Complete guide to Marrakech, Morocco.

Are you planning a trip to Marrakech??, are you ready for some chaos, contrasts, bustling streets, salmon-hued buildings, beautiful riads and palaces, good weather and delicious food? Keep reading!
After having visited the red city on different occasions, I have prepared this complete guide to Marrakech with everything you need to plan a perfect getaway, whether it is your first time in this city in Morocco, as if you have already visited it before.

BRIEF HISTORY OF MARRAKECH

Marrakech is located in the western region of Morocco, at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, which can be seen from the city rooftops as a stunning shadow on the horizon. The city is 300 kilometers southeast of the capital Rabat and 184 kilometers from the coastal city of Essaouira.

Located in the valley of the Tensift River, which provides the perfect habitat for different varieties of palm trees to grow, citrus, fig trees, flores, olive and pomegranate trees. In contrast to the serene green landscape, Its reddish walls house a city that seems to never sleep.

As one of the four historic imperial cities of Morocco, the medina of Marrakech (the old part of the city) It is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The red sandstone walls of the Medina are responsible for Marrakech being also known as “Red City”.

 

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM MARRAKECH

Language: The official language of Morocco is Arabic. Nevertheless, due to his French and Spanish background, These two languages ​​are widely spoken., especially the first. Basic English is also widely spoken, and you will find that many merchants and entrepreneurs are multilingual and can also communicate in many different languages.

Currency: The official currency of Morocco is the Moroccan dirham (MAD). On a daily level, It is common to find the prices of products with the letters DH or dh.

Credit cards and ATMs: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Morocco, especially Visa and Mastercard. American Express payment is generally only available at select hotels and restaurants.

If you plan to go shopping at the markets, I also recommend that you carry cash with you.

I recommend using ATMs attached to banks or in official banks when possible to avoid problems with the cards.

plugs: in Morocco, Type C and Type E plugs and sockets are used. The mains voltage is 220 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.

Security: Marrakech is a completely safe city. Like other destinations, You may find many people asking you for money on the street and it is always advisable to be a little careful with pickpockets, but those are the biggest problems you can have (as in many other destinations).

Drinking water: Throughout Morocco, It is recommended to drink bottled water.

WHEN TO VISIT MARRAKECH

Morocco has a hot and dry climate all year round..

The best time to visit Marrakech is March to May, when temperatures average a pleasant 25 °C and there is a lot of sun during the day; or from September to November. In these months it will be hot and sunny, but the temperatures will not be too high yet.

The winter months can also be a great and sunny option., and they can also be a good time if you want to ski in the Atlas Mountains.

TRANSPORT

How to get?

It's easy to get to Marrakech, with direct flights from most European cities (including daily flights on many low-cost airlines).

In plane: The main airport, Marrakech Menara airport, is alone 5 km from the city. There is an airport bus (nº 19) each 30 minutes (cost = 30 DH Ida, 50 DH round trip). Alternatively, volume a Little taxi (small cars that travel within the city, unlike Grand Taxis, that transport between cities), what will take between 15 Y 20 minutes to make the journey. My advice, make sure you take an official taxi and firmly insist on knowing the taxi price beforehand. Taxi drivers can be quite aggressive and will probably charge you more than 100 DH, although the rate should not exceed 60 DH. On my last visit a few months ago, There were windows at the airport exit where you could book and pay for the official taxi before getting in., thus avoiding uncomfortable negotiations.

In train: Marrakech is also accessible by train from most Moroccan cities. Consult www.oncf.ma to know the network schedules. Trains between Casablanca and Marrakech take 3 hours, while the train between Fez and Marrakech is a journey of 7,5 hours.

How to move once there?

Once you are in Marrakech, all places of interest are within walking distance of each other, fees to pay for each night you spend in the country walk It's the perfect way to see the city. The entire old town can be explored on foot.

There are also local buses that travel between the medina (old town) there the new town (new city). City taxis are also everywhere, but be sure to confirm the price or insist that the driver use his meter (counter in French) for the trip. No trip should cost more than 20 DH during the day or 30 DH after sunset.

If you plan to see more cities in Morocco, I recommend renting a car so you can get around freely. A last option is to pay for a private local guide for the day if you really want to learn more about this fascinating city! Our guide Abdullah (in the photo on top) by By Prior Arrangement made the day much more educational and enjoyable when we visited a local ryad for tea, we bought rugs at cost and even got local henna tattoos outside the plaza.

HOW TO DRESS IN MARRAKECH

Marrakech es, in general, a much more liberal city than many in the Middle East, but it is still a male-dominated Islamic city, and it is important to respect the culture when we travel to places of this type if we want to avoid uncomfortable situations. Dressing conservatively and respectfully is essential, especially for women.
For men, it is acceptable to wear shorts and short-sleeved t-shirts..

