Things to Do in Marrakech

The beating heart of Marrakech and a UNESCO Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage. During the day, the square fills with orange juice vendors, henna artists, and snake charmers. As evening descends, it transforms into an open-air restaurant and entertainment venue with food stalls, musicians, storytellers, and acrobats. The surrounding rooftop cafes offer perfect vantage points to observe the organized chaos below. A must-visit experience that captures the essence of Moroccan culture and the reason many travelers fall in love with Marrakech.

A stunning botanical garden created by French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The garden is famous for its striking cobalt blue buildings, now known as Majorelle Blue, which contrast beautifully with the exotic plants and cacti from five continents. The on-site Berber Museum showcases Moroccan heritage while the YSL Museum next door celebrates the designer's legacy. A peaceful oasis that provides welcome respite from the bustling Medina. Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

A masterpiece of Moroccan architecture built in the late 19th century for Grand Vizier Si Moussa. The palace spans 8,000 square meters of intricate zellige tilework, carved cedar ceilings, and painted wooden details known as zouak. Lush gardens with citrus trees and marble fountains connect the various courtyards and reception halls. The name Bahia means The Beautiful in Arabic, and the palace lives up to this description. Only part of the palace is open to visitors as sections remain in use by the royal family.

The largest mosque in Marrakech with a 77-meter minaret that dominates the city skyline and serves as a landmark visible from miles away. Built in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty, the mosque's design influenced other famous structures including the Giralda in Seville and Hassan Tower in Rabat. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but the exterior architecture and surrounding gardens are spectacular to explore. The minaret is beautifully illuminated at night making for excellent photography. Five times daily, the call to prayer echoes across the city from this historic landmark.

Once the largest Islamic college in Morocco, this stunning 16th-century madrasa is a masterpiece of Saadian architecture. The intricate geometric patterns covering every surface showcase the pinnacle of Moroccan craftsmanship with carved stucco, zellige tiles, and cedar wood details. The central courtyard features a marble pool reflecting the ornate decorations above. Up to 900 students once lived and studied in the small dormitory cells surrounding the courtyard. Recently restored, the madrasa offers one of the most photogenic interiors in all of Morocco.

A royal necropolis dating back to the 16th century containing the remains of members of the Saadian dynasty. Sealed up for centuries and only rediscovered in 1917, the tombs feature exquisite Italian Carrara marble, intricate zellige tilework, and carved cedar ceilings. The main mausoleum houses the tomb of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour who built the lavish El Badi Palace. Despite its small size, the site sees huge crowds so arriving early is essential. The golden king was as extravagant in death as in life, and these tombs prove it.

A maze of covered markets selling everything from spices and leather goods to carpets and lanterns. The souks are organized by trade with separate areas for metalworkers, dyers, and weavers. Wandering through the narrow passageways is a sensory experience with colorful displays, exotic scents, and the constant buzz of haggling. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun. The dyers' souk and spice souk are particularly photogenic while the carpet sellers offer an immersive cultural experience with mint tea and elaborate sales pitches.

A tranquil retreat dating back to the 12th century featuring a large reflecting pool surrounded by olive groves with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains as a backdrop. The iconic pavilion at the edge of the pool has become one of Marrakech's most photographed sites. Originally designed as an orchard and irrigation system, the gardens now provide a peaceful escape from the city. Free to enter and less crowded than other attractions, it offers beautiful sunset views and a romantic atmosphere. Popular with locals for evening strolls.