15 Things to Do During Your Stay in Marrakech

Ultimate Travel Guide

Marrakech is a popular tourist destination with many things to do and see. With its rich history, bustling souks, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine, Marrakech has something to offer everyone.

Marrakech is the fourth-largest city in Morocco, with plenty of attractions to enjoy. It's known as the downtown area, where travelers worldwide come to explore its unique vibes and captivating charms. From sprawling bazaars to colorful squares, there are countless activities that one can engage in during their stay in Marrakech.

In this article, we'll share 15 things to do during your stay in Marrakech to make your trip unforgettable. 

1. Explore the Medina

The Medina is the historic old town of Marrakech and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a maze of narrow streets, colorful markets, and stunning architecture. Exploring Medina is a must-do during your stay in Marrakech. The Jemaa el-Fnaa square, located in the heart of the Medina, is the major highlight of the area. The square is filled with street performers, snake charmers, and food vendors, creating a lively and exciting atmosphere.

2. Visit the Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace is a true gem of Moroccan architecture and design, boasting intricate details and a harmonious blend of Andalusian and Moorish styles. It's worth taking your time to explore the palace's many exquisite courtyards, each with its unique features, from trickling fountains to blooming flower beds.

Within the palace walls, visitors can marvel at the ornate woodwork, intricate plaster designs, and vivid tilework, which all pay tribute to Morocco's rich artistic heritage.

Another highlight of the Bahia Palace is its stunning gardens, dotted with towering palm trees, colorful flowers, and peaceful reflecting pools.

The garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the crowded city, and it's easy to get lost in its serene beauty.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful escape from Marrakech, the Bahia Palace is a must-visit attraction. Don't forget to bring your camera, as there are plenty of photo-worthy moments to capture!

3. Admire the Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is a magnificent landmark in Marrakech, characterized by its tall minaret towering over the city's skyline. It's a masterpiece of Moroccan-Andalusian architecture, with intricate plaster, wood, and tilework designs. The mosque was built in the 12th century and is famous for its harmonious proportions and subtle ornamentation, making it one of the most beautiful mosques in North Africa.

Visitors are not allowed inside the mosque, which is a place of worship for Muslims, but there is still plenty to see from the outside. As you approach the mosque, you'll be drawn to its impressive size and the intricacy of its decorative features.

The minaret is a particular highlight, reaching a height of 77 meters and a stunning sight when lit up at night.

Around the mosque, there are beautifully landscaped gardens where visitors can relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

The gardens offer a peaceful respite from city life, with fountains, palm and orange trees, and colorful flowers.

Whether it's the impressive architecture, stunning minaret, or peaceful gardens, the Koutoubia Mosque is not to be missed when in Marrakech.

4. Relax in a Hammam

Going to a hammam is a quintessential Moroccan experience and a perfect way to indulge in some relaxation and self-care while visiting Marrakech. A traditional hammam is a communal bathhouse where locals gather to cleanse and unwind. The authentic hammams in Marrakech allow visitors to engage in centuries-old wellness practices passed down through generations.

The hammam experience typically begins with a steam bath that opens the pores up, promoting relaxation and detoxification. After spending some time in the steam room, you'll then be scrubbed down with a Kessal, a traditional exfoliating glove, to remove dead skin cells and impurities. Once thoroughly cleansed, you can indulge in a soothing massage or enjoy a refreshing soak in a pool, helping to rejuvenate the body and mind.

Marrakech has various hammams, from luxurious spas to traditional, no-frills bathhouses. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can choose a hammam experience to suit your needs.

Regardless of your option, you're sure to leave feeling relaxed, refreshed, and revitalized. A visit to a hammam is a must-do activity that will help you connect with your inner self and center your mind and soul.

5. Explore the Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden is a vibrant and lush oasis in the heart of Marrakech designed by the French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s. The garden is teeming with vivid colors, exotic plants, and soothing fountains, providing a haven of tranquility in the city. Exploring the Majorelle Garden is an opportunity to see the best of North African flora, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.

The bright blue buildings and walls within the garden make for a striking backdrop, the perfect spot for an Instagram-worthy photo.

