Quad Biking in the Palmeraie
- - Best Things to Do in Marrakech: 18 Sights & Activities

Best Things to Do in Marrakech: 18 Sights & Activities

10th October | Sarah Kenny
Last updated October 11, 2026

Marrakech is a city with so much to see and do that it's quite easy to fill several days without even leaving the medina. From wandering through the souks and exploring beautiful palaces to rooftop restaurants, traditional hammams and gardens, there's plenty to keep you busy without spending a fortune.

When my husband and I visited Marrakech in February, we stayed in a traditional riad in the medina and spent our time exploring the city and trying some of its restaurants. We'd booked a few special meals before travelling, but we also wanted time to wander around and experience Marrakech without having every hour planned out.

One of the things I particularly like about Marrakech is the variety of holidays it offers. It's a great choice for a short city break, but there are also some lovely hotels and all-inclusive resorts with pools if you're looking for a longer holiday. Beyond the city, there are opportunities to go quad biking, take a sunrise hot air balloon flight or spend an evening in the Agafay Desert.

In this guide, I've rounded up 18 of the best things to do in Marrakech, including free attractions, historical sights, activities and day trips. I've also included practical tips on which attractions are easy to visit independently and where booking an organised tour might be worthwhile, so it's easier to decide what to include depending on your budget and how long you're staying.

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Best Things to Do in Marrakech at a Glance

Best free things to do

Explore the souks, visit Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and admire Koutoubia Mosque.

Best historical attractions

Bahia Palace, Ben Youssef Madrasa and Le Jardin Secret.

Best gardens and museums

Jardin Majorelle, Yves Saint Laurent Museum and the Berber Arts Museum.

Best food experiences

Moroccan cooking classes, street food tours and rooftop restaurants.

Best activities for something different

Hot air ballooning, quad biking in the Palmeraie and a traditional hammam.

Best day trips from Marrakech

Agafay Desert, Ouzoud Waterfalls and the Atlas Mountains.

How long to spend in Marrakech

Three to four days is ideal for a first visit, with longer stays allowing time for more excursions.

Best Things to Do in Marrakech City

There are plenty of attractions within Marrakech itself, particularly around the medina, where many of the main sights are within walking distance of each other. I'd recommend allowing time to explore without having every hour planned, as some of the most interesting parts of the city are the little streets, markets and places you come across along the way.

1. Explore the Souks in Marrakech Medina

Exploring the souks is one of the best free things to do in Marrakech, and something I'd definitely recommend including on a first visit. The medina is filled with narrow streets and market stalls selling everything from colourful ceramics and handmade lamps to leather bags, spices, rugs and traditional Moroccan clothing.

It's quite easy to lose your bearings as you wander through the different markets, but that's part of the experience. Some streets are packed with traders and shoppers, while others lead into quieter areas where you can watch local craftspeople at work.

If you're planning to buy anything, haggling is common in the souks, and the first price you're offered is often much higher than what the seller will accept. I'd recommend having an idea of what you're prepared to pay before negotiating, and don't feel pressured into buying something just because you've asked the price.

The souks are easy enough to explore independently, although a guided walking tour can be worthwhile if you'd like to learn more about the different markets, traditional crafts and history of the medina.

light shade stall in the souks of Marrakech

For more advice on haggling, carrying cash and finding your way around the medina, have a look at our Marrakech Travel Tips guide.

2. Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

Jemaa el-Fnaa is Marrakech's famous main square and one of the busiest places in the city. It's worth visiting during the day and again in the evening, as the atmosphere changes quite considerably.

During the daytime, you'll find juice stalls, traders and street performers, but as evening approaches, the square becomes much livelier, with food stalls opening and crowds gathering.

It's definitely somewhere to experience at least once, although it can feel a little overwhelming if you're not used to busy markets and people approaching you.

One thing I'd recommend is heading to one of the rooftop cafés overlooking the square. It's a lovely way to watch everything going on below while enjoying a drink, particularly as the sun starts to set.

