It’s tourist and original at the same time. Noisy and silent at the same time. “Western” and authentic at the same time. Ready to discover Marrakech?
How many days to visit Marrakech?
Well, it depends. We made it in 3 days. However, you might want to spend some more time in this vibrant city to explore it deeper. We were on a New Year’s Eve trip and the itinerary included 3 more cities in Andalusia, so, unfortunately, we couldn’t spend more days here. But if I will be able to come back to Marrakech, I’ll do for sure, as there are still things I want to do/visit that I couldn’t in the very first place.
What to wear?
Marrakech has become a very popular tourist destination. As such, it is gearing up to receive more and more guests and to offer excellent services. Yet, it still retains its traditions and its culture, and it is therefore correct to respect them. This means that, even if the sun can be extremely hot especially during the summer season, don’t opt for skimpy clothes and choose something more respectful and appropriate to the place you are visiting.
10 Things to Do in Marrakech
#1 Get lost in the souk
As the heart of the Medina, this narrow network of streets and alleys, full of shops and workshops, will overwhelm you with its colors and artifacts (and will certainly make you spend some money!).
It is just a matter of leaving the map in your backpack and start walking around. You will find goods of all kinds: carpets, shoes – the typical babouches, spices, vegetables and fruit, leather goods. Yes, you can (should) negotiate the price, but don’t you go too low.
Be sure you visit the souk on a day from Saturday to Thursday, as Friday is an important day for Muslims, such as Sunday for Christians, it is the day for prayer.
Just a note: it can become extremely difficult to find your way inside the Medina. There are so many alleys and some roads marked on Google Maps do not actually exist. Don’t give up and be patient: if you get lost it’s normal! You’ll find your way! Otherwise, turn your eyes upwards and look for signs – or ask local sellers – for Jama El f’na.
#2 Take some time to appreciate the most popular squares in Marrakech
Jama El f’na
The quintessential square in Marrakech is Jama El f’na. As the beating heart of the Medina, it was declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity in 2001. Visit the square the sunset, when acrobats, musicians and snake charmers crowd together in a captivating performance. Also, to really enjoy the show as a whole, choose one of the countless terraces looking over the square, have a sit, ask for a mint tea and enjoy the overwhelming taste of Africa that you will never forget!
Of course, you will be tempted to take pictures of this fascinating show. However, bear in mind that some artists will ask for some coins in exchange. In particular, the snake charmers pay close attention and hardly miss a person trying to take a picture of them…
And then there are the musicians, with those typical Moroccan hats you may want to try on… But once you have that hat on your head you will have no chance to escape. Other musicians – coming out of nowhere – will join the dance and the pictures and will ask for money… And they won’t let you go until they’ll be satisfied! Needless to say, you are not required to give them the exact amount they ask for since there are no fixed rates. Furthermore, this is an experience that is part of the biggest show of the square, so it is right and correct to give them something in return.
Rahba Lakdima
Rahba Lakdima is another popular square in Marrakech. Much smaller than the infamous Jama El f’na – and also more peaceful – this nice place is full of small shops and street vendors as well, who specialize in fabrics, rugs, and cushions. A dream for lovers of African colors and patterns, which are so fashionable now. It’s a great place to do good business: here too you can obviously negotiate the price, but remember not to overdo it. Be sure you also have some time to enjoy a light lunch or the sunset from the cafés on the terraces looking over this square.
Koutoubia
The Koutoubia Mosque is the symbol of Marrakech. As it is not accessible for non-Muslims, admire the beautiful minaret from multiple perspectives, taking some rest under the palm trees in the quiet Jardin Elkoutoubia behind the mosque.
#3 Immerse yourself in the beautiful Jardin Majorelle
In the north of the Gueliz district is the Jardin Majorelle: get lost in the midst of lush vegetation and admire the intense blue of the buildings. It’s a great spot for charming pictures! The queue outside can be very annoying, especially since it happens to be under the sun. However, it is totally worth it. Also, don’t forget to explore the Musée Berbère.
Next to Jardin Majorelle is the Yves Saint Laurent museum. Unfortunately, we had to make the difficult choice to skip it, as the queue would have lasted for more than 2 hours.
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