Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Hiring a car
Local costs

Marrakech travel guide

Marrakech Tourism | Marrakech Guide

You're Going to Love Marrakech

Ancient, cosmopolitan Marrakech is a city that bursts with life as a religious, business, and cultural center of the region, and is renowned for its open and welcoming spirit.

Article

Medina is the old city that lies inside the sandstone walls that gave Morocco the nickname "Ochre City," and is a place of narrow, winding streets and street markets that operate at a hectic pace. Modern suburbs surround the ancient hub, extending in all directions and putting a contemporary face on the city.

Marrakech is set in the dramatic shadow of the Atlas Mountains. The chaos of the markets gives way to the delightful serenity of the city's many spas and green spaces. There are numerous lush gardens dating from the Imperial era, including Majorelle Gardens and Menara Gardens.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Marrakech

1. The Golden Age

Marrakech is one of the four imperial cities of the ancient Berber empire of Morocco, and has been inhabited since the Neolithic Period. There are many monuments to its glorious past, from the red walls constructed in 1122 to the glittering El Badi Palace, built in 1578, Koutoubia Mosque completed in 1199, the largest mosque in the city, and much more.

2. Shopping, Souk Style

Souk Semmarine and rue Mouassine lead you to the magical world of souks - traditional open markets - in Medina. North of the Jemaa el-Fnaa, you'll find a network of souks that offer everything from rugs to textiles to jewelry on offer - with haggling a must. The Ets Bouchaib Complexe D'Artisanat on the Rue de la Kasbah is a unique department store where you'll find elegant antiques and other wares unique to the region.

3. Fabulous Cuisine

At the crossroads of Arabic, Andalusian, Mediterranean, and Berber culture, the cuisine of Marrakech is rich and flavorful. Couscous is a staple, along with olive oil, and the fragrant spices that grow in the region, like mint, cinnamon, ginger, and many more. Traditional dishes include the tagine, or a kind of spicy hot pot stew, and pastilla, a spicy meat pie in flaky pastry.

4. The Spa Experience

The spa or hammam is an ancient tradition in Marrakech, where you can try out ancient beauty rituals. Spas are everywhere, including most of the city's popular hotels and riyad. Along with luxury private spas, there are public spas and baths like the Hammam Dar el-Bacha, the city's largest, and where you may just find staff from the royal palace.

5. Natural Wow

Marrakech is located just north of the Atlas Mountain range, where you can ski on the slopes or hike in the foothills. To the south, you'll find the Ourika River valley, where you can hike in the shadow of snow-covered peaks.

1. The Golden Age

Marrakech is one of the four imperial cities of the ancient Berber empire of Morocco, and has been inhabited since the Neolithic Period. There are many monuments to its glorious past, from the red walls constructed in 1122 to the glittering El Badi Palace, built in 1578, Koutoubia Mosque completed in 1199, the largest mosque in the city, and much more.

2. Shopping, Souk Style

Souk Semmarine and rue Mouassine lead you to the magical world of souks - traditional open markets - in Medina. North of the Jemaa el-Fnaa, you'll find a network of souks that offer everything from rugs to textiles to jewelry on offer - with haggling a must. The Ets Bouchaib Complexe D'Artisanat on the Rue de la Kasbah is a unique department store where you'll find elegant antiques and other wares unique to the region.

3. Fabulous Cuisine

At the crossroads of Arabic, Andalusian, Mediterranean, and Berber culture, the cuisine of Marrakech is rich and flavorful. Couscous is a staple, along with olive oil, and the fragrant spices that grow in the region, like mint, cinnamon, ginger, and many more. Traditional dishes include the tagine, or a kind of spicy hot pot stew, and pastilla, a spicy meat pie in flaky pastry.

4. The Spa Experience

The spa or hammam is an ancient tradition in Marrakech, where you can try out ancient beauty rituals. Spas are everywhere, including most of the city's popular hotels and riyad. Along with luxury private spas, there are public spas and baths like the Hammam Dar el-Bacha, the city's largest, and where you may just find staff from the royal palace.