Be aware that some performers expect payment for photographs, and I'd avoid the attractions involving monkeys and snakes due to animal welfare concerns.

Jemaa el-Fnaa is also close to Koutoubia Mosque and the surrounding souks, so it's easy to combine all three in the same afternoon or evening.

3. Explore Bahia Palace

Bahia Palace is one of Marrakech's most impressive historical attractions and somewhere worth including if you enjoy beautiful architecture. Built during the 19th century, the palace is known for its intricate mosaics, colourful tiled floors, carved wooden ceilings and peaceful courtyards.

There are lots of different rooms and gardens to explore, and it's quite fascinating to see the level of detail that went into decorating the palace. Some of the courtyards are particularly impressive, with marble floors, fountains and beautifully decorated archways.

Bahia Palace is located towards the southern side of the medina, not far from the Mellah, Marrakech's historic Jewish quarter. It's easy to combine with other nearby attractions, including El Badi Palace, if you're planning a day exploring this part of the city.

I'd allow around an hour to explore, although you could easily spend longer if you enjoy architecture and photography. It's a popular attraction, so visiting earlier in the morning may help avoid some of the larger crowds.

Bahia Palace Courtyard in Marrakech

You can visit independently, and there's no need to book an organised tour unless you'd prefer a guide to explain more about the palace's history.

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4. Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa

Ben Youssef Madrasa is another of Marrakech's most beautiful historical attractions, and one I'd definitely recommend visiting if you enjoy architecture. Originally built as an Islamic college, it was once one of the largest centres of religious learning in North Africa and is now open to visitors.

The main courtyard is particularly impressive, with intricate geometric tiles, carved cedarwood, decorative plasterwork and a large reflecting pool in the centre. There are also former student rooms to explore, which give you an idea of what life would have been like for those studying here.

It's one of those buildings where there's so much detail that it's worth taking your time to look around properly. The contrast between the beautifully decorated communal areas and the much simpler student accommodation is especially interesting.

Ben Youssef Madrasa intricate tiles and doors

Ben Youssef Madrasa is located in the northern part of the medina, making it easy to combine with a visit to the nearby souks and Le Jardin Secret. I'd allow around 45 minutes to an hour, although you might want longer if you're interested in the history or photography.

You can visit independently without booking a guided tour, but there are walking tours that include the madrasa alongside other historical attractions if you'd prefer to learn more about its background.

5. Wander Around Le Jardin Secret

Le Jardin Secret is a lovely place to escape the busy streets of Marrakech for a little while. Hidden away in the heart of the medina, this beautifully restored garden is surrounded by traditional buildings, making it feel surprisingly peaceful compared with the bustling souks just outside.

There are two main gardens to explore, including an Islamic garden with geometric pathways, fountains and carefully arranged plants, alongside a more exotic garden filled with greenery from around the world. The traditional Moroccan architecture is just as lovely as the gardens themselves, with tiled courtyards and decorative details throughout.

There's also a café where you can stop for a drink, making it a nice place to relax between sightseeing stops. If you enjoy photography, there are plenty of beautiful corners, particularly around the fountains and traditional archways.

Le Jardin Secret is located in the Mouassine area of the medina, so it's easy to combine with exploring the souks or visiting Ben Youssef Madrasa. I'd allow around an hour to wander through the gardens, although it's somewhere you could easily spend longer if you fancy a more relaxed afternoon.

6. Visit Jardin Majorelle

Jardin Majorelle is one of Marrakech's most famous attractions, instantly recognisable by its striking blue buildings surrounded by tropical plants and colourful gardens. Originally created by French artist Jacques Majorelle, the gardens were later purchased and restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé.

The gardens are filled with towering cacti, bamboo, palm trees and exotic plants from around the world, with winding pathways, fountains and bright yellow pots contrasting against the famous Majorelle Blue buildings. It's completely different from the traditional gardens and courtyards you'll find around the medina.

