10 Things To Do in Marrakech
Ten years ago, I was lucky enough to visit northern Morocco. I instantly fell in love with the country, its architecture, and its people.
As I wiped away a few tears in the taxi taking me back to the airport, I promised myself I would return one day to explore other regions.
But life sometimes takes unexpected turns. I had to wait many years before coming back. The wait was long—but so worth it.
Marrakech was my first stop on this new journey. And what a destination it was!
Its ochre-colored walls catch the light with an almost unreal softness. The maze of the medina transports you to another time. The call to prayer makes time stand still. The scent of mint tea wraps around you like a warm embrace.
Marrakech is a beauty that awakens all the senses. Did I spend 7 days completely enchanted? Absolutely.
Many describe it as chaotic—I found it vibrant. Some say it’s noisy—I experienced it as full of life. Others find it exhausting—I found it energizing.
If you’re reading these lines, maybe you’re also thinking about letting yourself be swept away by its charm…
And to make sure you don’t miss anything, let me guide you and show you the best things to do in Marrakech.
This article contains affiliate links 🙂 They earn me a small commission on bookings, but no worries—there’s no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my blog, and enjoy the read!
Plan Your Stay in Marrakech in Just a Few Seconds!
In a rush to plan your trip? This mini-guide has all the essentials you need!
WHERE TO SLEEP?
- Sindi Sud (perfect for solo travelers)
- Al Fassia Aguedal (for a luxury stay)
WHERE TO EAT?
- Zaman Food (for its chicken tagine)
- Café chez Zaza (for dinner on a rooftop)
- Restaurant Toubkal (for eating at Jemaa El-Fna Square)
THINGS TO DO:
- Visit the souks with a guide
- Admire the Ben Youssef Madrasa
- Get a henna tattoo
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Useful Information for Visiting Marrakech:
- How many days should you stay in Marrakech?
- When is the best time to visit Marrakech?
- How to get around Marrakech?
- Where to stay in Marrakech?
- How to dress in Marrakech?
- What to buy in Marrakech?
- What day trips to take from Marrakech?
- Is it safe to visit Marrakech?
- How to travel responsibly in Marrakech?
- What other destinations to visit in Morocco?
Marrakech in a nutshell
.Situated at the foot of the majestic foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most iconic cities.
About 150 km from the Atlantic Ocean and 580 meters above sea level, it sits at the crossroads of mountains, desert, and fertile plains.
This geographical position made it for a long time a strategic commercial hub between sub-Saharan Africa and the Mediterranean world.
Today, with more than a million inhabitants, it is surrounded by wonderful nature: ancient palm groves, lush gardens, and snow-capped peaks visible on the horizon.
Founded in 1071, Marrakech is full of history. As the capital of successive empires, it gave rise to mosques, palaces, and madrasas that still bear witness to its glorious past.
Nicknamed “the red city” because of the ochre color of its walls and buildings, it retains a unique soul, between tradition and modernity, that enchants even the most dreamy travelers.
10 Things to Do in Marrakech
Strolling through the lively streets of Marrakech is an experience in itself.
Every step immerses you in a world that transports you, where the atmosphere, colors, and scents remind you that you are, without a doubt, in another world.
But to fully capture the soul of the city, it is essential to discover its most iconic places.
1. Explore the Medina
If you read travel blogs and endlessly scroll through Instagram, you’ll notice that tourists are very much sought after when visiting Marrakech.
That’s true, but mainly in the medina. So get ready to hear country names or celebrity references aimed at catching your attention.
For some tourists, this can be annoying. But really, it’s just a way vendors and hustlers start a conversation by guessing your origin or nationality, or telling you that you look like Shakira or Beyoncé. Nothing serious!
Simply keep walking or, better yet, smile and politely decline with a simple shake of the head.
That shouldn’t stop you from spending time exploring the medina up and down, in every direction.
But let’s start from the beginning… What is the medina?
