Top 43 Must-Do Things in Marrakech: Exploring the Medina, Majorelle Garden, and More!

Marrakech is a vibrant and culturally rich city in Morocco that offers a plethora of exciting activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. From exploring the historic sites and bustling markets to immersing oneself in the local cuisine and relaxing in beautiful gardens, there is something for everyone in this enchanting city. Here are some top things to do in Marrakech
- Visit Jardin Majorelle: Start your Marrakech adventure by exploring Jardin Majorelle, a stunning garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. The garden is a visual delight, with vibrant blue buildings, exotic plants, and tranquil fountains providing a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Don’t miss the Berber Museum located within the garden, showcasing a collection of Berber artifacts.
- Explore the Medina: Marrakech’s Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an absolute must-visit for its labyrinthine streets, bustling souks, and impressive historic buildings. Get lost in the maze-like alleys, where you will find various shops selling everything from spices and textiles to traditional handicrafts. Be prepared to haggle when shopping for souvenirs!
- Discover the Bahia Palace: Step back in time and explore the opulent Bahia Palace, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. Built in the late 19th century, the palace features intricate tiling, beautiful courtyards, and lush gardens. Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the splendor and learn about its history.
- Visit the Saadian Tombs: Hidden for centuries, the Saadian Tombs were rediscovered in 1917. These beautifully restored tombs are the final resting place of members of the Saadian dynasty, including Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour. The mausoleum is adorned with exquisite tile work and captivating decorations, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
- Discover the Koutoubia Mosque: Marvel at the impressive Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. Admire its beautiful minaret, which stands tall as a prominent landmark in the city. While non-Muslims are not permitted inside, you can appreciate the mosque’s architectural beauty from the outside.
- Experience Jemaa el-Fnaa: When the sun sets, head to Jemaa el-Fnaa, Marrakech’s main square, which transforms into a bustling hub of street performers, food stalls, and entertainment. Immerse yourself in the chaos as storytellers, musicians, and snake charmers vie for your attention. Try the local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
- Relax in a Hammam: Treat yourself to a traditional Moroccan spa experience by visiting a hammam. Hammams are public bathhouses where you can enjoy a steam bath, exfoliating scrub, and relaxing massage. It’s the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after a busy day of exploring the city.
- Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains: If you want to escape the city for a while, consider taking a day trip to the scenic Atlas Mountains. Explore the picturesque Berber villages, enjoy panoramic views, and take part in outdoor activities such as hiking or riding a mule. The contrast between the bustling city and the serene mountains is truly captivating
- Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa: Explore the stunning Ben Youssef Madrasa, an ancient Islamic college that dates back to the 14th century. Admire the intricate architecture, including the beautiful courtyard, colorful mosaics, and ornate cedarwood carvings. It’s a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
- Take a hot air balloon ride: Experience Marrakech from a new perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over the city and its surrounding landscapes. Watch the sunrise or sunset as you glide peacefully through the air, capturing breathtaking views and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
- Discover the Museums: Marrakech is home to several fascinating museums that provide insight into Moroccan art, history, and culture. Visit the Museum of Marrakech, housed in a former palace, to see contemporary and ancient Moroccan art collections. The Photography Museum showcases stunning works by Moroccan photographers, providing an artistic perspective on the country’s history.
- Explore the Mellah: The Mellah is Marrakech’s historic Jewish Quarter, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s multicultural heritage. Visit the Lazama Synagogue, one of the oldest in North Africa, and explore the narrow streets lined with traditional houses. Don’t miss the Jewish cemetery, a peaceful and reflective place.
- Attend a traditional Moroccan performance: Marrakech is known for its lively cultural performances, and attending one is a must. Enjoy an evening of traditional music, dance, and storytelling at one of the city’s many cultural venues. The sounds, colors, and energy of the performers will leave you captivated.
- Go on a quad bike or camel ride: For a fun and adventurous experience, head out of the city and embark on a quad bike or camel ride in the desert. Explore the rugged landscapes, sand dunes, and oasis villages, immersing yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of the Moroccan countryside.
