Things to Do in Marrakech: 15 Experiences You Shouldn't Miss
The Red City is a feast for the senses: the call to prayer echoing over terracotta rooftops, the scent of spices in the souks, storytellers and musicians in Jemaa el-Fnaa, and the snow-capped Atlas on the horizon. Whether you have two days or a full week, here are the things to do in Marrakech that we recommend most — from the essential monuments to unforgettable experiences beyond the city walls.
Essential things to do in Marrakech's medina
1. Admire the Koutoubia Mosque
The 77-metre minaret of the Koutoubia, built in the 12th century, is the city's landmark and the best place to start exploring. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but the gardens around it are lovely at sunset.
2. Get lost (safely) in the Bahia Palace
Built in the 19th century for a grand vizier, the Bahia Palace is a masterpiece of carved cedar ceilings, zellige tilework and peaceful courtyards with orange trees. Go early to avoid the crowds.
3. Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa
Once one of the largest Koranic schools in North Africa, the Ben Youssef Madrasa has one of the most beautiful courtyards in Morocco, with intricate stucco and a reflecting pool.
4. See the Saadian Tombs
Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917, the tombs of the Saadian dynasty are decorated with Carrara marble and delicate plaster.
5. Explore the souks with a guide
The medina's souks — spices, leather, lanterns, carpets and the colourful dyers' souk — are a maze. A licensed guide helps you find the best workshops and avoid getting lost. Our Marrakech Medina & Monuments Guided Tour covers points 1 to 5 in about four hours, in a small group or privately.
6. Experience Jemaa el-Fnaa at night
The main square, recognised by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, changes completely after dark: smoke rises from food stalls, musicians and storytellers gather crowds, and the whole city seems to come together.
Food experiences in Marrakech
7. Take a street food tour by night
Tangia slow-cooked in the embers of a hammam furnace, mechoui lamb, harira soup, msemen pancakes and honey-soaked sweets: Marrakech's street food is one of its great pleasures. A local guide takes you to the best (and safest) stalls on our Marrakech Street Food Tour by Night.
8. Learn to cook a tagine
Shop for spices in the market, then cook your own tagine, salads and mint tea with a local cook. It's the best souvenir you can bring home — book a Moroccan cooking class with market visit.
9. Dinner and the Fantasia show at Chez Ali
A night of folklore troupes from all over Morocco, a mechoui feast in caidal tents and the legendary Fantasia, with horsemen charging at full gallop. Book the Chez Ali Fantasia Dinner Show with private transfer.
Adventure things to do in Marrakech
10. Fly over Marrakech in a hot air balloon
Lift off at sunrise and drift for about an hour above palm groves and Berber villages, with the High Atlas glowing on the horizon, before a traditional breakfast. Book the Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride.
11. Ride a quad bike in the Palmeraie
Two hours off-road through palm groves, desert tracks and Berber villages, with a mint tea break — no experience needed. Book the Palmeraie Quad Biking Adventure.
12. Take a sunset camel ride
A gentle ride through the Palmeraie at golden hour, dressed in a traditional outfit, is perfect for families. Book the Palmeraie Sunset Camel Ride.
13. Watch the sunset in the Agafay Desert
Just 45 minutes away, the stone desert of Agafay offers camel rides at sunset, dinner under the stars, Gnawa music and a fire show. Book Agafay Sunset Camel Ride, Dinner & Show — and read Agafay Desert vs Sahara to understand the difference.
Beyond the city
14. Escape to the Atlas Mountains
Just an hour from the city, the Ourika Valley and Imlil offer fresh air, waterfalls and Berber hospitality. See all options in our guide to the best day trips from Marrakech.
15. Head to the Sahara
If you have three days or more, a trip to the Erg Chebbi dunes of Merzouga is unforgettable. Our Marrakech desert tour guide explains how to choose.
Practical tips for visiting Marrakech
- Arrive stress-free: book a fixed-price private airport transfer — taxis at the airport often overcharge, and riads in the medina are hard to find. More in our Marrakech airport transfer guide.
- Best time to visit: March–May and October–November, when days are warm but not too hot.
- Dress modestly in the medina, covering shoulders and knees.
- Bargain politely in the souks — it's part of the culture.
- Carry cash: many stalls and small restaurants don't accept cards.
