Travel writing based on first-hand experience
Marrakech is always awake. From its bustling main square, Jemaa El Fna, to its colorful markets, and the ornate palaces and gardens, it’s a city that excites all your senses. It’s also a great starting point for trips to the mountains or the desert for a change of scenery.
Whether you’re driving through Morocco or just in Marrakech for a short visit, here’s a guide for a perfect 2 days in Marrakech itinerary. See places like the vibrant Majorelle Garden, the historic Bahia and Badi palaces, and the bustling marketplaces. We also suggest places to eat local food, cafes, and rooftops to enjoy a mint tea with beautiful views.
| ➡️Looking for the best things to do in Marrakech? Explore souks, gardens, palaces, and unforgettable experiences. |
Table of Contents
Marrakech Itinerary: Day 1- Kasbah, Mellah and Medina
We begin our walk in the center of power. Here, behind solid ramparts, monarchs sought refuge from the passions of men: ambitions, jealousies, and anger. We will cross the Kasbah (or citadel in Arabic), the old Jewish quarter (or Mellah) to peacefully reach the central square of the Medina. A day to familiarize yourself with the Medina without difficulty in orientation.
Bab Agnaou Gate
The first ramparts of Marrakech were built by the Almoravids at the founding of the city in the 11th century. Today, they extend nearly 19 km in length and include around 10 main gates.
Bab Agnaou Gate , one of the most majestic gates in Marrakech. It is renowned for its impressive architecture and carved stone decorations.
The gate was erected in the 12th century around the Kasbah fortress district when the Almohads overran the city’s founders. History buffs will delve deeper into the complexities of Marrakech’s history of dynasties .
Saadian Tombs
The Saadians were a powerful dynasty . In power from 1549 to 1659, they notably drove the Portuguese out of the coastal towns and preserved the country’s independence from Ottoman ambitions.
The Saadian Tombs are their remarkably fine burial sites . Many storks have taken up residence on the buildings in the area.
My opinion: The place is very touristy and a little disappointing from my point of view. I mention this for information purposes, after that it’s up to you to choose from the suggestions according to your desires and your energy.
Le MAP Marrakech – Monde des Arts de la Parure
Opening in 2023, Le MAP Marrakech – Monde des Arts de la Parure is a marvelous ethnographic museum. The modern building, constructed from natural materials, is a pleasant first surprise.
Then the collection is astounding : You will set off to discover the jewelry and finery of ethnic groups from all over the world (Africa, Europe and Asia).
Accessible and interesting descriptions accompany the pieces.
My opinion: One of the most interesting museums in Marrakech. The entrance fee is quite expensive (10 euros in 2026).
El Badii Palace
To get an idea of the power of Saadians, you must visit their old palace: El Badii Palace.
When the Saadians were replaced by the Alawites in 1666, the impressive palace was moved to Meknes . This was a way of forcing the predecessors into oblivion.
What is now a gigantic ruin has retained its evocative power intact. A small museum and photo exhibitions are held there. The “Marrakech du rire” comedy festival is held there regularly.
My opinion: An impressive ruin with a grandiose history, a little empty today.
You will then enter the Mellah district of Marrakech , the old Jewish quarter. The 30,000 Jews who had moved to different districts of the Medina were forced to settle here in 1557/1558 on the orders of Sultan Moulay Abdallah of the Saadian dynasty.
Surrounded by high walls, the Mellah physically isolates the Jewish community from the rest of the Muslim city.
Tinsmiths Square
There is little open space in the historic center where you can sit on a terrace.
Originally, many tinsmiths made and sold their metalwork (lanterns, trays and other decorative objects). Today, Tinsmith Square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants , perfect for relaxing and observing the surrounding life.
Mellah Herbalist
There is a strong tradition of herbalism in Morocco, both among Muslims and Jews. Throughout Marrakech, you will find vendors selling herbs for cooking, infusing, using in lotions , or as perfume.
The Mellah Herboristerie is a market dedicated to plants with numerous shops. Be sure to compare prices before buying or observe where the locals source their supplies.