The garden is divided into different areas, such as bamboo groves, cacti gardens, and lily ponds, all carefully curated to create an immersive and engaging experience for visitors.

There's also a Berber Museum within the garden, displaying a diverse collection of artifacts that showcase the heritage and life of indigenous Berber communities in Morocco.

Whether interested in nature and history or simply seeking a peaceful escape from the city, the Majorelle Garden is a must-visit destination. You can easily spend hours taking in the garden's beauty, admiring its abundance of exotic plants, and learning more about the local culture. Adding to its charm, Majorelle is also a popular spot for bird watching, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the many species of feathered inhabitants that call the garden home.

6. Enjoy the Traditional Cuisine

If you love food, then Marrakech is the place for you. The city is known for its delicious and varied cuisine, ranging from classic Moroccan Tagines to couscous and pastilla.

There are plenty of restaurants in Medina where you can sample traditional Moroccan cuisine and street vendors selling local specialties like kebabs and pastries.

Tagine is a traditional Moroccan dish cooked in a clay pot with meat, vegetables, and spices. It's a must-try dish during your stay in Marrakech, and you can find it in many restaurants and street food vendors.

7. Camel Ride at the Palmeraie or Agafay

Going on a camel ride in the Palmeraie or Agafay is the ultimate Marrakech experience, offering a unique and memorable way to explore the city's surroundings. The Palmeraie is an oasis of palm trees located just outside the city and is perfect for a leisurely and scenic camel ride. Meanwhile, Agafay, a desert landscape situated about 45 minutes drive from Marrakech, offers a more rugged and adventurous ride on the ship of the desert.

No matter your location, a camel ride is a thrilling and fun adventure, giving you a taste of traditional North African transportation. Along the way, you'll witness magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes, both natural and artificial. From the sprawling palm trees to the stunning desert hills, the breathtaking scenery provides plenty of opportunities for great panoramic shots.

Camel rides are led by experienced guides knowledgeable about the area's history and culture, providing insights and tales about the places you will explore. They'll help you get comfortable on your camel, ensuring you feel safe and secure throughout the journey. They'll even take pictures of you on camelback so you can have souvenirs to show friends and family back home.

Whether for a romantic sunset ride or an adventurous trek through the desert, a camel ride in the Palmeraie or Agafay is a must-do activity in Marrakech.

8. Quad Biking in the Palmeraie or Agafay Desert

If you love adventure and adrenaline-pumping activities, quad biking in the Palmeraie or Agafay should be on your list when visiting Marrakech. It's an exciting and unique way to explore the city's surroundings, taking in the rugged terrain and stunning natural landscapes.

The Palmeraie and Agafay regions are perfect for quad biking. They offer vast areas of natural beauty, making them ideal playgrounds.

Experienced guides will lead you through the rugged landscapes, ensuring your safety while taking you for an unforgettable ride.

As you zoom through the dusty trails and the stunning desert terrain, you'll witness breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, whether the groves of palm trees in the Palmeraie or the majestic desert hills of Agafay. You'll feel the wind rushing through your hair and the thrill of adventure in your veins.

Quad biking in Marrakech is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, with varying difficulty levels to suit all skill levels. Whether you choose a one-hour tour or a full-day excursion, quad biking is an activity that promises to be exciting, adventurous, and unforgettable.

After a day full of adrenaline and adventure, you can relax with a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea, pondering the wonders you have experienced while quad biking in the Palmeraie or Agafay. So, add this activity to your bucket list when in Marrakech for a truly memorable experience.

9. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Seeing Marrakech from above offers a whole new perspective of the city, and there's no better way to do that than with a hot air balloon ride. Soaring high into the skies and floating amongst the clouds, a hot air balloon ride offers a surreal and unforgettable experience, providing unbeatable views of the city's stunning landscapes.

The journey begins before sunrise with a transfer to a takeoff point, where you'll watch in awe as the balloon is inflated, preparing for its flight through the skies. Then, gently lifting off the ground, you'll drift along with the breeze while taking in the spectacular views below that can only be seen from a bird's eye view.

The experience of flying above the red city in a hot air balloon is majestic. From high above, you can see a panoramic view of Marrakech's streets and buildings, from Kasbahs to maze-like souks. As you glide over the city, you'll watch the sunrise as it spreads its warm hues across the majestic Atlas Mountains in the background.

