Few cities capture the imagination quite like Marrakech. A blend of Berber, Arabic and French influences give this UNESCO World Heritage site a timeless appeal. With the beautiful frenzy of the Medina, ornate Arabic architecture and one of the world’s greatest cuisines it’s no surprise that more people are traveling to Marrakech now more than ever. Whether you spell it Marrakech or Marrakesh (both are acceptable), a visit to Morocco’s Red City is surely an experience you will never forget. Marrakech can be overwhelming to say the least, with a dizzying array of sights, smells and tastes providing a sensory overload; but armed with these tips you can find the best things to do in Marrakech and make your first trip one to remember.
This post contains affiliate links. The Casual Travelist receives a small commission for any purchases made through these links at no additional cost to you
1.Airport/Transportation in Marrakech
Flights to Marrakech arrive at Menara Airport (RAK). A valid passport is required for entry into Morocco, currently for Americans visas are not required for visits less than 90 days (check the State Department website for the latest requirements).
Taxis are available but best to arrange transportation with your hotel. If you are staying in the Medina be aware that cars can’t make it through the narrow streets to drop you off directly at your accommodation. Your riad or hotel can arrange for staff to meet you at a drop off point and walk with you to your destination.
2.Money in Morocco
Cash is king in Marrakech as only resorts, riads, some restaurants and a handful of shops accept credit cards. ATMs can be hard to find in the Medina (much easier in the new city) so your best bet is to exchange money at the airport (this can be done for no fee). Some riads and resorts will also exchange money for you. The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham(MAD) and currently the exchange rate is approximately 9 MAD/1USD. Of note, it is also illegal to take dirham out of Morocco so make sure you spend or exchange your dirham before leaving the country.
3. Tipping in Morocco
Morocco has a big tipping culture and it is expected that you tip anyone you assists you (whether that help was wanted or not). Be sure to carry plenty of coins and small bills.
4. Dress for Women
I did not once feel unsafe as a woman travelling in Marrakech and while many women visit and have a great experience it is not uncommon to hear from women who have received unwanted attention or catcalls. Marrakech tends to be more accepting of Western attire but as Morocco is a Muslim country women are advised to dress conservatively. So what should you wear in Morocco? This means making sure your knees and shoulders are covered (save the halter top for Ibiza ladies). I wore loose t shirts and lightweight pants or long skirts most days, with a wrap or scarf to cover up if I got chilly at night. Close toed shoes are also a good idea as donkeys and other animals (and what they leave behind) are a common sight in the Medina.
5. Stay in an Authentic Riad in Marrakech
For a more authentic Marrakech experience a stay in a riad is your best bet. Riads are traditional Moroccan homes centered around a courtyard located within the Medina, most are 10 rooms or less and offer up a more intimate experience. Most riads are decorated with handmade items from the local souks and many feature beautiful courtyard pools and gardens as well as rooftop terraces. There are beautiful riads throughout Marrakech for every budget, for less than $100 per night you can enjoy the boutique hospitality of Riad Al Loune or if you’re looking to splash out check in at the luxurious El Fenn. I loved my stay at Riad Farnatchi, a beautifully restored guesthouse in the heart of the Medina (read my review of Riad Farnatchi here).
Riads in Marrakech
Budget Riads
Mid-Range Riads
Luxury Riads
6. Luxury Resorts in Marrakech
Marrakech’s modern and fashionable Ville Nouvelle (new city) is home to some some of the world’s most glamorous resorts. For five star luxury with a decidedly Moroccan flair check out the Royal MansourΒ Β and La Mamounia.
7.Weather in Marrakech
Marrakech is a popular destination with nearly year round sunshine. Summers (June-September) can get quite hot with temperature near 100 degrees F while the winter months can get chilly with night time temps dipping into the 30 degree F range. March-May and September-October are generally pleasant with highs in the 70s and 80s.