Slat Al Azama Synagogue
The only synagogue open to visitors, the Slat Al Azama synagogue includes an interesting museum on the Moroccan Jewish community: its history, its place in Moroccan history, its musical culture, the place of the Jews of the Atlas…
My opinion: The museum is small but pleasant and interesting. The entrance fee is low (less than 1 euro).
The more curious will head to the Jewish cemetery of Mellah, a vast mineral space nearby.
The Mellah is one of the many working-class neighborhoods in the Medina of Marrakech. It’s a change of scenery, and like anything unfamiliar, it can be intimidating. Rest assured, this neighborhood, like most of the old town, is peaceful.
Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace is one of the most beautiful and largest palaces in Marrakech . The interior gardens are superb, as are the interior decorations of the state rooms. A true masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship.
It was also the former residence of the Protector of Morocco during the colonial period.
My opinion: One of the most beautiful palaces in the city. More touristy and perhaps less interesting than the Dar Pacha Palace, which we suggest you visit the following day.
Tiskiwin or Bert Flint Museum
One of the must-see museums in Marrakech. In Museum Tiskwin you will discover the beliefs , crafts and know-how of different ethnic groups from Morocco, the Sahara and West Africa. Beautiful riad, quite exceptional collection of objects and very interesting explanations.
Dar Si Said Museum
Long a rather unremarkable craft museum, the Dar Si Said Palace now houses the Weaving and Carpet Museum, now managed by the National Museums Foundation.
Jamaa el Fna Square
Jamaa el Fna is the heart of Marrakech and by extension of Morocco, peaceful at sunrise, the place becomes bustling as the hours go by to become frenetic in the evening .
There are few (if any) places in the world where you can experience something like this. Come for the Gnawa concerts and the unusual atmosphere, with barkers, fortune tellers, fair-style gift hunting, and vendors of all kinds. The “monkey trainers” are a little sadder to watch.
The square was declared a UNESCO Intangible Heritage of Humanity to celebrate these circles (or halka) forming around artists.
A museum dedicated to Jamaa el Fna Square has opened, covering its history, its artists, its characters (water carriers)…
My opinion: The museum approaches the square from different angles and presents a beautiful art collection with numerous drawings by Saladi, one of the most hallucinatory artists of modern Moroccan art.
Street Food
In the evening, it’s street food . You can also eat grilled meats, tagines, couscous, and even snails (!). Many restaurants offer their terraces to watch the action without taking part.
From the square, you will observe one of the symbols of Marrakech: the Koutoubia Mosque with its sober and elegant minaret. It alone represents the austerity of the dynasties coming from the desert practicing a rigorous Islam versus those from the north of the country ( Fez ) more ready to incorporate beliefs outside of Islam.
Day 2: The Medina and the souks
After familiarizing yourself with the Medina, we will lose ourselves in its heart: the souks! Along the way, we will discover during our walks: palaces, religious schools, museums and gardens in addition to pleasant rooftops where you can gain height and drink a freshly squeezed fruit juice or a mint tea.
Rooftop of Café des Epices
We start the day by gaining some altitude and go to Cafe des Epices rooftop. If you haven’t had breakfast, you’ve come to the right place. If you’ve already done so, a coffee won’t hurt. The beautiful view overlooking the old town and its souks doesn’t spoil anything.
This will be your playground for the day. You’ll love it.
The souks are specialized markets . Each craft/material has its own: leather, wood, copper, but also carpets, spices, herbs, basketwork… Backed by the markets, workshops are constantly producing to supply the shops and their stalls. From most artisans, you can buy your tray, lamp, basket, wallet, slippers or other item for less. Or failing that, you can watch them, mastering their art with diligence and seriousness.
The heart of the Medina is a giant workshop . A hive of activity for nearly 1000 years.
Places des Epices
Place des Epices is one of the most photogenic.
In the center, multicolored Berber baskets and wickerwork trays of all sizes are piled up in impressive piles. In Morocco, the baskets are used for bread, but you can do whatever you like with them (it’s quite practical for cables, pasmenterie, and 1000 other things).