Although women do not need to wear a headscarf unless they enter a mosque, I did use it when I traveled alone a few years ago and I felt much more comfortable without attracting anyone's attention on the streets of the city. When I have traveled with my husband, However, I have not used it and I have not had any problems nor have I felt uncomfortable.

Regarding the weather, If you are going to visit it in winter like we did, I recommend that you bring a sweater or jacket, since the temperatures drop at night.

WHAT TO VISIT AND DO IN MARRAKECH

The Medina

The most beautiful part of the Medina is its labyrinth of narrow streets that transport you to the past. ditch your map and get lost while dodging donkeys, bicycles and motorcycles. Admire the colors of the walls and buildings, the smells of food and spices. Prepare to hear the sound of the call to prayer echoing through the narrow streets coming from the numerous mosques located nearby. If you feel like experiencing the life and chaos of the city from above, Head to one of the many cafes with panoramic terraces to enjoy sounds and sights at their best, while you drink an Arabic tea or snack.

 

Plaza Jamaa El-Fnaa

Marrakech's infamous grand square is the heart of the city and probably the most popular sight in Marrakech. The official name of the square is Djemaa el Fna; in Marrakech, However, The French word “La place” is often used interchangeably when referring to it.. A vibrant and colorful bustle of jugglers awaits you in Djemaa el Fna square, drummers and food stalls. The place is incredibly spacious, incredibly chaotic and incredibly touristy. After the first sensations have invaded you, there will probably be someone in front of you trying to sell you something.

If you are thinking of making a free tour this is probably the meeting point.

Important: In Djemaa the Fna, It is common to be asked for money as soon as you point your camera at the locals. With so much hustle and bustle, You don't even realize that you might have someone in front of your lens.. So be prepared to have to tip if you take photos. As the afternoon progresses, Djemaa el Fna square fills up more. The atmosphere becomes very special at night, when the square comes alive with music, with flute players, dancers and artists showcasing their talents under the flickering lights of the stalls, and the street restaurants light their barbecues and the columns of smoke spread across the square.

Tips: Pickpockets occur in this area, so always be careful and keep an eye on your belongings.

At the edge of the square there are countless rooftop bars and restaurants. You should not miss the opportunity to watch the sunset over the rooftops of Djemaa el Fna. The best thing is to order a fresh mint tea and witness how the place changes minute by minute.

 

Explore the zoos or markets (=Souks)If the square is the heart, The souks are the true soul of Marrakech. Stroll right next to the main square to discover an extraordinary labyrinth of markets. It is easy to get lost in the covered markets and the network of small streets that will all seem the same to you.Once again, dare to get lost and enjoy the fantastic colors of the textiles, the magical smells of the vibrant spice mountains, the high-quality leather work and the bright lights bouncing off the lanterns and colored glassware. Be sure to visit the main souk: “Souk Semmarine”, located right next to Jamaa el Fnaa. A little further away is the 'Souk Place des Epices', which is the traditional spice souk.

Advice: Get ready to negotiate! This is a key part of Moroccan culture, so the owners of the stalls and shops will always haggle over the price. If you find something you are interested in buying, try not to show too much interest, since it's all part of the negotiation game. Some stores may have set price tags for items and the price is not negotiable; However, In most cases you will have to negotiate the price; A general rule of thumb is to offer between a third and half of the initial price and that's it.. If on the other hand you are not interested in the product, be firm from the beginning and say no politely before continuing on your way.

 

Madraza Ben Youssef

Explore a world of striking symmetry and intricately designed mosaics at this ancient Islamic school, restored in 1999. Located near the medina, The Ben Youssef Madrasah used to be the largest Islamic university in Morocco. You will need approximately an hour to visit the place calmly, admiring the beautiful Moroccan architecture, especially the remarkable interior terrace which is centered around a tranquil pool. Admission costs 50 MAD (some 5€) per person and we recommend you arrive early (opens at 9 a.m.), since at 10 a.m. It gets pretty crowded.Once you're done exploring here, You will be close to the spice market and the souks in case you decide to take a stroll or enjoy some shopping.

You can also take advantage and visit some nearby carpet stores, included “The nomads of Marrakech”. Other nearby attractions include; Almoravid Koubba, the Marrakech museum and the women's museum showcasing Moroccan women and their contributions.

