Marrakech guide · things to do
Things to Do in Marrakech
A practical guide to Marrakech for first-time visitors: the medina highlights, where to eat and shop, the best day trips and how to plan two or three days without rushing.
Start in the medina
The medina is the heart of Marrakech: a maze of souks, workshops, riads and squares inside the old walls. Give yourself time to get lost, but keep a landmark in mind, and consider a licensed guide for your first walk.
- Jemaa el-Fna: the main square, quiet by day and transformed at dusk by food stalls and performers.
- Koutoubia Mosque: the city landmark minaret, with gardens that make a calm pause.
- Souks: leather, textiles, ceramics, lanterns and spices; bargain politely and agree the price first.
- Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs: ornate interiors and courtyards; check opening hours before you go.
- Ben Youssef Madrasa: one of the finest examples of Moroccan Islamic architecture; check access before your visit.
- Jardin Majorelle: the blue garden and Yves Saint Laurent museum, best visited early.
A private guide can link these without wasting time, and will handle the negotiations in the souks.
Last updated: 3 November 2026. Written by the Routes of Morocco team.
Food, rooftops and mint tea
Marrakech is a good place to eat. Street stalls around Jemaa el-Fna are fine for a snack, but for a proper meal look for busy places with a short menu and fresh bread.
Book a rooftop for sunset at least once. Mint tea is the default welcome, and a slow lunch in a riad courtyard is part of the experience. If you want to cook, a market visit and cooking class is a good half-day.
Day trips from Marrakech
The city is a good base for the Atlas mountains, the Agafay desert and the coast. A private driver makes a day trip easy: you leave when you want and stop for photos, lunch or a walk.
- Agafay desert: stone desert and sunset camps, about 30 to 45 minutes from the city.
- Ourika Valley: Berber villages and mountain walks in the High Atlas, around an hour away.
- Ouzoud Falls: waterfalls and a relaxed lunch, around two and a half hours each way.
- Essaouira: Atlantic coast, ramparts and seafood, around two and a half hours away.
- Ait Benhaddou: the fortified village and film location, a long but rewarding day.
See our Marrakech day trips and activities in Marrakech for private options.
How to plan two or three days
Two full days covers the medina and one day trip; three days lets you add a slower morning, a cooking class or another escape.
- Day 1: medina walk, Koutoubia, Jemaa el-Fna at dusk.
- Day 2: Majorelle and Gueliz in the morning, Bahia Palace and the souks in the afternoon.
- Day 3: Atlas or Agafay day trip, or a relaxed hammam before you leave.
If you want to extend into the desert, read how many days you need for the Sahara. A three-day trip to Merzouga is the usual minimum.
Getting around and staying well
Most of the medina is walkable, but the streets are narrow and uneven. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water and use a petit taxi or a private driver for longer hops. Agree the taxi fare before you get in, or ask your riad to book it.
Marrakech is generally safe for visitors, with the usual city precautions. For more detail, read our Morocco travel safety guide.
Questions travellers ask
Marrakech FAQ
How many days do I need in Marrakech?
Two to three full days covers the medina and one day trip. Four days lets you add the Atlas, Agafay or Essaouira without rushing.
What are the must-see sights in Marrakech?
Jemaa el-Fna, the Koutoubia, the souks, Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa and the Jardin Majorelle. Add a rooftop at sunset.
Is Marrakech safe?
Generally yes, with the usual precautions of a large city. A guide helps in the medina, and our safety guide explains the practical habits.
What is the best time to visit Marrakech?
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable. Summer is very hot, and winter offers mild days with cool nights.
Can I visit the desert from Marrakech?
Yes: Agafay for a day trip, or Merzouga for two to three days. The drive is long, so three days is more comfortable.
What should I buy in the souks?
Leather, textiles, ceramics, lanterns and spices. Compare prices, bargain politely and ask your guide for advice on larger purchases.
Plan your Marrakech stay
Tell us your dates and interests and we will plan the city, the Atlas and the desert around you. We reply within 24 hours, with no obligation.
Travelling further? Read how many days you need for the Sahara.