10 Incredible things to do in Marrakech, Morocco’s vibrant ‘Red City’ – Updated 2025

As a trusted Morocco tourism agency, we’ve guided countless travelers through the captivating streets of Marrakech — a city where tradition meets vibrancy in every alleyway. Whether you’re here for a short stay before embarking on the best 3-day desert tour from Marrakech, or planning a longer exploration, the city’s charm is impossible to ignore. Here’s our handpicked list of 10 incredible things to do in Marrakech, based on what our travelers love most.

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1. Admire the Ben Youssef Madrasa

Step into a world of peace and precision in one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in Morocco. Once the largest Islamic college in North Africa, the Ben Youssef Madrasa is a masterpiece of carved cedar wood, stucco, and intricate tile work.

📍 Where: Ben Youssef Madrasa, Medina
🕘 Hours: 09:00 – 19:00
💰 Cost: 70 MAD (~€6.50)

Note: It’s currently undergoing renovations, so do check with your guide or our office before planning your visit.

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2. Get Lost in the Twisting Laneways of the Medina

Marrakech’s old city is a maze of energy, colors, and life. Wandering through the Medina’s souks without a map might sound daunting — but getting lost here is part of the magic.

Our guides can help you uncover hidden gems, artisan stalls, and secret courtyards that most tourists miss. Or, if you’re more adventurous, download Maps.me and let the medina surprise you.

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3. Roam Around the Koutoubia Mosque

Visible from almost anywhere in the city, the Koutoubia Mosque is Marrakech’s most iconic landmark. While non-Muslims cannot enter, strolling through the surrounding gardens is a peaceful way to take in its grandeur.

📍 Near Djemaa el-Fna
📷 Perfect spot for photos, especially at sunset

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4. Explore the Ruins of El Badi Palace

Step back in time as you explore the colossal ruins of El Badi Palace, once a symbol of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur’s wealth. Walking through its sun-drenched courtyards and underground passages, you can imagine the palace in its full glory.

📍 El Badi Palace, southern medina
🕘 09:00 – 17:00
💰 10 MAD (~€0.95)

Pro Tip: Combine this with a visit to the nearby Saadian Tombs.

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5. Stay in a Traditional Riad

No trip to Marrakech is complete without staying in a riad — a traditional Moroccan guesthouse built around a serene central courtyard. As a top-rated Morocco tourism agency, we recommend Riad Kheirredine for its stunning decor, exceptional hospitality, and dreamy rooftop views.

🛏️ From €255/night
🍽️ Includes breakfast, concierge, and spa services

We can help you book the perfect riad experience to match your budget and style.

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6. Dine in Marrakech’s Trendy Restaurants

Marrakech is a paradise for food lovers. From fragrant tagines to modern Moroccan fusion dishes, the food scene is as dynamic as the city itself.

Here are two of our favorite dining spots:

• NOMAD – A contemporary rooftop restaurant serving Moroccan classics with a twist.

• Le Jardin – An urban oasis offering fusion plates in a lush courtyard setting.

Let us reserve your table so you don’t miss out on these popular spots!

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7. Visit the Saadian Tombs

These 16th-century tombs were hidden for centuries behind a sealed wall. Today, they showcase the detailed artistry of the Saadian dynasty in a tranquil garden setting.

📍 Near El Badi Palace
🕘 09:00 – 17:00
💰 65 MAD (~€6)

Early morning or late afternoon visits are best to avoid crowds.

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8. Wander Through the Bahia Palace

Meaning “Brilliance,” the Bahia Palace is just that. With over 160 rooms filled with mosaics, carved wooden ceilings, and sun-drenched courtyards, it’s one of Marrakech’s most photogenic spots.

📍 Bahia Palace
🕘 09:00 – 16:45
💰 70 MAD (~€6.60)

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9. Experience Jemaa el-Fna (From a Distance)

We’ll be honest — Jemaa el-Fna, the city’s famous main square, is chaotic. While it’s worth seeing, we recommend enjoying it from the safety and comfort of a rooftop café like Le Grand Balcon du Café Glace.

Here, you’ll witness the music, street food, snake charmers, and market buzz — without the scams or stress.

☕ Best time to visit: Sunset
📸 Great for panoramic shots of the square

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10. Relax in Le Jardin Majorelle

The former home of Yves Saint Laurent, Jardin Majorelle, is a botanical oasis in the city. Wander among bamboo groves, cacti, and vibrant blue buildings — but go early to avoid crowds!

📍 Le Jardin Majorelle
🕘 09:00 – 17:00
💰 Garden: 100 MAD (~€9.40) | YSL Museum: +30 MAD

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Bonus: Don’t Miss the Best 3 Days Desert Tour from Marrakech 🌵

While Marrakech is mesmerizing, no trip to Morocco is complete without experiencing the Sahara Desert. That’s why we proudly offer the best 3-day desert tour from Marrakech — a once-in-a-lifetime journey from the Atlas Mountains to the golden dunes of Merzouga.

This unforgettable tour includes:

• 🚗 Private A/C transport with an English-speaking driver

• 🏜️ Camel trekking through the Erg Chebbi dunes

• 🌅 Sunset and sunrise in the desert

• 🏕️ Night in a luxury desert camp under the stars

• 🏯 Stops at Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and Todra Gorge

Ready to explore beyond Marrakech? Contact our Morocco tourism agency to book your desert adventure.

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Essential Travel Tips

• ✈️ Airport Transfers: We offer private airport pickup and drop-off in Marrakech.

• 🧳 Packing: Bring layers — Marrakech is warm by day but chilly at night, especially in winter.

• 📱 Connectivity: SIM cards are cheap and help with navigation.

• 🛡️ Travel Insurance: We recommend Heymondo or World Nomads for reliable coverage.

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Plan Your Marrakech Adventure with Us

Whether exploring ancient medinas, sipping mint tea on a rooftop, or riding a camel through the Sahara, Marrakech never stops surprising you. As your dedicated Morocco tourism agency, we’re here to make every moment unforgettable.

🎒 Want to book your trip or need custom recommendations?
Let us help you plan the perfect Marrakech itinerary and organize the best 3-day desert tour from Marrakech, tailored to your needs.

📧 Contact us today for a free consultation!