 

Bahia Palace

One of the most beautiful places in Marrakech is undoubtedly the magnificent Bahia Palace. This extraordinary palace, with 150 bedrooms, It was built at the end of the 19th century by the sultan's grand vizier, which he hoped would be the largest palace of all time. Discover the traditional Moroccan architecture of the courtyards, full of orange trees and fountains, and the beautiful stained glass windows and tiles. Although you can only visit part of the palace, definitely worth seeing, especially since it is located just 20 minutes walk from Jamaa el Fnaa square.

Entry costs 70 Dhs (some 7€ / USD) and is open from Monday to Sunday 9 a. m. a 5 p. m.

Advice: I recommend visiting it as soon as possible so you can walk around the palace peacefully before it fills up with tourists..

 

El Badi Palace

This palace is only 5 minutes walk from the Bahia Palace, so I would recommend doing both in one day once you are there. Both are located in the southern area of ​​the medina. The Badi today is more a ruin than a palace, but still a must see. It also has a great viewpoint over the city from where you can hear the call to prayer from all the surrounding mosques.

 

The secret Garden

A beautiful botanical garden located within the walls of a restored palace that sits in the heart of the medina. This palace also has a tower that has incredible views of the city. Admire the wonderful Moroccan architecture, the variety of plants and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets of the Medina, while you sit on one of its benches or have tea on one of the terraces.

The price is 80 MAD (£6/€7/$8) to enter the gardens and 40 Additional MAD to climb the tower.

 

Majorelle Garden

This amazing and vibrant blue house is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Marrakech and a must-see. It is located a little further from the medina, so I would recommend taking a taxi or walking a little to the main square. The beautiful house and gardens were originally created by Jaques Majorelle, which invented this intense blue tone, called “Majorelle blue”. Later, the property was purchased by Yves St Laurent, who restored the house and botanical garden to their former splendor. Nowadays it is like a tropical oasis, with plants and cacti from around the world that contrast with the blues and yellows of the house.

The price of admission to the garden is 70 Dhs (about 7 € / USD). Admission to the museum costs 30 Dhs (some 3 € / USD). The house and gardens are open 8:00 a 17:30 every day and 8:00 a 18:00 in the summer months.

Advice: just like in the other palaces, I recommend that you go as early as possible to avoid the crowds, especially if you like taking photos. You can also book your ticket or tour in advance.

 

Mezquita Koutoubia

Take a walk around the square around the Koutoubia Mosque and watch people go about their daily lives. You will see small market stalls with fresh fruit, of crafts and a beautiful park right next to the mosque. The mosque's minaret can serve as a reference if you are lost in the Medina, since it is the tallest building in the city.

 

The mansion of Photography

The “House of Photography” It is a museum where you can enjoy historical photographs of Morocco.
If you are interested in photography, We highly recommend a visit to this museum. It is a small oasis away from the lively medina. Entry costs 50 dirhams (some 5 € / USD), and the opening hours are 9:30am a 7 pm.

Advice: The highlight of the visit awaits you on the roof of the museum. There is a small restaurant with a wonderful view: be sure to stop by!

 

La Mamounia

Surely you have heard about this spectacular and well-known luxury hotel in Marrakech. It is an imposing walled hotel, located in 130.000 m2. Personalities from all over the world have stayed there. (listed as one of the 7 hotels with the greatest historical importance in the world). It is part of the assets of Morocco that the government plans to privatize. I recommend that you take a little time during your visit to the city to at least visit it., either by going in to enjoy live music while having a drink or snack in one of its restaurants or bars., or enjoying a treatment or half a day of relaxation at your spa. Get lost in its intricate interior and enjoy its different common rooms, courtyards and gardens.

 

Visit a Hamman, and if you have time also enjoy a good massage.

Some of my favorites are: The Sultana, Wa Marrakech,The Oriental Baths, Céline Spa or Mamounia Spa.

 

Pass by the Puerta Bab Agnaon.

One of the 19 gates of the wall that surrounds the Medina. It was built in the 12th century, and it is the most spectacular of all. As a royal entrance door, Its function was originally decorative, with sections of alternating stones and bricks, framing 3 panels with an inscription from the Koran.

 

IDEAS OF POSSIBLE ITINERARIES

 

A) 3-4 days:

Day 1. – The Medina and its markets.

Everything in Marrakech takes place within the bustle of the Medina, the walled and oldest part of the city. The medina is the old town of Marrakech and a labyrinth of supposedly narrow streets. Getting your bearings in the medina is practically impossible. So keep going, get lost and see where your path takes you.

Spend the day absorbing the sounds, the smells and sights of this unique part of the city, walking and also experiencing the different souks and squares.

