An exotic destination just a few hours away? Nestled at the feet of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh speaks for itself. In the original Berber language, its name means Land of God. In fact, traveling to this city is a journey filled with unique experiences, culture, new flavors, and aromas, amidst landscapes that are truly distinct. These elements collectively make Marrakech, Morocco, a favorite among travelers seeking extraordinary destinations.
We have here for you a list of what to do and see in Marrakesh. Are you ready to succumb to its charms?
Blend In at Djemaa el Fna Square
This public square in the Medina (old city) is the heart of Marrakech, where traders, street performers, and vendors engage in their activities. Surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and the sound of snake charmers’ flutes, Djemaa el Fna square is so vibrant that it has been declared an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Discover Infinite Shades of Blue and Green at Majorelle Garden
In 1919, French painter Jacques Majorelle began creating this botanical garden with cacti, yuccas, jasmine, and a workshop-house now famous for its distinctive blue color. In the 1980s, Yves Saint-Laurent doubled the number of plant species in this garden. Undoubtedly, a must-see in Marrakech.
Stay in a Riad
A trip to Marrakech is incomplete without staying in a riad, a typical Moroccan house with an interior garden. Marrakech offers around 800 accommodations of this kind – you just have to choose the one you like the most!
Admire the Minaret of Koutoubia Mosque
If you’re wondering what to do and see in Marrakesh, you can’t miss out the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in the city, and its nearly 70m-high minaret is one of the city’s most iconic images.
Learn to Haggle in the Souks
You might not be skilled at haggling, but to shop in Marrakech’s souks, you’ll need to use all your cunning (and patience) to get the best prices on crafts: lamps, wallets, bags, jewelry… A tip for haggling: be firm when you say “no.”
Try the Tajine
One of the most famous dishes in Moroccan cuisine worldwide is the tajine. This cone-shaped container allows food to steam, preserving all its aromas and flavors. You must try it with one of Marrakech’s delicious natural juices!
Imagine the Luxurious Past of El Badi Palace
Built in 1578, this palace was known in its time as the architectural marvel of the Muslim world. The decoration of the 360 rooms in this fortress used precious materials like gold and onyx. Today, only an esplanade with walls and orange gardens remains.
Refresh with an Orange Juice
In Marrakech, you’ll taste one of the best orange juices – with the permission of the Valencians, of course! In Djemaa el Fna square, you’ll find many stalls where you can order a refreshing freshly squeezed juice for only 4 Dh (35 cents).
Enjoy the Peace of Menara Gardens
If you seek some tranquility away from the city’s hustle and bustle, your place is in the Menara Gardens. This space, once reserved only for sultans centuries ago, is now open to anyone who wants to admire it.
Saadian Tombs
For their beautiful decoration, the Saadian Tombs are another thing to see in Marrakech. Discovered in 1917, this place, with the remains of 60 members of the Saadian Dynasty, was restored by the Fine Arts service.
Learn Something New at the Marrakech Museum
A complete trip should include at least one museum visit. In the Marrakech Museum, located in the 19th-century Mnebbi Palace, you’ll find a beautiful collection of modern Moroccan art.
Now that you have a complete list about what to do and see, you can’t miss the chance to book your next flight to Marrakech.