Jardin Majorelle is also home to the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts, which showcases traditional Amazigh clothing, jewellery and cultural artefacts. The nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum is another attraction worth considering, particularly if you're interested in fashion and design.

Jardin Majorelle in Marrakesh

Unlike many of Marrakech's historical sights, Jardin Majorelle is located outside the medina, so you'll need to allow a little extra time to get there. It's a very popular attraction, and I'd recommend booking tickets in advance rather than turning up on the day, especially during busier periods.

Tickets are sold through the official Jardin Majorelle website, where you can also check the different options if you'd like to visit the museums.

I'd allow around an hour to explore the gardens themselves, or longer if you're planning to visit the museums at the same time.

7. Explore the Yves Saint Laurent Museum

If you're planning to visit Jardin Majorelle, it's worth considering the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Museum at the same time, particularly if you have an interest in fashion, design or architecture.

The museum is dedicated to the life and work of the famous French fashion designer, who had a strong connection with Marrakech and regularly visited the city for inspiration. Inside, you'll find displays of his iconic designs, sketches, photographs and accessories, giving an insight into his career and the influence Morocco had on his work.

The museum building is impressive in its own right, with a striking terracotta brick exterior and contemporary architecture inspired by the textures and patterns of fabric. Alongside the main exhibition, there are temporary displays, a library and a café.

It's located just a short walk from Jardin Majorelle, so visiting both together makes sense rather than arranging separate journeys. I'd allow around an hour for the museum, although fashion enthusiasts could easily spend longer exploring the collections.

Tickets can be booked through the official website, and it's worth checking the available ticket combinations if you're planning to visit Jardin Majorelle and the Berber Arts Museum too.

8. See Koutoubia Mosque

Koutoubia Mosque is one of Marrakech's most recognisable landmarks, with its impressive 77-metre-high minaret visible from several parts of the city. Located just a short walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, it's an easy attraction to include while exploring the medina.

Dating back to the 12th century, the mosque is an important part of Marrakech's history and a beautiful example of traditional Moroccan architecture. The minaret is particularly impressive, with decorative stonework, arched windows and intricate geometric patterns.

Non-Muslim visitors aren't permitted inside the mosque, but it's still worth visiting to admire the exterior and explore the surrounding gardens. The gardens provide a lovely spot to stop for a little while, particularly if you've been wandering around the busy souks.

I'd recommend visiting in the late afternoon or early evening when the light is softer and the minaret looks particularly beautiful. It's also illuminated after dark, making it worth seeing again if you're passing through the area in the evening.

Koutoubia Mosque

Koutoubia Mosque is close enough to Jemaa el-Fnaa that I'd combine the two rather than making a separate journey, especially if you're only spending a couple of days in Marrakech.

9. Take a Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class

Taking a Moroccan cooking class is a lovely way to experience something a little different in Marrakech, particularly if you've enjoyed trying the local food during your trip. Moroccan cuisine is full of flavour, with dishes such as tagines, couscous and pastilla using a mixture of spices, fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

There are lots of different classes available, with some starting at the local souks where you'll shop for ingredients before heading to a traditional riad or cooking school. Others take place entirely in a kitchen, where a local chef will show you how to prepare some of Morocco's most popular dishes.

Most experiences are hands-on, so rather than simply watching a demonstration, you'll help prepare the meal before sitting down to enjoy what you've made. It's also a good opportunity to learn more about Moroccan ingredients and pick up a few recipes to try again at home.

I'd recommend checking what's included when comparing classes, particularly whether there's a market visit, how many dishes you'll prepare and whether the group size is limited.

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Some classes are also suitable for families with children, making this a nice alternative to another afternoon of sightseeing.

It's an activity that works well during a longer city break, especially if you want to experience more of Marrakech's food culture rather than just visiting restaurants.

10. Join a Marrakech Street Food Tour

Marrakech has a brilliant food scene, and a street food tour is a great way to try traditional Moroccan dishes that you might otherwise overlook. The medina is packed with small cafés, market stalls and local restaurants, but knowing where to start can be a little overwhelming, particularly on a first visit.