5. Natural Wow

Marrakech is located just north of the Atlas Mountain range, where you can ski on the slopes or hike in the foothills. To the south, you'll find the Ourika River valley, where you can hike in the shadow of snow-covered peaks.

What to do in Marrakech

1. Jamaa el Fna: The Spectacle of Life

Your journey through Marakkesh starts at the vibrant Djemaa el-Fna square, pulsing with the excitement of social life. Vendors left and right offer enticing street food and refreshing orange juice, while less conventional businesses are run by snake charmers, fortune tellers, and henna artists. With the minaret of Koutoubia Mosque standing tall in the background, dancers and musicians flow back and forth in a constant celebration of Berber and Moroccan culture.

2. Medina: Mystical Maze

Endless alleyways and ancient streets make up the alluring center of Marrakesh. Within thick walls and behind the gorgeous gates of the riads, a frenzy of city life plays out as it has for centuries. The Souks, the largest ensemble of markets in Morocco, are dedicated to every product imaginable, from carpets to ceramics to fabric. Tanneries prepare perfectly dyed leather with traditional techniques, and the archaic Ben Youssef Madrasa school exhibits the pinnacle of Islamic art and architecture.

3. Majorelle Garden: Oasis in Blue

Garden and Museum at once, the Jardin Majorelle is divine. Twelve acres of local flora are landscaped against cobalt blue walls. Also home to a variety of fascinating birds, the gardens are a colorful treat for all living things. The Islamic Art Museum of Marrakesh also beckons visitors to appreciate the history that influenced the garden's pristine design. For those seeking peace and space over crowds the Menara Gardens offer a glorious alternative.

4. Bahia Palace: Place of All Intrigues

Islamic architecture reaches impressive levels of refinement in the 19th-century Bahia Palace. Let the beautiful symmetry of engravings and mosaics wash over you, and explore the vast and luscious harem once home to Grand Viziers and their countless wives. For a history lesson going even further back, visit the timeworn El Badi Palace, quiet and magical.

5. Toubkal National Park: Climb the Atlas

Berber communities have lived in the steep valleys of the Atlas Mountains for centuries, and hiking excursions from the city of Imlil take you in their footsteps, through old-age villages suspended in time. For ambitious mountaineers, the peak of Djebel Toubkal presents an exciting climb up the tallest point in North Africa.

1. Jamaa el Fna: The Spectacle of Life

Your journey through Marakkesh starts at the vibrant Djemaa el-Fna square, pulsing with the excitement of social life. Vendors left and right offer enticing street food and refreshing orange juice, while less conventional businesses are run by snake charmers, fortune tellers, and henna artists. With the minaret of Koutoubia Mosque standing tall in the background, dancers and musicians flow back and forth in a constant celebration of Berber and Moroccan culture.

2. Medina: Mystical Maze

Endless alleyways and ancient streets make up the alluring center of Marrakesh. Within thick walls and behind the gorgeous gates of the riads, a frenzy of city life plays out as it has for centuries. The Souks, the largest ensemble of markets in Morocco, are dedicated to every product imaginable, from carpets to ceramics to fabric. Tanneries prepare perfectly dyed leather with traditional techniques, and the archaic Ben Youssef Madrasa school exhibits the pinnacle of Islamic art and architecture.

3. Majorelle Garden: Oasis in Blue

Garden and Museum at once, the Jardin Majorelle is divine. Twelve acres of local flora are landscaped against cobalt blue walls. Also home to a variety of fascinating birds, the gardens are a colorful treat for all living things. The Islamic Art Museum of Marrakesh also beckons visitors to appreciate the history that influenced the garden's pristine design. For those seeking peace and space over crowds the Menara Gardens offer a glorious alternative.

