. Visit the beautiful gardens of Marrakech:Looking to quickly escape the chaos of the souks to a place of tranquility? Start with Le Jardin Secret. This rather new garden is located right in the heart of the medina and very easy to find from your Riad if you are staying in the old city. The garden is stunning. It is made up of two big, ornate courtyards featuring Islamic architecture and art. It is full of flora and rich in history. For a small price of 60MAD you get access to all of this and more. There is also a small cafe inside of the garden, but we recommend grabbing a drink or even lunch at Le Jardin Marrakech. This breezy, open-air restaurant is a 2-minute walk from the garden and especially popular amongst bloggers due to its stunning design features. The garden opens at 9:30 am and is best explored in the morning when the temperatures are cooler.
Visiting the famous Jardin Majorelle requires a little bit more planning. This popular sightseeing spot is located in Gueliz and will either require a long walk or for you to catch a cab if you are in the old city. This enchanting garden was designed by the French artist Jacques Majorelle in 1923 and restored by Yves Saint-Laurent. It consists of a labyrinth of crisscrossing alleyways and exotic botanical specimens that underline the vibrant blue and yellow colored buildings. Most people combine their visit with the Yves Saint Laurent Museum as well as the Berber Museum. Whatever you do, make sure to buy your tickets online to avoid standing in line for hours, especially during high season.
For the best images, we recommend getting there either super early in the morning or in the afternoon just before the garden closes. If you are booking online, choose one of the last entry times as this will allow you to snap some good shots without the crowds. Tickets to Jardin Majorelle (open 8 am to 6 pm except for Wednesdays)Admission Fee: 80MAD Free admission for children under 12 years old Tickets to YSL Museum (open 10:00 am to 6:00 pm except for Wednesdays)Admission Fee: 120MAD
Insider tip: If you are interested in visiting all of the above, then we recommend buying the combi ticket online. With this you can skip the ticket queue. Also Friday - Monday are the only days when the doors are opened to "the Secret Garden". This is where Yves Saint Laurent once lived, and where his partner Pierre Bergé continued to live until his death in 2017.
For lunch, dine right onsite at the stunning Café Majorelle, but expect prices to be slightly higher and possibly a line to get a table. For dinner, we recommend staying in Gueliz and to dine either at Plus 61, a Sydney inspired restaurant or at Comptoir Darna, a chic 2-story restaurant offering exotic decor & belly dancing shows. If you decide to dine at Comptoir Darna it might make sense to return to your Riad first to freshen up since the belly dancing shows usually don’t start until 10 pm. Reservations are recommended for both restaurants.
6. Get Lunch in the Atlas Mountains:Escaping into the Atlas Mountains is the perfect way to take a break from the busy city life of Marrakech and get the downtime everyone deserves when on vacation. If you have the time, then I would recommend staying at least one night in the Atlas Mountains. Stay at either Kasbah Bab Ourika (my personal favorite) or Kasbah Tamadot. Both of these offer stunning views and outstanding customer service. But if you are on a tight schedule then try at least to get lunch in the Atlas Mountains.
7. Explore the Deserts of Morocco:Depending on how much time you have in Marrakech, you always have the option to head out on a day excursion into the Agafay Stone Desert or even embark on a trip into the Sahara.
8. Discover Imlil in the High Atlas Mountains or climb Mount Toubkal:There is hardly a better place to embark on a day excursion from Marrakech. Imlil is only a two-hour drive and is nestled right at the base of Mount Toubkal.
This is the perfect place to come and enjoy an authentic Berber meal, breath in some fresh air and take in the majestic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Enjoy lunch like a Berber and wander the surrounding Berber villages. A trip out to Imlil will remind you of the simple life and show you how little has changed throughout the centuries. If you have the time then we would recommend turning your day trip into a 2 to 3-day excursion in one of the following lodges:
These accommodations cannot be compared to a luxurious Riad in Marrakech, but they are charming and a great base for hiking around the Atlas Mountains or to the peak of Mount Toubkal all while experiencing authentic Berber hospitality.
9. Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa:If you had to decide which of the many landmarks to visit during your visit to Marrakech, then make sure Ben Youssef Madrasa is one of them. It was definitely our favorite historical sights in all of Marrakech because of the architecture and the obvious love to detail. Founded in the 14th century this former Islamic school is one of the biggest Madrasas in all of Morocco and used to house over 900 students. People from all around the world come to marvel at the intricate decorations that have drawn comparisons to the iconic Alhambra in Granada, Spain. Entrance Fee: 10MADOpen: 9am - 6pm (Daily). Closed during religious holidays.
10. Visit El Badi Palace and the Bahia Palace
El Badi Palace and the Bahia Palace are easy to visit within the same day (both super close to each other, about 15 minutes walk).
However, for the best experience, we recommend visiting El Badi Palace first and the Bahia Palace second. This way you will see the massive contrast between the two and how El Badi Palace used to look before it turned into these historic and peaceful ruins.
For the perfect way to end your visits or for in-between, get lunch at the incredible La Familia restaurant. This lunchtime venue is located in a beautiful Mediterranean garden serving fresh and seasonal vegetarian meals.
Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace is an impressive 19th-century building boasting a multitude of rooms providing its visitors with a glimpse of what life must have been during the time of the Sultans with their Harems. It is probably one of the most well-preserved historical sites in Marrakech and an artistic masterpiece boasting Moroccan architecture influenced by the Andalusian style.
Entrance Fee: 10MAD
Open: 8am – 5pm (Friday), 9am – 4:30pm (Rest of the week). Closed during religious holidays.
El Badi Palace
El Badi Palace is a beautiful historic site boasting wonderful ruins, orange tree courtyards, and dungeons showcasing the chains of slaves that used to be imprisoned. Depending on your interest a visit can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
Entrance Fee: 70MAD
Open: 9am – 5pm (Daily). Closed during religious holidays.
11. Tanneries of Marrakech:The tanneries are basically open-air factories where leather is processed and dyed by hand. The tanneries are supposedly a popular tourist attraction in Marrakech and are located on the east side of the medina, also known as Dar Dbagh. However, if you are planning on visiting Fez during your time in Morocco then I would recommend skipping the tanneries in Marrakech and rather exploring the Tanneries in Fez. I am personally not a big fan of Tanneries due to the smell of death but it is quite interesting to get an insight into how the leather in Morocco is being produced considering that a lot of their handmade crafts are made out of leather from leather puffs to sandals and handbags. Nash and I actually ended up here during our first visit to Marrakech, rather involuntarily. It honestly happened so fast. We were just strolling down the streets of Marrakech in search of the souks. It was our second day and we clearly had no idea where we were going. A passing local started asking us where we were visiting from and if this was our first time in Marrakech. We had a little banter back and forth, and he said he would take us to the souks. This is so nice of him. Wrong! Before we realized what was happening, we already found ourselves right at the entrance of the tanneries getting fresh mint leaves pushed into our hands to help against the strong smell. I didn’t understand a word the person was saying and it was the fastest tour ever. We were in and out in probably less than 10 minutes. The worst part is yet to come. Instead of letting us leave they lead us to this particular leather shop, another place we didn’t want to be in. If this wasn’t enough we were asked for money from 3 different men (all of them were obviously connected and the reason we ended up here in the first place). Let’s just say this was the first and last time we had anyone show us the way to the souks.
The 14 Best Riads in Marrakech
Finding the perfect place to stay in Marrakech will ultimately depend on your personal preferences of location and your budget. There is something for every price point, from $40 to $400 a night. Marrakech is one of these places where you can get an incredible stay with 5* service for under $150. You can either pick a luxury resort in Gueliz or a traditional Riad within the UNESCO heritage site of the old medina. “Riad” in Arabic means garden, and once you have experienced one, you will understand exactly why. It is a place of pure tranquility. A safe haven. A space in which you can simply relax, enjoy a quiet dinner beneath the courtyard lights and recharge your energy. As you hear the door click shut behind you, a feeling of pure relief washes over you as if you have just stepped into a different world. The juxtaposition between the tight alleys of the medina and the big open courtyard of a Riad feels like day and night. What unfolds before you as you follow a narrow pathway and enter through a nondescript door, is something that words cannot describe. Below is a selection of some of our favorite Riads in all of Marrakech.
Luxury Hotel
Riad De Tarabel
One of my absolute favorite Riads in Marrakech, walking distance to most sights within the old Medina, incredible and attentive customer service, stunning courtyard space & plunge pool, inhouse Hamama & Spa and beautiful design features in each room. This is the kind of heaven you want to return to after a loud and busy day in the medina. Adults only.