Most street food tours take place around the medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa, with a local guide taking you through the markets and stopping at different places to sample traditional food. Depending on the tour, this might include freshly baked bread, Moroccan pastries, olives, dates, grilled meats and dishes such as tagine or tangia.

Evening tours are particularly popular, as the food stalls around Jemaa el-Fnaa become much busier after sunset. It's also a good opportunity to explore parts of the medina with someone who knows the area, while learning a little more about Moroccan food traditions and how different dishes are prepared.

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I'd recommend comparing the number of tastings included, the length of the tour and whether drinks are provided. It's also worth checking dietary requirements in advance, particularly if you're vegetarian or have food allergies.

We actually chose to spend more of our Marrakech food budget on a few special restaurants during our trip, including Dar Dar Rooftop, La Trattoria and Nobu. I've shared our honest reviews, photographs and what we paid in our Where to Eat in Marrakech guide, which also includes cheaper local restaurants and typical food prices.

11. Enjoy a Traditional Moroccan Hammam

If you're looking for something a little more relaxing between sightseeing days, a traditional Moroccan hammam is a lovely experience to consider. Hammams are an important part of Moroccan culture, and Marrakech has plenty to choose from, ranging from traditional local bathhouses to luxurious spas offering private treatments.

A typical hammam treatment involves relaxing in a warm, steamy room before having your skin cleansed with traditional Moroccan black soap and exfoliated using a special scrubbing mitt called a kessa. Many spas also offer massages using argan oil, which can be booked alongside the hammam for a more relaxing experience.

There's quite a difference between a traditional public hammam and the spa experiences aimed at visitors, so it's worth checking exactly what's included before booking. Some treatments take place in shared facilities, while others offer private rooms, which might be preferable if you're visiting as a couple.

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Several riads and hotels in Marrakech also have their own hammam and spa facilities, so it's worth checking what's available at your accommodation before booking somewhere else. Some spas offer treatments to non-residents too. I've included a few lovely riads with spa facilities in my Where to Stay in Marrakech guide, along with advice on choosing the best area and accommodation for your trip.

12. Eat at a Rooftop Restaurant

One of my favourite things about Marrakech was the number of beautiful rooftop restaurants dotted around the city. They're a lovely place to escape the busy streets for a while, particularly in the evening when the sun starts to set and the rooftops of the medina begin to light up.

During our February trip, my husband and I decided to treat ourselves to a few of Marrakech's more upmarket restaurants. We visited Dar Dar Rooftop, La Trattoria and Nobu Rooftop Garden, and although all three offered something different, Dar Dar was definitely one of our favourites.

The food at Dar Dar was fantastic, the service was lovely and the views across Marrakech made the whole evening feel really special. Our total bill came to £62.50 for two people, including drinks, which we thought was excellent value for the experience.

We also loved the beautiful surroundings at La Trattoria, while Nobu Rooftop Garden had an incredible atmosphere and views across the city at night. The service at Nobu wasn't quite as good as we'd hoped, but I'd happily return for drinks on the rooftop.

There are plenty of other rooftop restaurants to consider too, including El Fenn and Kabana. I'd recommend booking ahead for the more popular places, especially if you're hoping for a table around sunset.

I've shared our full restaurant reviews, photographs, what we ordered and exactly what we paid in our Where to Eat in Marrakech guide, along with cheaper local restaurants if you're looking to keep food costs down.

Dar Dar Rooftop Restaurant in Marrakech

Best Activities and Adventures in Marrakech

13. Take a Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride

A sunrise hot air balloon ride is one of the most memorable experiences to consider in Marrakech, with incredible views across the countryside, traditional villages and the Atlas Mountains in the distance.

This is actually my biggest regret from our trip! We'd booked a hot air balloon experience before travelling, but my husband was feeling nervous about it, so we ended up cancelling a few days beforehand. I've regretted that decision ever since, especially after seeing the photographs and videos from my brother and sister-in-law, who did the experience earlier this year. Their views were absolutely incredible, and it's definitely something I'd book again if we returned to Marrakech.

