Marrakech

A red-walled medina at the foot of the High Atlas, where palaces, souks and gardens meet.

Overview

Last reviewed 13 October 2026

Founded in the eleventh century by the Almoravids, Marrakech gave its name to the country in many languages. Its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is enclosed by ochre ramparts and centred on Jemaa el-Fna, a square whose storytellers, musicians and food stalls are recognised by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage.

For many visitors Marrakech is the gateway to Morocco: easy to reach, rich in riads and restaurants, and the starting point for trips into the High Atlas and towards the Sahara. It can be intense at first, so it rewards travellers who slow down, rest at midday and explore again in the evening.

Best for: First-time visitors, food, design, gardens, day trips
Suggested stay: 2–4 nights
Getting there: International airport; trains from Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier and Fes
Pace: Busy and lively; plan quiet breaks

Late-afternoon crowds and food stalls on Jemaa el-Fna square in Marrakech

A palace courtyard with green carved woodwork, a white fountain and orange trees

A souk lane hung with brass lanterns, rugs and leather goods

Carved stucco and cedar arches around a madrasa courtyard pool

When to go

Conditions vary from year to year. Check a forecast before you travel.

March–MayExcellent

Warm days and blossoming gardens.

June–AugustChallenging

Very hot afternoons; explore early and late.

September–NovemberExcellent

Warm and settled weather.

December–FebruaryGood

Sunny days but cold nights; check riad heating.

Read the full seasonal guide to Morocco

How long to stay

Two to four nights

Two nights covers the main sights in the medina. Add a night or two for a day trip to the High Atlas, the Agafay area or Essaouira, or simply to enjoy the city more slowly.

Highlights

Jemaa el-Fna

The city's great square changes completely through the day; visit at dusk when the food stalls open.

Bahia Palace

A nineteenth-century palace of painted cedar ceilings, zellige and planted courtyards.

Ben Youssef Madrasa

A former Quranic school with one of Morocco's most beautiful courtyards. It is open daily, and tickets are sold at the entrance.

Jardin Majorelle

The cobalt-blue garden once owned by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, with the Berber Museum on site. Tickets are sold online only, for 30-minute entry slots, so book before you go.

The souks

Specialised craft markets north of the square: leather, metalwork, textiles, spices and more.

Le Jardin Secret

A restored riad garden in the medina, and a calm refuge in the middle of the day.

Getting there and around

Schedules change. Confirm times and fares with operators before travelling.

Marrakech Menara Airport is a short drive from the medina. Many riads arrange transfers, which is helpful because taxis cannot enter most medina lanes.

ONCF trains link Marrakech to Casablanca, Rabat and Fes. For Tangier, the fastest option is a conventional train to Casablanca or Kenitra, then the Al Boraq high-speed train north. A high-speed line from Kenitra to Marrakech is under construction and is scheduled to open in 2029. CTM and Supratours buses reach Essaouira, Agadir and Ouarzazate.

Within the city, petit taxis are useful between the medina and the new town of Gueliz. Insist on the meter or agree on a fare first.

How to travel between Moroccan cities

Suggested itineraries

Two days in Marrakech

Day 1: The medina: Bahia Palace in the morning, lunch near the spice square, a rest at your riad, then the souks and Jemaa el-Fna at dusk.
Day 2: Gardens and madrasa: Jardin Majorelle early (book ahead), the Ben Youssef Madrasa and Le Jardin Secret, then a hammam or a rooftop dinner.

Adding a third day

Day 3: Into the mountains: A day trip to Imlil or the Ourika Valley in the High Atlas, or to Essaouira on the coast.

Budget guidance

Guidance reviewed October 2026. Costs vary by season and exchange rate, so research current prices for your dates.

Accommodation: The widest range in Morocco, from simple guesthouses to luxury riads and resorts. Medina location adds value.
Food: Excellent everyday food is inexpensive; restaurants aimed at visitors and rooftop venues cost considerably more.
Sights: Palaces, madrasas and gardens charge entry fees, and the most popular gardens can be booked online.
Excursions: Shared day trips are economical; private drivers and guides cost more but add flexibility.

How to build a Morocco travel budget

Local customs and useful advice

Customs

Dress modestly in the medina; covering shoulders and knees attracts less attention.
Ask before photographing performers or vendors; some expect a small payment.
Non-Muslims cannot enter the Koutoubia Mosque, but the gardens around it are open to all.

Practical tips

Save your riad's location offline and photograph the nearest landmark.
Arrange your arrival transfer through your riad for the final walk through the lanes.
Plan the middle of the day indoors from May to September.
Use licensed guides; your riad can usually recommend one.