8.Shop the Souks in Marrakech
I’m typically not a big shopper when I travel but Marrakech is one of the few places where I wish I had shopped more. Morocco has a rich heritage of crafts and instead of the typical “made in China” souvenirs I found the souks filled with leather goods ( I got a pair of handmade leather shoes for $18 ), beautiful metal work, colorful ceramics and handmade rugs.
9.Buying Moroccan Rugs in Marrakech
I had zero intention of buying a rug went I visited Marrakech.
I now own a Moroccan rug.
Our tour guide brought us into the cooperative and I fully expected to enjoy the demonstration while sipping my mint tea and go on my way. I’m not sure if it was the intricate Berber patterns, or the softness of the camel wool but I soon found myself the proud owner of a Moroccan rug and I absolutely love it. The quality of this handmade Berber rug far surpasses any commercial rug I’ve owned before. You will find rugs of varying size and quality throughout the souks, be prepared to haggle or buy your rug from a cooperative that ensures a fair wage for the craftswomen.
10. Language in Morocco
The official languages in Morocco are Modern Standard Arabic and Amazigh (Berber) and additionally many Moroccans speak French. While most people I interacted with spoke English it’s always a good idea to learn a few words of the local language wherever you travel, here are a few common words in Arabic:
Hello-Al Salam Alaikum,
Thank You–Shukran,
Yes–naΓ€am,
No– Laa
11. Scams in Marrakech
Scams are an unfortunate part of life in the Medina, often in the form of unsolicited help with directions, telling tourists that the street they are on is closed or “tannery tours” , all of which will then demand a payment for their services. My friend Amanda of Marocmama has excellent advice on various scams in Marrakech.
12.Consider Hiring a Guide in Marrakech
The winding streets of the Medina can be overwhelming for a first time visitor, I recommend hiring a guide for your first afternoon or morning out to get a feel for the city as well learn about the history and culture of Marrakech. Have your hotel or riad arrange a guide for you or if you hire one on your own make sure they are licensed( licensed guides will have a badge).
13. You Will Get Lost
With the narrow winding streets of the Medina and little signage the chances of you getting lost at some point is fairly high. Paper maps provided by your hotel immediately mark you as a tourist, a better option is to download an offline map via Google maps. Beware of unsolicited advice for directions (see Scams above), if you must ask for directions your best bet is asking a shopkeeper or restaurant staff.
14. Food in Marrakech
Food in Marrakech is a feast for all the senses. The souks are lined with rows of sweet oranges, plump dates and countless varieties of olives while the air is heavy with the scent of intensely fragrant spices from the spice market. Gently spiced shakshuka (eggs cooked in a gently spiced tomato sauce) and spongy Moroccan pancakes are a must for breakfast. You can’t leave Marrakech without having a tagine; a stew, usually with chicken, lamb, beef or vegetables cooked and served in a clay pot of the same name. Eating is one of the best ways to experience Marrakech and a few of my personal favorites were sfenj ( a fried doughnut drizzled with intensely floral honey), msemen (fried bread either served plain or stuffed with spices, meat or cheese), and tanjia (succulent lamb slow roasted in clay pots for hours in underground ovens). To see where the locals eat join one of several tours offered by Marrakech Food Tours or take a Moroccan cooking class.
15. Mint Tea in Morocco
Whether served as a sign of welcome, sipped during a business transaction or enjoyed as a way to unwind in the afternoon mint tea is central to life in Marrakech. A blend of green tea and fresh mint it is traditionally served very sweet.
16. Alcohol in Marrakech
Being a Muslim country alcohol is not prevelant though you can increasingly find wine, beer and cocktails in restaurants and hotels catering to tourists (often at exhorbitant prices). Surprisingly there are even a handful of Moroccan vineyards producing Spanish style wines. Drinking to the point of intoxication (especially in public) is highly frowned upon.
17.Religion
Islam is the official state religion of Morocco, you will hear the call to prayer ring throughout the city 5 times per days and in general non-Muslims are not allowed inside mosques. Friday is the Muslim day of prayer and you may find some businesses and restaurants closed.