Marrakech hot air balloon trip

Most hot air balloon experiences take place outside the city, with an early morning collection from your hotel or riad. After arriving at the launch site, there's usually time to watch the balloons being prepared before receiving a safety briefing and heading into the air. Flights typically last around 40 to 60 minutes, depending on the operator and weather conditions.

Some experiences also include a traditional Moroccan breakfast or mint tea afterwards, so it's worth comparing what's included when booking. I'd also recommend scheduling the flight towards the beginning of your holiday, as hot air ballooning is weather-dependent and this may allow time to rearrange if conditions aren't suitable.

It's one of the more expensive activities in Marrakech, but having seen my family's photographs and videos, I really wish we'd gone ahead with ours. It's certainly something that would be at the top of my list if we visited again.

14. Go Quad Biking at Palm Oasis and the Jbilat Desert

If you're looking for something a little more adventurous during your Marrakech trip, quad biking is a great way to explore the landscapes outside the city. There are several different excursions available, including tours through palm groves and across the rocky desert terrain surrounding Marrakech.

During our February trip, we booked the Marrakech: Quad Bike Tour to Palm Oasis and Jbilat Desert, which takes you away from the busy streets of the medina and into a completely different landscape. The combination of palm groves and the more rugged Jbilat Desert makes this an interesting option if you want to experience more than just the city itself.

I'll admit there were a few nerve-wracking moments along the way, particularly when navigating some of the more challenging terrain, but our guide was fantastic. We felt really well looked after throughout the experience, which made a big difference, especially when things got a little more adventurous.

The tour took us away from the busy streets of Marrakech and into a landscape of palm groves, dusty tracks and rocky desert scenery. It's a lovely way to see another side of the area without committing to a full-day excursion.

Most organised quad biking experiences include transport from Marrakech, safety equipment and a guided ride. I'd recommend checking the actual riding time when comparing tours, as well as any age restrictions if travelling with children or teenagers.

It's also worth wearing comfortable clothes that you don't mind getting dusty, along with closed-toe shoes. There are similar experiences available in the Agafay Desert, but we were really happy with the Palm Oasis and Jbilat tour and would definitely recommend considering it, particularly for the price.

Quad Biking in the Palmeraie
Best Tours & Excursions in Marrakech
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Best Day Trips from Marrakech

15. Spend an Evening in the Agafay Desert

If you're looking for something a little different during your Marrakech trip, spending an evening in the Agafay Desert is a lovely option, particularly if you fancy watching the sunset followed by dinner under the stars.

Agafay is located around 45 minutes to an hour from Marrakech, making it easy to visit without committing to a full day of travelling. It's worth knowing that this isn't the Sahara Desert with huge rolling sand dunes. Agafay has a rocky, almost lunar landscape, with open views towards the Atlas Mountains, but it's still a beautiful setting for an evening out.

There are lots of different experiences available, from simple sunset dinners to more elaborate evenings with traditional Moroccan food, live music and entertainment. Some tours also include camel rides or quad biking before dinner, so it's worth comparing the options depending on how much you'd like to fit in.

Most organised excursions include return transport from Marrakech, which makes things much easier, particularly as desert camps aren't somewhere you'd necessarily want to arrange your own transport to and from in the evening.

I'd recommend checking exactly what's included before booking, as some experiences advertise a sunset dinner but charge separately for drinks, activities or additional entertainment. It's also worth taking an extra layer during the cooler months, as temperatures can drop quite quickly after sunset.

For couples or groups looking for a memorable evening outside Marrakech, Agafay is definitely worth considering. It's also a good alternative to an overnight desert stay if you're only visiting for a few days and don't want to give up a night in the city.

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16. Stay Overnight in the Agafay Desert

If an evening in the Agafay Desert sounds appealing, another option is to spend the night at one of the desert camps. There are some beautiful places to stay, ranging from traditional-style tents to luxury glamping accommodation with private bathrooms, swimming pools and incredible views across the rocky landscape.

