Marrakesh was the first place I visited in Morocco, and what an introduction it was! I went on a girls’ trip with a close friend of mine, and from the moment we landed, we were swept into a whirlwind of colours, scents, and sounds.
Sitting at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh has been a cultural and trading hub for centuries. It’s one of the most vibrant cities in the country, where ancient traditions meet modern energy. From wandering the chaotic souks to sipping mint tea on rooftop terraces and getting up at the crack of dawn for a hot air balloon ride, our days were packed with unforgettable moments.
We explored both the old and modern parts of the city, and while some parts felt a bit intense at first (especially navigating the Medina!), we quickly embraced the rhythm of Marrakesh.
In this guide, I’m sharing the best things to do and see in Marrakesh, along with some useful tips to help you plan your own adventure. You can also watch my full Marrakesh travel video on YouTube for more inspiration.
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Adventure & Unique Tours in Marrakesh
If you're looking to add a bit of thrill or something totally different to your Marrakesh itinerary, check out these unforgettable experiences:
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1. Explore the Souks of Marrakesh
Wandering through the souks of Marrakesh is something you simply can’t ignore or avoid. Located in the heart of the old Medina, these narrow, winding alleyways are packed with vibrant market stalls selling everything from spices, lanterns, and carpets to leather goods, traditional clothing, and handmade ceramics.
It’s chaotic, colourful, and at times a little overwhelming, but that’s what makes it exciting. You might think these crowded alleys are car-free, but they’re not. Watch out for surprises like motorbikes, carts, and even donkeys. Walking through the souks is an adventure in itself.
We ended up spending most of our time in the souks, whether we were on our way to a historical site or just looking for a place to eat, we always found ourselves weaving through the narrow alleys. It’s almost impossible to avoid them, and honestly, you wouldn’t want to.
My favourite part of the souks was the carpet section. It felt a little less chaotic compared to the rest, and the atmosphere was a bit more relaxed. Plus, there were some lovely hidden cafés where we could take a break and people-watch from a quiet spot.
2. Practice Haggling in the Souks
Bargaining is part of daily life in Marrakesh, especially in the Medina. Prices in the souks can be steep, especially compared to other Moroccan cities like Fes, and most items don’t have price tags. This means the price you’re given often depends on how you look, how confident you are, or even what time of day it is.
Don’t feel bad about negotiating, it’s not rude, it’s expected. In fact, it can be quite fun once you get used to it. Think of it as a little game, and don’t take it too seriously.
Tip: Don’t show too much interest at first, and be willing to walk away. You’ll be amazed how quickly the price drops when you do.
3. Stay in a Traditional Riad
One of the best ways to experience Marrakesh is by staying in a traditional riad. These Moroccan guesthouses are usually tucked away in the Medina and built around a central courtyard, offering a calm and authentic escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
There are plenty of great options on Booking.com, and here are a few highly-rated riads worth checking out:
Riad Kheirredine – Elegant and peaceful, with a rooftop terrace and spa.
Riad El Youssoufi – Beautifully decorated, well-located, and known for its warm hospitality.
Riad Agathe & Spa – A cosy and charming riad with traditional decor and relaxing spa services.
We personally stayed at Riad Itrane, and we were actually very happy with our choice. When we first arrived, the alley and entrance didn’t look very inviting; in fact, it felt a bit sketchy. But once we stepped inside, it was a totally different world. The riad was peaceful, very clean, and surprisingly luxurious and comfortable.
It was the perfect spot to come back to after a busy day in the Medina. The staff were friendly, and the whole place had a quiet charm that made us feel at home.
Tip: Riads can fill up quickly, especially the good ones, so book early to get the best options.
4. Visit Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved historical sites in Marrakesh. Built in the 19th century for a grand vizier, the palace was designed to be the greatest of its time, and it still impresses visitors today with its intricate tilework, peaceful courtyards, and colourful ceilings.
The palace is within walking distance of Jemaa el-Fnaa square, which makes it easy to visit while exploring the Medina on foot.
You can buy your ticket in person at the entrance, and there’s usually no need to book online in advance unless you want to join a guided tour. If you enjoy learning more about the history and the stories behind each section of the palace, a tour might be worth it.
