Looking for the best things to do Marrakech has to offer? Marrakech is a little chaotic, colorful, loud and honestly can be a tad bit overwhelming if you’ve never experienced a big city in North Africa. I spent a lot of time in Cairo, so Marrakech feels a little like home to me. I love it.
There’s something for every traveler’s palette here. You have shopping, rooftop cafés, the Medina, colorful souks, beautiful riads, hammams and incredible Moroccan food.
I recommend at least two nights in Marrakech. If this is your first stop in Morocco, make it three. Depending on where you’re flying from, you’ll probably need a day just to get situated lol.
Check out our Morocco Travel Guide article here!
Best Things to Do Marrakech: Quick Guide
| Experience | Best For | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Jemaa el-Fnaa | Marrakech atmosphere | 1–2 hours |
| Marrakech Souks | Shopping | 2+ hours |
| Jardin Majorelle | Gardens & photos | 1–2 hours |
| Ben Youssef Madrasa | Architecture | 1 hour |
| Bahia Palace | Architecture & history | 1–2 hours |
| Medina Walking Tour | First-time visitors | 2–4 hours |
| Moroccan Cooking Class | Food lovers | 3–4 hours |
| Marrakech Food Tour | Trying local food | 3–4 hours |
| Moroccan Hammam | Relaxing | 1–3 hours |
| Atlas Mountains | Nature | Full day |
1. Experience Jemaa el-Fnaa
Jemaa el-Fnaa is easily one of the best things to do Marrakech on your first trip. It IS the center of the city, so expect juice stands, vendors, musicians, dancers and literally people everywhere.
At night, it takes on a completely different vibe with food stalls, street performers and even bigger crowds. I’d go during the day and come back around sunset, which is my favorite time to be there.
It gets BUSY, so keep your belongings close. I always recommend a fanny pack across your chest. Also, if you photograph performers or animals, expect to be asked for money.
2. Wander Through the Marrakech Souks
Wandering the souks is one of my favorite things to do in Marrakech. I love the scents, colors and walking around with absolutely no plan.
Go down little alleyways and you’ll find lamp shops, beautiful leather bags, extravagant handmade rugs, spices, pottery and sooo much more. Morocco’s markets are ridiculously colorful, and it’s a sight I never get sick of.
What should you buy? Anything that fits in your suitcase lol.
And ALWAYS bargain. It’s part of the culture and honestly so fun—it’s like friendly banter back and forth. If the price doesn’t work for you, politely walk away.
3. Visit Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle is one of the most beautiful Marrakech attractions and such a peaceful escape from the Medina.
There are tropical plants, beautiful gardens and those famous bright blue buildings you’ve probably seen in photos.
It’s also extremely popular, so I’d book ahead. Personally, I like showing up as soon as places like this open so I can explore before the huge crowds arrive.
You only need about one to two hours.
4. Explore Ben Youssef Madrasa
I am obsessed with intricate Moroccan-style tilework, and Ben Youssef Madrasa has endless amounts of it.
The carved wood, stucco, tilework and central courtyard are absolutely beautiful. I especially love the contrast between the simple former student rooms and the elaborate courtyard.
Give yourself about an hour to explore.
5. Visit Bahia Palace
If you’re like me and love Moroccan architecture, Bahia Palace is worth adding to your list of the best things to do Marrakech.
It’s filled with colorful tilework, carved ceilings, gardens and beautiful courtyards. The endless tiny details are what make it so impressive.
If you only have a day or two, I’d prioritize Jemaa el-Fnaa and Ben Youssef Madrasa. If you have three days, add Bahia Palace.
6. Take a Marrakech Medina Walking Tour
If this is your first time in Marrakech, do a Medina walking tour on your first day. Trust me.
The Medina can be confusing, and Google Maps isn’t always super helpful in there lol. A good guide can explain the history, architecture and culture while showing you places you might want to return to later.
Of all the Marrakech tours you can book, this is one I think makes the rest of your trip easier.
7. Take a Moroccan Cooking Class
Moroccan food is sooo delicious, so why not learn how to make it?
A cooking class lets you learn about the spices, ingredients and traditions behind Moroccan food. Then, when you get home, you can share a little piece of Morocco with your friends and family.
Obviously, tagine is a must. Depending on your class, you might also make Moroccan salads, bread, couscous or pastries.
8. Eat Your Way Through a Marrakech Food Tour
A food tour is another one of my favorite Marrakech activities, especially if you do it early in your trip.
You HAVE to try tagine, couscous, Moroccan salads, fresh bread, olives and pastries. A food tour lets you try a little bit of everything and figure out what you actually like.
Then, when you’re exploring on your own later, you already know exactly what you want to order again.
9. Experience a Moroccan Hammam
A hammam is definitely one of the best things to do Marrakech at least once.
Just know this isn’t your typical spa experience lol. A traditional hammam usually involves steam, Moroccan black soap and some pretty vigorous exfoliating to get ALL that dead skin off.
Traditional hammams are more affordable and give you a local experience. Luxury hammams are more private and relaxing. For your first time, I’d personally go luxury.
Every hammam is different, so check what your treatment includes before you go.
10. Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains
One of the best things to do near Marrakech is getting out of the city and heading into the Atlas Mountains.
Seeing Morocco’s vast landscape is such a huge part of experiencing the country. The mountains, valleys and tiny villages are incredible. I absolutely adore the Atlas Mountains, especially how peaceful the smaller villages feel.
Personally, I’d stay overnight. However, if you don’t have the time, at least do a day trip.
If you love nature, hiking or photography—or just need to ground yourself after the chaos of Marrakech—GO.
Check out our article Morocco Itinerary: 7, 10 & 14 Days to plan your trip!
Where to Stay in Marrakech
Riad BE Marrakech is one of my favorite places to stay, especially if you want that beautiful Moroccan riad experience.
However, there are sooo many options depending on your budget. Check out my Best Hotels in Marrakech guide for more places to stay.
FAQs About the Best Things to Do Marrakech
How many days do you need in Marrakech?
Three days are ideal. Make it four if you plan on doing the Atlas Mountains. Check out my Morocco Itinerary: 7, 10 & 14 Days if you’re planning the rest of your trip.
What are the best things to do Marrakech?
My must-dos are Jemaa el-Fnaa, the Marrakech souks, Jardin Majorelle and Ben Youssef Madrasa. I’d also take a food or cooking tour and definitely experience a hammam.
Is Marrakech walkable?
Yes! The Medina is very walkable. Just prepare to get a little lost lol.
Is Marrakech safe for solo travelers?
Yes, but take normal precautions. Keep valuables close in crowded areas, avoid flashy jewelry and don’t wander around unfamiliar places alone late at night.
Check out our Morocco Solo Travel guide here!
What is Marrakech most famous for?
Marrakech is famous for its historic Medina, Jemaa el-Fnaa, colorful souks, traditional riads, Moroccan architecture and incredible food.
What’s the best day trip from Marrakech?
Definitely the Atlas Mountains. The landscapes are incredible, and it’s such a peaceful change from the chaos of Marrakech.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do Marrakech
There are so many best things to do Marrakech offers, but you don’t need to cram everything into one trip. Wander the souks, experience Jemaa el-Fnaa at sunset, eat ALL the Moroccan food and leave yourself a little time to get lost. Honestly, that’s half the fun.
Still planning? Check out my Morocco Travel Guide, Morocco Itinerary: 7, 10 & 14 Days, and Morocco Solo Travel guide next.