A hot air balloon ride is a unique and unforgettable experience, and most tour operators provide breakfast after the ride.

Whether planning a romantic experience, a family-fun activity, or a breathtaking adventure with friends, a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech promises an unforgettable memory you will cherish forever.

10. Visit the Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs are among Marrakech's most popular tourist attractions. They offer visitors a glimpse into the city's rich history and architectural heritage. The tombs were discovered in 1917 and date back to the Saadian dynasty, which ruled over Marrakech in the late 16th century.

The tombs are located within the Kasbah district of the city and functioned as the final resting place for the Saadian royal family.

The Saadian Tombs were hidden until the early 20th century, and once they were rediscovered, they were restored with great care, following the style of the Saadian era architecture.

The tombs comprise three main rooms: the Hall of the Twelve Columns, the Hall of the Two Sisters, and the Hall of the Three Niches. Each hall features intricate tilework, cedar wood carvings, and richly ornamented marble tombs of princes and other high-ranking members of the Saadian dynasty.

Visitors are awed by the intricate designs that fill the chambers and are followed by licensed guides as they explore the structure, hearing stories and insights to help bring the tombs to life.

For architecture and history enthusiasts, the Saadian Tombs are a must-visit site during a trip to Marrakech. With its beautiful architecture and rich history, it's no wonder why the tombs are one of the most sought-after destinations by locals and tourists alike.

11. Experience a Moroccan Tea Ceremony

Experiencing a Moroccan tea ceremony is an opportunity to engage in a traditional ritual that has been followed for centuries. Moroccan tea, also known as "whiskey Berber," is ubiquitous in Moroccan culture and hospitality. The tea ceremony is when friends and families gather to share stories and catch up over a hot cup of tea.

The ceremony typically begins with selecting tea leaves, mint leaves, and sugar and placing them into a teapot. The pot is then filled with hot water and placed on a stove to boil. Next, the tea is poured into tiny glasses from a distance, which is called "high tea," and often accompanied by the teller humming a song as the glasses are then rotated and filled with aromatic tea.

Moroccan tea is refreshing and considered a symbol of hospitality and the perfect way to welcome guests.

In Moroccan culture, the tea ceremony symbolizes the community and the time when shared stories and bonds are formed. It's a beautiful way to connect with the local culture and experience traditional Moroccan hospitality.

There are many places in Marrakech where you can experience a Moroccan tea ceremony, from traditional cafes to luxurious spas. A tea ceremony is an experience of tasting the famous Moroccan tea and creating memories with locals for a lifetime.

Whether you want to master the art of tea-making or enjoy a cup with friends and family, experiencing a Moroccan tea ceremony is a must-do activity when visiting Marrakech.

12. Visit the El Badi Palace

The El Badi Palace is another of Marrakech's historical landmarks. Built in the 16th century during the Saadian era, it was once considered one of the most beautiful in the world and symbolized the Saadian dynasty's power and wealth.

Today, the palace is a popular attraction, and visitors marvel at its stunning architecture, intricate decoration, and vast courtyards.

The palace's name, El Badi, means "the incomparable," which speaks to the grandeur and splendor of the complex.

Upon visiting the palace, you'll witness its magnificent design, including a vast open courtyard, intricately carved doors, stained glass windows, and expansive gardens with fruit trees and water features.

Visitors can also explore the underground dungeons that were once used to house prisoners during war. The dungeons offer a glimpse into a darker period of Morocco's history when prisoners were confined in small, dark rooms without access to sunlight or fresh air.

In the center of the palace, you'll find the Saadian Pavilion, known for its stunning decoration and lavish design. The pavilion features a spectacular dome made of gold and cedarwood, inlaid with ivory and stucco carvings, and rooms adorned with intricate zellij tilework.

El Badi Palace is a beautiful attraction in Marrakech showcasing Morocco's rich history and culture. Visitors will experience beautiful architecture, a reminder of the luxury of the Saadian Dynasty, and an insight into a different era of Moroccan history. If you're interested in historical architecture or appreciate breathtaking beauty, the El Badi Palace is also a must-visit destination in Marrakech.

