5 Must-Visit Places In Marrakech

We took a three hour plane ride from London to Marrakech, Morocco and felt like it was a different world. Known for its vast alleys in the Medina contrasted with the modern buildings of the new town, it stands to be a cultural and religious hot spot for travellers and residents alike. What’s amazing about this place is the sheer amount of red buildings you’ll see around you which is why it’s also known as the Red City.

With over 2 million tourists visiting this city of Morocco, it’s 11th century Medina was classed a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1985.

There are many things to do here, but below are five things we recommend:

Wander Around Majorelle Gardens

This is one of the most visited places in Marrakech. It was created by Jacques Majorelle in the year 1923 after 40 years of dedication and effort.

Today, this place is enjoyed by many and it stands to provide much pleasure to the eye. With water-filled pools and the sound of chirping birds, the garden offers you the chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city which is so close yet feels so far.

  • Getting Here: You can either walk, drive or get a taxi. Taxis are in-expensive and that is how we got there.
  • Opening Times: Open every day of the year. 8 am – 5:30 pm [October 1 – April 30] | 8 am – 6 pm [May 1 – September 30] | 9 am – 5 pm [In the month of Ramadan]
  • Entry Fee: Entry to the Garden will cost 70 Dhs whilst entry to the Museum will cost 30 Dhs
  • Location: click here to view the location of the Garden in Google Maps

Stroll Through Djemma El Fna

A massive square, if you’re coming to Marrakech, this is a place you will not miss. Declared by UNESCO as a ‘Masterpiece of World Heritage’ in 2001, so much is going on in this square with its countless alleys leading you to various parts of the souk. Here you can eat, drink the famous moroccan mint tea, grab some fresh orange juice, buy some souvenirs and watch local entertainers whilst they perform their street theatre. What’s great about this place is that you will find many locals which gives the place a genuine and authentic feeling. This square is a place you have to come and wonder in. Come night or day, the place is always lit and lively. You’ll find several mosques within the square and at the entrance of the square you will find the famous Koutoubia Mosque.

Tip: try getting there before sunset to enjoy some mint tea in one of the rooftop cafes.

  • Getting Here: You can either walk, drive or get a taxi. Taxis are in-expensive and that is how we got there. You can book hotels close by to the square. That way, the square will be within walking distance. 
  • Opening Times: Open every day of the year. The square opens around 6AM and will close around 1AM. 
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Location: click here to view the location of the Garden in Google Maps

Admire The Koutoubia Mosque

This is another place you will not miss as it’s located at the entrance of Djemma El Fnaa. Walk across the street from the entrance and that’s it.

This is the largest mosque in Marrakech and is also known as Kutubiyya Mosque and the Booksellers’ Mosque. It is decorated with curved windows and decorated arches as well as holding a large square with a garden. The place is filled on Friday and in Ramadan for the Taraweeh prayers. Five times a day you will here the beautiful sound of the Adhan [call to prayer].

The building of the Mosque was completed under the reign of Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansour (1184-1199), and became a source of inspiration for the construction of other buildings such as the Giralda Tower in Seville, Spain.

Anyone can visit but only Muslims can enter the Mosque. Outside of prayer times, even Muslims are not allowed inside. As far as I know, the minaret, which can be climbed, can only be accessed by Muslims.

Take Some Time Out In Menara Gardens

Built in the 16th century by the Saadi dynasty, this park is a lot more open, spacious and breathtaking in comparison to other parks and gardens of Marrakech. It has within it a pavilion and a pond which are both surrounded by orchids and olive groves. Not only that, you can also get an splendid view of the Atlas Mountains from the garden.

Here you’ll find a mix of tourists and locals and is a great place to sit back, relax and take some time out. You can enjoy picnics here and get some freshly squeezed orange juice with ice. A nice touch when in the garden.

Get Lost In The Alleys Of The Medina

Whilst walking around in the Medina, you can easily get lost in the maze-like streets and alley-ways that have an old world charm to them, which make you feel like you’ve travelled to another time. There is a lot to see and smell, from the rustic spice markets to the artisanal leather shops. You can purchase many unique items and also try wondrous foods from the aromatic food stalls that are at every turn. It’s absolutely an amazing place to visit to get a true feeling of the old city. Being amongst the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, this is truly a place for the adventurous and the explorers.

  • Getting Here: The medina is basically an area within Marrakech. Best way to explore the maze-like streets is by entering Djemma El Fnaa and then slipping into one of the side streets. Don’t worry about getting lost, there’s always a way out and the locals are helpful when asking for directions.
  • Opening Times: Open 24 hours but the best time to visit would be either early morning or between late afternoon and early evening.Entry Fee: FreeLocation: click here to view the location of the Medina on Google Maps. 

If you’ve been to Marrakech, share your stories, tips and comments below. If you have any queries, comment or get in touch.

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