Around the square, spice shops vie with each other to attract the eye, because with the eye comes the customer. And the customer doesn’t want to leave empty-handed. A pretty photo might be enough, but photos don’t feed anyone. Not the sellers, anyway. Spices are easy to transport and add flavor to dishes once you get home. An easy, light, colorful, flavorful, and inexpensive souvenir.
Souk Chkairia and Souk Haddadine
We continue our exploration of the souks with the Souk of Chkairia and the nearby Souk Cheratin : The first is great for finding leather bags and satchels, the second is also specialized in leather to find all possible accessories made of animal skin (like belts or slippers).
The Souk Haddadine (or Blacksmiths’ Souk) is the market for lanterns and lamps. It’s a truly poetic moment to browse the stalls selling carved copper lamps pierced with a thousand shards. It can be difficult to imagine yourself at the airport with a bulky lamp under your arm. Please note that all items, regardless of their size, can be delivered to your home.
On the forge side, the visit is quite mind-blowing: sparkling, noisy, electric, and smoking. An experience from another age.
Good to know: Sooner or later, you’re going to get lost. There’s no point fighting it. If Marrakech provides such intense joy in exploring, it’s partly due to the wonders you find completely by chance after getting lost in the alleys of the Medina . Consider downloading an offline map to your phone, so you can quickly and easily find your way around whenever you want.
Museum of Photography
The perfect combo for the Museum of Moroccan Photography : a beautiful riad, a superb collection, and a rooftop café . You’ll travel through space and time in search of the almost biblical Morocco of the last century.
Leaving the museum, if you take the street towards the East you will enter a more popular district where the tanneries of Marrakech are located . In my opinion, the place is quite desolate and inconvenient. I do not recommend visiting it.
Medersa Ben Youssef
Moroccan mosques are no longer open to visitors since a decision by Marshal Lyautey, then Protector of Morocco.
All that remains is for you to visit the Koranic schools and discover the genius of Moroccan craftsmen : Zellige, carved wood, calligraphy… The Ben Youssef Medersa is the largest in North Africa and the most beautiful example of Arab-Andalusian architecture. Not to be missed.
My opinion: One of the most beautiful buildings in the Medina. Not to be missed.
Along the way, you will pass the Almoravid Koubba (Koubba Ba’ Adiyn). This is the oldest monument in Marrakech (12th century) and the last vestige of the city’s founders. When the Almohads defeated the Almoravids, they destroyed their buildings, including their mosques! The miraculously standing dome was an ablutions center with a basin, fountains, and a richly carved dome.
Copper Souk and Jeld Souk (leather and wood)
We return to the souks, the Copper Souk is attractive. The brass (yellow copper) creations shine like gold and attract the eye. Different sculptures, shapes, and patterns are offered.
As with many other artisanal products from Marrakech, you will find them in decoration and fashion boutiques, and even religious shops (especially the Sacred Hearts) throughout Europe.
The nearby Jeld Souk , in addition to leather craftsmen, also hosts wood painters on an alleyway leading to a small square that sometimes serves as a flea market or as a drying or storage area.
They are very kind and their products are beautiful and affordable. I recommend you take a look around. As you venture into the surrounding streets, you will discover the giant workshop, laborious, primitive and exciting to observe.
Dar El Bacha Palace
Dar el Bacha Palace is the other palace (along with Bahia Palace) not to be missed during a visit.
The palace belonged to one of the most powerful men in the country during the French Protectorate. A man who wanted to become caliph in place of the caliph and oust the king!
Today, the Pasha Palace houses the Confluences Museum, which is primarily dedicated to woodworking. There, you’ll find beautiful art exhibitions, such as one dedicated to the naive painter Fatna Gbouri.
A café as photogenic (or Instagrammable, if you prefer) as it is intimate allows a happy few to enjoy a powerful and fragrant coffee. If you come just for the coffee, you may have to wait an hour or more…
My opinion: Superb palace and garden, the temporary exhibition during my visit was great. The collection related to wood craftsmanship is quite impressive even if it will not necessarily interest everyone. Not to be missed.