4. Bahia Palace: Place of All Intrigues

Islamic architecture reaches impressive levels of refinement in the 19th-century Bahia Palace. Let the beautiful symmetry of engravings and mosaics wash over you, and explore the vast and luscious harem once home to Grand Viziers and their countless wives. For a history lesson going even further back, visit the timeworn El Badi Palace, quiet and magical.

5. Toubkal National Park: Climb the Atlas

Berber communities have lived in the steep valleys of the Atlas Mountains for centuries, and hiking excursions from the city of Imlil take you in their footsteps, through old-age villages suspended in time. For ambitious mountaineers, the peak of Djebel Toubkal presents an exciting climb up the tallest point in North Africa.

1. Jamaa el Fna: The Spectacle of Life

Your journey through Marakkesh starts at the vibrant Djemaa el-Fna square, pulsing with the excitement of social life. Vendors left and right offer enticing street food and refreshing orange juice, while less conventional businesses are run by snake charmers, fortune tellers, and henna artists. With the minaret of Koutoubia Mosque standing tall in the background, dancers and musicians flow back and forth in a constant celebration of Berber and Moroccan culture.

2. Medina: Mystical Maze

Endless alleyways and ancient streets make up the alluring center of Marrakesh. Within thick walls and behind the gorgeous gates of the riads, a frenzy of city life plays out as it has for centuries. The Souks, the largest ensemble of markets in Morocco, are dedicated to every product imaginable, from carpets to ceramics to fabric. Tanneries prepare perfectly dyed leather with traditional techniques, and the archaic Ben Youssef Madrasa school exhibits the pinnacle of Islamic art and architecture.

3. Majorelle Garden: Oasis in Blue

Garden and Museum at once, the Jardin Majorelle is divine. Twelve acres of local flora are landscaped against cobalt blue walls. Also home to a variety of fascinating birds, the gardens are a colorful treat for all living things. The Islamic Art Museum of Marrakesh also beckons visitors to appreciate the history that influenced the garden's pristine design. For those seeking peace and space over crowds the Menara Gardens offer a glorious alternative.

4. Bahia Palace: Place of All Intrigues

Islamic architecture reaches impressive levels of refinement in the 19th-century Bahia Palace. Let the beautiful symmetry of engravings and mosaics wash over you, and explore the vast and luscious harem once home to Grand Viziers and their countless wives. For a history lesson going even further back, visit the timeworn El Badi Palace, quiet and magical.

5. Toubkal National Park: Climb the Atlas

Berber communities have lived in the steep valleys of the Atlas Mountains for centuries, and hiking excursions from the city of Imlil take you in their footsteps, through old-age villages suspended in time. For ambitious mountaineers, the peak of Djebel Toubkal presents an exciting climb up the tallest point in North Africa.

Where to Eat in Marrakech

From multi-course meals served in palatial grandeur to delicious street food at bargain prices, Marrakech offers a full range of culinary options. Al Fassia is run entirely by women, and serves up traditional Moroccan favorites. Tagines start at DH140. Gastro MK, located in an ornate building in Medina, offers a menu of European-style cuisine, with a 5-course tasting menu that begins at DH650 per person. Cafes are everywhere, like the Bakchich, offering salads, sandwiches, and beghrir (like pancakes,) starting from DH15.

When to visit Marrakech

Marrakech in August
Estimated hotel price
S$ 360
1 night at 3-star hotel
Marrakech in August
Estimated hotel price
S$ 360
1 night at 3-star hotel

Marrakech enjoys a hot, semi-arid climate that sees dramatic temperature swings between day and night. Average daytime temperatures in July and August rise to just under 100 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a slower season for tourism. Spring and fall, with temperatures between 50 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit on average, see more tourists.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Marrakech

Plane

Marrakech Menara International Airport (RAK) is located just over six miles from the Medina or old city center. Direct flights are available from many European capitals, while North American travelers typically have to transfer in Casablanca. Taxis are a good option to get to the city, and drivers will approach you as you exit the airport, competing for your business. Bartering is a must, and the one-way ride should run you no more than DH50-100. The number 19 airport bus is an inexpensive alternative at DH30 for a one-way ticket.

