Planning your first visit to Morocco and wondering how to spend three unforgettable days in Marrakech? Marrakech is a vibrant and historically rich city located in western Morocco. It is known for its colorful souks, beautiful architecture, enchanting riads, and captivating energy. This Marrakech travel guide covers all the key things to see and do in this wonderful year-round destination.
Marrakech is a brilliant city to explore, either as a standalone city break, on a longer Morocco adventure, or as a winter sun holiday.
Spring (March to May) and early fall (September to November) are the best times of year to visit Marrakech as the weather is pretty mild. Similar to spring, the fall brings more mild temperatures and the tourists return for high season again.
As a popular tourist destination, Marrakech is well-connected by various means of transportation:
- By Air: If you’re coming from outside of Morocco, this is likely the mode of transportation you’ll take to get to Marrakech.
- By Train: Morocco’s national railway network, ONCF, operates train services connecting Marrakech to other major cities in Morocco, including Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, and Tangier.
- By Bus: Several inter-city bus companies offer services connecting Marrakech with various cities in Morocco, providing a budget-friendly option for travelers.
- By Car: Marrakech is accessible by road, and some travelers may prefer to rent a car for flexibility and to explore the surrounding areas.
- Walking: The old city’s narrow streets and vibrant markets are best explored on foot. Walking allows you to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of Marrakech.
- Taxi: They are great for short distances outside of the Medina and can be hailed on the streets or found at taxi stands.
- Horse-Drawn Carriage (Caleche): I noticed there were some horse-drawn carriages around the exterior of the Medina.
- Tuk Tuk: These three-wheeled, open-air vehicles can be hailed like a taxi within the Medina - as they can fit down the narrow streets (unlike regular taxis!).
Essential Information:
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- Language: Arabic and French are the most widely spoken languages. But of course, English is also understood and spoken throughout the tourist areas!
- Currency: The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
- Visas: Travelers from many countries do not need a visa to visit Morocco for a period of up to 90 days.
Tips for Your Trip:
- Haggling: Bargaining is common in the souks and markets. Practice your haggling skills but do so politely.
- Cultural and Social Etiquette: Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative customs. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
- Health and Safety: Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like markets.
- Awareness of Surroundings: Be extremely cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Food Hygiene: Enjoy the local cuisine but be cautious with street food. Eat from reputable vendors to avoid stomach issues.
- Ask Permission for Photos: Respect locals’ privacy and customs regarding photography. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their belongings.
Top 10 things to do in MARRAKECH | Marrakesh Travel Guide
Day 1: Exploring the Medina
The Medina is the area of Marrakech where you’ll undoubtedly spend the most time. Most travellers head to the Medina - Marrakech’s iconic walled town in the centre of the city. Allow the morning to wander the Medina, shopping in the souks and absorbing the bustling atmosphere. Within the Medina, there are numerous riad hotels.
Morning:
Start your Moroccan adventure in Marrakech, known as the "Red City" for its terracotta-colored buildings. Head straight to Jemaa el-Fnaa, the bustling central square of Marrakech. This iconic square is the buzzing heart of the Medina, bustling with locals and tourists, food stalls, and a lively atmosphere day and night. In the morning, you'll find food stalls, snake charmers, and fresh juice vendors.
Just a short walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa is the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. Located just minutes from Jemaa el-Fnaa, Koutoubia Mosque is an iconic landmark and the city’s largest mosque. Built in the late 12th century, the mosque has a grand minaret that stands at over 250 feet tall and dominates the city’s skyline.
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Afternoon:
Next, visit Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace with beautiful gardens, intricate tile work, and stunning architecture. The Bahia Palace (or “Palais Bahia”) is a stunning historical palace located in the heart of the Medina. The Bahia Palace was built in the late 19th century and is a complex consisting of a series of interconnected courtyards, gardens, and rooms.
A short walk from the palace, the Saadian Tombs are a historical site dating back to the Saadian dynasty.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Try traditional dishes like tagine (slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew) or couscous.
Evening:
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As the sun sets, the square transforms into a vast open-air food market, offering a variety of Moroccan cuisine, including tagines, grilled meats, couscous, and traditional snacks.
As the day winds down, find a rooftop terrace to enjoy the sunset over Marrakech. The city is known for its beautiful evening light and vibrant atmosphere. End your day with dinner at a traditional riad (a Moroccan house with an interior courtyard). Riads often offer intimate dining experiences with authentic Moroccan cuisine.
Djemaa El Fnaa is the central square in Marrakech and is full of stalls selling local food at very reasonable prices.
If you want something a bit more upmarket, then the restaurant at Dar Las Cigognes is excellent. They offer a delicious menu of Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes and often have visiting chefs.
Where to Stay:
Riads are traditional Moroccan houses with a courtyard in the centre. I would definitely recommend staying in a riad to get a more Moroccan experience.
Here are a few options:
- Riad Kniza: A riad located in the heart of the historic Medina and known for its traditional Moroccan architecture and personalized service.
