The imperial city of Marrakech, considered by many to be the cultural centre of Morocco, is full of history and color, but also has a foot firmly in the modern world.
Marrakech’s old fortified city, or Medina quarter, is the center of local activity and the place where you’ll find a traditional Moroccan experience. Walk through the Djemaa El-Fna, the main square at the entrance to the Medina, and enjoy a fresh orange juice while taking in the daily bustle. You’ll see anything from dentists to snake charmers and henna tattooists. To the west, the Koutoubia Mosque is one of the tallest buildings in the old city and a spectacular sight during the day.
Head north from the Djemaa El-Fna, and you’ll find yourself in the city’s famous souks, or marketplaces. Marrakech has some of the biggest traditional souks in Morocco.
There is also plenty to do in other parts of the city. Visit the Bahia Palace, with its beautiful courtyard gardens, and Ali Ben Youssef Medersa, an old Islamic school famous for its interiors and intricate wall decorations. The Musée de Marrakech next door is also worth a visit, with art collections focusing on Moroccan and Islamic art.
If you’re looking for a more European experience, Marrakech also has a lot to offer. Head to the newer parts of the city for boutiques and restaurants.
At night, the Djemaa El-Fna adopts a different side, with local eateries and stalls set up across the entire square. Spices and smoke fill the square as thousands of locals and tourists come out for dinner. The stalls are government regulated, but it is still a good idea to watch what you are eating. At night, the streets are always lively and the nightlife in Marrakech is arguably the best in the region.
Marrakech lies at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. The best time to go is winter, which brings milder temperatures during the day and cool temperatures at night.
Marrakech
Where to stay in Marrakech
Medina
Medina is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Jemaa el-Fnaa and Le Jardin Secret.
Hivernage
Hivernage is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Menara Mall or Casino de Marrakech.
Gueliz
Travelers come to Gueliz for its abundant dining options, and you can see top attractions like Le Grand Casino de la Mamounia and Carré Eden Shopping Center while you're in town.
Palmeraie
Palmeraie is popular for its colorful gardens, and you can check out Palmeraie Palace Golf, a top attraction in the neighborhood.
Annakhil
Annakhil is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Palmeraie Palace Golf and Amelkis Golf Club while you're in town.
Agdal
The abundant dining options and relaxing spas are top of the list for many visitors to Agdal. A stop by Agdal Gardens or Avenue Mohamed VI might round out your trip.
Reviewed on May 7, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 8, 2024
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Reviewed on May 1, 2024
Popular places to visit
Jemaa el-Fnaa
Watch spellbinding dance routines, interact with snake charmers and browse the market stalls in this fascinating cultural hub on a central square.
Majorelle Gardens
As far as botanical gardens go, there is none quite like this artistic garden in bustling Marrakech.
Menara Mall
During your visit to Marrakech, you can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Menara Mall. Amble around this relaxing area's picturesque gardens, or seek out the local tours.
Menara Gardens
Explore the great outdoors at Menara Gardens, a lovely green space in Marrakech. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this relaxing area.
Le Jardin Secret
Explore the great outdoors at Le Jardin Secret, a lovely green space in Marrakech. Make time for the shops and local tours in this relaxing area.
El Badi Palace
See storks nesting on walls, examine historical items in the museum and enjoy a view of the mountains in the Incomparable Palace.
Reviews of Marrakech
4/5 - Good
choose wisely.
5/5 - Excellent
I think it was much safer than I was led to belive before I arrived. All the people I dealt with were honest and honerable. Defintly book a Riad in old marakesh, and not a hotel in new marakesh. Otherwise you will miss the point of visiting marakesh
5/5 - Excellent
Loved loved loved it!!! Must spend lots of time in the Souk!!
5/5 - Excellent
Marrakech was a friendly and safe City! Definitely will visit again. I had a excellent visit
5/5 - Excellent
Staying in the Medina is the whole point of being in Marakesh. If you stay in the new town, it like staying in any other big city and you entirely miss out on the experience. We ate at PepeNero and Nomad. Both recommend in the market vicinity
5/5 - Excellent
Very friendly people who will go above and beyond to help lost travelers in the maze of sooks. Never felt unsafe. Purchased a lot of things not available in the US and got great bargains (after negotiations of course).