Marrakech travel guide – What to see, do & know

Welcome to MonTataneTour (MTT) and your page “Marrakech travel guide”.

I’m Sarah (aka Miss Tatane 😛), a passionate traveler just like you. I’m here to share my experiences and insider tips so you can make the most of your stay in Marrakech.

Don’t forget to bookmark us if you’re planning a trip to Marrakech! Our website MTT (your travel buddy 😉) is updated weekly with new articles and destinations inspired by our latest adventures.

On this page, I recommend two of the best-value partners. You can book with Civitatis 🔴 or GetYourGuide 🔵, depending on your preferences. I’ve compared the prices for you and picked the most affordable options.

Enjoy reading, have an amazing trip… and most importantly: live it to the fullest! ONE LIFE!!!

---

Ultimate travel guide

As soon as you set foot in Marrakech, you’ll instantly feel its vibrant energy. The bustling alleys of the Medina, the bright colors of the markets, and the scent of spices immerse you in a unique atmosphere. Blending centuries-old traditions with modern touches, every corner tells a story and invites you to explore.

Start your journey in the Medina, the historic heart of the city, then head to the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square to enjoy street performances, snake charmers, and local artisans. The atmosphere is especially lively at sunset when the square lights up.

Next, discover Marrakech’s more modern neighborhoods: stroll through Gueliz for trendy cafés and shopping, explore Hivernage for upscale hotels and restaurants, and don’t miss iconic gardens like Majorelle and Menara. The city’s palaces and museums also offer a fascinating look into Moroccan history and architecture.

For culture lovers and those seeking authentic experiences, visit the Medina’s tanneries, join a Moroccan cooking class, or unwind in a traditional hammam for a truly local moment of relaxation.

Dive into Marrakech a city of tradition, colors, and flavors and enjoy every second of your visit! 😍

---

The Medina and its souks

The Beating Heart of Marrakech

Marrakech’s Medina is the city’s historic and cultural heart a living labyrinth listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This district captivates visitors with its traditional architecture, carved doors, and hidden riads, transporting you back in time.

The Souks of Marrakech offer a one-of-a-kind sensory experience where colors, scents, and sounds merge. As you wander through the maze of alleys, you’ll discover Moroccan craftsmanship in all its forms from textiles and pottery to jewelry and traditional rugs. The stalls, organized by trade, offer a wide variety of goods, including the city’s famous fragrant spices.

Warm and talkative merchants invite you to negotiate prices, making the shopping experience friendly and authentic. Getting pleasantly lost in the Souks is the best way to soak up local life, sip mint tea, and uncover the soul of the Red City.

---

---

---

Jemaa el-Fna square

Marrakech travel guide

Jemaa el-Fna Square is not just a square it’s the beating, bustling, and fiery heart of Marrakech, a living show listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where the soul of the city comes alive a place where locals, travelers, musicians, storytellers, and merchants mingle from morning until night.

By day, the atmosphere is already electric. You can enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, watch snake charmers, or get a traditional henna tattoo. But it’s at nightfall that the real magic happens. The huge open plaza lights up and transforms into a giant open-air restaurant filled with pop-up food stalls. Treat yourself to smoky grilled meats, flavorful tagines, and all kinds of traditional Moroccan dishes in a truly unique and festive atmosphere.

More than just a tourist attraction, Jemaa el-Fna is an unforgettable experience a living theater that captures all the energy and generosity of the Red City. It’s my favorite spot! Marrakech is full of hidden gems, but the Medina and the Majorelle Gardens (which we’ll see later on this page) are truly timeless.

---

The Medina Walls

Marrakech travel guide

The Medina Walls of Marrakech are what give the city its nickname “the Ochre City” or “the Red City.”

These massive walls are one of the city’s most iconic symbols. Imagine this: they were built more than 900 years ago by the Almoravids, and they surround the Medina for almost 12 miles! They served as a true protective barrier for the city.

The walls are made of rammed earth a mixture of soil and lime which gives them their beautiful color that changes with the sunlight throughout the day.

If you don’t feel like walking too much, the best way to see them is on a horse-drawn carriage ride that follows the walls. But please, take a moment to make sure the horse looks healthy and well cared for before you choose your ride. Be kind responsible tourism matters!

---

The Secret Garden

Marrakech travel guide

The Secret Garden is a peaceful haven in the heart of Marrakech’s Medina a calm oasis away from the lively souks. Carefully restored, it showcases authentic Moroccan architecture, elegant fountains, and lush greenery that invite you to slow down and enjoy the moment.

