Marrakech Travel Guide: Medina, Souks, Palaces & Gardens
Marrakech is Morocco's most visited city and the place where most first trips begin. Founded around 1070 by the Almoravids, the Red City is a maze of souks, palaces, gardens and riads, wrapped in ochre walls with the Atlas mountains on the horizon. It is intense, beautiful and endlessly photogenic.
At a glance
- Founded
- c. 1070 (Almoravids)
- UNESCO
- Medina listed in 1985
- Best time
- March to May, September to November
- Allow
- 2 to 4 days
- Airport
- Marrakech Menara (RAK)
In this guide
Top things to do in Marrakech
Jemaa el-Fna
The main square is the beating heart of the medina. By day it is quiet with juice sellers and snake charmers; at sunset it fills with food stalls, storytellers and musicians. Read more in our Jemaa el-Fna guide.
The souks
North of the square, the covered souks sell spices, lamps, leather, carpets and metalwork. Allow time to get lost, and read our souk shopping guide before you bargain.
Palaces, tombs and madrasas
The 19th-century Bahia Palace is a showcase of painted ceilings and tiled courtyards. The 16th-century Saadian Tombs and ruined El Badi Palace tell of the city's golden age, and the Ben Youssef Madrasa is a masterpiece of carved cedar and zellige.
Gardens
The blue-and-yellow Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum are in the new town. The Menara Gardens, with their olive groves and pavilion reflected in a basin, offer a quieter escape.
The Koutoubia Mosque
The 12th-century minaret, about 77 metres high, is the city's landmark and a model for Almohad towers elsewhere. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque but can enjoy the surrounding gardens.
Where to stay
For atmosphere, stay in a riad inside the medina; see our guide to Moroccan architecture to know what to look for. For modern comforts and quieter streets, the Gueliz and Hivernage districts have larger hotels. Book ahead in spring and autumn.
What to eat
Try tanjia, the local slow-cooked meat dish, tagines and grilled lamb. For a taste of everything, eat at the stalls on Jemaa el-Fna, or join a cooking class. More ideas in our Moroccan food guide.
Day trips from Marrakech
- Essaouira: relaxed Atlantic port, about 2.5 to 3 hours by bus or car.
- Ourika Valley and Imlil: High Atlas villages and walking trails towards Jebel Toubkal.
- Ouzoud Falls: waterfalls about 3 hours away.
- Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate: long day trip, better as an overnight on the way to the Sahara.
- Agafay Desert: stony desert close to the city, popular for sunset camel rides and dinners.
Practical tips
- Hot summers regularly exceed 40°C; spring and autumn are the most comfortable. See when to visit Morocco.
- Agree a price before taking a taxi without a meter, or use petit taxis with the meter running.
- Politely decline unofficial guides, and be wary of anyone who says a street is closed.
- Marrakech has frequent train links to Casablanca and beyond; see getting around Morocco.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Marrakech?
Two full days cover the highlights; three or four allow day trips and a slower pace, plus a hammam. See our 7-day itinerary for how to combine it with other cities.
Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
Marrakech is generally safe, but petty theft, aggressive touts and overcharging are common. Keep valuables secure and agree prices in advance.
What is the best month to visit Marrakech?
April, May, October and early November are ideal, with warm days and mild nights. July and August are very hot.