18. Jamma el fna
When night falls Marrakech’s main square comes alive in what’s some call the greatest show on Earth. One of North Africa’s oldest and busiest market squares it is home to a dizzying array of dancers, magicians and storytellers vying for your attention (and dirham) as well as food vendors hawking a variety of Moroccan specialties. Of note, the animals you see with the snake charmers and dancing monkey acts are usually poorly treated and it’s best not to patronize these acts.
19.Be Prepared to Bargain
Haggling is an essential part of the shopping experience in Morocco. Don’t be afraid to walk away if the vendor does not agree to a final price you are comfortable with.
20. Argan Oil and Traditional Medicine in Morocco
Argan oil is arguably one of Morocco’s best known exports, usually used for hair and skin care in the US. Many shops in the souks sell pure argan oil both for cosmetic and culinary uses. Morocco has a long tradition of using herbs as traditional medicine and I recommend a stop at an herbalist for everything from natural remedies to fragrant cooking spices.
21. Bottled Water
To avoid any tummy issues it is advised that you use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.
22.Toilet Paper
Toilet paper in public restrooms is not a given in Marrakech so it’s best to carry your own. In places where there is a restroom attendant make sure you leave a small tip.
23. Going to a Hammam in Marrakech
A visit to a hammam, a traditional Moroccan bathhouse, is a must for any visit to Marrakech. A typical hammam experience starts with a steam room, a thorough scrubbing with a traditional kessa mitt and an olive based black soap and several rinses alternately with warm and cool water. For a traditional experience you can visit one of Marrakech’s community hammams ( be aware that community hammams are separated by gender, either with separate spaces or differing times for men and women) or treat yourself to an elevated hammam experience at one of Marrakech’s luxury spas. Whatever hammam experience you choose know you will be naked (or nearly naked) in front of others.
24. Top Marrakech Attractions
Ben Youssef Madersa
One of the most popular sites in Marrakech, the Ben Youssef Madersa previously served as a center for Islamic learning for over 400 years. Today visitors marvel at the intricately carved Moorish walls and stunning tile mosaics.
Majorelle Gardens
Once a private retreat for famed French designer Yves Saint Laurent the Majorelle Gardens are a beautiful mix of Berber and French cultures and provide a calming respite from the hustle of Marrakech.
Le Jardin Secret
An oasis from the chaos of the Medina, this beautifully restored courtyard features stunning tile work and lush gardens.
Bahia Palace
Considered one of the most lavish palaces in Marrakech, Bahia Palace features expansive courtyards, lush gardens and ornate architecture.
There are also many great day trips you can take from Marrakech, from the golden sands of the Sahara to the rugged peaks of the Atlas Mountains. You can also visit the blue city of Chefchaouen.
25. Photography in Marrakech
The sights and colors of Marrakech can be irresistible to photographers but before you start snapping away nonstop be aware that many people in Marrakech are not open to having their picture, or pictures of their products, taken. In fact, I saw several signs in the souks requesting no photography. The main thing is to ask permission to take pictures and be respectful if the answer is no.
More Marrakech Inspiration
Review of the Selman Hotel, a luxury hotel in Marrakech
Make sure to include Marrakech when you’re traveling through Morocco with kids.
Sam says
This is sooo helpful as we’re likely taking our first trip to Marrakech this spring after two years of living close by in Spain! Especially BYOTP (bring your own toilet paper) – eek!
Absolutely beautiful photos too, now you’ve got me even more excited to visit!
Brianna says
Thank you so much! Marrakech is an amazing destination.
Rhonda Albom says
The medinas in Moroccan cities were fascinating. I always stayed in riads whenever I could. The staff in the riads provided great tips on everything from where to eat down to which stalls in the souk to buy particular items from. Don’t forget, Friday is couscous day although my favourite dishes were chicken tajines with preserved lemon and olives or chicken with prunes.
Brianna says
The couscous dishes were some of my favorites!
Zoe says
What beautiful photos you have of Marrakech!
