Best Things to Do in Marrakech (Tours & Tickets)
Marrakech, often called the “Red City,” remains one of Morocco’s most captivating destinations in 2026, blending ancient history with vibrant modern life. As a major hub for tourists and expats, the city offers a wide range of experiences, from exploring UNESCO-listed medinas to enjoying guided tours and cultural activities. How to get from Marrakech airport, This guide highlights the best things to do in Marrakech, with practical recommendations for tours and ticket options, ensuring visitors can plan efficiently and avoid common pitfalls. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Marrakech delivers unforgettable moments through its souks, palaces, gardens, and surrounding landscapes.
Jemaa el-Fnaa Square: The Heart of Marrakech
Jemaa el-Fnaa is the central square and a UNESCO World Heritage site, serving as Marrakech’s most iconic landmark. By day, the square features storytellers, musicians, and snake charmers; at night, it transforms into an open-air food market with dozens of stalls offering grilled meats, tagines, and fresh juices. Visitors should arrive early to secure a good view from rooftop cafes.
Recommended Activity: Guided evening food tour with a local expert. These tours, priced at 300–500 MAD per person, include tastings and explanations of traditional dishes, enhancing the experience.
Ticket Tip: No entry fee; optional guided tours available through platforms like GetYourGuide or Viator.
Exploring the Medina and Souks
The medina’s narrow streets house the souks, where artisans sell leather goods, spices, rugs, and metalwork. Bargaining is expected and part of the experience. Key areas include Souk Semmarine for textiles and Souk des Teinturiers for dyed fabrics.
Recommended Activity: Half-day private medina walking tour with a licensed guide (400–700 MAD). Guides navigate the labyrinth, share historical context, and assist with fair pricing.
Ticket Tip: Book guided tours online to avoid unlicensed guides; many include entrance to smaller museums.
Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs
The Bahia Palace, built in the late 19th century, showcases intricate zellige tilework, carved cedar ceilings, and lush courtyards. The Saadian Tombs, restored in the 20th century, feature elaborate mausoleums from the 16th century.
Recommended Activity: Combined morning visit with a private guide (350–600 MAD). Early entry avoids crowds.
Ticket Tip: Individual entry 70 MAD each; combo tickets or guided options save time and provide context.
Majorelle Garden and Yves Saint Laurent Museum
The Majorelle Garden, designed by Jacques Majorelle and later owned by Yves Saint Laurent, features blue architecture and exotic plants. The adjacent museum displays fashion collections.
Recommended Activity: Self-guided visit or timed ticket tour (150–250 MAD). Morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors.
Ticket Tip: Book timed tickets online via the official site to skip lines.
Menara Gardens and Koutoubia Mosque
The Menara Gardens offer a peaceful escape with olive groves and a pavilion overlooking the Atlas Mountains. The Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s largest, features a 77-meter minaret visible from most parts of the city.
Recommended Activity: Sunset visit to Menara (entry 70 MAD) or guided mosque tour (non-Muslims view exterior only).
Ticket Tip: Gardens ticket includes pavilion; mosque is free from outside.
Desert Tours and Day Trips from Marrakech
The Agafay and Ourika Valley deserts are accessible for day trips, offering camel rides, quad biking, and Berber village visits.
Recommended Activity: Full-day Agafay desert excursion with lunch and activities (800–1,200 MAD). Multi-day Sahara tours (Merzouga) cost 2,000–4,000 MAD.
Ticket Tip: Book through reputable operators like GetYourGuide; include transfers and insurance.
Cooking Classes and Hammam Experiences
Traditional Moroccan cooking classes teach tagine and couscous preparation. Hammams provide authentic relaxation with steam baths and massages.
Recommended Activity: Half-day cooking class with market visit (500–800 MAD) or luxury hammam session (300–600 MAD).
Ticket Tip: Classes often include meals; hammams offer packages for tourists.
Hot Air Balloon Rides Over Marrakech
Balloon rides provide aerial views of the Atlas Mountains and palm groves at sunrise.
Recommended Activity: Early morning flight with breakfast (1,800–2,500 MAD).
Ticket Tip: Book in advance; weather-dependent.
Practical Tips for Tours and Tickets
- Book major tours online (GetYourGuide, Viator) to secure spots and avoid overpricing.
- Use licensed guides for medina and historical sites.
- Carry cash for small vendors; cards accepted at larger operators.
- Check reviews and cancellation policies.
FAQs About Things to Do in Marrakech
What are the must-see attractions in Marrakech?
Jemaa el-Fnaa, Bahia Palace, Majorelle Garden, and the souks.
Are guided tours necessary in Marrakech?
Recommended for the medina to avoid getting lost.
How much do desert tours from Marrakech cost?
Day trips 800–1,200 MAD; multi-day Sahara trips 2,000–4,000 MAD.
Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
Yes, with standard precautions against petty theft.
Early morning, year-round, weather permitting.
Early morning, year-round, weather permitting.
Marrakech’s attractions offer something for every traveler. Book tours early and enjoy the city’s energy. Follow Lovin Morocco for more Marrakech guides.
Leave a Reply