Last Updated on January 17, 2026 by Lauren Allen
The bustling city of Marrakech is a city that I believe everybody should have on their bucket lists. The smells, sounds and sights of the city offer a unique cultural experience that will leave you yearning to return. This list will take you through 15 things that you absolutely MUST DO in Marrakech to ensure you hit up all the major hotspots and create some incredible memories.
Read more: Solo female travel in Morocco | What it’s really like
15 things you absolutely must do in Marrakech, Morocco:
1 | Shop in the famous souks
A complete must-do in Marrakech, a trip to the city isn’t complete without shopping in the famous souks. Grab yourself some bargains by haggling for leather goods, rugs, lanterns and much more – trust me, it’s all part of the experience!
Top tip: The best way to get the best price is to pretend to walk off as if you are not interested. They will offer you the lowest price in order to make the sale. Result!
Read more: Shopping in Morocco | 5 things that I regret not buying
2 | Stay in a Moroccan Riad
If you are considering where to stay while visiting Marrakech, look no further than a traditional Moroccan riad. These riads are known for centrally located courtyards, green spaces and beautiful decor. Additionally, riads are found within the medina of Moroccan cities, meaning they are located in the perfect spot for exploring.
Top tip: Popular and high-rated riads in Marrakech include Riad Yasmine, Rodamon Riad and Riad Farhan.
Read more: Camping overnight in the Sahara Desert, Morocco
3 | Wander around the Majorelle Gardens
Another must-do in Marrakech, the Majorelle Gardens are a botanical paradise filled with amazing greenery from around the world. In the midst of plants, palm trees and pools, you will find the famous blue house – a definite photo spot perfect for Insta.
Additionally, the Berber museum is another must-see, offering visitors a cultural look at the beautiful clothes and jewellery worn by Berbers in years gone by. A truly fascinating look into some fashion and design history!
Top tip: Although super beautiful, the gardens do get extremely busy. To beat the crowds and the sweltering heat, I advise visiting earlier in the day.
4 | Visit the YSL Museum
Next door, the YSL Museum is dedicated to Yves Saint Laurent, the world-famous fashion designer. Throughout the museum, you will get a great insight into the designer’s career in addition to seeing some of his best designs in person. A complete must-do in Marrakech for anyone interested in art, fashion, textiles or design.
5 | Visit the Saadian Tombs
With absolutely no expenses spared, the Saadian Tombs hold the remains of the Saadi dynasty’s most powerful people. These rulers controlled the country of Morocco between the years 1549 and 1659. Approximately 258 years after the tombs were sealed off in an attempt to hide them, they were discovered and opened to the public in 1917.
The tombs are incredibly intricate and detailed, beautifully adorned with tiles, wood carvings and marble. Visitors could easily spend an hour here before heading for a refreshing drink at the cafe opposite. 10 out of 10 would recommend.
6 | Explore Bahia Palace
An architectural beauty, Bahia Palace is one of the city’s most popular attractions. With so many photo opportunities, it’s easy to spend hours exploring this gem of a palace. Exploring Bahia Palace costs just 70 Moroccan Dirhams and it is worth every single penny.
Read more: The ultimate guide to visiting Fez, Morocco
7 | Discover Jardin Secret
A beautiful oasis in the middle of a bustling city, Jardin Secret is the perfect spot to sit, relax and enjoy a bit of peace and quiet surrounded by greenery. If you love to paint and draw, this is a great spot to engage in your hobby without getting hassled as the gardens don’t get too many visitors.
8 | Watch the sunset over Jemaa El Fnaa
Watching the sunset over a beautiful city is one of the best ways to end a day of adventure. Especially if you are in Marrakech. Jemaa El Fnaa is the bustling centre of Marrakech with an amazing sensory overload.
To watch the sunset over the city’s main square, head to one of the cafes and purchase a cup of mint tea to enjoy while admiring the views. To get the best spot, ensure you arrive in advance.
9 | Drink cocktails on the rooftop terrace of El Fenn
If like me you enjoy a fancy cocktail while on holiday, head to El Fenn. This stunning boutique hotel offers a gorgeous bar area and a rooftop terrace where you can sip great cocktails while listening to the call for prayer. Additionally, the bartenders are extremely friendly and serve you with a smile. I loved it there so much, I returned every night during my time in the city. 100% a must-do in Marrakech.
Read more: Staying safe in Morocco | A guide for solo female travellers
10 | Treat yourself to a spa day at La Mamounia
La Mamounia is one of, if not the most luxurious hotel in the city. Visiting is a must, even if it is just a flying visit to admire the interiors. However, if you are in the mood to splurge, treating yourself to a spa day at La Mamounia is a complete dream.
For 1600 Moroccan Dirhams, you get access to the facilities for a full day, a full hammam treatment included and a fantastic buffet lunch with tons of options! To get the most out of your experience, I recommend spending the whole day there.
Read more: La Mamounia, Marrakech | The best spa day EVER
11 | Admire beautiful tile work and rugs at Dar Si Said Museum
Dar Si Said is one of my favourite museums in the world. Boasting a lovely little courtyard full of plants, stunning rugs and tiles galore, the museum is a definite must-do in Marrakech. Even more so if you are a creative or lover of art. Make sure you check it out!
12 | Eat dinner at NOMAD
Another place you need to hit up, NOMAD is super popular amongst bloggers and Instagrammers and for good reason. The views are super cute (especially during sunset), the waiters are polite and the food is to die for. 10 out of 10 would recommend and I will 100% return the next time I am in the city.
Top tip: Book in advance if you can, it can get busy (but not too busy to enjoy it in my experience).
13 | Check out the photography museum
Photography lovers will be pleased to know there is a museum dedicated solely to photography in Marrakech. The House of Photography offers a permanent collection, in addition to several exhibitions a year and even had a terrace to admire the views. Furthermore, if you keep your ticket safe, you can return to the museum again and again during your time in the city.
Read more: Atlas Mountains | The ultimate day trip from Marrakech
14 | Admire the Koutoubia Mosque
Located just a short walk from Jemaa El Fnaa, the Koutoubia Mosque can not be missed if you are visiting Marrakech. Non-Muslims are not permitted entry inside, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore the grounds and gardens in order to admire its beauty.
15 | Escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech for a day trip
While the city is an absolute delight, there is so much more to Morocco beyond Marrakech. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle for a day, consider booking a day trip to cities such as Essaouira or Casablanca. Furthermore, book to join a group tour of the Atlas Mountains and eat lunch in the home of a local. It truly is an incredible experience!
Read more: 7 of the best day trips from Marrakech, Morocco
There we have it! 15 things that you absolutely must do in Marrakech! If you have any more to add, please share in the comments below!
Like this post? Then pin it!