Tip: Visit earlier in the day if you want to avoid the crowds and take better photos with fewer people around.
5. Explore El Badi Palace
Just a short walk from the Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace is another must-see historical site in Marrakesh, but with a totally different vibe.
Unlike Bahia Palace, which is still fully intact and ornate, El Badi stands mostly in ruins. But don’t let that put you off, it’s massive, open, and surprisingly peaceful. It also doesn’t get as busy as the Bahia Palace, which makes it a great spot if you want a break from the crowds.
Walking through the huge sunken gardens, crumbling walls, and old chambers gives you a real sense of how grand this place once was. It was built in the 16th century and used to be one of the most magnificent palaces in Morocco.
What I really loved about it was how quiet and relaxing it felt. There are orange groves in the courtyard, and if you look up, you’ll likely spot storks nesting on the walls. They add a unique touch to the whole experience.
6. Have Dinner at Dar Essalam
If you’re looking for a memorable dinner experience in Marrakesh, Dar Essalam is a great choice. It’s one of the oldest restaurants in the city, and the setting feels like something out of a Moroccan fairytale, with traditional architecture, colourful tiles, carved ceilings, and candlelit tables.
The restaurant serves a range of classic Moroccan dishes like couscous, harira soup, pastilla, and of course, tagine. We had dinner here and really enjoyed the mix of delicious food and live entertainment, including traditional music and belly dancing.
It’s quite a popular spot, especially with tourists, so booking a table in advance is a good idea. You can book the Dinner Show at Dar Essalam Restaurant online.
7. Watch the Sunrise on a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise is one of the most unique things to do in Marrakesh, and it had been on my bucket list for years. I’m so glad I finally got to tick it off during this trip.
Yes, it requires a very early wake-up call, but it’s 100% worth it. Watching the sun rise over the Moroccan landscape while gently floating in the sky is an unforgettable experience. You’ll get breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains, scattered villages, and stretches of desert as far as the eye can see. The flight is peaceful, incredibly photogenic, and honestly feels surreal. After the ride, most tours include a traditional breakfast in a Berber tent.
There’s also a professional photographer on board who captures photos and videos of the whole experience, including shots of you in the balloon, which you can purchase afterwards.
8. Visit Madrasa Ben Youssef
Madrasa Ben Youssef is one of the most photogenic spots in Marrakesh and a must-visit if you love architecture or just enjoy taking beautiful photos. This former Islamic school, originally built in the 14th century and later rebuilt in the 16th, is known for its intricate tilework, stunning arches, and peaceful courtyard.
It was once the largest madrasa in North Africa and used to house over 900 students. Now, it’s open to the public and offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich educational and artistic heritage.
When we visited, we noticed that most people tend to stay at the front, and there was even a bit of a queue in one of the popular photo spots. But here’s the trick: if you’re patient and take your time exploring, you can find quiet corners and empty spots for photos without anyone in the background. Go through every hallway and upstairs rooms; some areas were completely empty when we were there.
9. Enjoy a Rooftop Sunset in Jemaa el-Fnaa
Jemaa el-Fnaa is the main square in Marrakesh and one of the most famous spots in the city. It's loud, busy, chaotic, and full of energy. During the day, you'll find juice stalls and vendors calling out to tourists. At night, it transforms into a massive open-air food market with music, dancing, and smoke rising from dozens of grills.
That said, I have to be honest. It was my least favourite place in Marrakesh. It’s packed with scammers and tourist traps. From pushy henna artists to overpriced food stalls and people trying to charge you just for taking a photo, it can get exhausting pretty quickly.
If you still want to experience the square (and it’s worth seeing at least once), I recommend enjoying it from above. There are several rooftop cafés and restaurants surrounding the square where you can relax with a mint tea or fresh juice and watch the chaos unfold from a safe distance.
The view at sunset is especially beautiful, as the call to prayer echoes through the city and the lights start to come on.
Tip: Don’t stop or engage too much when walking through the square; keep moving and stay alert.
10. Visit Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle is one of the most famous attractions in Marrakesh, known for its vibrant blue buildings, exotic plants, and peaceful design. Originally created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, it’s now a must-visit for many tourists.