The medina of Marrakech was founded in 1071 by the Almoravids. It is the historical and spiritual heart of the city.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it hides a fascinating maze of narrow alleys where sumptuous palaces, ancient mosques, and bustling souks are found.
The medina lives to the rhythm of artisans, merchants, and the call to prayer.
Every stone, every carved door, tells a piece of history, making the medina a true open-air museum.
THE DIFFERENT SOUKS OF MARRAKECH
Most tourists who visit the Moroccan city think the medina is one uniform area and that all its streets look the same. Big mistake!
In reality, it is divided into several souks, each with very specific products and distinct atmospheres. These are my favorite souks:
Souk el Attarine: The spice and perfume souk, where intense aromas of cumin, saffron, cedarwood, and amber blend together. A true delight for the senses!
Souk Sebbaghine: Here, wool or cotton fabrics are dried high above, hand-dyed with natural pigments. This souk offers a colorful spectacle and reflects an ancestral craftsmanship.
Souk Chouari: The woodworkers’ souk. You can find carved objects, utensils, chests, and even traditional musical instruments like the guembri.
Souk El Kebir and Souk Zrabia: The first offers leather goods, while the second is famous for its Berber rugs. In the latter, you can spend hours admiring the intricate designs and negotiating purchases with the merchants.
Souk Haddadine: In this souk, the hammering of artisans forging, chiseling, and shaping copper, brass, and other metals resonates. You’ll find magnificent engraved trays and teapots.
Afraid of getting lost in the maze of the medina? This 3-hour guided tour will take you through the best souks! Book now!
2. Get lost in the Majorelle Garden
The Majorelle Garden is one of the most popular attractions in Marrakech. So be prepared to queue, even if you buy your tickets in advance, especially during high season.
A true oasis of peace, it was created in the 1920s by the French painter Jacques Majorelle.
The color palette is striking, and as you might expect, the famous Majorelle blue—intense and deep—dominates.
Although this color is the main attraction of the garden for Instagram influencers, it’s not the only one!
Among the shaded paths, pretty fountains, and tranquil ponds, more than 300 plant species unfold: cacti, palm trees, bamboo, and bougainvillea, among others.
The garden was purchased in the 1980s by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé.
Today, it houses an interesting Berber museum, a perfect opportunity to learn more about the cultural richness of the Atlas region.
Opening hours:
- Every day, from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Make sure you can get in! The Majorelle Garden attracts many tourists — it would be a shame to miss it. Book here!
A WORD ABOUT THE YVES SAINT LAURENT MUSEUM
When you buy your ticket for the Majorelle Garden, you also have the option to include access to the Yves Saint Laurent museum.
This museum pays tribute to one of the greatest designers of the 20th century, featuring a collection of iconic pieces, sketches, accessories, and photographs that trace his career.
Honestly, if you are passionate about fashion, it is definitely a must-visit. For everyone else, I recommend skipping it… and that way you’ll save some dirhams!
3. Visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa
Another building that clearly appears on most tourists’ bucket lists is the Ben Youssef Madrasa.
If you have already visited Andalusia, especially Seville and Granada, it won’t surprise you too much. For others, get ready to be amazed!
A jewel of Arab-Andalusian architecture, the madrasa was founded in the 14th century under the Marinids and rebuilt in the 16th century by the Saadians. It was one of the largest Quranic schools in North Africa.
Here, hundreds of students from across the Muslim world studied theology, sciences, and poetry.
Going up to the upper floor, you can visit the tiny rooms where they slept and studied.
Take your time to walk around and imagine the corridors filled with students eager to learn from their elders.
From above, you’ll also have an impressive view of the central courtyard, where groups of tourists gather.
And it is precisely this central courtyard that is the highlight of the madrasa. Decorated with zellij tiles, finely sculpted stucco, and carved cedar wood, it reflects the artistic refinement of the era.
Make sure to admire every detail during your visit, let yourself be inspired by this unique atmosphere, and of course, take some photos for your feed.
