The Traveling Taylors

Marrakech is a city that overwhelms—in the best way possible. Between vibrant souks, centuries-old palaces, and rooftop views over the Atlas Mountains, it’s a destination packed with unforgettable moments. But with so much to see, how do you choose? To help, we’ve rounded up the top 12 Marrakech highlights—the experiences that capture the heart of the Red City.

1. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

The beating heart of Marrakech, this square transforms at night into a buzzing world of street food, musicians, and storytellers.
Highlight: Try freshly squeezed orange juice by day and sizzling kebabs by night. Since you’ll likely be out from afternoon until late, a portable power bank like this one keeps your phone alive for all those night-market photos.

2. The Souks of Marrakech

Lose yourself in a labyrinth of spices, carpets, lanterns, and leather goods.
Highlight: Bargain respectfully—it’s expected and part of the fun. You’ll be on your feet for hours navigating the maze, so a pair of supportive walking sneakers like these makes all the difference.

3. Bahia Palace

This 19th-century masterpiece is filled with mosaics, painted ceilings, and sunlit courtyards.
Highlight: The marble courtyard—it’s the palace’s most photogenic spot. If you want steady, hands-free shots of those ceilings, a smart face-tracking phone tripod like this is a handy thing to pack. To skip the queues and hear the palace’s history, you can join a guided Bahia Palace and medina tour.

4. Jardin Majorelle & Yves Saint Laurent Museum

A striking cobalt-blue villa surrounded by exotic plants, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
Highlight: Pair your visit with the museum for fashion-meets-art inspiration.

5. Koutoubia Mosque

Marrakech’s most iconic landmark with a 77-meter minaret visible across the city.
Highlight: Best viewed at sunset when the mosque glows golden. To do that golden light justice, many photographers bring a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one.

6. El Badi Palace

A ruined 16th-century palace with vast courtyards and rooftop stork nests.
Highlight: Climb the terrace for panoramic city views. With so many visitors packed onto the terraces, it’s smart to keep your valuables tucked away in a hidden RFID-blocking money belt like this.

7. Saadian Tombs

Rediscovered in 1917, these ornate tombs are small but historically rich.
Highlight: The Chamber of the Twelve Columns—stunning Islamic artistry.

8. Le Jardin Secret

A hidden riad with two gardens—one exotic, one Islamic—right in the medina.
Highlight: Stop for mint tea at the rooftop café overlooking the medina.

9. Marrakech Hammam Experience

From luxury spas to local bathhouses, hammams are a Moroccan tradition of steam, soap, and exfoliation.
Highlight: Pair a scrub with an argan oil massage for ultimate relaxation. You can book a traditional hammam and massage session ahead of time.

10. Hot Air Balloon Over the Atlas Mountains

Drift above desert plains and Berber villages as the sun rises.
Highlight: The moment the mountains light up in soft morning glow. To catch it from above, you can reserve a sunrise Atlas Mountains balloon flight.

11. Gueliz: The Modern Side of Marrakech

The new town offers chic cafés, art galleries, and boutique shopping.
Highlight: Dinner at Le Grand Café de la Poste for French-Moroccan fusion.

12. Rooftop Dining at Sunset

No Marrakech trip is complete without dinner under lanterns on a rooftop terrace.
Highlight: Nomad and Café des Épices are traveler favorites with incredible views. Many travelers recommend bringing a high-quality travel action camera like this one to capture stunning photos and videos of the sunset.

Marrakech Highlights

From chaotic squares to peaceful gardens, the Marrakech highlights are all about contrasts. Mix in iconic landmarks like Bahia Palace with unique experiences like hammams and rooftop dinners, and you’ll discover why Marrakech is one of the world’s most unforgettable cities.