Marrakesh
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to explore Marrakesh is March to May or September to November, when the days are warm but not scorching, and the evenings are pleasantly cool. Expect to see beautiful blooming gardens and clear skies in spring and golden sunsets and fewer crowds in the autumn.
Marrakesh, the Cultural Heart of Morocco
Whilst Rabat is the capital of Morocco, for many visitors, Marrakesh is definitely the Moroccon city synonymous for culture, architecture and vibrant energy. Marrakesh is a city where past and present come together in a colourful, chaotic and exciting cauldron pot.
The rose-hued walls of the medina hold centuries of history, yet the energy is anything but still. In the souks that snake through the city, brass lanterns glint in the sunlight, spices form pyramids of gold and crimson, and the traders busily go about their trade.
Must-Visit Spots
The Medina & Souks
Wander the UNESCO-listed old city, where labyrinthine alleyways open up to bustling markets filled with spices, leather goods, lamps, and textiles. Get ready to haggle and discover treasures.
The main medina is simply known as the Medina of Marrakesh and it’s the historic, walled old city at the heart of Marrakesh. Within the medina, you’ll find souks, riads, mosques, palaces and squares down the maze of narrow alleys.
The main shopping street is Souk Semmarine where you’ll literally find everything from spices, carpets, jewellery to leather.
Top Spots within the Medina:
- Jemaa el-Fnaa, the iconic central square and buzzing heart of the city
- Koutoubia Mosque, the largest Mosque in Marrakesh
- Saadian Tombs, richly decorated royal tombs
- Ben Youssef Madrasa, a beautifully tiled former Islamic school
- Bahia Palace, A 19th-century masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship, with intricate zellige tilework, painted ceilings, and peaceful gardens
Jardin Majorelle & Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Jardin Majorelle is a lush botanical escape in the new town, filled with vibrant blue buildings, exotic plants, and elegant calm.
Originally designed in the 1920s by French painter Jacques Majorelle, this stunning garden was lovingly restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. Today, it’s one of Marrakesh’s most cherished escapes.
Here, you’ll be able to wander along shaded paths lined with bamboo, cacti, and water lilies, as fountains gently trickle around you. Amongst the serenity, the iconic Majorelle Blue villa stands proudly against the greenery.
Just next door, visit the Berber Museum, celebrating Morocco’s Indigenous heritage, or explore the elegant Yves Saint Laurent Museum, a tribute to the designer’s love affair with Marrakesh.
Whether you’re a garden lover, design enthusiast, or just craving calm amid the city’s buzz, Jardin Majorelle is your go-to spot.
Traditional Hammam Experience
Unwind Moroccan-style with a traditional steam bath, black soap scrub, and massage.
The ritual centres on steam, exfoliation, and purification, and is deeply rooted in Islamic and North African tradition. You must try one whilst in Marrakesh. It’s a full-body reset that will leave you feeling glowing and refreshed.
Top Hammam Spots: for a Luxury Experience:
- Les Bains de Marrakech
- Royal Mansour Spa
- La Mamounia Spa
- Hammam de la Rose
Desert & Atlas Mountains Day Trips
For some of Morocco’s most breathtaking and memorable adventures, escape the city on a day trip and excursion to the desert and Atlas Mountains. You’ll enjoy spectacular scenery of golden dunes, Berber villages nestled in high valleys and fresh mountain air.
Agafay Desert (1hr from Marrakesh)
Whilst not a true sand desert like the Sahara, it is a stunning rocky landscape of golden hills and moon-like terrain.
Sahara Desert Excusions (Multi-day trips)
To reach the real dunes, like Erg Chebbi or Erg Chicaga, you need at least 2-3 days round trip from Marrakesh.
The High Atlas Mountains
Just 1–2 hours by car from Marrakesh, depending on your destination. This makes a day trip very doable, even if you want to explore a bit and be back in time for dinner in the city.
Top Day Trip Destinations in the Atlas Mountains
- Ourika Valley (1hr) – waterfalls, Berber villages, lush valley
- Imlil & Mount Toubkal Foothills (1.5-2hrs) – higher altitude, dramatic scenery
- Ouirgane Valley (1.5hrs) – quieter, rolling hills, red clay earth, olive groves
What’s Included in Most Day Tours?
- Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakesh
- A private driver or small group van
- Local guide for hikes or cultural visits
- Stops for tea with a Berber family or lunch with a view
- Optional extras: camel rides, artisan visits, market stops
Rooftop Cafés & Terraces
Above the bustling souks and winding alleyways of the medina, these elevated spots offer a peaceful escape, stunning views, and delicious food. Sip traditional mint tea or grab a cocktail while gazing out over the terracotta rooftops at sunset.
The rooftops offer a cooler escape too from the hot streets below. The terraces are bedecked with lanterns and low cushions and chill music serenades you as you take time out. Make sure you book early to ensure you secure the best seats particularly for those amazing sunset views we all love.
Top Rooftop Spots:
- Nomad
- Café des Épices
- Kabana Rooftop
- Atay Café
- El Fenn Rooftop
- Nobu Rooftop
Where to Stay in Marrakesh
Marrakesh offers a range of different accommodation to suit all budgets. It has wonderful, traditional riads, luxurious hotels and smaller boutique hotels.
Stay in a Traditional Moroccan Riad
The riads (Moroccan houses) are arguably the most iconic, traditional option and found in the Medina (old city). They feature interior courtyards, traditional Moroccan decor, and often rooftop terraces. They also range from budget to high-end luxury.
Recommendations include:
NB. some riads have stairs and narrow alleys that may not be ideal for travellers with mobility issues.
Luxury at its Best in Marrakesh
The hotels are located throughout the city, especially in Gueliz (the modern district) and Hivernage. Marrakesh can definitely pride itself in offering 5* accommodation to its visitors.
Recommendations include:
There are also luxury resorts located outside the Medina in Palm Grove/Palmeraie or suburbs. These are ideal for spa, golf or an all-inclusive experience:
Finally, Marrakesh does also offer great guesthouses, boutique hotels, Airbnb’s and vacation rentals. The choice is vast as tourism continues to grow in Marrakesh.
Ready to pack your Bags for Marrakesh
Whether you’re bargaining in Jemaa el-Fnaa, sinking into a hammam steam bath, or watching the sky turn pink over the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is a sensory experience that stays with you—bold, beautiful, and endlessly layered.