The Traveling Taylors

Marrakech is a feast for the senses—buzzing souks, lantern-lit riads, and the Atlas Mountains on the horizon. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when planning your trip. To help, we’ve rounded up the top 15 Marrakech things to do—a mix of iconic landmarks, cultural traditions, and unique adventures that make the Red City unforgettable.

1. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

The city’s heartbeat—street performers, food stalls, and endless energy. Best at night. In the thick of those after-dark crowds, many travelers feel safer keeping their valuables tucked away in a hidden RFID-blocking money belt like this one.

2. The Souks of Marrakech

Shop for spices, lanterns, rugs, and leather goods in the medina’s maze of markets. You’ll cover a lot of uneven ground here, so a pair of supportive walking sneakers like these makes all the difference.

3. Bahia Palace

A 19th-century gem with intricate tilework and serene courtyards. Many travelers recommend bringing a high-quality travel action camera like this one to capture stunning photos and immersive videos of the palace.

4. El Badi Palace

Explore atmospheric ruins with stork nests perched on crumbling walls.

5. Saadian Tombs

Resting place of the Saadian dynasty, rediscovered in 1917.

6. Koutoubia Mosque

Marrakech’s most famous landmark—visible across the city, glowing at sunset. If you want to capture that golden-hour glow properly, a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one is worth packing.

7. Jardin Majorelle & Yves Saint Laurent Museum

A cobalt-blue villa surrounded by exotic plants, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.

8. Le Jardin Secret

A hidden oasis inside the medina with Islamic and exotic gardens.

9. Traditional Hammam

Experience Moroccan bathing culture—steam, scrub, and total relaxation. If you’d like the full ritual for yourself, you can book a traditional hammam and massage session.

10. Hot Air Balloon Ride

Float over the desert and Atlas Mountains at sunrise—unforgettable views. Since these sunrise flights start early and run long, some visitors bring a portable power bank like this one to keep phones charged for photos.

11. Cooking Class

Learn to make tagine, couscous, and mint tea with a local chef. It’s easy to join a hands-on Moroccan cooking class that starts with a trip to the market.

12. Rooftop Dining

Watch the sunset with Moroccan fusion dishes at Nomad or Café des Épices. Trying new foods while traveling is part of the experience, and a portable electric toothbrush and water flosser combo like this one can help keep your teeth clean after long days of dining out.

13. Day Trip to the Agafay Desert

Just outside Marrakech, ride camels or quads through rocky desert landscapes. Many travelers book an Agafay Desert quad, camel ride, and dinner-show experience to make a whole evening of it.

14. Explore Gueliz

Marrakech’s modern side—art galleries, chic cafés, and boutique shopping.

15. Menara Gardens

A tranquil escape with olive groves and Atlas views, especially beautiful at sunset. If you want steady shots of that reflecting pool at dusk, a compact selfie stick tripod like this one comes in handy.

Tips for Planning Your Marrakech Trip

• Best time to visit: Spring (March–May) and autumn (Sept–Nov).
• Dress modestly: Shoulders and knees covered for comfort and respect.
• Cash is king: Many shops don’t take cards. For travelers who want quick access to small amounts of cash, a compact wristlet wallet like this one is perfect for carrying cards, cash while walking around.
• Stay in a riad: For a true Marrakech experience, book inside the medina.

Marrakech Things to Do

From rooftop sunsets to ancient palaces, hammams to hot air balloon rides, the best Marrakech things to do balance culture, history, and adventure. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, this city always has a surprise waiting around the next corner.

Ready to plan your stay? Check out our Marrakech Riad Guide to choose the perfect base for your adventures.