Opening hours:
- Regular season: every day from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- During Ramadan: every day from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Don’t miss out! The Medersa is one of Marrakech’s top attractions — get your ticket ahead of time. Click here!
4. Admire the El Badi Palace
Let’s continue with another must-see: El Badi Palace, whose name means “The Incomparable.”
It was built at the end of the 16th century by the Saadian sultan Ahmad al-Mansur to celebrate his victory against the Portuguese in the Battle of the Three Kings.
Clearly designed to impress, this palace was a true masterpiece of splendor and grandeur, inspired by the Alhambra of Granada.
It had over 300 rooms, lush gardens, majestic pools, and precious materials brought from Italy, India, and even Sub-Saharan Africa.
Unfortunately, a century later it was dismantled by the Alaouite sultan Moulay Ismaïl, who used its riches to decorate his own capital in Meknes.
Today, in ruins, only your imagination can reconstruct its former beauty.
Some might think it’s not worth paying to visit a ruined palace.
However, I recommend visiting this place where time seems to have stood still, but where grandeur is still very much present among reddish walls and stork nests.
Opening hours:
- Regular season: every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- During Ramadan: every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
5. Slow down at the Koutoubia Mosque
Sometimes overlooked by tourists, the Koutoubia remains an undisputed symbol of Marrakech.
Built in the 12th century during the reign of the Almohad caliph Abd al-Mu’min, it embodies both the spiritual and architectural power of that era.
Its name, meaning “mosque of the booksellers,” refers to the many manuscript merchants who once surrounded the area.
Standing 77 meters tall, its minaret decorated with refined geometric patterns has inspired other prestigious monuments, such as the Giralda in Seville.
If you dine at one of the many rooftop restaurants in the city, you will likely see it from afar.
The Koutoubia commands its majestic silhouette over the city, and although only Muslims can enter, I recommend visiting to admire it and to enjoy the beautiful park hidden behind it.
6. Discover the Saadian Tombs
Another building that history lovers will appreciate, the Saadian Tombs are one of the few glorious remnants of the Saadian dynasty, which ruled Morocco in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Rediscovered in 1917 thanks to aerial photographs, these mausoleums had remained hidden and forgotten for centuries.
Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour ordered the construction of a sumptuous funerary complex for himself and his close ones, adorned with finely carved stuccos, multicolored zellige mosaics, and marble columns brought from Italy.
The whole ensemble is incredible, especially the Hall of the Twelve Columns!
Opening hours:
- Regular hours: every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- During Ramadan: every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
7. Wander through the Bahía Palace
The last monument you absolutely must visit is the Bahia Palace. Everything is in its name, which means “the beautiful.”
Built at the end of the 19th century, the palace aimed to become one of the most sumptuous in the Islamic world.
It covers nearly 8 hectares and features 150 richly decorated rooms, lush gardens, shaded courtyards, and elegant riads.
The palace blends Arab-Andalusian art with magnificent Moroccan traditions: colorful zelliges, finely carved stuccos, painted cedar wood ceilings, and marble.
The palace was both the residence of the vizier’s family at the time and a shining symbol of power.
Opening hours:
- Every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Join this guided tour and discover three iconic landmarks. With a local guide, you’ll learn more about the mosque, the Saadian tombs, and Bahia Palace. Book your spot now!
8. Stroll around Jemaa El-Fna Square
You’ve seen this square hundreds of times on your smartphone screen, on television, and in printed guides. It is the heart of Marrakech’s tourist center and the medina.
An organized chaos filled with constant noise.
Fruit juice stalls with exorbitant prices, small specialty restaurants far from good quality, snake charmers and monkeys tied to their owners — you might wonder why, after painting such a picture, I included this place in my list.
Very simple: because it’s an iconic spot. A theater where several scenes unfold simultaneously between locals and tourists.