Hannah says
This is a great list! I was nervous about visiting Marrakech because I’ve read so many negative things but your list makes it sound incredible and has totally changed my mind about going! Thanks so much for sharing π
Brianna says
Marrakech can be overwhelming at first but is an amazing destination!
Marissa says
I just got back from Morocco last week, so I 100% agree with all of these! I found the souks in Marrakech had the best options compared to other cities I visited. It’s also important that you mentioned you will get lost because it’s true, but it’s fine. I tried to embrace it and “purposely” get lost during the day to explore more.
Brianna says
The streets can be crazy to navigate for sure!
Rocio Novarino says
Nice pictures!! I am a photographer, so I take a particular look at the pictures always!! Stunning ones!
Brianna says
Thank you!
Brianne Miers says
Thanks for such a thorough and helpful post, Brianna! Marrakech is very high on my list, so this will be a great resource for me. Jamma el fna sounds like an incredible sight to see! And very interesting about the sensitivities surrounding photography.
Carmelatte says
I am totally in love with your pictures <3
http://carmelatte.co/dubai-tour-guide-firsttimers/
Esther says
I totally agree on this. Husband and I travelled through Morocco and loved staying in Riads. Guides were worth our money, since we really didn’t like the scams. Also, after visiting Morroco twice, we now know that it can take quite a while to get into the country as queues for customs can be looong. In Casablanca I nearly finished my book waiting kn line for almost 2 hours!!
#weekendwanderlust
Brianna says
Hiring a guide in Marrakech was a life saver for us!
Tanvi says
Thanks for all the tips.. They will come handy when I plan for Morocco.. Would you recommend going solo in that country?
Brianna says
I had several friends travel solo in Morocco. Like anywhere be sure to take your usual safety precautions and be aware.
Anu says
Souks of Marrakech look so colorful. I am not sure if I will pick up a carpet as they are heavy to carry, but I know I will end up picking something or the other. Are there herbalists available to explain those herbs? Due to lack of explanation, I always find it difficult to buy herbs.
Brianna says
The merchant was able to ship my rug to me. There was an herbalist and she was very helpful.
Claire says
Great tips! Especially for the closed shoes – I wouldn’t want to step in something unpleasant! The food sounds amazing, I love shakshuka and tagine, although the European versions of them – I’ve never had them in Morocco. I think I’d need to take a food tour to sample all the delicious dishes I can!
Carolina Colborn says
Great tips. I remember our trip to Tangier and it is the same: getting lost in narrow alleys and poorly treated animals for show. But the colors and food are truly amazing. Lots of good photographs and meals!
Yvette Benhamou says
My dad is from Casablanca and a Morocco has long been on my list of places I’d like to visit. Great tips and your photos are stunning.
Indrani says
You had an excellent tour there! I am relieved to know it isn’t so unsafe for women there as it sounds. Thanks for the tips on dressing. Lucky you got a rug from there, hope to have one myself. This no photography sign I saw in Sharjah, UAE too.
Edith says
Great tips! Morocco is high on my list of places to visit. Actually hope to make it there around April after traveling through Asia. It just seems like a place full of life, color and more. Saving this one so I can start planning my trip there. #weekendwanderlust
Linda says
Morocco seems to be a popular spot right now. It was not on my radar so you comprehensive set of tips are something I have pinned in case we travel there. It would be a toss up for me whether I stay in a traditional Riad or what looks to be great luxury accommodations. Maybe splitting my time would work. We did a hammam in Cordoba and it was so relaxing. I would definitely look for one here. I must admit I laughed when I heard you bought a rug. I too usually avoid places like this – maybe because I am afraid I too would go home with a rug!
Sandy N Vyjay says
This is an exhaustive dossier on Marrakech. Indeed a ready reckoner for first time visitors to Marrakech. Marrakech and Morocco have been on our bucket list and we hope to get there some day. When we do this post and the tips therein are going to stand us in good stead. Who knows, we may end up being the proud owners of a Moroccan rug.
alison abbott says
I hear you! I had no intention of purchasing a carpet either. It’s one of my most favorite purchases ever and takes me back to the medina each day I walk on it. Great tips-they are all spot on.
