What Are 10 Must-See Things in Marrakesh? A Local’s Guide to the Red City
Marrakesh, the Red City, is where most journeys to the Sahara begin. Before heading over the Atlas to our dunes in Merzouga, most of our guests spend a few days exploring its medina, palaces and gardens. If you are wondering what the must-see things in Marrakesh are, here is our list of the 10 places you really should not miss, with practical tips for each.
10 Must-See Things in Marrakesh at a Glance
| # | Must-see | Time needed | Best time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Jemaa el-Fna square | 1 to 2 hours | Late afternoon and evening |
| 2 | Koutoubia Mosque | 30 minutes | Sunset |
| 3 | The souks | Half a day | Morning |
| 4 | Ben Youssef Madrasa | About 1 hour | Early morning |
| 5 | Bahia Palace | About 1 hour | Morning |
| 6 | Saadian Tombs | 30 to 45 minutes | Early |
| 7 | El Badi Palace | About 45 minutes | Afternoon |
| 8 | Majorelle Garden and YSL Museum | 1.5 to 2 hours | Early, book ahead |
| 9 | Le Jardin Secret | About 1 hour | Midday break |
| 10 | A traditional hammam | 1 to 2 hours | Evening |
1. Jemaa el-Fna Square
The beating heart of Marrakesh. By day there are orange juice stalls, water sellers and henna artists; at sunset, the square fills with storytellers, Gnawa musicians and dozens of smoky food stalls. Its oral traditions are recognised by UNESCO. Tip: watch the transformation from a rooftop café at sunset, and agree on prices before eating at the stalls.
2. Koutoubia Mosque
The 12th-century minaret of the Koutoubia, around 77 metres tall, is the symbol of the city and your best landmark when lost in the medina. Non-Muslims cannot enter, but the gardens around it are lovely, especially at sunset.
3. The Souks
A maze of alleys north of Jemaa el-Fna, organised by craft: spices, leather, lanterns, carpets, babouches and metalwork. Getting lost is part of the fun. Tip: bargaining is expected; stay friendly and walk away politely if the price is not right.
4. Ben Youssef Madrasa
A former Quranic school with one of the most beautiful courtyards in Morocco: carved cedar, stucco and zellige tiles around a central pool. Go early for photos without the crowds.
5. Bahia Palace
A 19th-century palace of courtyards, gardens and painted cedar ceilings, showing the best of Moroccan craftsmanship. Combine it with a walk through the nearby Mellah, the old Jewish quarter.
6. Saadian Tombs
Richly decorated mausoleums of the Saadian dynasty, hidden behind walls for centuries and rediscovered in the early 20th century. Expect a short queue to see the main chamber.
7. El Badi Palace
The impressive ruins of a once-magnificent Saadian palace, with huge courtyards and sunken gardens. Climb the walls for one of the best views over the medina, often with storks nesting on the ramparts.
8. Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum
The famous cobalt-blue garden created by painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, with the museum dedicated to the designer next door. It is one of the busiest sights in the city, so book tickets online and go early.
9. Le Jardin Secret
A peaceful restored garden in the middle of the medina, with Islamic and exotic gardens and a tower with views over the rooftops. The perfect midday escape from the noise of the souks.
10. A Traditional Hammam
End a day of walking with a steam bath, black soap and a vigorous scrub. Choose a local public hammam for an authentic experience, or a spa hammam for more comfort.
Bonus: The Sahara Desert
The one must-see that is not in the city itself. Over the High Atlas lie the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi in Merzouga, where you can ride a camel at sunset, sleep under the stars and wake up to sunrise over the Sahara. It is too far for a day trip (read Can You Do a Day Trip to the Desert From Marrakech?), but a 3-day road trip from Marrakech, or a short flight to Errachidia, will get you there.
Once here, we will take care of you: a camel ride and night in a desert camp, quads, buggies or a 4×4 jeep tour. Discover all the things to do in the Moroccan desert.
How Many Days in Marrakesh?
| Days | Plan |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Koutoubia, souks, Ben Youssef Madrasa, Jemaa el-Fna at sunset |
| Day 2 | Bahia Palace, Mellah, El Badi Palace, Saadian Tombs, hammam |
| Day 3 | Majorelle Garden, Le Jardin Secret, rooftop dinner |
| Days 4 to 6 | Road trip to the Sahara and Merzouga |
Practical Tips for Marrakesh
- Carry small change in dirhams for tips, juice and taxis. See our guide to the best currency to use in Morocco.
- Dress modestly in the medina, covering shoulders and knees.
- Politely decline unofficial “guides” who offer to show you the way.
- Agree on taxi fares before you get in, or ask for the meter.
- Learn a few words of Darija; read what language is spoken in Morocco.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Marrakesh most famous for?
Its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the lively Jemaa el-Fna square, the souks, and its palaces and gardens.
How many days do you need in Marrakesh?
Two to three days to see the main sights, plus at least three more if you want to visit the Sahara.
Is Marrakesh or Marrakech the right spelling?
Both are correct. “Marrakech” follows the French spelling and “Marrakesh” the English one.
From the Red City to the Golden Dunes
Marrakesh is unforgettable, but for many travellers the true highlight comes a few days later, on top of a Sahara dune at sunset. We are a local family from Merzouga, and we would love to welcome you to the desert. Contact us on WhatsApp to plan the desert part of your trip.