The garden is divided into two main sections: the Islamic Garden, filled with aromatic herbs and fruit trees, and the Exotic Garden, rich in tropical and rare plants. Visitors can stroll along shaded walkways, admire the reflecting pools, and enjoy panoramic views of the Medina’s rooftops.

The Secret Garden is a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a relaxing escape in a historical and elegant setting. It’s also a stunning example of Moroccan garden art, blending harmony, color, and serenity in perfect balance.

Service	📝 Details
Cloakroom	Available free of charge. Large bags or bulky items must be checked in.
Restrooms	Located in two areas. A “baby changing area” is available near the main entrance.
Wi-Fi	Free access available throughout The Secret Garden.

---

---

The Guéliz district

Marrakech travel guide

The Guéliz district is the modern heart of Marrakech. Designed during the French colonial era, this neighborhood stands in sharp contrast to the Medina. Narrow alleys give way to wide, airy boulevards lined with buildings influenced by Art Deco and colonial styles.

Guéliz is the city’s vibrant hub the perfect area for shopping beyond the souks, dining in international restaurants, and discovering Marrakech’s contemporary art and cultural scene. The district is crossed by Mohammed V Avenue, its main artery.

→ You’ll find landmarks such as the famous “Grand Café de la Poste,” perfect for a stylish lunch. The area also hosts the iconic Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) Museum.

---

Majorelle gardens

Marrakech travel guide

The Majorelle gardens are one of Marrakech’s iconic spots a true oasis of color and freshness in the heart of the Red City. Created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s, the gardens were later restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, making them a must-visit for travelers today.

Strolling along the paths, you’ll discover lush vegetation: cacti, palm trees, bamboo, and exotic plants from all over the world. The contrast between the intense blue of the buildings, the vibrant green of the plants, and the bright yellow of decorative details creates a unique and calming atmosphere.

The site also houses the Berber Museum, highlighting Morocco’s rich cultural and artisanal heritage. A visit combines nature, art, and history in a truly enchanting setting.

---

---

The Koutoubia

Marrakech travel guide

When you arrive in Marrakech, it’s impossible to miss it! The Koutoubia Mosque and its minaret are the city’s iconic landmark and spiritual symbol.

This mosque is absolutely fascinating, built in the 12th-century Almohad architectural style. It is the largest mosque in Marrakech, with a minaret reaching nearly 77 meters high, which inspired other historic monuments such as Seville’s Giralda. If you enjoyed Casablanca’s mosque during a cruise stop, you’ll love this one too!

Like Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque, the Koutoubia is a place of peace. Note: the interior of the mosque is reserved for worshippers only.

Luckily, the exterior is more than worth a visit. Stroll through its beautiful gardens filled with orange trees and flowers, providing a serene escape just steps from the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square. It’s the perfect spot to admire the minaret’s details and geometric decorations. In the evening, the Koutoubia lights up for a truly majestic display.

---

---

Bahia Palace

Marrakech travel guide

The Bahia Palace (meaning “Palace of the Beautiful”) is Marrakech’s grand and sumptuous palace, and one of my favorite visits for its intricate details.

Built at the end of the 19th century for a vizier who had four wives and twenty-four concubines, this palace is a showcase of Moroccan craftsmanship:

• It’s an immense complex with over 150 rooms!
• Admire the finely painted cedar wood ceilings that are breathtaking.
• There’s marble everywhere, colorful mosaics (zellij), and incredibly vast, photogenic inner courtyards.

Even though the rooms are empty today (they were looted after the vizier’s death), the richness of the decorations is awe-inspiring. It’s the perfect place to appreciate the finesse of Moorish art and feel transported to the era of grand harems.

---

---

The Saadian Tombs

Marrakech travel guide

The Saadian Tombs are a royal necropolis offering a rare glimpse into the architecture of the Saadian dynasty (16th century). This site remained hidden for a long time. After the fall of the Saadians, it was walled up and forgotten, then rediscovered in 1917.

The visit focuses on several rooms and a garden-cemetery. The highlight is the Hall of Twelve Columns, famous for its elaborate stucco decorations, Italian marble, and cedar wood ceilings. It’s an impressive site for its detailed craftsmanship, but note that it is small and often crowded.

→ Because space is limited, you may face a long line to see the main hall. For a more pleasant experience, visit at 9:00 AM (opening time) to avoid the midday crowd.

---

El Badi Palace

Marrakech travel guide

El Badi Palace (“The Incomparable”) is a must-visit in Marrakech. Don’t expect gilded ceilings like Bahia Palace; here, you walk among grand ruins.

This site tells a story of excess. Built in the 16th century, it was the most beautiful palace in the world, made with the most expensive materials. Less than a century later, a jealous sultan dismantled it entirely to recover its treasures (marble, gold, etc.) for his own projects.

