The former imperial city of western Morocco, today Marrakech holds the rich medieval heritage and culture of the Almoravid Empire. Travelers can enjoy the Moorish architecture, shopping and cuisine experiences, scenic gardens, and more as they explore the walled city. List down the many things to do in Marrakech with this handy travel guide to help you plan your itinerary!
Considered to be one of city’s most important cultural landmarks, it’s no wonder why Jemaa el-Fna is a must do in Marrakech. The historic marketplace has been a symbol of Morroco’s rich heritage and culture since the 11th-century. Travelers can easily find the busy square by the entrance of the Medina, surrounded by many restaurants and public buildings. While there, bargain shop till you drop with the many unique stalls or be captivated by talented street performers, like jugglers, acrobats, and more.
Breathe in fresh air while admiring the beautiful art deco and Moorish-style buildings that enclose the area at the famous Jardin Majorelle. The two and half acre botanical garden was designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle in 1922 and is now home to beautiful fauna from all around the world. While there, see the former villa of Majorelle, renamed as Villa Oasis by the garden’s new owners, fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge. The vibrant blue and yellow color of the villa is a photo spot to see!
Explore one of the top tourist attractions in Marrakech with a trip to the19th-century palace, The Bahia Palace. Built in the 1860s by Grand Vizier Si Moussa, the landmark is a stunning example of the beauty of Islamic architecture in the city. Travelers can enjoy the chance to discover the stories of the palace as they explore over 150 rooms and 8 acres of gardens and courtyards. The palace’s beautiful decorated with colored mosaic tiles, that are a sure must-see during your visit!
Learn more about the rich religious history and traditions of the city at the Koutobia Mosque. Located in the southwest medina quarter, the 12th-century mosque is considered to be largest mosque in Marrakech. The mosque’s iconic minaret towers over the city at 75m, also the highest landmark in the city. Travelers will hear the landmark’s call for prayer five time a day ring throughout the area.
The stunning and luxurious tombs of Saadian Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Ed Dahbi is on the list of things to do in Marrakech for most visiting travelers. The royal necropolis houses the remains of the first leader of the Sadiaan dynasty and later on members of the royal family and other respected nobles. Saddian’s Tombs is known as one of Marrakech’s Islamic architectural gems, with its interior designed with vibrant mosaics, imported Italian marble, and muqarnas made from pure gold, a must-see for visitors!
Built at the end of the 16th-century to commemorate the kingdom’s victory over the Portuguese, El Badii Palace’s ruins still stand today as one of the landmarks of the Saadian dynasty’s power. The historic palace built by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour was said to have had 300 grand rooms decorated in gold, turquoise and crystal. Housed in the landmark is the iconic Koutubia minbar, once the iconic mosque’s prayer pulpit. Visitors will able to take a closer look at the well-preserved minbar’s cedar-wood finish and gold and silver calligraphy design.
Located west of the medina and near the Atlas Mountains sits the scenic landscaped land of the famous Menara Gardens. Constructed during the 12th-century, the historic botanical garden was built to serve as an orchard and a personal leisure location for the sultan of the Almohad dynasty. Travelers will enjoy a peaceful stroll around the garden’s pond and walk under the shade of beautiful olive trees during the visit.
The vibrant energy and busy atmosphere of locals is one reason why the Medina of Marrakesh should be on your list of things to do in the city! This historic site was the old Islamic capital since the 11th-century. Tourists will be treated to the marketplace’s maze of colorful stalls selling delicious fresh produce, delicacies, dried goods and souvenirs to take home. Located a good walking distance away from the medina are iconic landmarks like Jemaa el-Fna, the Koutoubia, and more.
Constructed in the 12th-century as a main entrance to the royal kasbah, Bab Agnaou is one of the nineteen gates of Marrakech. The historic gate is located in the southern part of the medina, nearby the El Mansouria Mosque, Saandian Tombs and El Badi Palace. Visitors can admire the architecture of the gate’s door, originally built with a blue-gray shade of stone, but changed into a shade of red over time.
The spacious grounds and beautiful olive trees surrounding the area is the green landscape visitors will enjoy at Agdal Gardens. Located south of Kasbah and built by the Almoravid dynasty in the 12th-century, the botanical garden is home to groves of oranges, lemons,figs, apricots, and pomegranate trees. Check out the pavilion fo a memorable view of the Tank of Health, the garden’s scenic pond.
A city that holds the many stories of Morocco’s medieval history, Marrakech is flocked to by travelers for its rich culture and heritage experiences. The city is filled with busy streets of markets, mouth watering street food, and well-preserved Moorish architectural gems.
The warm weather of springtime encourages travelers to explore the sights of Marrakech in April to May. Temperature can reach a high during midsummer, from July to August. Catch annual celebrations like The Popular Arts Festival in July or the Marrakech International Film Festival in November for a feel of the city’s vibrant culture and atmosphere.
With each corner filled with the rich culture and history of Morocco, travelers will enjoy the selection of Marrakech’s exciting districts to stay at. Be close to authentic Arabian markets, delicious street, and the city’s original citadel at Medina. Those looking for the exciting night life of the city and entertainment attractions can head to Hivernage district.