15 Best Things to Do in Marrakech: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Get Lost in the Souks: Weave your way through the labyrinth of traditional open-air markets. Each section is dedicated to different crafts—from colorful leather slippers (babouches) and metal lanterns to spices and hand-woven Berber carpets.
Jemaa el-Fnaa: This massive, UNESCO-recognized central square is the beating heart of Marrakech. By day, you’ll find juice vendors and musicians; by night, it transforms into an open-air food market filled with smoke, storytellers, snake charmers, and drum circles.
Koutoubia Mosque: The largest mosque in Marrakech, famous for its striking 77-meter-high minaret that dominates the city’s skyline. While non-Muslims cannot enter, the surrounding gardens are a peaceful spot to admire the architecture.

Bahia Palace: Step into a 19th-century masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Wander through intricate stucco walls, vibrant painted wood ceilings, and peaceful, orange-tree-filled courtyards.
Ben Youssef Madrasa: Once the largest Islamic college in North Africa, this architectural marvel features stunning geometric tilework (zellij), carved cedar wood, and a serene central courtyard reflecting pool.
Saadian Tombs: Rediscovered in 1917, this royal mausoleum is hidden away behind the Kasbah Mosque and houses the intricately decorated tombs of the Saadian dynasty.

Jardin Majorelle & YSL Museum: Escape the heat in this botanical oasis famous for its striking cobalt-blue buildings, towering cacti, and exotic plants. Afterward, check out the adjacent museum dedicated to fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent.
Le Jardin Secret: A beautifully restored historic palace garden hidden deep within the medina, perfect for a quiet escape with a glass of mint tea.
Dar El Bacha (Confluence Museum): Located in a gorgeous former palace, this museum showcases Moroccan history and houses the world-famous Bacha Coffee room, where you can sip luxury coffee in an opulent setting.

Take a Food Tour or Cooking Class: Learn how to balance spices in a traditional clay tagine, bake Moroccan bread, or brew the iconic sweet mint tea.
Dine on a Rooftop: Escape the busy alleys by grabbing dinner at a rooftop restaurant (like Nomad, El Fenn, or Atay Café) just in time to watch the sunset over the city.
Visit a Traditional Hammam: Treat yourself to an authentic wellness ritual. Local and luxury hammams offer a steam bath, an invigorating black soap scrub with a kessa mitt, and a relaxing argan oil massage.

Agafay Desert Sunset Experience: Just 45 minutes outside the city, the rocky dunes of the Agafay Desert offer a chance to ride quad bikes or camels, followed by a traditional Berber dinner and a live show under the stars.
Hot Air Balloon Flight: Rise early for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the desert plains and distant Atlas Mountains.
Atlas Mountains & Waterfalls: Take a day trip to the mountain village of Imlil or hike to the stunning Ouzoud Waterfalls, where you can spot wild Barbary macaque monkeys.

thing to do in marrakech