Today, only the walls remain, but the grandeur is palpable. It’s a vast space where you can:

• Experience the sheer scale of the palace by walking through the large courtyard.
• See the orange gardens and large pools that once cooled the site.
• Look up to admire storks nesting on the ramparts.
• Climb the terraces for beautiful panoramic views of the city and mountains.

It’s a place that sparks imagination about its past glory and houses a treasure: the Minbar of the Koutoubia, a unique piece of Islamic art.

---

La Menara

Marrakech travel guide

The Menara Gardens are a vast olive grove located a few miles west of the Medina. Unlike Majorelle Garden, this is not a flower garden but a historic oasis listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This site was created for agriculture. Its central features are:

• A huge water basin that served as a reservoir to irrigate the crops. This basin is still fed by an ingenious hydraulic system coming from the Atlas Mountains.
• A small historic pavilion reflected in the basin’s water, offering the famous view of the olive groves with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains in the background (when the sky is clear).

This is a very popular spot with locals, especially in the late afternoon and on weekends, perfect for picnics and family walks.

→ The site is very large and offers limited shade outside the olive trees, which are spaced apart. Avoid visiting in the midday heat; late afternoon is best.

---

The Agdal Gardens

Marrakech travel guide

Forget the typical tourist gardens: the Agdal Gardens are a unique experience, giving you a real taste of local life. This is a vast, historic space, not a decorative park, but a huge orchard filled with olive and fruit trees. Its scale is breathtaking, making it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

What you’ll love about the Agdal Gardens:

• Peace and fresh air. You can walk for hours among the trees, far from the noise of the souks.
• Views of the Atlas Mountains. The large central basin (Es Sala) offers stunning perspectives of the High Atlas peaks in the background.
• Local atmosphere. This is a meeting place for families, joggers, and couples. If you’re looking for a picnic spot, it’s ideal.

→ Note: Part of this site is attached to the Royal Palace. To visit, plan ahead, as the gates are not open every day.

---

Dar Si Said Palace

Marrakech travel guide

Discover Dar Si Said Palace, a true architectural gem. It was the former residence of a minister and later transformed into the National Museum of Weaving and Carpets (or Moroccan Arts Museum).

This is a beautiful and peaceful place, perfect for a break. You can stroll among:

• 19th-century domestic architecture, rich in woodwork, fine stucco, and colorful mosaic tiles (zellige). The upstairs Wedding Hall with its dome is truly spectacular.
• Moroccan decorative arts. The museum houses an extensive collection of stunning carpets and weavings from across the country, along with antique jewelry and pottery.

Important note – This site is temporarily closed.

Exact reopening dates are not yet available. The collection may be undergoing reorganization. If you are in the area, you can check whether the doors are open, but for now, we recommend not counting it as a confirmed visit in your itinerary.

---

Palmeraie district

The Oasis of 100,000 Palm Trees

If you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the Medina, the Palmeraie is the perfect place. Located northeast of the city, it is often called the “green lung” of Marrakech. This vast oasis spans thousands of acres and is said to have more than 100,000 palm trees!

Historically, this oasis was created nearly a thousand years ago and was essential for the city, providing dates, shade, and local agriculture.

Today, it is mainly a leisure and getaway area. The atmosphere is completely different from the old city: here, space, relative silence, and nature dominate.

The best way to explore the Palmeraie is on the move:

Activity	📝 Description	💲 Approx. Price
Camel Ride	Iconic experience: wear a traditional scarf and enjoy a peaceful walk. Often includes a mint tea break at a Berber house.	$24–$43 / person (30 min with transfer included)
Quad or Buggy Tour	Dynamic and adventurous way to explore the vast Palmeraie quickly. Perfect for adrenaline seekers.	About $27–$75 / person
Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride	Romantic and calm option, ideal for admiring villas, palm trees, and the view of the Atlas Mountains.	About $16–$27 / carriage (depending on duration)

Tip – If you choose a camel or quad ride, try to go at sunset. The light on the palms and mountains is magical, and the temperature is much cooler.

---

---

Ouzoud Waterfalls

Marrakech travel guide

If you are looking for nature and escape, the Ouzoud Waterfalls are an impressive natural spectacle, often considered the most beautiful in Morocco. They are located in the Middle Atlas, near the village of Tanaghmeilt.

I highly recommend this excursion. I’ve been there three times, and it’s absolutely worth it. Affordable for everyone, it’s a total change of scenery, far from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, offering direct contact with water and mountains.

