The red city at the gates of the desert and the Atlas, Marrakech is often the first stop on a trip to Morocco. Between the UNESCO-listed medina, its maze of souks, its palaces and its gardens, there is a lot to see. Here is our perfect itinerary for visiting Marrakech in 3 days, tested by our guides.
Day 1: the medina and Jemaa el-Fna square
Start with the Koutoubia, whose 12th-century minaret towers over the city and is a landmark in the medina. Then head to the Saadian Tombs and the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century masterpiece of zellige tiles and painted wood.
In the afternoon, get lost in the souks: the dyers’ souk, the slipper souk, the spice souk… A local guide keeps you from going round in circles and opens the doors of craft workshops. At sunset, climb onto a terrace to watch Jemaa el-Fna square light up, then go down to eat at the stalls: our guide to Jemaa el-Fna street food tells you everything.
Day 2: gardens, Gueliz and the palm grove
In the morning, arrive at opening time at the Majorelle Garden, with its famous blue, its cacti and its ponds, then visit the neighbouring Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Continue to the modern Gueliz district for a coffee.
In the afternoon, change scenery with a quad ride in the palm grove or a camel ride, before a traditional dinner in a riad.
Day 3: a trip to the Atlas
Less than an hour’s drive away, the Ourika valley offers Berber villages, waterfalls and lunch by the river. Another option: the village of Imlil, at the foot of Toubkal, for an easy hike with views of the peaks. Back in Marrakech in the late afternoon for a final tanjia or a hammam.
Where to stay in Marrakech
To experience the city from the inside, choose a riad in the medina: a traditional house built around a courtyard, quiet and full of charm. Discover our charming riad in the medina.
Our practical tips
- The best months to visit Marrakech are March-May and October-November (see the best time to visit Morocco).
- Bargain in the souks with a smile: the first price is only a starting point.
- Politely decline improvised “guides” and choose an official guide.
- Carry cash in dirhams: many small shops do not take cards.
Go further: our guide to the Marrakech souks, our 6 day trips from Marrakech and hiking in the High Atlas.
Marrakech is also the ideal starting point for the Sahara: discover our 3-day Merzouga desert tour from Marrakech.