Listed as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, it brings together merchants, storytellers, musicians, acrobats, and orange juice vendors in a permanent and fascinating show since the 11th century.
Nothing more to add! It is truly a historic place!
Formerly a site of public executions under the Almoravids — hence its name meaning “assembly of the dead” — it has become an essential meeting point whose face changes throughout the day.
Empty and mysterious at dawn, it becomes a thoroughfare during the day, only to give its best at nightfall, when food stalls set up, drums beat, stories come to life, and the aromas of spices mingle with vibrant voices.
A MAGICAL PLACE, BUT NOT WITHOUT RISKS
Let me be a party pooper: before letting yourself be carried away by the magic of Jemaa el-Fna, it’s important to keep in mind that this square is not risk-free.
- The quality and hygiene vary greatly from one stall to another. Stories of food poisoning are not uncommon. If you want to try the food, ask locals for advice and avoid dishes with undercooked meat or seafood.
- Street performers, especially musicians and dancers, will almost always ask you for money if you take their photo. Be careful, they can be very persistent!
- Chained monkeys and drugged snakes are just some examples of animal cruelty you might see in the square. Remember that by participating in these scenes, even passively, you are encouraging animal abuse. It’s better to just keep walking!
9. Get a henna tattoo
Without a doubt, this was one of the experiences I most eagerly anticipated in Marrakech.
Sure, admiring impressive monuments and discovering the history of a destination is important.
But what I truly enjoy is immersing myself in the local culture and traditions.
The art of henna, which may seem trivial to some, is actually an ancient tradition.
Used for centuries in religious celebrations, weddings, or births, henna symbolizes joy, protection, and blessing.
This natural paste, made from dried leaves of the plant, is applied to the skin in delicate and ephemeral designs, often floral or geometric.
Getting a henna tattoo in Marrakech is much more than a simple aesthetic experience: it is a true ritual of beauty and transmission.
It is also a special moment to share with the artisans, guardians of this ancestral knowledge.
And if you travel frequently, you know how easy it is to meet men, but sometimes harder to make friends with local women.
For an authentic experience and organic henna at an affordable price, I recommend:
📌 HENNA LOUAYA, Riad Louaya, 24 Derb Halfaoui
10. Eat
It’s impossible to talk about the best things to do in Marrakech without mentioning the perfect activity to immerse yourself in the culture: tasting the local cuisine.
Here are two options: take cooking classes to learn more about the ingredients and traditions passed down through generations, or try as many street food stalls and restaurants as possible to get a broad view of Moroccan gastronomy.
Personally, I chose the second option!
Moroccan cuisine is a true sensory journey.
It is characterized by perfectly balanced spices, slow cooking methods, and sweet-and-sour combinations.
Tasting Moroccan food also means discovering the importance of hospitality, often around a mint tea served with ceremony.
MY FAVORITE DISHES
- Chicken tagine with preserved lemon
- Plum tagine
- Vegetarian couscous
- Couscous with lamb
- Chicken pastilla
- Kefta skewers
- Msemmens, including the stuffed ones
- Harshas.
Restaurants in Marrakech Morocco
If you’re looking for restaurants in Marrakech, you won’t be disappointed! They’re everywhere!
I recommend avoiding big chains and touristy places to support small local restaurateurs and women cooks who passionately share their craft.
Don’t hesitate to try street food if you see a long line of Moroccans, for example.
Meanwhile, here’s a small list of my favorite spots:
- Zaman Food for chicken tagine
- Café chez Zaza for vegetarian couscous
- Restaurant Toubkal for meat with prunes at Jemaa el-Fna square
- Bahia Restaurant Traditionnel for chicken pastilla
- Snack Adam for all its dishes at very affordable prices.
ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS
During the day, given the temperature, it’s not the best option, but when the sun starts to set, I recommend dining at one of the many rooftop restaurants in the city.
Enjoy delicious dishes while admiring the city rooftops as they fade into twilight.
