You’re going to Morocco – fantastic! You’re in the right place for the greatest tips of things to do in Marrakesh. Marrakesh, a popular destination for travelers, is a vibrant, colorful and bustling city that will leave a mark on your heart (at least it did on mine). Let’s dive deep into the depths of the city so that you can take the most of your stay!
General information and interesting facts about Marrakesh
Also known as The Red City, Marrakesh is by far THE MOST POPULAR destination in Morocco. In the year of 2023, Marrakesh welcomed 3.3 million tourists – isn’t it crazy?! Lying in the foothills of the stunning Atlas Mountains, it is the fourth-largest city in Morocco, home to over 1 million inhabitants. Marrakesh used to be the capital of the country back in the day. Let’s take a look at some interesting facts about Marrakesh:
- Winston Churchill, the former British Prime Minister, painted numerous works in Marrakesh to showcase Morocco’s beauty.
- “The Red City” name originates from the red walls that surround the Medina (the historical part of the city).
- What is a connecting point for ‘Sex and The City 2’, ‘The Mummy’, ‘Mission Impossible 5’ and many other famous movies and series? You guessed it – Marrakesh!
- The beauty of Marrakesh was also discovered by a famous fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. Fun fact – there’s even the YSL museum in Marrakesh!
Alright, now that you know some information, let’s jump into fun activities to do in Marrakesh.
5 things to do in Marrakesh
#1 Check out Dar El Bacha Museum
Not only is Dar El Bacha museum very aesthetically pleasing (i.e. great for Instagram photoshoot) but it’s also a great way to learn about Morocco. The visit will take you through the different parts and rooms of the building, showcasing stunning architecture, woodwork and mosaics. Cherry on top is a lush garden where you can relax while waiting for another cherry – your entry to Bacha Coffee. Spoiler alert – I probably had THE BEST COFFEE OF MY LIFE there! That being said – I definitely recommend to add this place to your list of things to do in Marrakesh.
#2 Go on a food tour
Now if you’re anything like me (aka food-girlie), then you’re in for a treat! I find that one of the best ways to discover a new culture is by… drumroll… EATING!
At 7PM sharp, we met our enthusiastic tour guide Khaoula and two fellow travelers (you can basically call it a private tour, hehe). Our tour started with a 15-minute car ride through the city which took us to a local neighborhood. And once we arrived, the fun began.
What I love about a food tour is that not only do you get a great idea taste of local cuisine, but can also learn a lot from the local guide. You’ll be walking around the lively streets of Marrakesh and occasionally stopping to try out some delicious stuff. Surprisingly, my favorite dish of the night was a sardine ball sandwich, Hout Quari. I know, it doesn’t sound very appealing but trust me on this one.
Some delicacies that we got to try on the tour:
- Msemmen – crispy Moroccan pancake, oftentimes enjoyed for breakfast with toppings like honey or jam. DELICIOUS!
- Harira – traditional tomato-based chickpea soup. I fell in love with this hearty soup and promised myself to make it at home (which I haven’t yet but this blog post serves as a good reminder).
- Sugarcane juice – I know, it doesn’t qualify as food but… why did no one tell me how good is sugarcane juice? The vendor will squeeze out the sweet juice and add a bit of lime juice which makes it a perfect refreshing beverage. 14/10!
There were some additional foods we tried but I think you got a good overview. It is safe to say that I was struggling to exist after this feast. So beware of this and come hungry! Moroccan cuisine offers HEAVENLY flavors!
All in all, the food tour was one of my favorite things to do in Marrakesh! If you want to eat your way through Marrakesh with the same tour, let me know. I’m happy to share the details.
#3 Visit House of Photography of Marrakech
I must be completely honest with you, I used to avoid museums AT ALL COST because I’d visited so many dull ones in the past. However, in recent years I’ve decided to give them a chance (and I’m happy I did). Museums serve as your guide to the local culture and fortunately, there are so many different types that I’m sure you can find the one that matches your interests.
When researching things to do in Marrakesh I stumbled upon the House of Photography of Marrakech (or The Maison de la Photographie). And without any expectations, decided to check it out. After a decent stroll in the labyrinth of Medina, I finally found it. On the outside, it looks like an average building but my jaw dropped upon entering!
The museum is in a stunning renovated riad (a traditional Moroccan house with an indoor garden and courtyard) and honestly, it doesn’t even feel like you’re in a museum. You will find two floors filled with beautiful and unique photographs to get to know Morocco better. Fun fact, the photos date back to the periods from 1879 to 1960!
And now after a stroll in the museum, you’re in for a surprise – a cozy terrace overlooking Marrakesh and Atlas Mountains. I was so surprised because I genuinely didn’t know that they had a terrace there. As a cherry on top, we arrived just in time for sunset and witnessed the day turning into the night – magical! Add The Maison de la Photographie to your list of things to do in Marrakesh!
#4 Relax in a hammam
Now this is something not to miss when visiting Morocco! For locals, the hammam is a place of purification of the body and soul. And for travelers… I believe it serves the same purpose.
Hammam is a traditional Moroccan bathhouse that combines relaxation and detoxification. It is a perfect activity for slowing down after a long day. Upon entering, I was given slippers and a cozy robe and once changed, escorted to a warm room. After relaxing for a few moments, the lady came in with an exfoliating hand mit and started scrubbing my body (it can be rough at times but feels good after as the dead skin is removed).
After a scrubbing session, the lady will continue bathing you which usually includes shampooing and washing your whole body. It may sound odd but feels very good. Depending on the hammam and the package you take, you might experience additional treatments.
I chose Marajah Spa for my hammam experience and would definitely recommend it! What I really enjoyed about this place was the small details – serving tasty tea and traditional cookies between treatments, beautiful interior, unexpected but very nice foot massage and relaxed atmosphere. Hammam will make your Morocco visit at least 10x better!
#5 Wander in the medina
The oldest part of the city, medina, is a fascinating place to explore. You will find yourself in the middle of hustle and bustle, narrow but lively streets and potentially most likely getting lost (no need to worry about this one, you will eventually find your way out).
Keep in mind, medina can be overwhelming at first because not only do you share the narrow streets with many other people but also motorcycles, donkeys and sometimes even cars. It’s just a lot of things happening at once. However, this should not stop you from visiting as there’s so much to see and do in medina. For instance, checking out the souks (i.e. markets), street food and spice vendors, and cute shops. It’ll be fun, trust me!
PS: beware of “The Road is Closed” scam which oftentimes happens in medina. Usually how it goes is that a local approaches you and mentions that the road is closed (and of course offers kind assistance to guide you in the right direction and eventually ask for money). Remember – the road IS NOT closed and just ignore the person.