The garden is beautifully designed and full of photo opportunities, especially if you love colourful, tropical settings. But just a heads-up, if you’re expecting a quiet, relaxing stroll, you might be disappointed. It gets very crowded, and the atmosphere feels more touristy than tranquil.
If you plan to visit, you must book your ticket online in advance. It’s incredibly popular, and you need to select a time slot for entry when you book online.
11. Try Fresh Juice and Street Food in the Medina
One of the best things about Marrakesh is the food, and you don’t always need to sit down in a restaurant to enjoy it. While exploring the Medina, you’ll come across plenty of street vendors selling all kinds of tasty snacks, sweets, and fresh juices.
Sampling small bites is a great way to experience Moroccan flavours without committing to a full meal. Try traditional sweets like chebakia or sellou, and don’t miss the fresh orange or pomegranate juice stands scattered throughout the old city.
That said, avoid getting juice from the main square (Jemaa el-Fnaa). We made that mistake, and honestly, it was more expensive and tasted like watered-down juice, or at least I hope it was just water and nothing else! You’ll get much better quality and price in the smaller side streets or outside the tourist-heavy areas.
12. Order Lamb Tagine with Prunes at Chez Brahim
If you're looking for a solid place to try traditional Moroccan food, Chez Brahim is a great option. We found it by checking Google reviews; it’s highly rated, and after eating there, we understood why.
We ordered a variety of dishes, and honestly, everything we tried was really good. But what stood out the most, and something we didn’t find in many other places, was the Lamb Tagine with Prunes. The meat was tender and the mix of flavours was just incredible. It ended up being one of the best dishes we had during our entire time in Morocco.
You can book a table in advance, but they also accept walk-ins. We didn’t have a reservation, and although we had to wait a little while, it was totally worth it.
13. Experience a Traditional Moroccan Hammam
A visit to a traditional hammam is one of the best things to do in Marrakesh and one of the most authentic ways to experience Moroccan culture. These public bathhouses have been part of daily life for centuries, offering a full-body cleanse, exfoliation, and relaxation.
We actually visited a traditional hammam during our time in Fes, and it was such a unique experience, definitely outside of our usual comfort zone, but so worth it. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to try one in Marrakesh, but it’s something I would recommend if you want to unwind after a day of exploring the souks.
In Marrakesh, you’ll find everything from very local hammams to more spa-like luxury versions that are a bit more tourist-friendly and easier for first-timers.
Book Traditional Moroccan Hammam Experience in Marrakesh.
14. Join a Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class
One of the best ways to connect with Moroccan culture is through its food, and what better way to do that than by learning to cook it yourself?
In Marrakesh, you can take part in a cooking class, often held in a local riad or a family home. These classes usually start with a visit to a local market to pick up ingredients, followed by step-by-step instructions on how to make dishes like tagine, couscous, and Moroccan salads.
It’s not only fun and educational, it’s also delicious! And you’ll leave with skills you can take home and impress your friends with. You can book an authentic Moroccan cooking class in Marrakesh in advance.
15. Take a Day Trip from Marrakesh
If you have a bit more time in Marrakesh, a day trip outside the city is a great way to explore Morocco’s natural beauty and local life. There are several great options depending on what kind of experience you’re after.
For nature lovers and hikers, the Atlas Mountains and Berber Villages Hiking Day Trip is a great way to get out into the mountains and see traditional village life up close.
If you’re into waterfalls and dramatic scenery, check out the Guided Ouzoud Falls Tour with Boat Ride or the Ourika Valley and Seven Waterfalls Day Trip.
For something more laid back and romantic, the Agafay Desert Dinner Under the Stars with Sunset Camel Ride is a magical way to end your day.
Final Thoughts
Marrakesh is a city that truly has it all: history, culture, adventure, amazing food, and plenty of surprises around every corner. It can be intense and overwhelming at times, but that’s part of the experience. Whether you’re exploring the souks, relaxing in a riad, trying street food, or floating above the desert in a hot air balloon, there's something in this city for everyone.
This was my first stop in Morocco, and it definitely left an impression. From the chaotic beauty of the Medina to the peaceful rooftops and unique tours, it was a trip full of contrasts and unforgettable moments.
I hope this guide helps you plan your own adventure in Marrakesh, and if you’re planning to visit Fes as well, make sure to read my guide to the best things to do in Fes, Morocco.