Here, time slows down, the temperature drops, and the call to prayer interrupts your meal for a suspended pause.
Some cooking workshops
How many days should you stay in Marrakech?
To fully enjoy Marrakech without rushing, the ideal is to spend between 4 and 5 days.
You’ll have enough time to visit the must-see places, savor the local cuisine, and soak up the atmosphere.
However, if you have limited time for the Red City, 3 days can be enough for a quick visit.
If you can afford to stay a week, that’s perfect, as you’ll also be able to add an excursion to the Atlas Mountains or the desert, for example.
You might already know that I’m a supporter of slow tourism, so to not only visit the city but also better understand its traditions, culture, social and environmental challenges, and to spend time with Moroccans, I recommend staying between 1 and 2 weeks.
If you’re lucky enough to be able to work online or simply travel without a set time limit, why not spend several months and use the city as a base to explore the region?
When is the best time to visit Marrakech?
In recent years, Marrakech has attracted a huge crowd of tourists, and the high season has become more intense.
Therefore, if you want to explore the city without hordes of travelers, it’s better to choose the shoulder seasons.
However, you will have to face extreme weather: fairly cool winters, especially at night, and summers with temperatures exceeding 40 °C (104 ºF).
In terms of climate, the best time to visit Marrakech is between March and May, and between September and November.
These periods offer mild temperatures, ideal for exploring the narrow streets of the medina, although the streets are not empty.
How to get around Marrakech?
If you’re used to European streets, you’ll probably need some time to adapt to how traffic flows in Marrakech. For others, it shouldn’t be that difficult.
The medina of Marrakech is best explored on foot.
Narrow streets, motorcycles speeding by, carts suddenly appearing, donkeys and mules coming out of nowhere, vendors getting too close, locals walking with purpose, tourists moving too slowly.
My advice: pay attention to your surroundings as soon as possible and adapt to all this.
If you decide to leave the city, you can take the bus, a local and very affordable option.
You can also opt for the famous small beige taxis to share with others. The prices are reasonable, but you should negotiate them at the start of the trip.
I don’t recommend renting a car to get around Marrakech.
In fact, if you’re not used to driving in heavy traffic where signage can sometimes be lacking, it can be quite stressful.
Where to stay in Marrakech?
My answer couldn’t be clearer: the medina!
If it’s your first time or you only have a few days in the city, I recommend staying in the medina for a full immersion in the vibrant local life.
Plus, all the main tourist attractions will be just minutes away, as well as restaurants, bars, shops, and souks.
You’ll also discover absolutely stunning riads, where you can enjoy the beauty of the local architecture and decoration.
However, the medina remains a noisy area, even at night, when the voices of passersby echo in the darkness.
So, if you’re very sensitive to noise, you might want to consider other options.
- Sindi Sud ($$): an unpretentious riad with a delicious breakfast on the rooftop. Perfect for solo travelers!
- Riad Bensaid ($$$): a beautifully decorated and quiet riad right in the heart of the medina.
L’Hivernage or Guéliz are more modern neighborhoods, with greater comfort. Here you can stay in international hotels, for example.
It’s a good option if you’re looking for some peace after your days of exploring.
- AppartHotel Atrani ($$): near Marrakech train station, this aparthotel offers rooms with private bathrooms and has a terrace.
- BabHotel ($$): located in Guéliz, it offers bright loft-style rooms with terraces or balconies.
Outside the center, especially on the Ourika road or in the Palmeraie area, you’ll find beautiful hotels or guesthouses surrounded by nature.
However, these areas are better suited for those looking to slow down rather than travelers wanting to explore the city.
- Riad L’Escale de Marrakech ($$): this riad offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a deep pool, and a terrace.
- Al Fassia Aguedal ($$$): a luxury hotel with traditional architecture and magnificent views of the Atlas Mountains. The best option for couples!
Friendly reminder: for responsible tourism, choose locally managed accommodations with an ethical approach.
How to dress in Marrakech?