- Take a cooking class: Learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine by taking a cooking class with a local chef. Visit the local market to select fresh ingredients and spices, and then learn to prepare traditional dishes such as couscous, pastilla, or Moroccan pastries. It’s a delicious and hands-on way to delve into the culinary traditions of the region.
- Relax in the Menara Gardens: Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and unwind in the serene Menara Gardens. Take a leisurely stroll around the large reflecting pool, surrounded by beautiful olive groves and mountains in the distance. It’s a peaceful oasis where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- Shop at the Ensemble Artisanal: If you’re looking for quality handicrafts and souvenirs, head to the Ensemble Artisanal. This cooperative market is known for its authentic, locally made products, including textiles, leather goods, ceramics, and jewelry. It’s a great place to support local artisans and find unique treasures to take home.
- Enjoy a traditional Moroccan spa treatment: Treat yourself to a relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatment at one of the city’s luxuries hammams or spas. Indulge in a traditional Moroccan bath, followed by a massage and beauty treatments using local ingredients like argan oil. It’s the perfect way to pamper yourself and immerse in the city’s spa culture.
- Discover the Saadian Tombs: Step back in time as you visit the Saadian Tombs, a burial site dating back to the 16th century. These tombs were rediscovered in 1917 and showcase exquisite craftsmanship with intricate tilework and beautifully decorated mausoleums. It’s a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Marrakech’s rich history.
- Explore the Palm Grove: Escape the urban environment and venture into the Palmeraie, a vast palm grove located just outside the city. Take a camel or horseback ride through this peaceful oasis, surrounded by thousands of palm trees. You can also enjoy a round of golf at one of the area’s prestigious golf courses or relax in a luxurious resort.
- Shop in the Souks: Marrakech is famous for its bustling souks (markets) filled with a kaleidoscope of colors, scents, and sounds. Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys and discover a treasure trove of goods including spices, ceramics, leather goods, carpets, lanterns, and traditional Moroccan clothing. Bargaining is expected, so brush up on your haggling skills and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of these traditional markets.
- Attend a traditional Moroccan wedding: If you’re lucky, you may be invited to attend a traditional Moroccan wedding. These celebrations are extravagant and lively, filled with music, dancing, and traditional rituals. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture and witness the joyous festivities firsthand.
- Moroccan cuisine tour: Discover the flavors of Moroccan cuisine on a guided food tour. Sample delicious tagines, taste traditional Moroccan sweets, and savor aromatic mint tea. Explore hidden culinary gems in the alleys of Marrakech, learn about the spices and ingredients used in Moroccan dishes, and indulge in a culinary adventure for your taste buds.
- Visit the Tanneries: Marrakech is known for its leather production, and a visit to the tanneries provides a fascinating glimpse into this ancient craft. Witness the traditional method of tanning hides using natural materials and dyes. Be aware that the tanneries can have a strong smell, so it’s a good idea to bring a sprig of mint to counteract the odor.
- Attend a Gnawa music performance: Experience the hypnotic rhythms of Gnawa music, a traditional African spiritual music performed by the Gnawa people of Morocco. Watch their lively performances, featuring unique instruments and captivating melodies. The music has a rich history and is associated with healing and trance-like states.
- Take a horse-drawn carriage ride: Enjoy a romantic and leisurely ride through the streets of Marrakech in a horse-drawn carriage, known as a caleche. Let the clip-clop of the horse’s hooves transport you to a bygone era as you admire the city’s vibrant architecture and soak in the ambiance of this enchanting city.
- Visit the El Badi Palace: Explore the magnificent ruins of the El Badi Palace, which was once a lavish 16th-century palace built by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur. Marvel at the grandeur of the architecture and the large sunken courtyard, and climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Watch the sunset at the Agafay Desert: Take a trip to the Agafay Desert, located just outside Marrakech. Enjoy a camel ride through the desert dunes and witness the breathtaking sunset over the vast golden landscape. This is a unique opportunity to experience a taste of the Sahara Desert without traveling long distances.
