Marrakesh

Written by Sandrine Simon, Sebastien Simon
09/08/2025
Evening view of bustling Jemaa El-Fnaa market square in Marrakech, Morocco, illuminated with vibrant lights.
Moussa Idrissi, Pexels

Marrakesh offers a vibrant journey through its historic Medina, bustling souks, and grand palaces, showcasing a rich blend of history and culture. Beyond its urban heart, the city provides tranquil gardens and serves as a gateway to exhilarating desert adventures and excursions into the Atlas Mountains.

The ancient Medina, particularly around Jemaa el-Fnaa square, stands as the primary social center, where visitors converge to experience lively street performances, diverse food stalls, and the general vibrant atmosphere. Many traditional guesthouses (riads) and rooftop establishments within the Medina feature terraces that are popular for socializing, enjoying drinks, and taking in panoramic views. For a more contemporary social experience, the Gueliz district in the newer part of the city provides trendy restaurants and nightlife venues.

Top 6 Things to do in Marrakesh

Marrakesh offers a diverse range of activities, from immersing oneself in vibrant historical and cultural sites to indulging in relaxing wellness experiences and embarking on adventurous excursions into the surrounding landscapes.

1. Explore Jemaa el-Fnaa and the Souks

The heart of Marrakesh, Jemaa el-Fnaa square, transforms from a bustling daytime market to a lively open-air spectacle at night with storytellers, musicians, and food stalls. Adjacent to the square are the labyrinthine souks, a sensory explosion of colors, sounds, and smells. Exploring these alleyways allows for discovery of local crafts, spices, and leather goods. It is advisable to visit both during the day and evening to fully appreciate its change. Haggling is a customary practice in the souks, and it is recommended to agree on a price before engaging with performers or taking photos with animals in the square.

Cost: Free to explore. Food and goods have variable costs, subject to negotiation in the souks. Orange juice stalls typically cost around 10 MAD (approx. $1 USD). Street food at night stalls is generally inexpensive.

Transport: Located in the heart of the Medina, this area is best explored on foot. Petit taxis can drop you near the square. A short taxi ride within the city center typically ranges from 20-30 MAD (approx. $2-3 USD), but it's important to agree on the fare beforehand.

2. Visit Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece, offers a glimpse into Moroccan aristocratic life with its intricate Islamic and Moroccan design. Visitors can wander through ornately decorated rooms, tranquil courtyards adorned with mosaics, and lush gardens. Only a portion of its 150 rooms are open to the public, yet it provides a grand sense of the palace's original splendor and detailed craftsmanship.

Cost: Entrance fee is 70 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) per person (approx. $7 USD).

Transport: Situated within the Medina, Bahia Palace is typically within walking distance from many central accommodations. Alternatively, a short taxi ride within the Medina area can reach it.

3. Discover Jardin Majorelle

This serene botanical garden, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, is a vibrant oasis of exotic plants, cacti, and striking cobalt blue buildings. It provides a peaceful escape from the city's bustle, inviting contemplation amidst its art deco villa and diverse flora. The garden also houses a Berber Museum, offering insights into Amazigh culture.

Cost: Admission to the garden is 170 MAD (approx. $17 USD). An additional ticket is required for the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.

Transport: Jardin Majorelle is located outside the main Medina walls. A petit taxi ride from the Medina to Jardin Majorelle typically costs around 20-50 MAD (approx. $2-5 USD), depending on negotiation. Public buses (e.g., Line 12 or 15 from Koutoubia stop) are available for 4 MAD (approx. $0.40 USD), though bus intervals can be long.

4. Experience a Traditional Hammam

A traditional Moroccan hammam offers a unique cultural and relaxing experience, serving as a public bathhouse where locals cleanse and socialize. Visitors can choose between a public hammam for an authentic, budget-friendly experience or a private hammam for a more luxurious and secluded treatment. The experience typically involves steam, black soap application, and exfoliation (gommage). For public hammams, it's customary to bring a towel, black soap, scrubbing glove, and change of underwear.

Cost: Public hammams: Entry costs 10-20 MAD (approx. $1-2 USD), with a scrub service costing around 50 MAD (approx. $5 USD) or up to 150-200 MAD (approx. $15-20 USD) for a full treatment including rhassoul clay. Private hammams for tourists start from 250 MAD (approx. $25 USD) and can go upwards of 500 MAD (approx. $50 USD) for more comprehensive packages.

Transport: Many hammams are located within the Medina and are accessible on foot. For those further out, a petit taxi would be suitable, costing around 20-30 MAD for short distances.

5. Attend a Moroccan Cooking Class

Participating in a cooking class provides a hands-on way to delve into the rich flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Many classes begin with a visit to a local market to source fresh ingredients, followed by preparing traditional dishes like tagine, couscous, or pastilla. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn about Moroccan spices, culinary techniques, and cultural aspects of food.

Cost: Prices for cooking classes vary based on duration and inclusions, typically ranging from $39 to $71 USD per person for a half-day session. Some options include market visits.

Transport: Many cooking classes are centrally located within Marrakesh or offer hotel pickup and drop-off, which is often included in the tour price.

6. Day Trip to Agafay Desert or Atlas Mountains

Beyond the city, Marrakesh serves as a gateway to stunning natural landscapes. A day trip to the Agafay Desert offers a contrasting experience with its rocky, lunar-like terrain, often including camel rides, traditional tea, and sunset dinners with cultural shows. Alternatively, venturing into the High Atlas Mountains provides opportunities for hiking through Berber villages, admiring waterfalls, and experiencing traditional mountain life.

Cost: Prices for day trips vary significantly based on inclusions (e.g., camel ride, lunch, dinner, quad biking) and group size. Agafay Desert camel rides can start from €25 (approx. $27 USD). Full-day tours to the Atlas Mountains or Agafay Desert, often including transport, activities, and meals, range from approximately $22 to over $100 USD per person.

Transport: Day trips typically include pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation in Marrakesh via air-conditioned vehicles. Travel time to the Agafay Desert is around 40 minutes, while the Atlas Mountains can be a longer journey.

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