JeffNourse says
What a useful tips you shared with us. It is really interesting and informative post. Thank you so much for sharing it.
Kristin L. says
I remember going to Marrakech for the first time in 2005 and I was SO stressed about what to wear, so I made sure I had plenty of things that covered my knees and my shoulders. Then, to my surprise, I arrived and found all the young local women wearing the shortest mini-skirts and tank tops! I’ve been back to Morocco twice since then and don’t worry about my clothing, except if I’m going in a mosque.
Lauren Monitz says
Morocco is just so hot right now! While I don’t like going to super trendy places, I keep seeing these amazing photos and feel like I must!
Mike from TravelAndDestinations says
Definitely the best post I have read on Marrakech. Me and my gf are thinking of visiting this year so it’s super helpful and also good to know about the scams. I will also check out your friends post that you recommended. The city looks amazing and I can’t wait to visit!!
Kasia says
Very useful tips! Iβm looking at going to Morocco so this is very timely. thanks!
Erin says
OMG I’ve been dying to go to Morocco all year. Your pictures made my wanderlust worse, I went back in 2008 but as a backpacker so I couldn’t bring any big souvenirs back, I want to go back with an empty suitcase and hit the souks hard!
Charlotte says
I loved this post, so many great tips! Marocco is high on my travel wish list. And I have every intention of buying one of those incredible rugs π Can’t wait!
Rob+Ann @TravelLatte(.net) says
What a great post! We are ashamed to say that we have not been to Morocco, and we even have friends to visit there! Shame Shame Shame on us. When we do go, though… we’ll be reading through your posts again! Meanwhile, your beautiful pictures are fueling our Moroccan day dreams. π
Claire says
Lovely post and great tips to get me ready for my trip to Morocco! Cheers!
Cory Lee says
This is such a great post! I’ll be going to Morocco next month and while I’ll be touring a lot of the country, I’m most excited for Marrakech. Awesome tips here!
Jossus Travelpics says
I loved Marrakech and the Bahia Palace.
Bernie Watt says
Great advice. We are so, so keen to get to Morocco and this is quite the inspiration.
Sebastian Vaz says
I haven’t been to Morocco. But I have heard lots of good things about the country. Must visit soon. Your guide will help me plan. Thanks π
Violet Tellez says
Thank you for the insightful info. I’m currently planning a trip for next spring and originally thought about joining a tour group but since I’d rather have a more relaxed schedule, an individual tour guide might be best to help me get around. Can you recommend a good company that does this, please?
We3Travel says
Great tips and I’m glad I read them before our trip!
Marilyn Jacob says
We are travelling.to Morocco in December,so it’s our very first time.Looking forward to our.holiday.Good tips and advice made sense to.me,so I.am aware ,I will make the best and enjoy Morocco.
ania says
the amount of times i got lost in Medina, sometimes it was fun – like in Essaouira, sometimes a bit scarry like in Marrakesh, but still at least i have stories to tell.
Katie Diederichs says
This is SO helpful! We’ve been itching to get to Morocco, so I’m definitely saving this for later.
Sabs says
The food and the night market look amazing! I always feel like Morocco is a mysterious place.
Linnea says
Great guide! I appreciated the tip about cash. How much was your rug if you donβt mind me asking? Did you ship it home?
Kariss Ainsworth says
I’ve been looking at going here, it is so colourful!
Diana Sahara says
yeah it s amazing. Colors and smells…
nanet says
This guide was so so helpful thank you so much and loved the recommendations and the pictures. Looking forward to go to Le Jardin Secret it makes me curious.
Diana Sahara says
Very useful tips! There is also a bus to go to the medina for those traveling on budget and yeah! For sure everyone gets lost in the medina. I think it s important to point that someone will try to help you when you get lost (expecting some tip) so better to let him know you will not tip him in advance…