The falls reach about 360 feet (110 meters) in height across several levels. The experience includes:

• The water show. Walking down paths lined with olive trees, you’ll discover panoramic views of the waterfalls. At the base, a short boat ride lets you get close to the basin—perfect for cooling off.
• Barbary Macaques. A fun encounter! The falls host a large population of these playful monkeys, used to human presence.
• Hiking. The trail is pleasant but requires good shoes. Many small restaurants along the route offer lunch with a view.

---

---

Agafay desert

Marrakech travel guide

Just a 40-minute to 1-hour drive from Marrakech (≈20–25 miles / 30–40 km), the Agafay Desert is the perfect getaway for a Saharan experience without the long journey to the Sahara. Here, the calm and vast stony landscape contrasts sharply with the bustle of the Medina.

Nicknamed the “stone desert,” Agafay doesn’t have sand dunes like Merzouga or Chegaga, but a reg: an arid, rocky, and hilly terrain that gives it a lunar feel. This spectacular setting attracts photographers and travelers seeking unique landscapes. On a clear day, the view of the snow-capped High Atlas mountains makes the scenery even more magical.

Must-do activities in Agafay

The Agafay Desert has become a hotspot for immersive experiences, perfect for a half-day, an evening, or even an overnight stay.

• Camel rides: the iconic activity, letting you step into the shoes of a nomad.
• Quad and buggy tours: guaranteed adrenaline while exploring the stony trails.
• Luxury glamping: spend the night in a comfortable tent and enjoy the desert charm without giving up comfort.
• Dinners under the stars: enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal, often accompanied by Berber music by the fire.
• Magical sunset: the highlight of the day, when the hills are set ablaze with vibrant colors.

---

---

Merzouga desert

Marrakech travel guide

The Merzouga Desert is the gateway to Erg Chebbi, one of Morocco’s most spectacular landscapes. Located at the edge of the Sahara near the Algerian border, Merzouga promises a full immersion into the legendary desert, with golden dunes stretching as far as the eye can see.

These dunes, sometimes reaching over 150 meters in height, create an endless sea of sand, offering breathtaking scenery and unmatched silence.

Why choose Merzouga for a desert escape?

Unlike Agafay (the rocky desert near Marrakech), Merzouga is the top destination for those seeking the most authentic and traditional Saharan experience:

• The Vastness of Sand – Here, the landscape is dominated by true sand dunes (Ergs), allowing you to walk barefoot on soft, warm sand.
• Magical Light – Every sunrise and sunset is a timeless moment. The colors change, transforming the sand into a vibrant canvas from ochre to deep red, creating a mystical atmosphere.
• Starry Nights – Far from any light pollution, Merzouga’s night sky is famous for being one of the most beautiful in the world, perfect for stargazing.

---

Where to stay

Marrakech travel guide

Marrakech is a fascinating city full of contrasts, with very different neighborhoods. To fully enjoy your stay, it’s essential to choose accommodation that suits your interests, whether it’s cultural exploration, shopping, gardens, or lively nightlife.

Here’s an overview of the main neighborhoods to stay in:

Neighborhood	Best For…	Pros (+)	Cons (-)
Medina	Culture, monuments, souks, traditional atmosphere	Close to souks, palaces, monuments; full immersion in local life	Can be noisy and maze-like; limited car access
Gueliz	Shopping, modern restaurants and cafes	Modern district, shops, malls, Western-style nightlife	Less typical and traditional than the Medina
Hivernage	Luxury hotels, relaxation, and spas	Palaces, pools, fine dining, calm and secure	Far from some historic sites, more expensive
Palmeraie	Relaxation, golf, nature	Luxury villas and resorts, quiet, large green spaces	Far from the city center and main attractions
Bab Doukkala / Sidi Ghanem	Local atmosphere, markets, and handicrafts	Authentic neighborhood, local markets, traditional restaurants	Less touristy, fewer luxury hotels

---

How to get from Marrakech airport to the city center

Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is located about 3.7 miles (6 km) from the city center and the Medina. Several options allow you to quickly reach the Medina, Gueliz, or Hivernage. Here are the most practical choices:

Option	Description & Usage	Pros	Cons	Approx. Price
Official Taxi	Taxi available at the airport exit, drop-off directly at your hotel or riad.	Fast, convenient, door-to-door, available 24/7	Can be more expensive depending on traffic and time; prefer official “small yellow” taxis	~$11–$16
Airport Shuttle	Shared minibus or shuttle to hotels and the Medina.	Economical, convenient for solo travelers or small groups	Fixed schedules, multiple stops, less flexible than a private taxi	~$4
Private Transfer / Rideshare	Book a driver online who waits for you at the airport.	Comfortable, time-saving, ideal for families or groups, often with baby seats	More expensive than traditional taxi, must book in advance	~$19–$30
Public Bus #19	Connects the airport to the city center (Gueliz and Hivernage)	Very cheap, frequent, serves multiple neighborhoods	Less comfortable, limited schedule and capacity, no door-to-door service	~$0.75

Traveler Tip: For a fast and convenient ride, choose an official taxi. For more comfort and peace of mind, a private transfer is ideal. If you want the cheapest option, take bus #19.