An overnight stay gives you more time to enjoy the surroundings without having to head straight back to Marrakech after dinner. Many camps offer sunset experiences, traditional Moroccan meals and breakfast the following morning, so it's a lovely way to experience a completely different side of Morocco.

Some of the more luxurious camps have beautiful outdoor pools and terraces overlooking the desert, making them particularly appealing for couples or anyone celebrating a special occasion. I'd recommend comparing the facilities carefully, as there's quite a difference between a simple desert camp and some of the more expensive glamping resorts.

It's also worth checking whether return transfers from Marrakech are included, along with meals and any activities. Temperatures can drop considerably overnight, particularly during the winter months, so I'd make sure the accommodation has suitable heating and bedding if travelling outside the warmer season.

For a longer Marrakech holiday, I think spending one night in Agafay could be a lovely alternative to staying in the city for the entire trip. It would also be worth considering if you're booking a riad for a few nights and fancy finishing the holiday somewhere completely different.

The Orion Dome in Agafay Desert Marrakech
The Orion Dome in Agafay Desert Marrakech

17. Visit Ouzoud Waterfalls

If you're looking to escape the busy streets of Marrakech for a day, Ouzoud Waterfalls is one of the most popular excursions to consider. Located around two and a half to three hours from the city, the waterfalls are among the most impressive in Morocco, cascading approximately 110 metres into the valley below.

The scenery is completely different from Marrakech, with olive groves, walking trails and viewpoints overlooking the waterfalls. There are also small restaurants and cafés around the area, many with terraces offering lovely views across the valley.

Most organised day trips include return transport from Marrakech and time to explore the waterfalls with a local guide. Depending on the excursion, there's often an opportunity to take a short boat ride near the bottom of the falls, which gives you a completely different view of the cascading water. You might also spot wild Barbary macaques living around the area, although it's best to admire them from a distance rather than feeding or approaching them.

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One thing I'd consider before booking is the amount of walking involved. The paths down towards the waterfalls can be steep and uneven, with quite a few steps to climb on the way back up. I'd recommend comfortable footwear and checking the walking requirements if you're travelling with younger children or anyone with limited mobility.

It's worth setting aside a full day for this excursion, as the journey takes several hours each way. However, if you're staying in Marrakech for four or five days and fancy seeing some of Morocco's natural scenery, Ouzoud Waterfalls could be a lovely addition to the itinerary.

18. Explore the Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains are another popular day trip from Marrakech, offering a completely different landscape from the busy streets of the medina. With mountain villages, beautiful valleys and walking trails, it's a lovely option if you want to see more of Morocco beyond the city.

One of the most popular places to visit is Imlil, a small village in the High Atlas Mountains, around an hour and a half to two hours from Marrakech. It's surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery and is a starting point for several walking routes, including longer treks towards Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa.

You don't need to be an experienced hiker to enjoy a visit, though. There are shorter guided walks through the surrounding villages, with opportunities to learn more about traditional Amazigh culture and enjoy lunch overlooking the mountains. Some organised excursions also include visits to local markets or stops at scenic viewpoints along the way.

I'd recommend checking the walking distances and difficulty levels before booking, particularly if travelling with children or anyone who isn't used to hiking.

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Some tours advertised as Atlas Mountains day trips involve very little walking, while others include several hours on mountain trails, so it's worth choosing one that suits the type of day you're looking for.

The weather can also be quite different from Marrakech, especially during winter when the higher mountains may be covered in snow. I'd take an extra layer and wear comfortable footwear, even if it's warm and sunny in the city.

For anyone staying in Marrakech for more than a few days, an Atlas Mountains excursion is a lovely way to experience some of Morocco's countryside, mountain scenery and traditional villages without needing to arrange an overnight stay.

Are There Free Things to Do in Marrakech?

Yes, there are plenty of free things to do in Marrakech, so it's quite easy to explore the city without spending a fortune on attractions and organised tours.

