THE ULTIMATE MARRAKECH TRAVEL GUIDE
From the moment you step onto the streets of Marrakech, you will fall in love. The vibrant colours and bustling crowds takes your breath away. Getting lost in this lively city is the only way to experience all the culture, sights, and smells it has to offer. I would go as far to say that Marrakesh is the most beautiful city in Morocco (although Chefchaouen is a very close second).
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HOW TO GET TO MARRAKECH
Plane
The easiest way to get to Marrakech internationally is by catching a plane to the Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). Many hotels and riads will arrange an airport pickup for you, otherwise you can take a taxi into the walled city. The drive will take about 15-20minutes to get to the city, then a bit longer depending on where your accommodation is located. The other way to get into the city is to catch an ALSA bus.
Train
All trains arrive and depart from the Le Gare de Marrakech train station. You will need to book your seat about 1 month prior to your travels.
Bus
Buses are a cheap way to travel around Morocco and all long distance rides will arrive at Bab Doukkala gare routiere (bus station) outside the medina’s wall. The bus station is open 24hrs/day and offers luggage storage. From here, the easiest way to get to your accommodation is to take a taxi.
GETTING AROUND
The best way to make your way around the medina is by foot. Pack some comfortable walking shoes and you’re good to go!
BEST TIME TO VISIT
The best time to visit Marrakech would be in a shoulder season. In these months the temperatures are warm and sunny. The Summer months can be absolutely horrifically hot.
RECOMMENDED STAY TIME
Allow around 4 days to properly enjoy Marrakech. From here, I would then suggest you take a 1-2 night tour into the Sahara Desert!!
TOP TRAVEL TIPS
Wear acceptable clothing
Morocco is a Muslim country, and as such, you should respect the religion and cover up. I was told before heading to Morocco that women should cover their shoulders and legs. In saying this, Marrakech is quite tolerant of tourists and Western culture, and you can get away with walking around in singlets and shorts. I didn’t once feel unsafe or uncomfortable wearing these items of clothing during my stay.
Cash is preferred
Make sure you stock up on cash as many restaurants and shops only take cash. If you plan to go shopping at the markets, make sure you have small change on you. ATMs are hard to find in the Medina, so exchange your money before you leave or at the airport.
Tipping is expected
Tipping is a part of the culture in Morocco and it is expected for anyone that tries to help you. Be careful not to get caught up with people offering to direct you to places as they will demand money afterwards.
Stay in a riad
Riads are gorgeous traditional Moroccan homes that will give you the most authentic stay. Riads are an intimate experience, usually with about 10 rooms to stay in. They will have a central courtyard and sometimes a pool to swim in.
From personal experience, I would recommend staying at Riad Assouel. The breakfast and hospitality was fantastic!
Download CityMapper
This app is a lifesaver when you get lost in the medina and have no reception. It is an offline map you can use if you get stuck.
Make sure you haggle
Haggling is part of the fun when shopping in the souks. Go for a walk around to gauge prices of items before you decide to buy anything. Most vendors will drastically push the price up with their first offer.
My advice is to choose what you think the item is worth and start with a figure lower than this. You then have some wiggle room to barter and bring the price up to what you are comfortable spending. If the vendor isn’t negotiating, then walk away; 9 times out of 10 they will cave and give you the item for your offered price. If they don’t, there is no doubt another store closeby that has the same item for the price you want to pay!
You will be offered more mint tea than you can handle
Mint tea is a customary welcome beverage to be enjoyed. You will be offered more mint tea than you thought was possible. Try to drink it as it is a sign of respect.
Take responsible photos
Many street vendors will get very upset or aggressive if you try to take photos in their shops. If you really want a photo with the souvenirs, you will have to buy something from the shop then ask politely if you can take a photo.
WHERE TO EAT
Cafe Atay
Cafe Atay is probably one of the most instagrammed rooftop cafes in Marrakech. It was our first stop after arriving in the medina and we were not disappointed. We had never really tried authentic Moroccan cuisine before and to say we were delivered a flavour bomb is an understatement. The tagine is absolutely to die for and the view can’t get much better!
Le Jardin
Le Jardin Restaurant is a little oasis in the middle of the medina. When you step through the doors you are transported to a lush green setting – a calming atmosphere amidst the bustling city. This restaurant offers a combination of Moroccan and European cuisine.
Nomad
We had heard raving reviews about Nomad so just had to try it. The best part about this place is the rooftop overlooking the medina. It offers a modern take on Moroccan cuisine, with many vegetarian dishes to choose from. You will need to make a reservation to get into this restaurant!
Terrasse de Epices
This was probably our favourite dinner of our entire Morocco trip. Tucked away in a peaceful area of the medina is this open air rooftop restaurant and bar. There was live music playing whilst we ate dinner. We had the chicken trid main course for something other than tagine, and let me tell you that it was out of this world good. I still often think about it. Make sure you get a reservation as it is very popular.
