Marrakech Travel Guide: Things to Do & Best Time to Visit

Top things to do in Marrakech

Most of Marrakech's highlights lie within the medina walls and are best explored on foot.

• Jemaa el-Fnaa — The city's famous main square, with storytellers, musicians and evening food stalls.
• The souqs — A maze of covered markets selling leather, spices, lamps, carpets and crafts.
• Koutoubia Mosque — Marrakech's landmark minaret, visible across the city; the gardens around it are open to all.
• Bahia Palace — A 19th-century palace of carved cedar, painted ceilings and tiled courtyards.
• Jardin Majorelle — A vivid blue garden of cacti and palms, beside the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
• Saadian Tombs and Ben Youssef Madrasa — Masterpieces of Moroccan decorative craftsmanship.
• Atlas Mountains — Day trips to Berber villages, valleys and waterfalls in the High Atlas.

Best time to visit Marrakech

Marrakech has a semi-arid climate with hot summers and mild winters. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal, with warm, sunny days that suit exploring the medina, gardens and mountains.

Summer, from June to August, can be extremely hot, so plan sightseeing for early mornings and evenings. Winter days are often sunny and pleasant, but nights can be cold, and snow is common on the Atlas peaks. During Ramadan, daily rhythms change and some restaurants close during the day.

Getting from the airport

Marrakech Menara Airport is only about 6 kilometres south-west of the medina, and the drive usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes.

Taxis wait outside the terminal; agree the fare before setting off, or ask your hotel or riad to arrange a transfer, which is especially helpful because cars cannot reach many riads inside the medina and a porter may meet you nearby. An airport bus also runs to Jemaa el-Fnaa and the Gueliz district.

Where to stay

Choose between the atmospheric medina and the modern districts outside the walls.

• The Medina — Traditional riads around courtyards, close to the souqs, ideal for an immersive stay.
• Gueliz — The modern new town with cafés, galleries and restaurants, suited to independent travellers.
• Hivernage — Upscale hotels and nightlife near the medina walls, popular with couples.
• The Palmeraie — Resort hotels set in palm groves outside the centre, perfect for relaxation.

Travel tips

• Money: Cash is king in the souqs; cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants, and ATMs are common.
• Bargaining: Haggling is expected in markets, so start low, stay friendly and take your time.
• Etiquette: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and ask before photographing people.
• Getting around: Walk within the medina, and use a map app, as lanes can be confusing; decline unsolicited guides politely.
• Language: Arabic and French are widely used, and a friendly salam (hello) is appreciated.