- Take a cooking class: Learn the intricacies of Moroccan cuisine by taking a traditional cooking class. Visit a local market to select fresh ingredients, and then participate in a hands-on cooking workshop where you’ll learn to prepare classic Moroccan dishes such as tagines, couscous, and pastries. Afterward, savor the fruits of your labor in a delicious meal.
- Visit the Maison de la Photographie: If you have an interest in photography or Moroccan history, visit the Maison de la Photographie. This museum exhibits a collection of vintage photographs that showcase the beauty and diversity of Morocco in the past. Discover the country through the lenses of renowned photographers and gain a deeper appreciation for its rich cultural heritage.
- Explore the mellah (Jewish Quarter): Step into a different side of Marrakech’s history by visiting the mellah, the old Jewish Quarter. Explore the narrow streets, visit the Jewish cemetery, and observe the synagogues that remain. It’s a reminder of the city’s multicultural past and the once-thriving Jewish community.
- Attend a traditional Moroccan music concert: Immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional Moroccan music by attending a concert at a local venue. Listen to mesmerizing melodies played on traditional instruments such as the oud, qanun, and ney. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the rich musical heritage of Morocco.
- Explore the Bahia Palace: Visit the Bahia Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace located in the heart of Marrakech. Admire the intricate tilework, colorful geometric patterns, and serene gardens. The palace showcases exquisite Moroccan architecture and offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy during that era.
- Enjoy a traditional hammam experience: Indulge in the ultimate relaxation by experiencing a traditional hammam. These Moroccan steam baths are an integral part of the local culture, offering a cleansing and rejuvenating experience. Choose from a range of treatments, including a scrub with black soap, a hot steam session, and a relaxing massage.
- Quad biking in the Palmeraie: Venture out of the city and into the Palmeraie, a palm grove situated on the outskirts of Marrakech. Embark on a thrilling quad biking adventure through the palm-lined paths, experiencing the desert landscapes in a unique and adventurous way.
- Explore the Ourika Valley: Discover the picturesque Ourika Valley, located in the High Atlas Mountains. Take a day trip to this scenic region and explore the lush green landscapes, Berber settlements, and cascading waterfalls. It’s a great opportunity to experience the beauty of Morocco’s countryside.
- Visit the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL): If you have a passion for modern and contemporary art, visit MACAAL. This museum showcases the works of African artists in a variety of mediums, offering a unique perspective on the continent’s thriving art scene. Explore the ever-changing exhibitions and discover the diversity of contemporary African art.
- Enjoy a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony: End your stay in Marrakech with a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony. Sip on fragrant mint tea, poured from great heights to create foam, and savor sweet Moroccan pastries. It’s a delightful way to immerse yourself in Moroccan hospitality and bid farewell to this enchanting city.
- Shop at the Medina: Marrakech’s historic Medina is a shopper’s paradise. Explore the narrow streets and bustling souks, where you can find spices, leather goods, textiles, ceramics, and more. Practice your bargaining skills and bring home unique souvenirs and treasures.
- Visit the Izza Genini Moroccan Ceramic Art Gallery: Get inspired by the vibrant and intricate Moroccan ceramics at the Izza Genini Art Gallery. Admire the beautiful designs and learn about the history and techniques behind this traditional craft. You may even find a piece to take home as a special memento.
- Visit the Koutoubia Mosque: Marvel at the iconic Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech. Admire its stunning architectural features and soaring minaret, which dominates the city’s skyline. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, the exterior is worth a visit.
- Visit the El Badi Palace: Explore the ruins of the El Badi Palace, once a lavish 16th-century royal residence. While only remnants of the grandeur remain, it’s easy to imagine the palace’s former opulence. Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city.
- Enjoy a traditional street food tour: Indulge in the flavors of Moroccan street food on a guided tour. Sample delicious dishes like harira soup, crispy pastries, grilled meats, and fresh fruit juices. Explore the local food scene and let your taste buds experience the vibrant culinary culture of Marrakech.