Marrakech City Guide and Things to Do

Start near Place des Ferblantiers and Bahia Palace. Arrive early for a quieter walk through the courtyards, then head into the neighboring mellah for spice stalls and small squares. If you like archaeology and wide-open views, add El Badi Palace. With young children or limited time, choose one palace and keep the morning unhurried.

After lunch, approach Jemaa el-Fna on foot and use it as your landmark for the souks to the north. Give yourself permission to turn off the busiest lane. Return to the square toward dusk, when food stalls start cooking and the sound changes. A café terrace is a comfortable place to watch before walking back to your riad.

Reserve a timed garden visit if your chosen garden requires it. Jardin Majorelle is outside the medina and fits best as the first stop of a separate morning. Return to the old town around Ben Youssef Madrasa for carved plaster, cedar and zellige. Allow extra time between the two rather than planning back-to-back tickets.

In the afternoon, choose one craft you enjoy. A guide can introduce the differences between the metalworking, leather and textile streets. Ask before photographing a workshop. If you are shopping for a particular piece, note the shop name and the nearest clear landmark so you can find it again.

A medina riad puts the lanes on your doorstep, but the final approach is often on foot. Ask for the name of the nearest vehicle gate, the walking distance and whether someone can meet your luggage. Gueliz or the new town is easier for door-to-door vehicle access. Confirm lift access if steps matter to your group.

Choose Imlil for mountain villages and walking, Ourika for a riverside lunch, Ouzoud for a full waterfall day or Essaouira for the port and coast. A night at Erg Chebbi requires a multi-day road journey. If the dunes are central to your plans, build them into the next leg instead of trying to return to Marrakech the same day.