---

---

Activities

Marrakech travel guide

Make the most of your stay in Marrakech by discovering the city’s best activities. From cultural tours to scenic walks, culinary experiences, and artisan workshops, there’s something for everyone. Whether you explore the Medina, the gardens, or the Atlas Mountains, your visit will be rich and memorable.

Popular activities for visitors:

• The Medina – Wander the narrow streets, explore colorful souks, and admire traditional Moroccan architecture.
• Majorelle Garden – Discover exotic plants and the iconic villa made famous by Yves Saint Laurent.
• Bahia Palace – Explore this 19th-century palace and its lush gardens.
• Jemaa el-Fna Square – Experience the lively atmosphere with snake charmers, storytellers, and street food stalls.
• Marrakech Souks – Shop for local crafts: rugs, jewelry, pottery, and textiles.
• Atlas Mountains Excursion – Day trips with hiking, Berber villages, and breathtaking landscapes.
• Yves Saint Laurent Museum – Explore the history and works of the legendary fashion designer.
• Traditional Hammams & Spas – Experience Moroccan wellness with massages and argan-based treatments.
• El Badi Palace – Visit the impressive ruins of this historic palace and its picturesque gardens.
• Carriage Rides – Enjoy a scenic tour around the city walls and Marrakech landmarks.

---

Prefer booking with Civitatis? So do we!

Discover all the guided tours and excursions available for your stay in Marrakech.

---

Getting around Marrakech

Marrakech travel guide

Transport	Description & Usage	Pros / Cons	💲 Approx. Price
On foot	Ideal for exploring the Medina, souks, and picturesque streets.	Allows you to discover hidden corners and fully enjoy the atmosphere. Requires good walking shoes and attention in narrow streets.	Free
Petit taxi (small taxi)	For short trips within the city, e.g., Medina to Gueliz or Hivernage.	Convenient and quick for short distances. Always agree on the price or check that the meter is on.	~ $1.5–$6 USD
Grand taxi (shared taxi)	Shared taxi for inter-district travel or nearby towns.	Economical for groups. May be less comfortable; might wait until car is full.	~ $2.5–$7 USD per person
Bus / Shuttle	Urban lines connecting Medina, Gueliz, and the airport.	Economical and practical for certain destinations. Less flexible and schedules must be followed.	~ $0.50–$0.90 USD
Car / Scooter Rental	Allows visits to Marrakech surroundings: Palmeraie, Atlas, Essaouira.	Great freedom to explore. Heavy traffic and parking can be difficult in the Medina.	Car: ~$25–$45/day Scooter: ~$12–$17/day
Horse-drawn carriage (calesse)	Touristic ride in the Medina and city surroundings.	Typical and picturesque experience. Prices are usually fixed; negotiation possible, limited to a few km.	~ $17–$35 for 30–60 min

---

Travel tips

Marrakech is a vibrant and fascinating city. Proper preparation helps you enjoy your stay stress-free. Here are practical tips and common mistakes to avoid.

Plan your visit

Planning your days is essential to discover must-see sites and experience the local culture.

Tip	ℹ️ Details
Book tickets online	For palaces, gardens, or desert excursions, booking in advance saves time and avoids lines.
Adjust to the season	Summer = very hot, ideal for pool and early morning excursions. Winter = cooler, perfect for visiting the Medina and Atlas hikes.
Check opening hours	Some sites close earlier, and some shops may be closed on Fridays. Verify official hours before visiting.

Getting around & Orientation

Marrakech is dense and lively. Here are tips to get around easily:

Tip	ℹ️ Details
Map or GPS	Use Google Maps or Maps.me to navigate the Medina and its labyrinthine streets.
Comfortable shoes	You will walk a lot in the Medina, souks, and gardens. Bring proper footwear.
Negotiate taxis and carriages	Always ask the price beforehand or ensure the meter is on to avoid surprises.

Following these tips will make your Marrakech stay more enjoyable, efficient, and stress-free!

---

Marrakech travel guide & Other destinations

---

Enjoy an amazing stay in Marrakech and make the most of every moment!