Luxury Hotel
El Fenn
This luxury Riad is located right on the edge of the old Medina boasting uniquely designed rooms, stunning courtyards as well as 3 pools and a beautiful rooftop terrace for romantic evenings. Perfect for families, solo travelers, and couples alike.
Luxury Hotel
La Sultana Marrakech
An oasis located in the old medina, a UNESCO world heritage site. Relax at the spacious outdoor swimming pool or dine at the stunning rooftop terrace. This is one of the most luxurious Riads in all of Marrakech.
Luxury Hotel
Beldi Country Club
A Moroccan sanctuary, blending effortlessly the low rise Berber style buildings with French chic. All 38 rooms are furnished with finds from the local souks and are arranged like a Moroccan village. Enjoy 14 hectares of beautiful gardens, outdoor restaurants, and refreshing pools. Located just 15 minutes outside of Marrakech this is a great place for those looking for a more relaxing vacation in Marrakech.
Boutique Hotel
Riad Anayela
This authentic Riad is set in a 300-year-old house located in the north of the old Medina, featuring 5 intimate rooms, a courtyard pool, and a rooftop. We stayed here during our very first visit to Marrakech and could have not wished for a better experience.
Boutique Hotel
Jnane Tamsna
A unique boutique hotel featuring a total of 5 houses, 5 pools (2 of which are heated), and a tennis court. Pick one of the 24 individually designed rooms and bask in the serenity of this nine-acre fairy-tale garden only 20 minutes outside of Marrakech in the Palmeraie district.
Boutique Hotel
Ryad Dyor
This chic boutique hotel is a combination of three riads with a small plunge pool and spacious rooftop space for afternoon hangs. Set amidst the hustle and bustle of the city this is the perfect base for exploring the medina and all its sights.
Boutique Hotel
Riad BE
Located in the historic Medina, this is one of the most loved Riads due to its unique courtyards. It combines a total of two roads, both very different in style. It is close to many sights such as Jemaa El Fna and the souks.
Affordable Boutique Hotel
Riad & Spa Azzouz Marrakech
Tucked in a small side street in the Souks, you cannot get more central. This Riad is walking distance to most sights, is affordable, and offers clean and simple designed rooms with the perfect plunge pool on the rooftop terrace. What else could you wish for?
Affordable Boutique Hotel
P´tit Habibi
An intimate Riad combining clean Scandinavian design with traditional Moroccan features. Situated on the outskirts of the old Medina it provides a quiet place to retreat to. Enjoy the movie room in the evening and the rooftop terrace with a small plunge pool during the day.
Affordable Boutique Hotel
Le Riad Berbère
This is the cutest 5 room Riad in the old Medina: affordable, incredible hospitality, stunning and clean rooms, and the most extravagant breakfast spread. Don't miss out on the romantic candlelight dinner on the rooftop terrace.
Affordable Boutique Hotel
Riad l'Oiseau du Paradis
If you are looking for a stunning and peaceful Riad for an affordable price look no further. This little gem will blow all your expectations, all the spaces are thoughtfully furnished and decorated which makes it a truly beautiful place to return to and rest. Riad l'Oiseau du Paradis is located in the medina (10 min to the main square, 15 to Place des Épices).
Affordable Boutique Hotel
Riad Tahyr
Riad Tahyra boasts incredible wall carvings similar to those found in Fes. The decor and furniture are reminiscent of a royal palace. Get ready for an authentic and truly memorable experience in the old Medina while exploring Marrakech. The price is impossible to beat.
Affordable Boutique Hotel
Riad 42
This design-savvy guesthouse is popular due to its clean and stunning design as well as affordable prices. Located in the heart of the Medina it is perfect for exploring while returning to a quiet and peaceful corner. It features a total of 5 charming rooms and a nice rooftop plunge pool with lounging space.
Our 13 most recommended restaurants in Marrakech
Oh, there is nothing quite like returning to your Riad after an adventure-filled day and sharing a delicious Lamb, Chicken, or Vegetable Tajine with your friend or partner in crime. But, what would a vacation be without eating out? Depending on how many days you are traveling through Morocco, eating Tajine every night can get tiring. So we’ve put together a list of outstanding restaurants in Marrakech just for you. Whether you are looking for traditional Moroccan cuisine, Asian fusion, Italian Pasta, or organic vegetarian meals, you can find a wide selection below.
