25 Best things to see & do in Marrakech

UNESCO World Heritage-listed central square that hums with snake charmers, musicians, magicians and other exotics.

Safari into vast seas of unending sands, camel trek across vast, silent and unearthly landscapes, and admire unrivalled sunsets and sunrises, and star-studded skies.

Shady roof-terraces, plant-filled courtyards and the bewitching medina just outside the door – staying in a riad is the best way to experience authentic Marrakech.

The world’s quintessential Arabic bazaar, the Medina’s maze-like souks are a shopper’s paradise.

Drift above evocative Marrakech, awash with vibrant colours, geometric patterns, and labyrinthine streets. Then it’s out over dramatic, arid landscapes of the Atlas Mountains, looking down onto traditional Berber villages.

Ride a camel across stark, lunar-like landscapes before dinner beneath the stars during an evening escape into the Agafay Desert, just 45 minutes from Marrakech.

A splendid former Koranic school, dating to the 14th century, of remarkable architectural detail and beauty. 

Mandy’s summary of the typical food ingredients and flavours, cooking styles, dining scene in Marrakech – and its best foodie experiences

An everyday Moroccan ritual, a traditional hammam visit is a signature Marrakech experience, featuring rhassoul clay from the Atlas Mountains and locally-sourced Argan oil.

One of the two international museums dedicated to the Yves Saint Laurent fashion house, displaying iconic pieces by the famed designer in an architecturally-interesting building.

A well-respected film festival featuring works from around the globe, and offering the unique chance to watch a movie in the Jemaa el Fna.

Try the challenging but rewarding 2-5 day climb to the summit of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Two hours’ drive from Marrakech.

Hands-on half or full-day workshops allow students to learn traditional Moroccan handicrafts alongside master craftspeople in their studios throughout Marrakech.

Luxuriant twelve-acre botanical gardens designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle who lived here in the 1920s and 1930s. Also once owned by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

An impressive 19th-century palace with intricate Byzantine designs, Dar Si Said is home to a huge collection of artworks, instruments, arms and some of the oldest artifacts in the city.

A bustling Thursday flea market that’s the go-to for authentic homewares and furnishings. It’s held in this imposing gate in the Medina walls.

A superb collection of North African and Islamic art amassed by the late Yves Saint Laurent. The small museum is housed within the former studio of the original owner, artist Jacques Majorelle.

Tranquil Medina riad housing an interesting collection of photographs documenting Moroccan life from the 1870s-1950s, that gives the best insight into life in the city before tourism arrived.

Royal tombs of the Saadi dynasty, dating back to the 16th century, decorated with mosaics and intricate woodwork. There are no explanation panels to explain the historical relevance, so only really worthwhile if you’re interested in decorative arts.

The (shell) remains of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur’s colossal, 16th-century palace. Once one of the world’s great monuments, it was stripped bare in the 17th century.

Bustling with fishmongers and butchers, street vendors selling in-season fruit and veg, bread fresh from the local oven, and more. In between, small kitchens serve street food specialties through the morning and afternoon.

Out-of-town industrial estate, chock full of artisan shops and the best homewares at good prices. Advanced shoppers, who have done the main souks, graduate here.

A high terrace provides panoramic views of the medina, including the Atlas Mountains in winter months. Time a visit with when the muezzins call the prayer from the surrounding mosques for additional Arabian atmosphere.

Marrakech’s first concept store, just down the road from the YSL Museum, rotates an impressive selection of designs by contemporary Moroccan creators.

Nestled inside the Dar el Bacha palace, Bacha Cafe is elegance at its finest. Coffee recommendations are suggested based on time of day, and are best accompanied by a treat from the cake counter.