Some of the best experiences don't cost anything, including wandering through the souks, exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and admiring Koutoubia Mosque from outside. The medina itself is fascinating to explore, with traditional markets, beautiful architecture and little streets where there's always something going on.

I'd recommend mixing these free activities with a few paid attractions, such as Bahia Palace or Ben Youssef Madrasa, rather than booking an excursion for every day of the holiday. Marrakech is one of those places where simply walking around and taking everything in is part of the experience.

Of course, it's easy to spend money along the way, particularly when shopping in the souks or stopping at rooftop cafés, but there's no need to have a huge sightseeing budget to enjoy the city.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Marrakech for Couples?

Marrakech is a lovely destination for a couples' break, particularly if you enjoy a mixture of sightseeing, good restaurants and a few special experiences. There's plenty to do during the day, but it's also somewhere you can enjoy a more relaxed holiday, especially if you choose a traditional riad with a courtyard pool or spa facilities.

When my husband and I visited, we spent our days exploring the medina and trying different activities, including quad biking at Palm Oasis and the Jbilat Desert. In the evenings, we treated ourselves to some beautiful restaurants, with Dar Dar Rooftop and La Trattoria being two of our favourites.

For something a little different, I'd also consider a traditional Moroccan hammam, a sunset dinner in the Agafay Desert or a sunrise hot air balloon flight. We actually cancelled our balloon ride before travelling, and it's still the one thing I really wish we'd done!

If you're planning a couples' break and wondering how to fit everything in, have a look at our 3-Day Marrakech Itinerary. It brings together sightseeing, activities and some lovely restaurants, giving a good starting point for planning a short break without trying to squeeze too much into each day.

Nobu rooftop bar and pool Marrakech at night

What Are the Best Things to Do in Marrakech with Kids and Teenagers?

Marrakech can be a great destination for families, particularly if you combine a few days of sightseeing with some more adventurous activities. There's plenty to keep older children and teenagers entertained, from exploring the souks and visiting historical palaces to quad biking, cooking classes and trips into the desert.

For younger children, I'd recommend keeping sightseeing days fairly relaxed, as the medina can be busy, noisy and a little overwhelming at times. Attractions such as Jardin Majorelle and Bahia Palace are good options to consider, alongside shorter visits to the markets and plenty of breaks along the way.

Teenagers might particularly enjoy quad biking at Palm Oasis and the Jbilat Desert, or even a sunrise hot air balloon experience. Many organised activities have minimum age requirements, so it's worth checking these carefully before booking, especially if children want to drive quad bikes themselves.

I'd also consider choosing accommodation with a swimming pool if travelling as a family. Marrakech has some lovely family-friendly hotels and all-inclusive resorts with pools, water slides and entertainment, making it easy to combine sightseeing with a few more relaxing days. This could work particularly well during the warmer months when spending all day exploring the city might be a bit much for younger children.

How Many Days in Marrakech Is Enough?

For a first visit to Marrakech, I'd recommend spending three to four days in the city. This gives enough time to explore the medina, visit some of the main historical attractions and enjoy a few of the restaurants without feeling like you're rushing from one place to another.

My husband and I spent three days and two nights in Marrakech in February, and although we managed to fit quite a lot into our short break, there were definitely things we missed. My biggest regret was cancelling our sunrise hot air balloon experience, which is something I'd love to go back and do.

If you're planning to include excursions to places like the Agafay Desert, Ouzoud Waterfalls or the Atlas Mountains, I'd consider staying for at least four or five days. Some of these trips take up most of the day, so it's worth allowing enough time to explore Marrakech itself rather than spending the whole holiday travelling between attractions.

For a longer holiday, Marrakech also has some lovely hotels and all-inclusive resorts with pools, making it easy to combine a few days of sightseeing with time relaxing.

If you're planning a shorter break, have a look at our 3-Day Marrakech Itinerary, which brings together some of the main sights, activities and restaurants to help plan your time in the city.

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