Marrakech is bustling, loud, colorful, and completely different from anything we know from Europe. We’ve been there twice now, and each time it was intense, exciting, and also a bit chaotic. On our first visit, we didn’t know where to begin. The second time, we were able to delve deeper and discover many of Marrakech’s sights at our own pace.
For us, Marrakech was the starting and finishing point of our Morocco tour. In this article, we’ll show you our favorite sights in Marrakech, reveal real highlights, and give you practical tips for your city trip to this fascinating city. Enjoy browsing.
- Marrakech sights at a glance
- Sights and highlights in Marrakech
- Restaurant tips & Cafes
- Great excursions from Marrakech
- Our best travel tips for Marrakech
- FAQ Marrakech – frequently asked questions about the city
Marrakech sights at a glance
So that you don’t lose track, we have created aGoogle Maps map on which all Marrakech sights, highlights, tips and our favorite places are marked. This way you can easily plan your route and don’t miss anything.
For a first impression of the city, we recommend a guided tour with a local guide.
- Medina South: Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Souk and Medina Tour*
- Medina North: Madrassa Ben Youssef, Secret Garden & Medina Tour*
By loading the map, you accept Google’s privacy policy.
Learn more
Load map
Sights and Highlights in Marrakech
1. Ben Youssef Koranic School
One of our highlights in Marrakech was definitely the visit to the Ben Youssef Koranic School. It is one of the most beautiful sights in the city, and quite rightly so. It used to be one of the most important Islamic educational institutions in North Africa. Today, it is a fascinating place to marvel at and discover.
The courtyard is a true work of art. Turquoise mosaics, delicate cedarwood carvings, small pools, and finely crafted stone ornaments make this place special. We could have stayed there for hours. The atmosphere is calm and almost meditative. A perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the medina.
It’s hard to believe that up to 900 students once lived and studied here. If you’re interested in architecture, you’ll be amazed not only here, but everywhere in Morocco. Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid large tour groups.
- Admission: Adults 50 Dirhams; Children under 12 10 Dirhams
- Opening hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Oct.–March until 6 p.m.)
- How much time do you have? 45–60 minutes on site
- Tour: Guided tour of the complex*
2. Bahia Palace
If you’re in Marrakech, you shouldn’t miss the Bahia Palace. It’s located south of the Medina and, in our opinion, is one of the most beautiful sights in Marrakech. The palace was built in the second half of the 19th century and boasts an impressive area of around 8,000 square meters.
Over 160 rooms, riads, and spacious courtyards with ornate tiles, magnificent gardens, and many loving details await you. We particularly enjoyed the courtyards with their plants and colorful mosaics. Our guide gave us fascinating insights, especially into the interplay of Moorish and Andalusian architecture. If you have a penchant for tiles, you’ll love this place. The rooms are empty, but the architecture still has an impact. You get a good idea of how magnificently the viziers once lived here. The name Bahia means “the splendid one” in Arabic. The film industry has also discovered the palace and used it as a backdrop. Today, the Bahia Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission: Adults 100 Dirhams; Children n/a. Opening hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. How much time do you have? 90 minutes on site
‼️ Note 2025: When we were there in May, the palace was extremely crowded and partially obscured by construction fences. According to security, a visit is best done shortly before closing time, as it is likely to be very crowded even early in the morning.
3. El Badi Palace
The El Badi Palace used to be the largest and most magnificent complex in the entire country. Upon our arrival, we could immediately sense the enormous dimensions of the buildings and living spaces. Today, unfortunately, only the foundations of the former palace remain. Nevertheless, this spacious area with its small gardens offers plenty of space for peace and relaxation.
Here, you won’t notice the hustle and bustle of the city. We sat by the large pool for a few minutes and enjoyed the moment. Be sure to take a look at the walls. You’re sure to see one of the many storks there. They nest here and have become a symbol of the square. Several cafés and restaurants were named after them.
We were truly impressed by the size of the complex. It never seemed crowded, as the visitors were well spread out. During our second trip (May 2025), we did not visit the palace because there was a lot of construction work going on, and much of it was hidden behind construction fences. Back then, admission was only 10 dirhams; it is now 100.
- Admission: Adults 100 dirhams; children n/a
- Opening hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- How much time do you have? 60–90 minutes on site
4. Saadian Tombs
Not far from El Badi Palace are the Saadian Tombs. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and among the most important sights in Marrakech. Seven sultans and other members of the Saadian dynasty were buried here.