- La Sultana: While most of the luxury hotels are located outside of the Medina, La Sultana has a prime position inside the Medina!
- Les Jardins De La Médina: Set within a historic riad and surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Day 2: Atlas Mountains and Ourika Valley
Leave Marrakech early for a day trip to the Atlas Mountains, located about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car.
Morning:
Arrive in Imlil, a charming village at the foothills of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Join a guided hike in Morocco to explore the surrounding area. You can choose a short hike to a nearby waterfall or a more challenging trek to higher elevations.
Afternoon:
Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch at a local guesthouse or with a Berber family. Typical dishes include tagine, freshly baked bread, and mint tea.
On your way back to Marrakech, make a stop at the Ourika Valley. Visit Setti Fatma, a village in the Ourika Valley famous for its seven waterfalls.
Evening:
Return to Marrakech in the evening. After a day of exploring the mountains, relax at your hotel or riad.
Day 3: Souks and Cultural Exploration
Spend your final day exploring the souks (markets) of Marrakech. The souks are vibrant and bustling marketplaces that form an integral part of the city’s cultural and economic fabric. The souks are a maze of narrow alleys filled with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to pottery and jewelry.
Morning:
Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa, an Islamic college dating back to the 14th century. The madrasa is known for its stunning architecture, intricate tile work, and serene courtyard. Another example of incredible architecture in Marrakech, Medersa Ben Youssef is an Islamic place of education founded in the 14th Century. As with many of Morocco’s mosques and medersas, it has been beautifully maintained and cannot be missed on any trip to Marrakech.
Head to the Maison de la Photographie, a photography museum that showcases historical photographs of Morocco. Nearby is the Almoravid Koubba, a small but significant monument dating back to the 12th century.
Afternoon:
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the medina. Visit the Dar Si Said Museum, also known as the Museum of Moroccan Arts.
Evening:
As your Moroccan adventure comes to an end, enjoy a final dinner at a rooftop restaurant. Marrakech has many options offering delicious food and stunning views of the city.
After dinner, return to Jemaa el-Fnaa to experience the vibrant nightlife. The square transforms in the evening with food stalls, musicians, storytellers, and entertainers.
Additional Activities and Considerations
Jardin Majorelle:
After lunch, head to Jardin Majorelle, a beautiful garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The garden was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and 1930s. Beat the crowds and head to Le Jardin Marjorelle early. Since it’s such a popular attraction, plan a visit for the first time slot in the morning - which still turns out to be very crowded!
La Mamounia:
La Mamounia is a renowned luxury hotel known for its opulence, elegance, and historical significance. It dates back to the 18th century when it was established as a royal palace. In 1923, the palace was converted into a hotel and opened its doors to guests. For the ultimate opulent experience, visiting La Mamounia as a day visitor is one of the best things to do in Morocco. For an ultra-luxury Moroccan experience, La Mamounia is one of a kind.
Agafay Desert:
Morocco is known for its dramatic desert terrain, so you might want to include a day trip to the desert on your 3 days in Marrakech itinerary. The Agafay Desert is known for its breathtaking sunsets. Many tour operators offer sunset excursions, providing an opportunity to witness the changing colors of the sky over the desert. There are luxury desert camps and accommodations in the Agafay Desert that offer a unique glamping experience.
Where to Eat in Marrakech
Marrakech offers a rich and flavorful culinary scene with a diverse range of dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Exploring the diverse flavors of Moroccan cuisine is an essential part of the Marrakech experience.
Must-try dishes:
- Chicken, Lamb, or Vegetable Tagine: Tagine refers to both the dish itself and the conical clay pot it’s cooked in.
- Pastilla (B’stilla): Pastilla is a traditional Moroccan pie made with layers of thin pastry filled with shredded meat (often pigeon or chicken), almonds, spices, and topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
- Harira: This hearty soup typically contains tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, lamb or beef, and a blend of aromatic spices like cumin and coriander.
- Mechoui: Mechoui is a traditional whole lamb dish, slow-roasted for hours until the meat is tender and flavorful.
- Moroccan Mint Tea: Moroccan mint tea is a staple drink made with green tea, fresh mint leaves, and sugar.
Here are some great dinner options:
- Dar Yacout is another great dinner option offering traditional Moroccan dishes in an enchanting riad-like setting and is located in the heart of the Medina.
- Or, Dar Soukkar is a restaurant with a dazzling live show experience for a special night out!
- Located in the Medina by the famous Jemaa El Fna square, Le Salama is a restaurant with three floors including an outdoor rooftop terrace with sweeping views of the city. Featuring playful decor, the atmosphere is buzzy and hip - with evening music and entertainment like belly dancing. The menu features Moroccan classics like tagines, couscous, meat skewers, and an assortment of Moroccan salads.
A three-day trip to Morocco offers a glimpse into the country's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. By following this itinerary, you'll experience the highlights of Marrakech, the beauty of the Atlas Mountains, and the vibrant souks. Morocco's enchanting atmosphere and diverse experiences will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
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