Top 10 Things to Do in Marrakech for First-Time Visitors

Marrakech is known for its atmosphere that can overwhelm first-time visitors with its sensory overload. To help you navigate Morocco’s most popular tourist destination, we’ve put together a guide to the best Things to do in Marrakech, ensuring you won’t feel lost in the chaos.

Marrakech pulses with its own chaotic rhythm, yet it also offers a surprising touch of glamour and flair. Unlike Fez, where cultural authenticity is deeply cherished by locals, or Casablanca, which boasts a modern, cosmopolitan vibe, Marrakech often feels like a cinematic set a whimsical, almost Disney-like version of its past.

At times, Marrakech might remind you of scenes from Arabian Nights or an Indiana Jones adventure, with snake charmers and persistent street vendors lurking in the shadowy maze of souks and alleys. Despite the touristy aspects, there are countless amazing experiences to enjoy in this city.

Things to do in Marrakech for first time visitor 

No trip to Morocco is complete without spending a few days in Marrakech. The medina’s chaos surprises visitors, while staying in a riad offers a peaceful retreat. This unique blend, along with the city’s impressive attractions and dining scene, makes Marrakech a must-visit. I’ve carefully curated a list of the best Things to do in Marrakech in this handy guide.

Visit New Marrakech

New Town – Gueliz stands in sharp contrast to the historical center, offering clean, modern restaurants, fast food chains, and international brand stores.

A remnant of the French protectorate, the area outside the original city walls has a distinctly Parisian vibe, with wide boulevards, lovely gardens, and a thriving café culture.

Much like Paris, Gueliz is also home to luxury hotels and high-end boutiques. It offers a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the old town, with a laid-back atmosphere that’s a welcome change of pace.

Ben Youssef Madrasa

A must-see on every Marrakech itinerary is the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the Koranic school. It’s safe to say it’s one of the top attractions in the city (just behind Jemaa El Fna square), and it truly deserves all the attention it gets—just look at the incredible craftsmanship! You could easily spend hours admiring the intricate details, and we could easily spend a lifetime trying to recreate it.

I highly recommend visiting as soon as it opens to avoid the crowds, as it fills up quickly. Fortunately, our riad was just a 10-minute walk from Ben Youssef, so we didn’t have to get up too early. However, the most beautiful part of the madrasa was still in the shade at 10 a.m., so we ended up waiting in line for a photo when the sun finally hit. The struggles of a photographer!

Jemaa el-Fnaa

Everyone seems to dislike Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, but you can’t skip it. No matter how hard you try to avoid it, like the saying “all roads lead to Rome,” every path in Marrakech eventually brings you to Jemaa el-Fnaa. While navigating the souks, locals will often point you in the direction of “Big Square,” no matter where you’re actually headed. Once you arrive, get ready for an overwhelming mix of noises, colors, smells, and people eager to sell you anything and everything. It’s exhausting, and your alertness is at its peak when crossing the square. Yet, despite the chaos, it was here that we felt an unexpected connection to Marrakech. To fully appreciate it, we climbed up to one of the many rooftop terraces, where we could quietly watch the sunset and the night take over the square. Whatever your opinion of Jemaa el-Fnaa, it’s an experience you simply can’t miss.

A tour of the winding lanes of Marrakesh Medina

Are you someone who enjoys getting lost in unfamiliar places? The Medina is like a maze, and it’s easy to lose your way, making it one of the best activities Marrakech.

With thousands of narrow streets and identical handcrafted stalls, there’s a high chance you’ll end up disoriented. But honestly, it’s a fantastic way to soak in the atmosphere and see the heart of Marrakech’s medina. To ensure you can find your way back, make sure to have Maps.me ready on your phone to save the day.

A tour around the Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest in Marrakech and is just a short walk from the Djemaa El Fna square. It’s one of Marrakech sightseeing you can’t miss while exploring the city, and you can even use it as a reference point when navigating the souks in the medina. While the mosque itself is not open to non-Muslims, a stroll through the beautiful gardens in front of it is still a very pleasant experience.

Admire the ruins of El Badi Palace

Located at the southern edge of the Marrakech Medina, you’ll find a palace that took 25 years to build. Walking through the ruins of the El Badi Palace, it’s easy to understand why—it’s massive, and it’s hard to believe such a grand structure is tucked inside a city like Marrakech. There’s something uniquely satisfying about exploring ruins, and wandering through these enormous walls truly reinforces that feeling.

Keep in mind, a visit to the El Badi Palace can take up to two or three hours. However, as one of best activities Marrakech.

Visit the opulent Saadian Tombs

As you stroll through the Saadian Tombs, you’ll be struck by the incredible beauty and intricate details in every room.

The amount of wealth that went into this architectural masterpiece must have been enormous. Walking through the tombs’ gardens invites a sense of calm, encouraging you to be fully present in the moment.

However, this peaceful experience is best enjoyed either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. The entrance fee to visit the tombs is 65 Dirhams.

Spend a night in an authentic Riad

Ever since Marrakech first caught my attention, one question kept popping into my mind: Can you truly say you’ve visited Marrakech if you haven’t spent at least one night in a traditional riad?For me, the answer is clear: no.

These traditional Moroccan houses offer a genuine glimpse into Moroccan culture while providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of the Marrakech Medina.

During my time in this beautiful city, I was fortunate enough to spend four nights at the stunning Riad Kheirredine.

Tucked away in the lively streets of the medina, just a 15-minute walk from Djemaa El Fna, Riad Kheirredine stands out with its stunning open-air courtyards, intricate Moroccan tilework, wood carvings, and incredibly friendly staff.

On top of that, the mouth-watering cuisine, an outdoor pool with a sun terrace, and personalized service make Riad Kheirredine one of the best riads in Marrakech!

Visit the Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace is a true masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. Its name, meaning “brilliance” in Arabic, makes it a must-visit historical site in the heart of the medina. Covering 8,000 square meters with around 160 rooms, it was designed to be one of the most impressive palaces in Marrakech. For just 10 Dirhams, you can explore this beautifully decorated architectural gem.

Exploring Marrakech’s Trendiest Eateries

When it comes to food, Marrakech is sure to excite your senses. With its traditional dishes and top-notch fusion restaurants, the city is a dream destination for food lovers.

One of the most iconic dishes in Morocco is tagine, a slow-cooked meal prepared in a clay pot. This signature dish can be made with vegetables, beef, chicken, or lamb, depending on your preference. What’s guaranteed is that it’s full of aromatic herbs and spices, and you’ll find it at nearly every corner.

NOMAD Marrakech: A popular spot you may already know, NOMAD is a trendy restaurant with a rooftop view in the heart of the medina. It serves traditional dishes with a modern twist. Due to its popularity, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance.

Le Jardin Marrakech: Le Jardin really set the tone for us. Stepping into the restaurant feels like escaping the chaos of the medina and entering a peaceful garden. With its cozy atmosphere and inventive fusion dishes, it’s a trendy yet intimate hotspot.

The contrast between the city and its trendy dining spots makes Marrakech the perfect destination for foodies and like-minded travelers.

conclusion

Marrakech is a city that fascinates with its energy and rich history. From the chaotic charm of the medina to the peaceful retreats in its riads, the city offers a unique blend of old-world tradition and modern allure. Whether you’re exploring the intricate details of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, savoring the mouth-watering flavors of local cuisine, or admiring the grandeur of the Bahia Palace, Marrakech leaves a lasting impression.

The city’s mix of cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler seeking adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Whether you’re wandering the souks, unwinding in beautiful gardens, or indulging in its food scene, Marrakech ensures that every moment is unforgettable.