Marrakech is a must. A must-visit, must-see, must-do, must-experience and must-live city. You don’t immerse yourself in it – it immerses itself in you. It’s bursting with world-class attractions such as Djemaa El Fna square, the Koutoubia Mosque, secret gardens and a palace-packed Medina. Plus, it’s also a handy base from which to explore some of Morocco’s top attractions. Aït Benhaddou, Essaouira and the Ouzoud waterfalls are about 3 hours’ drive away. And when the sun goes down, Marrakech becomes a tasty treat – one where you can munch on street food or feast on a lavish dinner in a riad.
Top six things to do in Marrakech
1. Meander through the medieval Medina
Hemmed in by medieval walls, the Medina of Marrakech is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a labyrinth criss-crossed by trinket-lined alleys and dotted with spice-scented souks, mosques and palaces. All roads lead to the vast Djemaa El Fna square – the snake-charming, acrobat-dancing, music-making and snack-sizzling beating heart of the city. Then there’s the Koutoubia Mosque, whose magnificent minaret has watched over Marrakech for more than 800 years. Just inside the southern walls is the lavish Bahia Palace while just outside are the ruins of the Badia Palace. There’s so much to see that a guided tour is the most convenient option as you’ll be able to prioritise the best bits.
2. Discover the city’s garden oases
You never quite know what’s behind a peeling-paint wall in Marrakech. But a few hide oases that are just waiting for you to discover. Within the Medina is a riad that boasts a rather special patio. So much so that it earned itself the name of Secret Garden over the centuries. Beautifully landscaped, its tiled pathways and the soothing sound of its ancient irrigation system lend it an otherworldly atmosphere amid the manic Medina. And beyond the walls is another oasis that for many is Marrakech’s most seductive attraction. Fashion designer Yves Saint-Laurent bought the Jardin Majorelle in the 80s and put his own stamp on the gardens. Bamboos, cacti, palm trees and water features are overlooked by an electric blue art deco villa. Adjacent to the gardens is a museum dedicated to the great man’s life and showcases his sketches and designs.
3. See the awesome Ouzoud waterfalls
There’s so much to experience in Marrakech that it needs to be something truly special to drag you out of the city. The Ouzoud waterfalls more than fit the bill. And the scenic journey out is also a tasty hors d’oeuvre for what lies ahead. These multi-tiered cascades in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains are one of Morocco’s most photographed natural attractions. The falls are also home to a troop of playful Barbary apes, usually on the lookout for a handful of nuts.
4. Film yourself in Aït Benhaddou
If you think you’ve seen Aït Benhaddou before, it’s because you likely have – lots of times. With more screen credits on its CV than many an A-lister, it’s been a go-to location for directors since time immemorial. Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Jewel of the Nile, Game of Thrones – they’ve all used Aït Benhaddou as a backdrop. This UNESCO-listed fortified village – known as a ksar in Morocco – is a joy to explore. Find your inner compass while you film yourself wandering the dusty alleys of red clay buildings. When it’s rainy season and the river is full, your photos of this hilltop village will be even more spectacular.
5. Wind your way through Essaouira
On the Atlantic coast west of Marrakech, the wind-swept city of Essaouira is a breath of fresh air. And it has Hollywood glamour of its own as well as a prized UNESCO listing to boot. Its crumbling Medina feels like it was built for Instagram, with a palette of pastel-coloured cobbled alleys. The wave-washed ramparts, known as the Skala, offer a glorious walking route around the old town all the way to the Genoese-built medieval citadel. It stands guard over a port packed with electric-blue rowing boats. And to round off your visit, make sure to savour some of the local street food. Herby sardine meatballs are one of the local specialities.
6. Eat like a local in Marrakech
The scents of food drift through the air in Marrakech. At every turn, a stall tempts or a riad beckons, and your stomach succumbs. In Djemaa El Fna, slow-cooked, cumin-infused lamb is a favourite with the locals. You can find tajines here, too, but this is a dish so special that it deserves a visit to a riad. Savouring these dishes in a historic, arched courtyard is one of life’s little pleasures. Organised tours including transport mean you can enjoy the meal without a worry.