The Moroccans I met in Marrakech told me that, as a tourist, you can dress however you want.
They are used to seeing all kinds of styles in a city where so many foreigners walk the streets, and nobody gets offended by a low neckline or shorts that are too short.
However, I believe that, as travelers, we are always guests in the countries we visit.
For me, it is essential to respect local customs, and that necessarily includes the way we dress.
What do I recommend?
Clothes that cover the shoulders (loose T-shirts, blouses, shirts)
Loose pants
Long skirts or dresses
What to avoid?
Deep necklines
Very short shorts, miniskirts, or dresses
Tight or see-through clothing
What do I recommend?
Short-sleeve T-shirts or shirts
Pants or bermuda shorts that reach at least the knee
What to avoid?
Tank tops with very low necklines
Shorts that are too short
If you need inspiration, remember that Pinterest is full of pins featuring comfortable and stylish outfits for your vacation in Morocco.
What to buy in Marrakech?
Of course, you’ll want to bring back a souvenir from your stay in this wonderful city!
But in a world grappling with environmental issues (among others), try to choose souvenirs that are truly useful and meaningful.
Forget the fridge magnets or dust-collecting thimbles at your grandma’s house!
💡 Idea 1: Handmade textiles
Marrakech is full of beautiful fabrics: sabra blankets (vegetable silk), foutas, embroidered towels, Berber rugs with symbolic patterns.
Choose cooperatives or workshops where you can see the artisans at work. When you buy a rug, you’re supporting an entire culture!
💡 Idea 2: Everyday items made of copper or pottery
Teapots, hammered trays, clay tagines, colorful tea glasses… These are typical Moroccan items that you can actually use in your daily life!
Once again, the best option is to support local craftsmen in the coppersmiths’ souk or small pottery workshops, to avoid mass-produced or imported goods.
💡 Idea 3: Natural beauty products
Morocco is the land of argan oil, orange blossom water, rhassoul clay, black soap, and alum stone—real treasures for the skin.
Avoid bulk products sold in touristy souks, as they’re often diluted or poor quality. Instead, choose women’s cooperatives, often located in rural areas, for an ethical purchase.
💡 Idea 4: Spices and tea
Cumin, saffron, ras el hanout, paprika… Spices aren’t just a culinary souvenir—they’re an invitation to extend your journey from home!
But be cautious: not everything in the souks is organic… or even Moroccan. Avoid pre-packaged items with no label or origin.
It’s best to buy bulk spices from a cooperative or a local market outside tourist areas.
The same goes for mint tea!
What day trips to take from Marrakech?
An article about the best things to do in Marrakech wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the many 1— or 2-day excursions that allow you to discover a different side of Morocco.
Idea 1: Ourika Valley – 1 Day
A lush green valley nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, home to Berber villages, terraced crops, and the beautiful Setti-Fatma waterfalls.
👉 Book your excursion!
Idea 2: Ouzoud Waterfalls – 1 or 2 Days
The tallest waterfalls in Morocco, cascading down into a lush setting. It’s the perfect getaway for a refreshing break—especially if you enjoy hiking.
👉 Book in one click!
Idea 3: Ouarzazate & Aït Ben Haddou – 1 to 3 Days
Cross the scenic Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass to discover breathtaking landscapes on your way to Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert. Along the way, you’ll be amazed by the majestic Aït Ben Haddou kasbah, a famous movie set.
👉 Book now!
Desert Trips Marrakech
Most tourists who visit Marrakech also take the opportunity to explore the desert.
Personally, I don’t recommend a quick trip. It’s a magical experience that deserves to be lived slowly, savoring every second. Ideally, you should dedicate at least 3 days to it.
However, if for some reason that’s not possible for you, here are 3 express options to discover the Moroccan desert:
Excursion 1: Agafay Desert – 1 to 2 days
Just 45 minutes from Marrakech, the Agafay Desert offers a nearby alternative to the Sahara. You can spend a magical night in a bivouac under the stars, without traveling too far.