Two magnificent mausoleums with ornate details made of marble, cedar wood, and mosaics demonstrate how much importance was placed on magnificent architecture at that time. The tombs give you a fascinating insight into the history of Marrakech and show how magnificently the rulers lived – and were buried.
- Admission: Adults 100 Dirhams; Children 30 Dirhams
- Opening hours: Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- How much time? 30-60 minutes on site
- Tour: Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs & Koutoubia Mosque*
5. Djemaa el Fna Square
The Djemaa el Fna Square used to be the heart of Marrakech. A square full of life, magic, and stories. During the day, water sellers, snake charmers, and musicians roamed the area. In the evening, the square transformed into a huge open-air restaurant with food stalls, the sound of drums, and clouds of smoke in the air.
We had been there once before and found the atmosphere truly special. Unfortunately, not much of it remained on our current visit. Instead of storytellers and street performers, you’ll now find mostly vendors selling Chinese goods and kitschy souvenirs. The atmosphere has somehow been lost.
Our honest opinion: It’s not a must-see. The square is loud, hectic, and, for us, has little charm. Lots of kitsch, lots of noise, and, above all, lots of show. But as always, it’s a matter of taste—perhaps you’ll feel differently. Sooner or later, you’ll pass by the square anyway. So it’s best to see for yourself.
‼️ Very important:At the Djemaa el Fna, you can take photos with snakes, monkeys, and other animals. Please do not support this. These animals are often kept under questionable conditions, chained, tranquilized, or trained simply to entertain tourists and make money. It may look “exotic,” but there’s a lot of suffering behind it. Put down your camera and just keep walking.
6. Jardin Majorelle (YSL Museum)
A visit to the Jardin Majorelle is a must for many in Marrakech. The approximately 4,000 square meter garden was opened to the public in 1947 and later purchased by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner. The fashion designer found not only peace here but also much inspiration. His ashes were scattered in the rose garden after his death in 2008.
Since then, a foundation has been responsible for preserving the complex. Over 300 plant species from all five continents now grow here. Particularly eye-catching are the giant cacti, the vibrant Majorelle blue on the walls and pots, and the many small details that make the garden so special.
‼️ ATTENTION: Tickets must be booked online in advance for a fixed time slot. We recommend choosing the latest possible entry time (after 4 or 5 p.m.). It is much quieter then, and the light in the garden is particularly beautiful.
- Admission: Adults 170 dirhams (also combination tickets with the museum)
- Opening hours: daily from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- How much time do you have? 60–90 minutes (on site, excluding museums)
- Tour: Majorelle Garden, YSL and Entrance to the Berber Museum*
7. Souks in Marrakech
Next, we head to the souks of Marrakech. Bolle was in seventh heaven. So many handmade and oriental treasures in one place. Leather stools, lamps, fabrics – she would have loved to take them all with her. Incidentally, Marrakech boasts the largest bazaar in Africa, and here you can really immerse yourself in shopping.
The alleys are still somewhat sorted by handicrafts. There are areas for leather, wood, lamps, spices, carpets, wool, and much more. Getting lost is definitely inevitable here, because everything looks the same. But that’s precisely what makes it so appealing.
When shopping, the rule is: Negotiate! Start with 20 percent of the quoted price. If you end up paying half, that’s a good deal. Stay friendly, no matter how tough it gets. Bargaining is part of the culture here.
Tip for a break: The Café des Épices is located in the heart of the souks and has a lovely rooftop terrace overlooking the hustle and bustle. We’ve marked other great spots in the Medina on Google Maps.
- Souk Semmarine Markt (textiles, leather goods, bags, shoes, kaftans, etc.)
- Souk El Attarine (spices, perfume oils, natural cosmetics, and traditional pharmacies)
- Souk Cherratine (all leather products)
- Souk Chouari (numerous woodwork workshops)
- Souk Haddadine (traditional lanterns, lamps, and ornate metalwork)
- Place des Épices (spice merchants, herbal pharmacies, fabrics, hats, and baskets)
8. Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum
The Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum is a real insider tip if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the medina. It’s super quiet, not at all crowded, and there’s no admission charge. You can simply walk in, stroll through the beautifully restored rooms, marvel at the beautiful courtyard, and learn more about Moroccan food culture.
There are traditional cooking utensils, information on spices, recipes, and many details about cooking and eating in Morocco. On the ground floor, you’ll find a small café with a cute courtyard. Upstairs, there’s a restaurant with a rooftop terrace. A really cool place to have something to eat afterwards or simply enjoy the view over the rooftops of the city.