Train

The Marrakech railway station (Gare de Marrakech) is the last stop on the southern leg of the national railway line, connecting the city to Casablanca, Tangier, and Fes. Transfers are also available to destinations in Algier. It is located in the city center near the Royal Theatre.

Car

Marrakech is connected to the rest of Morocco via major highways and routes. Highway N8 (National Route 8) intersects with Marrakech from east to west, while N9 travels north to south. The A7 express route skirts the city to the west, leading from Casablanca to Agadir.

Bus

CTM, Pullman du sud, and Supratours are the major tourist bus companies operating in and out of Marrakech through the gare routière, or bus station, which is located outside the old city walls at Bab Doukkala. Connections are available to many cities and towns in Morocco, including Agadir, Casablanca, Fes, Rabat, and Tangier.

Plane

Marrakech Menara International Airport (RAK) is located just over six miles from the Medina or old city center. Direct flights are available from many European capitals, while North American travelers typically have to transfer in Casablanca. Taxis are a good option to get to the city, and drivers will approach you as you exit the airport, competing for your business. Bartering is a must, and the one-way ride should run you no more than DH50-100. The number 19 airport bus is an inexpensive alternative at DH30 for a one-way ticket.

Train

The Marrakech railway station (Gare de Marrakech) is the last stop on the southern leg of the national railway line, connecting the city to Casablanca, Tangier, and Fes. Transfers are also available to destinations in Algier. It is located in the city center near the Royal Theatre.

Car

Marrakech is connected to the rest of Morocco via major highways and routes. Highway N8 (National Route 8) intersects with Marrakech from east to west, while N9 travels north to south. The A7 express route skirts the city to the west, leading from Casablanca to Agadir.

Bus

CTM, Pullman du sud, and Supratours are the major tourist bus companies operating in and out of Marrakech through the gare routière, or bus station, which is located outside the old city walls at Bab Doukkala. Connections are available to many cities and towns in Morocco, including Agadir, Casablanca, Fes, Rabat, and Tangier.

Airports near Marrakech

RAKMarrakech Menara
OZZOuarzazate

Airlines serving Marrakech

Lufthansa
Good (7,207 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,366 reviews)
British Airways
Good (7,091 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (7,983 reviews)
SWISS
Good (1,654 reviews)
Turkish Airlines
Good (3,894 reviews)
Iberia
Good (2,819 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (8,861 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,472 reviews)
Austrian Airlines
Good (809 reviews)
Emirates
Excellent (3,286 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,594 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,677 reviews)
Scandinavian Airlines
Good (1,416 reviews)
LOT
Good (1,092 reviews)
Etihad Airways
Good (1,224 reviews)
TAP AIR PORTUGAL
Good (1,912 reviews)
ITA Airways
Good (1,000 reviews)
Ryanair
Good (5,150 reviews)
Malaysia Airlines
Good (266 reviews)
Show more
Find flights to Marrakech

Where to stay in Marrakech

Medina - the oldest part and the true heart of Marrakech, this neighborhood is a must-see. This designated UNESCO World Heritage site is an intricate place of narrow streets full of historic tombs, monuments, mosques, cafes, and shopping in the oldest and largest souk in North Africa. It also incorporates Mellah, the ancient walled Jewish quarter of the city.

Popular Neighborhoods in Marrakech

Gueliz - this is the modern face of Marrakech. It is the home of the Royal Theatre and the new train station, along with the iconic Majorelle Gardens, a 12-acre botanical oasis that incorporates the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech.

Hivernage - this modern neighborhood in the Ville Nouvelle district is home to stylish night clubs and lounges, and a thriving restaurant scene. Many of the city's newer luxury hotels and resorts are located here.