Day 2. – Discover the architecture of Marrakech (you can divide it into 2 days if you want to go at a slower pace)

Enjoy the second day visiting beautiful buildings. Take your time to enjoy, Take photos and compare the traditional Moroccan architecture and designs of arches and blue tiles, with the most innovative designs of some artistic buildings and museums.

Day 3. – A day to take care of yourself.

Start the day with a good Moroccan breakfast in your Riad or in an authentic cafe to gain energy. Later, Taking a walk, head to a Hammam to live a unique and relaxing experience..

A hammam is a meeting place, a place of tranquility and relaxation. It plays an important role in the social life of Moroccans. To men, Women and children love the ritual of black soap and body scrubs.
Depending on your budget, you will be able to experience the local bath for a few dirhams, or choose to visit a private tourist hammam. either way, It is an experience that I recommend that you live at least once..

 

B) 4-5 days: itinerary similar to the previous one + day visit to a nearby place of interest such as: Casablanca, Chefchaouen or the Sahara desert.

 

WHERE TO STAY

Take the opportunity and stay in one of the beautiful riads (guesthouse) from the city. It is the best way to see the impressive details of Moroccan architecture. On the outside they are usually sand-colored and have basic architecture.. Nevertheless, once you open the door, there is a completely different world. A world of wonderful colored tiles, Detailed patterns and plants that are typically centered around a dream pool. Staying in a riad is definitely a tranquil experience that provides an oasis of tranquility away from the noises of Marrakech..

You will find riads adjusted to all types of budgets, from the most luxurious to those somewhat more basic, but all of them will surely have a lot of charm and personality, and they will be the perfect oasis to rest and escape from the hustle and bustle of the streets of Marrakech.

On our last trip we stayed at Riad Sakkan, and everything was perfect. Delicious breakfast, spacious and beautiful rooms and well-kept common areas with swimming pool and different terraces. Other riads that look very good are: Riad L’Atelier, Riad Dar Darma, Riad Tarabel, Riad BE, Riad no.37.

Pinch here to find many good accommodation options in Marrakech.

 

WHAT TO EAT IN MOROCCO:

Moroccan food comes from Arab cuisine with very characteristic dishes, with some french influence, Spanish and Portuguese, but they do not change their Islamic roots.

tajine: It is a clay pot/oven in which a dish that is also called tagine is mainly cooked.. There are a few different versions but the most common is spicy chicken seasoned with lemon. It is usually served with Moroccan bread..

Cus cuus: accompanied with vegetables, lamb or chicken. They are traditionally prepared on Fridays and eaten by hand. (you have to have a lot of practice for this).

Bissara: It is a puree of broad beans with olive oil and is eaten both for breakfast and as an accompaniment to other dishes..

Maakouda: It is like a potato fritter that is eaten as an appetizer or in a sandwich with a typical sauce that adds flavor..

Hang out: as well as the tajine, Its name is derived from the instrument in which it is cooked. It is a meat cooked slowly with garlic and spices..

Kefta: It is a minced meat with spices that can come in a tagine or in the form of skewers..

WHERE TO EAT

The list of places that I like where I can eat or have a drink is varied and long., There are many good options and you probably don't have enough time to visit them all.!. So, Choose your favorites and enjoy the gastronomy and atmosphere of the best restaurants, cafes and terraces of the city.

Some essentials in my opinion are: Bacha Coffee if you are a coffee lover, The Fenn rooftop to enjoy a drink or a snack while you enjoy the sunset, Cafe Restaurant Dar L'hssira to enjoy delicious typical food, Carne de Gazelle Pastry Chez Brahim, L'mida, Le Jardin to relax with a mint tea on its patio, The Pergola, Nomad and Dardar to continue enjoying more beautiful sunsets.

Pinch here to see my map with the complete list and location of the places I recommend.

WHAT TO BUY IN MARRAKECH

Some of the items I would recommend that are worth purchasing during your stay in Marrakech are: ceramics (especially the colorful plates, tea cups or tagine set), artisan slippers, local spices, Argan oil
and jasmine, rattan hats and bags, pashminas or fulares, handmade soaps, rugs and other home textiles.

Depending on your taste, some handmade furniture that we saw in different stores was very original and of good quality. Enjoy your purchases!

 

MY MAP OF MARRAKECH

I also share with you my map from the city, with all those places that I recommend and that I liked, from riads, terraces, restaurants and hammams to shops or tourist attractions.

 

MORE PHOTOS OF MARRAKECH

You can see more photos of my favorite places in Marrakech by clicking here.

I hope you enjoy your trip and that this complete guide to Marrakech has been helpful when planning your perfect getaway.. Write to me in the comments or on my social networks if you have any questions and I will be happy to help you with whatever I can!.

 

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