Marrakech is more than an old city in Morocco. It is a sensory experience with bright colors, flavors, smells, sounds, and unique scenes. It is known worldwide for its markets and shops in Medina (Old Town), but there is plenty to do in Marrakech. Once you’ve seen the remarkable blend of European, Middle Eastern, and African cultures, leave the city for a breathtaking view of the mountains and desert on a tour from Marrakech.

Things to do in Marrakech Medina:

Visiting Medina is one of the most exciting things to do in Marrakech. Medina is the old part of the city surrounded by stone walls and is full of activity. This Medina at Night tour is a great way to learn about the city’s energy in a safe environment. The evening is the best time to visit the Fina Collector where food stalls light up and locals go shopping. Your guided tour will make you discover the history, culture, and traditions that constitute an excellent introduction to the city.

Things to do in Jamaa El Fna square Marrakech:

If you ask a local what to do in Marrakech, they will probably tell you to leave the main square, the court collector. It is a giant square full of food stalls and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get a spot at one of the rooftop bars to watch the sunset. There is a minimum price of coverage for roofs around the sand, but it is minimal and definitely worth it.

Things to do in Mellah Marrakech:

The navigator is the ancient Jewish quarter of Marrakech. It was established by Sultan Abdullah Alhaleem of the Sadiya dynasty in 1558. The aim was to protect Jews fleeing persecution in the Iberian Peninsula, as required by the sharia at the time.

The maze of narrow alleys has been restored several times over the years and has less madness than Medina and more interesting neighborhood features.

Don’t miss the Great Jewellery, a jeweled alley that still sells gold in ounces. Surrounded by palm trees, Place des Ferblantiers is a spectacular meeting point with small markets selling spices, tin lamps, and household items.

Finally, the Slat Al Azama synagogue, with its blue sand and Jewish cemetery, is a moving reminder of the number of Jews formerly called the house of Marrakech.

Do a desert tour from Marrakech:

No trip to Morocco is complete without seeing the epic landscape of the Great Sahara. Adventure by jeep or on foot through the rolling dunes by day. At night, I saw some of the most incredible stars in the world, through a noisy campfire. Most desert trips take about 8 hours, stopping at villages and natural monuments along the way. For this reason, a 2-4 day desert tour is recommended. 

Things to do in Bahia palace in Marrakech:

With an equally pleasant courtyard, complex wood, and Italian marble, Bahia Palace is one of the most luxurious attractions in Marrakech. It was built in the 1860s, then expanded and renovated with more taste and extravagance in the early 20th century.

Although only some of the 150 rooms are open to the public, they are enough to recognize the exquisite decorations, considered one of the best Maghrebi and Andalusian architectures in Morocco.

Rooms are decorated with carved rice ceilings, woven silk panels, and stained glass windows.

It is better to show the grandeur of the palace in the courtyards. Leafy plants fill the bleached gardens with central fountains typical for Moorish design. However, the masterpiece is the large courtyard with geometric motifs covering a large marble floor surrounded by wooden galleries.

The best thing to do and time to visit Marrakech:

The best time to visit Marrakech is during the intermediate seasons from March to May or September to November. In these months, it will be warm and wonderfully sunny, but not too hot. The winter months can still be beautiful and sunny and is an ideal time to visit if you want to ski in the Atlas mountains.

read: 7 days Itinerary in Morocco

Things to eat in Marrakech:

Meals take time to prepare, so take your time to enjoy them. Wash your hands before eating if a bucket or sink is provided. Always eat with your right hand.

Most establishments will only accept cash, so they are available, especially when eating at street vendors or food stalls, so you always have small bills on hand.

Morocco is a dry country, limiting alcohol consumption. Most places do not offer alcohol, but if you want, visitors can get it, it is more expensive than usual. Alcohol can only be purchased in hotels, restaurants and large supermarkets authorized in tourist areas. 

Things for visiting Marrakech:

• Morocco is a Muslim country and it is important to respect local cultures and customs. See Travel Tips on Ethics in the Middle East.
• Women should wear lightweight breathable fabrics, long pants, and long sleeves. Believe me, it is more comfortable than shorts and shirts in the Moroccan heat.
• Try the mint tea, it’s delicious!
• Avoid Medina at night - like any big city, it is better to avoid dark alleys in the dark.

When you visit a city or destination, it takes weeks or even months to explore. Do you have any other suggestions on things to do when visiting Marrakech?