- Admission: free
- Opening hours: daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- How much time do you have? 30–60 minutes on site
- Special: Book a cooking class at the museum
9. Dar Bacha Museum
The Dar Bacha Museum is one of the most beautiful palaces in Marrakech. It is located in the heart of the medina and was formerly the residence of the pasha. Today, it houses a small but well-organized exhibition on Morocco’s cultural diversity, with influences from Islam, Judaism, and Christianity.
The courtyard is stunningly beautiful, with orange trees, fountains, and colorful mosaics. During the day, however, it is very crowded, especially because of the popular Bacha Coffee in the same building. It offers over 200 varieties of single-origin coffee from all over the world. The atmosphere in the café is rather sophisticated. If you want to experience the museum in peace, it’s best to come in the late afternoon.
- Admission: Adults 60 dirhams; children n/a
- Opening hours: Tue.–Sun. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- How much time do you have? 30–60 minutes on site
- Tip: It’s best to reserve a seat in the café in advance, otherwise you’ll have to wait a long time!
10. Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is also interesting and beautiful to look at. It is the largest mosque in Marrakech and one of the oldest in the entire country. However, as a non-Muslim, you are not allowed to enter this mosque. Around the mosque you will also find the highest concentration of taxis and horse-drawn carriages.
11. Tanneries in Marrakech
The tanners’ quarter in Marrakech (in the northeast of the medina) sounds more exciting on paper than it actually is. The reality: very pushy people who want to drag you into certain tanneries, extremely unpleasant smells, and prices that are sometimes three times as high as in the regular souks.
Many visitors report extremely unpleasant experiences – from aggressive sellers to tourist traps where you end up paying even though you only took a quick look. If you really want to see the traditional tanning craft, go to Fez. For everyone else: Avoid this corner of the medina at all costs!
Our riad owner also advised us to avoid the area. And she wasn’t the only one who thought so. Check out the reviews on Google Maps: Tanneries Marrakech.
12. Le Jardin Secret
The Jardin Secret is located in the heart of the medina and sounds promising at first. A beautiful garden, restored according to historical models, with traditional architecture and small paths between cacti and fountains. Sounds quiet and mysterious – but unfortunately, it isn’t.
During the day, the small garden is extremely crowded, and of course, nothing is truly secret here. At 100 dirhams, the entrance fee is, in our opinion, quite expensive for what you’ll experience. Yes, it’s beautifully laid out and architecturally interesting, but you won’t miss anything if you skip this stop.
- Admission: Adults 100 dirhams; children 80 dirhams (view from the tower costs 40 dirhams extra)
- Opening hours: Daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- How much time? 30–45 minutes on site
- Tour: Bahia Palace, Madrasa Ben Youssef, and Secret Garden*
Restaurant tips & cafés
In Marrakech, you sometimes don’t know where to eat first. The aroma is everywhere, small restaurants, cool cafés, rooftops with views, and food stalls on every corner. The selection is huge and doesn’t exactly make the decision any easier. Here are a few tips for you:
La Pergola: Stylish rooftop in the heart of the medina with live music in the evenings and delicious food. More expensive, but the atmosphere is perfect. Advance reservations are required via the website, otherwise you’ll have to wait.
Bigua Café & Restaurant: Located in the heart of the medina, very close to the Marrakesh Museum. The food is super fresh, much of it organic, and beautifully presented. The tagine and pesto pasta were delicious!
Aqua Panorama Restaurant: Rooftop right on Jemaa el-Fna with a view over the square. Perfect for observing the hustle and bustle from above while relaxing with a mint tea. More for a quick break.
Mandala Society: Lovely café with a great breakfast, completely vegetarian and with many vegan options. Very European, but super relaxed and really delicious.
Pikala Café: Casual café with a social project in the background. They serve breakfast, smoothies, and healthy dishes. The location itself is colorful and coolly decorated. Definitely a little oasis in the middle of the medina.
Restaurant Dar Sghira: Small street snack bar with Moroccan dishes in a family atmosphere.
Good Vibes Coffee Shop: Small window café with great coffee and a really relaxed vibe. The espresso is delicious!
Atay Café: Cozy café in the middle of the medina with a terrace and delicious coffee. We always enjoy coming back.
Special Tip: Cooking Class in Marrakech
One of our favorite evenings in Marrakech was the cooking class with a shopping trip to the market. Together with twelve other participants, we first strolled through the alleys, picking up fresh vegetables, spices, and ingredients for dinner, and learned a lot about Moroccan cuisine.