WHAT TO DO
The Medina and Souks
One of the best things to do in Marrakech is to simply get lost in the Medina. The Medina is the old walled city of Marrakech which has majority of the attractions and accommodation. Get lost in the rabbit warren of the alleywayds and enjoy the experience. When walking around make sure to soak in the incredible smells, colourful spices, stunning artwork, and handmade souvenirs.
If getting lost in the meandouring alleys is not your thing, you may want to consider booking this three hour guided tour of the main Marrakech monuments and souks.
Jamaa El Fnaa
Jamaa El Fnaa is the pulsing heart of the Medina and is the most bustling place in the Medina. This world-famous square is something you should experience at least once in your lifetime. Be sure to see the square both in the daytime and night.
During the day, the square is home to monkey handlers, drink vendors and henna artists. At night the square comes alive with entertainers and crowds. You’ll have to push your way through the masses of people, which can be overwhelming for some people! If you want to steer clear of the crowds, head to one of the overlooking rooftop restaurants where you can enjoy the spectacles at a distance.
Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is an extraordinary place with 150 rooms. It was built to be the ‘greatest palace of all time’ and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Bahia Palace translates to “Palace of the Favourite” and displays an array of intricately designed rooms. Arguably the most stunning part of the entire palace is the Grand Courtyard.
The Bahia Palace is open Mon-Sun from 09:00-16:30.
Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs house the remains of the royal family of the Saadian Dynasty from the 16th and 17th Century. It showcases 66 royal tombs which are beautifully decorated. The most impressive mausoleum is divided into three aisles with beautiful white marble columns. The mosaics are simply breathtaking.
The outer tombs mark the resting place of others such as children and guards.
The Saadian Tombs are open Mon-Sun from 09:30-12:00 and 14:30-18:00.
El Badi Palace
Walking into El Badi Palace will make you feel so small. The palace is possibly the most grand you will ever see, despite much of the palace being in ruins. In 1683, the second sultan of the Alaouite dynasty demolished the palace and carted the riches to his own palace in Meknes.
El Badi Palace is open Mon-Sun from 09:00-17:00.
Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle, inspired by Berber homes from the south of Morocco, is one of the most popular attractions to see in the new town. This colourul botanic garden was founded by French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s. It is home to a vibrant blue house and stunning gardens. When Majorelle passed in 1962, the gardens were restored by Yves Saint Laurent.
The gardens are open daily from 09:00-18:00.
YSL Museum
Close to Jardin Majorelle is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, dedicated to the French designer. This museum is a celebration of his work, with the main attraction being the display of some of his famous couture designs. If you aren’t a fan of fashion, the architecture itself is worth a visit. It is simply beautiful.
The museum is open every day from 10:00-18:00.
Ben Youssef Madrassa
Sadly this gorgeous building was closed when we were here; however, this place is not to be missed. It is an extraordinarily well-preserved 16th Century religious school. Ben Youssef Madrassa is one of the most important Islamic monuments and features stunning mosaic artwork.
Ben Youssef Madrassa is open daily from 09:00-18:00.
Koutoubia Mosque
Standing high above the Medina is the Koutoubia Mosque. Unfortunately, non-Muslims are banned from entering; however, you can admire from the Koutoubia Gardens which makes for a nice afternoon stroll.
Pamper yourself at a hammam
A hammam experience is something you simply must do in Marrakech! This is a good opportunity to unwind and revitalise after all the exploring you have been doing. A typical hammam experience will consist of stripping down to some disposable knickers and a dressing gown; getting your body and hair scrubbed and washed in a steam room; and then a relaxing massage to finish off. You can opt to share the steam room with another or use solo. Public hammams are separated by gender.
There are way too many hammams to choose from. A public hammam will be cheaper but you must bring all your own things, including soap, towel, clothes etc. A private hammam will cost more but feel more luxurious.
Have a drink a La Mamounia
La Mamounia is an incredible five star hotel on the outskirts of the Medina. It has gained much attention as being an absolutely breathtaking place with stunning architecture and mosaics, making for some of the most impressive instagram snaps. We were told by our riad host that we couldn’t miss having a drink in this extravagant place.
After walking in the heat for a long period of time, we arrived at the gates to be told that the hotel wasn’t open for outsiders to visit. We were lucky enough however, that after telling the security that our hotel said they were open to visit and how far we had walked, they agreed to let us in.
It must be made aware that La Mamounia is not for budget travellers. We ordered a cocktail and some fries and the bill was exorbitant! A bowl of chips ended up costing about $30AUD. After a drink we walked around the gardens and shops, stopping for some insta-worthy pics.
Take a day trip to the Ouzoud Waterfalls
This is one activity I didn’t have time to do, however, it is a popular day trip from Marrakech. The Ouzoud Waterfalls are magical and most tours will give you a run down of the Berber culture and take you for a boat ride up close and personal with the waterfalls. This guided day trip is extremely popular and a good option if you are short on time.
