Marrakech in 5 Days 🌵

Marrakech, the vibrant heart of Morocco, is a sensory explosion, a city of colour, scent, sound, and movement. Nestled at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech blends centuries of history with a dynamic modern culture. For first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, the city offers an unforgettable experience. Here's how to make the most of your visit.

Explore the Medina

Start with the beating heart of Marrakech: the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lose yourself in its labyrinth alleyways filled with spice vendors, artisans, and hidden courtyards. Souks (markets) offer everything from hand-woven rugs and leather goods to lanterns and argan oil. Be prepared to haggle, it’s part of the culture and can be fun with the right attitude.

Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa

This legendary square comes alive from morning to night. By day, it’s a mix of juice vendors, snake charmers, and henna artists. By night, it transforms into a bustling outdoor food court where you can sample Moroccan street food, grilled meats, spicy merguez sausages, and steaming bowls of harira. Climb to a rooftop café nearby for a panoramic view of the action as the call to prayer echoes over the city.

Relax in a Riad

Escape the Medina’s buzz by staying in a traditional riad, a guesthouse built around a central courtyard, often with fountains and lush gardens. Many riads offer rooftop terraces and spa treatments, providing a quiet, luxurious retreat after a day of sightseeing.

Discover Gardens and Palaces

Marrakech is known as the "Red City" for its clay-coloured walls, but it’s also rich in green oases. Don’t miss Jardin Majorelle, a tranquil garden once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, filled with exotic plants, cobalt blue architecture, and fountains. Nearby, the Bahia Palace and El Badi Palace showcase Islamic architecture, intricate tilework, and Moroccan craftsmanship.

Indulge in Moroccan Cuisine

Take a cooking class or simply enjoy meals at local restaurants and riads. Dishes like tagine (slow-cooked stews), couscous, pastilla (a sweet-savoury pastry), and mint tea will delight your palate. Be sure to try traditional Moroccan breakfast, fresh bread, olives, amlou (a nut and argan oil spread), and honey.

Enjoy a Traditional Hammam

Experience a Moroccan bathhouse, or hammam, where you can be scrubbed, steamed, and massaged in ancient tradition. Many locals still frequent public hammams, but for a more relaxed version, try a spa-style hammam tailored to tourists.

Take a Day Trip

Marrakech is a perfect base for exploring nearby landscapes. Visit the Atlas Mountains for a hike or traditional Berber village experience. Alternatively, take a camel ride in the Agafay Desert, just an hour outside the city, and watch the sun set over the dunes.

Final Tips

Dress modestly, especially in the Medina. Learn a few Arabic or French phrases, locals appreciate the effort. Stay alert but open-minded, and bring a sense of curiosity and adventure.