Gueliz - this is the modern face of Marrakech. It is the home of the Royal Theatre and the new train station, along with the iconic Majorelle Gardens, a 12-acre botanical oasis that incorporates the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech.
Hivernage - this modern neighborhood in the Ville Nouvelle district is home to stylish night clubs and lounges, and a thriving restaurant scene. Many of the city's newer luxury hotels and resorts are located here.
Most popular hotel in Marrakech by neighbourhood

Where to stay in popular areas of Marrakech

Most booked hotels in Marrakech

See all
Savoy Le Grand Hotel Marrakech
5 stars
Excellent (8.6, Excellent reviews)
S$ 245+
View
Eden Andalou Aquapark & Spa
5 stars
Excellent (8.3, Excellent reviews)
S$ 261+
View
Kenzi Club Agdal Medina
5 stars
Excellent (8.3, Excellent reviews)
S$ 314+
View
Kenzi Farah
5 stars
Excellent (8.2, Excellent reviews)
S$ 162+
View
Relax Hotel Marrakech
3 stars
Good (7.8, Good reviews)
S$ 62+
View
Aqua Mirage Club
4 stars
Good (7.3, Good reviews)
S$ 215+
View

How to Get Around Marrakech

Public Transportation

The city's public transportation network is called Alsa, with a central hub in Bab Doukkala. Bus service covers most of the city and beyond. Single-ride tickets within the city cost DH4. Tourist passes are available for DH145 for 24 hours, with a better bargain at DH165 for 48 hours.

Taxi

Taxi fares are negotiable by a bartering system. You may find several drivers arguing for your business, and you will be able to get a deal by persevering. A trip of about three miles should cost no more than DH40.

Car

Car rentals from Sixt and Medloc Maroc are available at the airport and in locations in the city, and start at about DH190 for a compact vehicle. Moroccan roads can be chaotic and unruly. Add to that the fact that many of the side streets are one way and driving becomes an option many tourists find they can do without. If you do drive, you'll find cheap parking in public lots at DH25 for a full 24-hour period, but parking in the city is at a premium most of the time.

Public Transportation

The city's public transportation network is called Alsa, with a central hub in Bab Doukkala. Bus service covers most of the city and beyond. Single-ride tickets within the city cost DH4. Tourist passes are available for DH145 for 24 hours, with a better bargain at DH165 for 48 hours.

Taxi

Taxi fares are negotiable by a bartering system. You may find several drivers arguing for your business, and you will be able to get a deal by persevering. A trip of about three miles should cost no more than DH40.

Car

Car rentals from Sixt and Medloc Maroc are available at the airport and in locations in the city, and start at about DH190 for a compact vehicle. Moroccan roads can be chaotic and unruly. Add to that the fact that many of the side streets are one way and driving becomes an option many tourists find they can do without. If you do drive, you'll find cheap parking in public lots at DH25 for a full 24-hour period, but parking in the city is at a premium most of the time.

Find car hire in Marrakech

The Cost of Living in Marrakech

Shopping Streets

Along with the lively souks of the Medina, you'll find many modern shopping opportunities along Avenue Mohammed V in the Gueliz area of the city, including the large Carré Eden Shopping Center and Menara Mall. Al Mazar, near the Agdal Gardens, is a modern shopping mall with movie theaters and a kids' play area. High-end designer shops are to be found in Sidi Ghanem, an industrial area of the city.

Groceries and Other

Supermarket chains in Marrakech include Metro, Marjane, Aswak Assalam, and Carrefour, offering the usual range of goods at reasonable prices. A gallon of milk should run about DH27, and a dozen eggs about DH14 on average. Corner shops are very common and sell staples like oil, tea, sugar, eggs, flour, and more.

Cheap meal
S$ 3.91
A pair of jeans
S$ 52.04
Single public transport ticket
S$ 0.53
Cappuccino
S$ 2.31

Everything you need to know for your stay in Marrakech

Other popular cities in Morocco

Casablanca
Rabat
Tangier
Fez

Marrakech Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Marrakech city guide for the best Marrakech travel tips. To help you organise your Marrakech trip ideas, this Marrakech visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.