Afterward, we went into a small open kitchen. Super authentic, totally relaxed, and really fun. We cooked a tagine together and, of course, ate it straight away. Perfect as an evening activity and a great way to connect with other globetrotters.
Great Day Trips from Marrakech
There’s also plenty to discover outside of Marrakech. The surrounding area is diverse, with rocky deserts, green valleys, artificial gardens, and waterfalls. If you have more time, these excursions are definitely worth it.
1. Agafay Desert
The Agafay Desert is only about 40 minutes from Marrakech and is perfect for a day trip. Instead of sand dunes, you’ll find a stone and rocky landscape with a truly beautiful backdrop. We did a really cool quad tour* there and found it to be incredibly diverse.
Desert camps, where you can stay overnight, are also popular. Many offer open-air dinners, campfires, and live music. If you get up early, you can even take a balloon ride at sunrise, which is sure to be a very special experience.
- Sunset in the Agafay Desert, Camel Ride and Dinner Show*
- Agafay Desert Inara Camp Pool Day Pass with Lunch*
- Agafay Desert Retreat, Tent, Dinner, Show & Pool*
- Hot air balloon ride over the Marrakech desert*
2. Anima Garden
The ANIMA GARDEN by André Heller is a colorful mix of plants, art, and beautifully landscaped paths. Luminous sculptures stand between palm trees and cacti, and there are small seating areas and quiet corners everywhere. When we were there, it was wonderfully empty, and we were able to truly enjoy the peace and quiet.
The complex is located about 45 minutes outside of Marrakech and is easily accessible by free shuttle bus. On clear days, you even have a clear view of the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains from the café terrace. For us definitely the most beautiful garden in and around Marrakech!
- Entry: Adults 140 Dirhams; children 60 Dirhams and free
- Opening hours: daily. from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- How much time? 1.5 to 2 hours on site
- Tickets: Book online in advance*
3. Waky Marrakech
Waky Marrakech is a modern wakeboarding facility on the artificial lake on the outskirts of the city. You can get on the board yourself or just chill by the water. There are loungers, a bar, and relaxing music. To us, it almost seemed like a small beach club in the middle of the desert. A cool place to unwind, even for non-athletes.
- Prices: 350 dirhams per hour including equipment | Day pass 800 Dirhams
- Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Getting there: approx. 25 minutes by car
4. Ourika Valley
The Ourika Valley is located about an hour from Marrakech and is a popular day trip, especially in summer. It is green, fresh, and a nice change from the heat in the city.
Along the river, there are many simple cafés and restaurants, often with tables directly in the water. If you’re looking for some exercise, you can also hike to the waterfalls. It’s marketed for tourism, but the scenery is still worth it.
Powered by GetYourGuide 
5. Ouzoud Falls
The Ouzoud Waterfalls are one of the most famous natural destinations in Morocco. They are located around 2.5 hours from Marrakech and are offered as day trips by many tour operators. On site you can hike, take a boat or simply enjoy the view. With a little luck you might even encounter wild Barbary macaques.
- GuidedHike and boat trip to the Ouzoud Waterfalls*
- From Marrakech: Excursion Majestic Ouzoud Waterfalls Tour*
6. Cactus Thiemann
The Cactus Thiemann cactus garden is located about 25 km outside of Marrakech and is overlooked by most people. It is huge, very well maintained, and full of unusual cactus species. The atmosphere is extremely quiet and relaxed, as very few people find their way there. If you love plants or are looking for beautiful photo spots, you’ve come to the right place.
- Admission: Adults 120 Dirhams; Children 70 Dirhams
- Opening hours: Mon.–Sat. from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- How much time do you need? 90 minutes on site
- Special: Free shuttle from Marrakech (see homepage)
Our best travel tips for Marrakech
Marrakech – Arrival and entry
You don’t need a visa; your passport must be valid for at least 6 months upon entry. Direct flights from Germany take approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. At Marrakech airport, you have to go through passport control, which can take quite a while depending on your arrival time. Just be patient. The airport itself is modern and well-organized.
Airport transfer from Marrakech
Official taxis wait right at the exit of the airport building. A ride to the center should only cost 50-100 dirhams, but in reality, the drivers usually want 150-200 dirhams from you. You can try to negotiate or book a private transfer* in advance.
Another option is the shuttle bus line 19 for 30 dirhams. It takes longer, but it’s a good alternative if you don’t want to take a taxi. The bus runs daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and runs every 30 minutes. It’s best to get off at the Koutoubia or Jamaa El Fna stops.
