Qurayo

Morocco

Marrakesh: itinerary & travel tips

Marrakech combines a medieval medina with palaces, gardens and lively souks. The old town is surrounded by an earthen wall around 19 kilometres long and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within just one day you're in the middle of spice alleys, craftsmen's courtyards and tea houses.

The city is well suited to a short trip: there are direct flights from Germany, Austria and Switzerland, the flight takes about four to five hours, and the time difference is small. The main sights are close together, and the Atlas Mountains can be reached on a day trip.

Ready-made itineraries

What to see

  • Djemaa el-Fna

    The central square of the medina turns into a place of juice stalls and snake charmers by day, and fills up in the evening with food stalls and music groups.

  • Koutoubia Mosque

    The roughly 77-metre-high minaret from the 12th century is the city's landmark and is visible from many points.

  • Bahia Palace

    The palace from the late 19th century features cedar wood ceilings, stucco work and green inner courtyards.

  • Saadian Tombs

    The 16th-century burial complex impresses with finely crafted stucco ceilings and zellige mosaics.

  • Jardin Majorelle

    The cobalt-blue garden of the painter Jacques Majorelle, with cacti and bamboo, is in the Guéliz district and is a calm counterpoint to the medina.

  • Ben Youssef Madrasa

    The former Koranic school from the 16th century is one of the finest examples of Maghrebi architecture in the city.

Where to stay

  • Medina (near Djemaa el-Fna)

    Ideal if you want to stay in a riad and reach everything on foot, but you should be able to handle the bustle and noise.

  • Mouassine

    Suits anyone who likes the medina a little quieter, with cafés, boutiques and riads north of the main square.

  • Guéliz

    The new town suits guests who prefer modern hotels, restaurants, bars and wide streets.

  • Kasbah

    Good for visitors to the Saadian Tombs and Bahia Palace, with somewhat fewer crowds than in the centre of the medina.

Best time to visit

The best time to go is March to May and October and November, when daytime temperatures are usually between 22 and 30 degrees. In July and August it often gets hotter than 38 degrees, so you should avoid those months. In winter the days are mild but the nights are cool, and prices are often lower outside Christmas and New Year. During Ramadan some restaurants are closed during the day, and daily life is calmer.

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Getting there

Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK) is about 6 kilometres south-west of the medina and has direct flights from the German-speaking countries. You can get to the centre by taxi in about 15 to 25 minutes; you should agree the price beforehand, and it is usually around 10 to 20 euros. Alternatively, an airport bus runs to stops near Djemaa el-Fna and Guéliz for a few euros. Many riads arrange a pick-up service on request.

Getting around

The best way to explore the medina is on foot, as many alleys are too narrow for cars. For longer distances to Guéliz or the gardens, take a taxi (agree the price in advance or ask for the meter) or the city buses. You don't need a pass; cash is enough for single journeys.

Daily budget

budget

€35

mid-range

€80

per person, without accommodation. Food from street stalls and small local eateries is very cheap, while entry to palaces and gardens, as well as excursions and upmarket restaurants, cost noticeably more.

Local tips

  • Haggle in the souks in a friendly way and decide beforehand what an item is worth to you; a first offer is often well above the final price.
  • Visit the sights early in the morning, when it is cooler and less crowded.
  • Don't let strangers show you the way, as spontaneous guides usually ask for money afterwards; use an offline map.
  • Always carry small notes and coins for taxis, tips and street stalls, as change is often lacking.

FAQ

How many days do you need in Marrakech?

Three days are enough for the medina, palaces, gardens and souks at a relaxed pace. With a fourth day you can plan a trip to the Atlas Mountains or to Essaouira.

Where is the best place to stay in Marrakech?

For the typical atmosphere, a riad in the medina is a good choice, for example in Mouassine or the Kasbah. If you prefer quiet and modern hotels, Guéliz is the better choice.

Is Marrakech expensive?

Compared with Western Europe, food, taxis and accommodation are usually cheaper. Excursions, hotels with pools and upmarket restaurants cost more.

How do I get from the airport to the city?

The easiest way is to take a taxi or have your accommodation pick you up; the journey takes about 15 to 25 minutes. The airport bus towards Djemaa el-Fna is cheaper.

Is Marrakech safe for tourists?

The city is considered relatively safe, but you should watch out for pickpockets in crowds and politely decline pushy offers. Clothing that covers shoulders and knees is appreciated by locals, and a tip of about 10 percent is customary.

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