13. Take a Cooking Class

Moroccan cuisine is celebrated worldwide, and taking a cooking class in Marrakech is an opportunity to experience the city's culinary heritage firsthand. Numerous cooking classes are available in Marrakech, ranging from half-day classes to longer courses that give you a more in-depth knowledge of Moroccan gastronomy.

The cooking classes are led by experienced local chefs who help you discover the secrets of traditional Moroccan cooking. The classes usually begin at a local market or farm to select the freshest ingredients and spices, giving you a glimpse into the vibrant colors and flavors that make Moroccan cuisine unique. After that, you'll prepare typical Moroccan dishes like tagine, Harira, couscous, and pastilla and learn to combine spices to create rich, aromatic flavors.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of a cooking class in Marrakech is its friendly and communal atmosphere. You'll be surrounded by fellow travelers, often accompanied by live music and other forms of entertainment. And once the dishes are prepared, you get to enjoy them with your cooking classmates, taking in the collective satisfaction of your creations.

Whether you're an experienced cook or a novice, a cooking class in Marrakech is a fun and delicious way to immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Morocco. And by learning the secrets of traditional cooking, you'll take a piece of Morocco home with you, complete with the scents and flavors of the North African exoticism that Marrakech is known for.

14. Picnic at Menara Gardens

Manara Gardens, located in the heart of Marrakech, is a popular park with lush greenery, tranquil water features, and peaceful views. The gardens are perfect for a relaxing and serene picnic experience after taking in the hustle and bustle of the city. With a stunning backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, the Manara Gardens offer many shady spots, making them perfect for a picnic with family or friends.

The gardens are carefully tended, with sprawling grassy areas, vast water features, and blooming flora offering a pristine setting. It is an ideal place to lay down a picnic blanket, sit back, and relax.

Visitors can admire the gardens' stunning beauty while enjoying a traditional Moroccan meal or a basket full of fresh fruits and pastries.

You can stroll through the gardens or relax under the shade of the olive trees, taking in the park's sights and sounds.

Whether looking for a peaceful respite from the city or a fun day out with family and friends, a picnic in the Manara Gardens is a must-visit destination in Marrakech. The gardens offer a serene atmosphere and picturesque panoramas, providing the perfect background for an enjoyable meal and a memorable time.

15. Take a day trip to Essaouira.

If you're seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of Morocco's largest cities, a day trip to Essaouira is the perfect way to experience the laid-back vibe of the country's west coast.

A typical day trip to Essaouira begins with a leisurely drive to this coastal town, which offers striking views of Morocco's rural landscapes.

Once you arrive in Essaouira, you can wander through the winding streets and alleys of the old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with more white and blue tones than Marrakech. Along the way, you'll find artisan workshops, picturesque cafes and seafood stalls, craft shops selling various handmade souvenirs, distinctively styled white-washed buildings with blue shutters, and hidden courtyards.

Apart from wandering through the Medina, a day trip to Essaouira wouldn't be complete without a leisurely stroll along its long sandy beaches, which can stretch as far as the eye can see and offer panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean.

At the beach, you can try watersports like kitesurfing, windsurfing, or parasailing, but it's also a fantastic place to relax, soak up some sun, and enjoy the calmness of the serene waters.

Overall, Essaouira is a fantastic destination for a day trip. It offers a complete escape from the bustle of the city, with its tranquil beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and well-preserved architecture that create a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for any traveler.

Conclusion

Marrakech is a city of contrasts, bursting with energy and boasting a rich cultural heritage. From exploring the majestic Saadian Tombs and Koutoubia Mosque to going on adventurous quad bike rides, indulging in traditional hammam treatments, or soaking up the splendid views of the city from a hot air balloon, Marrakech offers plenty of activities to keep visitors engaged and entertained.

Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or looking for an action-packed adventure, Marrakech has something for everyone.

The city's stunning landscapes, rich history, and bustling energy make it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique experience that will leave them with unforgettable memories.

So, pack your bags, take your sense of adventure, and head to Marrakech, Morocco's gem. Undoubtedly, once you step foot into this exciting city, you will be captivated by its charm, beauty, and rich culture, leaving you craving for more even after you bid the city farewell.

FAQs