Parking in the City
Don’t drive your rental car into the Medina. At some point, even Google Maps won’t be able to cope and will send you through alleys that are definitely not suitable for cars. It’s better to park your car outside. There are large, guarded parking lots where your car will be safe.
Officially, these parking spaces only cost 10 dirhams a day, but in practice, you’ll often have to pay more. Many charge between 30 and 100 dirhams. We usually paid 30 dirhams a day. If a parking attendant wanted too much, we simply drove on and looked for another spot. You need a bit of patience here, but it works.
Beautiful Riads in Marrakech
Riads are traditional Moroccan houses with a courtyard, often located in the heart of the medina. From the outside, they look inconspicuous, but inside they are often beautifully furnished and decorated. They are available in all price ranges, from simple to truly chic. But be careful: Riads are generally not wheelchair accessible!
Many riads have a roof terrace where you can have breakfast or relax in the evening. Some also have a small plunge pool or even a pool. Most are located in small alleys that you can’t reach directly by car. So you’ll have to walk a few meters. Ask beforehand if someone can pick you up from the parking lot or if there is a luggage service.
Breakfast is almost always included. You can often book dinner, which is especially worthwhile for the first evening. Riads that aren’t directly on a main street are quieter. If you’re staying in the middle of the hustle and bustle, it can get loud at times (mopeds, people, music). It’s best to read the reviews beforehand.
Best time to visit Marrakech
The most pleasant time is spring and autumn. It’s warm, but not too hot. In summer, temperatures often climb above 40 degrees Celsius, and in winter, it can get quite chilly in the evenings. In general, you can also travel to Marrakech during the winter months.
Withdrawing and exchanging money
Dirhams are only available on site. It’s best to withdraw money directly at the airport (Al Arid ATM) or at an ATM in the city. You can also find exchange offices in the Medina, but usually with worse rates. Withdraw your money from Al Arid Bank ATMs, as they don’t charge any fees. Other banks usually charge 35 dirhams per withdrawal.
Power Plugs and Internet in Marrakech
You don’t need an adapter; the power outlets are the same as ours. Wi-Fi is available in almost every accommodation. For travel, it’s worth using an eSIM from Airalo* or a local SIM card (Orange, Maroc Telecom, Inwi). This way, you’ll always be online. With the code “NICOLE2629”, you’ll receive $3 credit from Airalo*.
Clothing for Morocco
Light and airy clothing is best. In cities like Marrakech, you should cover your shoulders and knees, simply out of respect for the culture. A bikini is perfectly fine at the pool or on the beach. The more discreet you are, the more relaxed your travels through the country will be without being constantly stared at.
In person, it was much more relaxed than expected. We saw many tourists in short dresses, shorts, or tops. This seems to be quite normal in the tourist areas these days. So you don’t have to walk around with your head completely high, but a little consideration certainly doesn’t hurt.
Drones in Morocco
Drones are officially prohibited. If you have one with you, it may be confiscated at the airport. If you want to be on the safe side, it’s better to leave them at home.
FAQ Marrakech – frequently asked questions about the city
Because Marrakech is simply so different. Loud, crowded, colorful, and sometimes completely over the top. But that’s precisely what makes it so appealing. Between riads, rooftop bars, palaces, gardens, and food stalls, you’ll immediately be immersed in a completely different world. And all of this is just a four-hour flight away.
Three to four full days are ideal. This gives you enough time for the most important sights, street life, good food, relaxed afternoons on the roof terrace, and maybe even a day trip. If you have less time, you should stay at least two days so you can see the most important spots in peace.
Yes, generally. We never felt uncomfortable in Marrakech. There’s a lot of police, especially in the medina, and you can move around freely. Of course, pickpocketing can happen, so just keep an eye on your valuables. However, we wouldn’t recommend going alone through dark alleys at night!
In the Medina, you’ll do almost everything on foot. For longer distances, take a taxi or order a ride through Careem (similar to Uber). Important: Always clarify the price beforehand or insist on a metered taxi. For excursions, a private driver or a guided day trip is worthwhile.
Yes, definitely. Many shops, cafés, and taxis only accept cash. It’s best to withdraw money at the airport or in the city. You can also exchange money, but it’s usually easier and cheaper at an ATM. We recommend a free travel credit card* for trips abroad.
If this is your first time in Marrakech, a guided tour at the beginning is really perfect. You’ll get a good first impression, see the most important spots, and better understand how the city works. We did it that way back then and would do it again. Afterward, you can always venture out on your own and continue exploring on your own.
- Guided walking tour of the medina and souks*
- Street food tour with a local guide*