Marrakesh is a sensory experience like no other — a city of vivid colors, ancient architecture, aromatic spices, and endless energy. Between bustling souks, tranquil riads, desert adventures, and exquisite gardens, Marrakesh blends centuries of culture and craftsmanship with a modern creative pulse.

Top 10 Things to Do in Marrakesh

1. Explore Jemaa el-Fnaa
The city’s main square comes alive with storytellers, food stalls, musicians, and performers as day turns to night. Visit in the early evening for a vibrant (and less overwhelming) experience.

2. Wander the Medina Souks
Lose yourself in the maze of narrow alleys filled with carpets, lanterns, spices, and leather goods. Remember — bargaining is part of the fun, and a smile goes a long way.

3. Visit the Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum
A tranquil retreat of cobalt blue buildings, cacti, and exotic plants once owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The adjoining museum showcases his designs and legacy.

4. Tour the Bahia Palace
An architectural masterpiece of zellige tilework, carved cedar, and peaceful courtyards. Go early in the morning to enjoy it before the crowds.

5. Relax in a Traditional Hammam
Experience Moroccan wellness at its finest with a cleansing steam bath and massage — try Les Bains de Marrakech or Hammam de la Rose.

6. Discover the Ben Youssef Madrasa
Once an Islamic college, now an exquisite example of Moorish design — marble courtyards, ornate stucco, and intricate tiles that tell centuries of history.

7. Visit the Saadian Tombs
Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917, these tombs feature ornate carvings and mosaics honoring the Saadian dynasty.

8. Dine on a Rooftop Terrace
Watch the city glow as you enjoy tagine or couscous from above the Medina. Great spots include Café des Épices or Nomad.

9. Stroll through Jardin Secret
A restored garden and palace complex tucked inside the Medina — a peaceful contrast to the surrounding bustle.

10. Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
Just an hour away, the Atlas offers hiking, Berber villages, and scenic drives. The Ourika Valley is especially beautiful in spring.

Top 10 Adventure Things to Do

1. Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise
Float over the desert plains and the Atlas Mountains as Marrakesh wakes below you.

2. Quad Biking in the Agafay Desert
A rocky desert landscape perfect for ATV adventures — less sand than the Sahara but equally dramatic.

3. Camel Ride at Sunset
Experience the timeless rhythm of the desert with a guided camel trek near Palmeraie or Agafay.

4. Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
Guided hikes from Imlil or Ouirgane offer waterfalls, panoramic views, and encounters with local Berber culture.

5. Horseback Riding in Palmeraie
Gallop or stroll among thousands of palm trees just outside the city.

6. Desert Camping in Agafay
Spend a night under the stars in luxury tents, complete with Moroccan cuisine and traditional music.

7. Mountain Biking from Asni to Kik Plateau
A thrilling way to experience mountain landscapes and village life.

8. Day Trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls
A three-hour drive brings you to Morocco’s tallest cascades — a spectacular setting for hiking or picnicking.

9. Ziplining in the Atlas Mountains
Combine adrenaline and views at Terres d’Amanar, a sustainable adventure park.

10. Explore Marrakesh by Sidecar
A guided vintage motorcycle sidecar tour is a unique way to see the city’s hidden gems.

Top 10 Free Things to Do

1. Walk Through Jemaa el-Fnaa During the Day
See it in daylight to appreciate the architecture and daily rhythm before the evening chaos.

2. Visit Koutoubia Mosque (Exterior)
Admire Marrakesh’s most famous landmark — non-Muslims can’t enter, but the gardens and minaret views are beautiful.

3. Wander the Medina Alleys
No agenda required — every corner offers photo-worthy scenes of artisans and architecture.

4. Stroll the Menara Gardens
Olive groves, a reflecting pool, and distant mountain views — a peaceful escape within the city.

5. Visit the Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
Learn about Marrakesh’s diverse history while walking its historic streets.

6. Window-Shop the Souks
Browsing is free, and vendors are happy to chat even if you’re not buying.

7. Watch the Sunset from a Rooftop
Many cafes allow you to enjoy the view with just a mint tea.

8. Explore Gueliz, the Modern City
See Marrakesh’s contemporary side — art galleries, boutiques, and cafés.

9. Visit Small Art Galleries
Several Medina galleries, like Galerie 127, often have free exhibitions.

10. Watch Street Performers at Night
Musicians, storytellers, and snake charmers make Jemaa el-Fnaa a spectacle after dark.

Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Marrakesh

1. Not carrying small change for tips and taxis.

2. Forgetting to agree on taxi prices before the ride.

3. Expecting Western-style personal space in souks.

4. Be cautious of overly friendly “guides” who offer to show you around the Medina or lead you to your hotel or a “closed” attraction — they often expect large tips or lead you to shops that pay them commission.

5. Ignoring the midday heat — sightseeing is best early or late

6. Always stick to bottled water (including for brushing your teeth) to avoid stomach issues.

7. Accepting “free” gifts
Henna artists, snake charmers, or shopkeepers may offer something “as a gift” and then demand payment. Politely decline if you’re not interested.

8. Underestimating how large and busy the Medina really is.

9. Taking photos of people without asking permission.

10. Trying to fit the desert, mountains, and city all into one short trip.

Top 10 Things to Do in Marrakesh When It Rains

1. Visit the Dar Si Said Museum
A beautifully restored palace with collections of Moroccan art, textiles, and woodwork.

2. Tour the Maison de la Photographie
A small but fascinating museum showcasing historical photographs of Morocco.

3. Explore the Marrakech Museum
Housed in a 19th-century palace with ornate architecture and cultural exhibits.

4. Take a Cooking Class
Learn to make tagine or pastilla in a local kitchen — many riads offer classes.

5. Relax in a Hammam
Perfect for a rainy day — unwind in a traditional steam bath and massage.

6. Browse the Souks Indoors
Many areas are covered, so you can shop comfortably even in bad weather.

7. Enjoy a Long Lunch in a Riad Restaurant
Savor slow-cooked Moroccan dishes while the rain cools the city outside. A wonderful riad-style restaurant you can highlight in your Marrakesh guide is La Table du Riad — a highly rated dining spot set within a traditional riad courtyard where you can enjoy Moroccan cuisine in an atmospheric and intimate setting. 
Another excellent option is Riad Kniza Restaurant, known for classic Moroccan dishes like chicken pastilla and tagine served with attentive service in a beautifully restored riad environment. 
And if you’re staying at or near a riad with its own dining, Si Said Restaurant is a standout choice that combines fresh local ingredients with traditional flavors — perfect for a memorable dinner in a riad-style setting.

8. Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Spend an afternoon exploring art, design, and fashion in a striking modern building.

9. Discover Contemporary Art at MACAAL
The Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden showcases African artists in a sleek indoor space.

10. Sip Mint Tea and People-Watch from a Café
Rain brings out the rhythm of the city — enjoy it from a cozy café window. Mozaik’ Art Café — A top pick for coffee, brunch, and atmosphere. Other great café options for tea or mint tea stops include places with courtyards or rooftop views like Café des Épicesnear the spice markets or Blue Ribbon Café for artisan coffee and pastries.