Nomad
This is probably one of the best-known restaurants in all of Marrakech due to its outstanding location right in the heart of the Souks and overlooking the famous Plaza de la Especias. Don't miss out on the Nomad's buzz, even if you only stop by for dessert or a cocktail. With a strong emphasis on fresh local produce and ample variety from vegans to carnivores, you can't go wrong here.
Le Jardin Marrakech
This chic restaurant is tucked behind a heavy wooden door leading into a lush green courtyard. An instagramable green oasis, perfect for lunch or dinner after meandering through the winding alleys of the souks. Enjoy a great selection of traditional Moroccan cuisine with a touch of European cuisine.
Naranj
A delicious Lebanese restaurant in the center of the medina. This is one of my personal favorite restaurants with a great atmosphere, outstanding customer service, and divine food. It's perfect especially if you are craving something other than Tajine.
La Famille
Reminiscent of the peaceful island life of Mallorca, this restaurant serves those looking for a heavenly escape and a nourishing meal set in a beautiful garden. Enjoy organic salads, flower-infused waters, and healthy sweet treats all meals on the menu are meat-free. Reservations are a must!
Plus61 Marrakech
The chic and contemporary Australian influenced restaurant in Gueliz has quickly become the hot spot for tourists and locals alike. Stop by for an afternoon snack from the cafe bar or enjoy a delicious Moroccan fusion for lunch and dinner. The restaurant effortlessly provides an inviting and friendly atmosphere thanks to the attentive staff and impressive cooking skills. Go hungry, leave satisfied.
Cafe Clock
This restaurant rivals the views of Nomad and Cafe des Epices, perched above the market place, with 360-views over the rooftops of Marrakech. This is a great place to enjoy some Moroccan fusion. The restaurant also offers live music on Saturdays and Moroccan Storytelling starting at 7 pm every Monday. This is especially fun for kids, but make sure to double-check events on their website.
Le Jardin Restaurant
For an elevated dining experience, we highly recommend Le Jardin Bar & Restaurant at the Royal Mansour. A heavenly open-air restaurant providing a unique experience that touches all your senses, using the freshest produce and flavors influenced by the Asian and Mediterranean cuisine.
Comptoir Darna
A chic two-story restaurant with exotic decor & belly dancing shows featuring Moroccan & global cuisine. The restaurant is located in Gueliz, the new town offering a rather modern and high-end dining experience. Reservations are definitely needed.
La Trattoria Marrakech
This Art Deco Villa is probably one of the most romantic restaurants in Marrakech and the perfect spot for a date night. The dinner tables are set by the pool under a glass roof decorated with hanging lanterns and jungle foliage, accompanied by the music of a resident pianist. For a taste of La Dolce Vita in Marrakech, head to La Trattoria located in the center of Gueliz.
Ksar Es Saoussan
This is not your ordinary restaurant and one of the best-kept secrets. Located in a quirky Riad in the old medina, this dining experience is designed for those looking for a traditional meal in Marrakech served with old school charm and flair. Choose your dinner size (petit should be plenty). Your meal will include a choice of aperitif, a bottle of wine, and sparkling water. Definitely bring an appetite the portions are generous. You can make your reservation easily online. However, the Riad is a little bit difficult to find so we would recommend reaching out prior so you can be met and guided the rest of the way.
Le Salama Marrakech
A stylish restaurant although the highlight might be the rooftop bar. The rooftop has lovely decor with lots of greenery with views above the market of the old medina. Stop by for a quick refreshment or enjoy dinner on marble tables surrounded by flickering candles. Choose between a great selection of international and Moroccan cuisine.
Entrepotes
Tucked away in a side street of Gueliz, this stylish Tapas restaurant offers a casual and airy courtyard dining experience, serving Asian-style tapas alongside delicious cocktails & desserts.
Atay Cafe
Another great restaurant offering stunning views over the red city. Make sure to get a seat at the rooftop terrace for the best dining experience. The menu is nothing special, yet I found the Moroccan meals to be pretty delicious.
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Such a fantastic and really helpful guide about Marrakech! We love your photography.
Thank you so much for your kind words! Marrakech is such an amazing place, we can’t wait to go back.