👉 Book your escape now!
Excursion 2: Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi – Minimum 3 to 4 days round trip
Located over 9 hours by road, Merzouga is the gateway to Erg Chebbi, a desert of golden dunes that will take your breath away.
It’s the most iconic spot to spend a night in the desert.
👉 Book now!
Excursion 3: M’Hamid and the Erg Chigaga – Minimum 4 to 5 days round trip
Less touristy than Merzouga, Erg Chigaga is more remote and wilder.
But it offers the ultimate Saharan experience: massive dunes, complete silence, and starry skies…
👉 I spent several days at Brahim’s camp and highly recommend it if you want to explore Erg Chigaga from M’Hamid. You can contact him on WhatsApp: +212678300287
Is it safe to visit Marrakech?
Personally, I had almost no problems during my 7-day stay in Marrakech.
If you’re a woman traveling alone, you might get approached or flirted with by some men, but in most cases, if you just keep walking and don’t engage, nothing happens.
Of course, there can be exceptions.
I was followed three times, for example. In those situations, I recommend stepping into a shop and staying there for a few minutes—just long enough for the person to move on.
That’s usually enough to make them leave you alone.
Personally, I prefer to confront the person directly, and I’ve never received an aggressive reaction.
That said, keep in mind that the vast majority of Moroccans are incredibly kind and will only speak to you out of friendliness or curiosity, with no bad intentions.
From my experience, Marrakech is a safe city for travelers. But like in any popular tourist destination, there are pickpockets—especially in crowded areas.
So it’s best to keep your valuables secured and avoid flashing expensive jewelry or phones.
When shopping in the souks, make sure what you’re buying is good quality, not a fake, and that you’re paying a fair price. For that, there’s nothing better than asking locals for advice.
How to travel responsibly in Marrakech?
Traveling to Marrakech responsibly means discovering the city while respecting its ecosystem, its people, and its culture.
In such a popular destination, the impact of tourism can be significant:
- On the planet, due to transportation, waste, and excessive resource consumption;
- On animals, often used for entertainment at the expense of their well-being;
- On the local population, because of rapid gentrification that drives up prices and pushes locals out of historic neighborhoods.
Here are some simple actions you can take to embrace conscious travel, support the local economy, and help preserve cultural heritage:
- Stay in a locally-owned riad instead of an international hotel chain.
- Avoid activities involving animals (chained monkeys, drugged snakes, etc.).
- Choose local restaurants that serve Moroccan cuisine and skip fast food or foreign establishments.
- Buy souvenirs directly from artisans, and bargain respectfully without being aggressive.
- Use eco-friendly transportation: walk, cycle, or take small local taxis instead of renting a car.
- Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic consumption.
- Respect local dress customs by wearing clothing that covers the body.
- Learn about sustainable local initiatives (like artisan workshops or women’s cooperatives) to support impactful projects.
- Minimize waste by avoiding plastic bags and unnecessary packaging in the souks.
- Educate yourself about the city’s history and culture to better understand and respect your surroundings.
What other destinations to visit in Morocco?
Morocco is a fantastic destination. There’s so much to discover, from the capital to the most remote villages!
You can extend your stay in many different places and never get bored.
I’ve only explored a small part of the country, but here are a few destinations I highly recommend:
- Fez, the most impressive medina
- Chefchaouen, the blue city
- Volubilis, ancient Rome in the heart of Morocco
- M’Hamid, the gateway to the desert
- Ait Ben Haddou, the most cinematic kasbah
From my very first moments in Marrakech, I knew this city would instantly become one of my favorites.
Very quickly, I felt like a part of the organized chaos, where scents mingle with the constant buzz, and locals smile at you in the quiet twists and turns of the narrow alleyways.
I hope this article on 10 things to do in Marrakech helps you plan your trip.
If so, it’s time to share it on Pinterest! 🙂
