Marrakech, Morocco

A bustling imperial city known for its vibrant souks, historic palaces, and enchanting gardens. Marrakech offers a sensory overload of colors, sounds, and aromas, blending ancient Islamic architecture with modern Moroccan culture.

Budget

Currency

Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Language

Arabic, Berber, French

Timezone

Western European Time (WET)

Airport

Marrakech Menara (RAK)

Transport

Walking in medina, taxis for longer distances

About Marrakech, Morocco

Top Attractions

Jemaa el-Fnaa

Central square that transforms from day market to evening entertainment with storytellers and musicians.

Bahia Palace

19th-century palace showcasing Islamic and Moroccan architectural styles with beautiful gardens.

Majorelle Garden

Exotic botanical garden with vibrant blue buildings, once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.

Koutoubia Mosque

Iconic 12th-century mosque with a 77-meter minaret, symbol of Marrakech.

Souks of Marrakech

Labyrinthine markets selling everything from spices and textiles to handcrafted goods.

Saadian Tombs

Ornate 16th-century royal necropolis with intricate Islamic decorations.

Best Areas

Medina

UNESCO World Heritage old city with narrow alleys, traditional riads, and historic sites.

Gueliz

Modern district with European-style architecture, cafes, and contemporary shopping.

Hivernage

Upscale area with luxury hotels, restaurants, and proximity to gardens.

Food & Drink

Must-Try Moroccan Specialties

Tagine - Slow-cooked stew named after the conical clay pot it's cooked in, with meat and vegetables.

Couscous - Traditional Berber dish of steamed semolina served with vegetables and meat.

Mint Tea - Sweet green tea with fresh mint, served throughout the day as a gesture of hospitality.

Pastilla - Sweet and savory pastry traditionally made with pigeon or chicken and almonds.

Budget Tips

Budget Range:

Low: 200-400 MAD/day

Mid: 400-800 MAD/day

High: 800+ MAD/day

Bargain in the souks - starting prices are often 3-4 times the final price.

Stay in a traditional riad for an authentic Moroccan experience.

Eat at local restaurants and street food stalls for budget-friendly meals.

Hire a guide for your first souk visit to avoid getting lost.

When to Visit

Winter (Oct-Apr)

Pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring the city and outdoor activities.

Spring (Mar-May)

Ideal weather with blooming gardens and comfortable sightseeing conditions.

Avoid Summer (Jun-Sep)

Extremely hot temperatures that can make daytime exploration uncomfortable.

Packing Essentials

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees

Comfortable walking shoes

Sunscreen and hat

Light scarf for mosque visits

Hand sanitizer and tissues