Secret Garden
In one of the most beautiful corners of the Medina of Marrakech , behind a beautiful 16th century fountain, lies a palace from a thousand and one nights and its Secret Garden.
The former home of one of the most powerful men in the city (not the one above, another one). Stunning gardens , a botanical garden and an Islamic garden, two cafes, one with a panoramic view of the rooftops… and a museum about the renovation of the place and the use of water. Human genius in action.
My opinion: One of the most beautiful gardens in the city and a brilliant architectural and human adventure. Not to be missed.
Mouassine Museum
The Mouassine Museum of Moroccan Music is a scholarly place reflecting the richness and musical complexity of Morocco. The variety of instruments, the plurality of genres and songs, and the regional specificities will fascinate even the most curious music lovers. The precision of the descriptions is quite admirable.
To round off our stroll, I suggest a traditional music concert. The museum hosts several concerts per week. Be sure to check the dates on the official website to match them with your visit. At the time of writing (2024), concerts were held at 6 p.m. on the following days:
- Monday: Andalusian music concert,
- Wednesday: Berber music concert – Rwaïss,
- Friday: Gnawa music concert.
After the concert, you will be invited to the terrace to eat some pastries while drinking mint tea.
My opinion: A good concert in a sumptuous riad. The welcome was cordial and the atmosphere was good-natured.
Length of the route: 2 km actual, 8/10 km felt.
If you have more time than 2 days in Marrakech:
If you have more than 2 days follow us : on day 3, we’ll leave the historic center and head for the modern city. This tour includes two walks through the art galleries and Art Deco heritage of Guéliz. This day will delight lovers of art, architecture, graphic design, and gardens!
Arsat Moulay Abdeslam Cyber Park .
Why not start the day in a refreshing park ? It’s one of the most beautiful free parks in Marrakech .
Gardens occupy the most important place in the Muslim imagination because they represent paradise. In reality, gardens are rare in Marrakech and those that are freely accessible are not always very well maintained.
The Arsat Moulay Abdeslam Cyber Park is exceptional in this respect; you will find a wide variety of plants in a perfectly maintained setting.
After a short walk along Avenue Mohamed V, we arrive in the Guéliz district , the western part of Marrakech where part of the Moroccan middle class lives.
From a tourist perspective, you’ll have a wider selection of cafes, bars, and restaurants (for all budgets and cuisines) and you’ll be able to drink alcohol more easily, in addition to delicious freshly squeezed orange juices and mint teas.
Le Grand Café de la Poste
Café de la Poste is one of Guéliz’s historic and chic cafés . The interior is charming and the service is efficient. If you haven’t had your morning coffee yet, a stop will be welcome.
Loft Art Gallery Marrakech
This corner of Guéliz has a pretty crazy number of art galleries. The Loft Art Gallery opened in 2024 and is one of the most interesting and stimulating I’ve ever visited. Don’t hesitate to step inside to discover Moroccan, African, or African-inspired artists. Free admission.
MACMA
The MACMA is the most interesting modern art museum in Marrakech (along with perhaps the Palmeraie Museum ).
From the arrival of the first European artists discovering Morocco to the birth of modern Moroccan art, you will follow the evolution of styles and themes covered from 1900 to today.
My opinion: Beautiful and varied collection (photos, paintings, objects). We would like more context to appreciate the works but it is unmissable if you like modern art.
L’Blassa Art Space
The next gallery will open your eyes to the diversity, audacity, and excitement of artists from North Africa, the Levant (Syria, Lebanon), and the Gulf States. The Blassa Art Space is a fascinating place.
If you like photography , the most beautiful gallery in the city (and perhaps in the country) is also in the neighborhood: Galerie 127 is at 127 Avenue Mohamed V.
Free entry to both galleries.
Yves Saint Laurent Museum
The Yves Saint Laurent Museum pays tribute to one of the most daring and avant-garde couturiers of the 20th century. Incidentally, he was one of the most famous Marrakchis by adoption.
The program includes creations by the famous stylist , sketches and photos… and a temporary exhibition dedicated to a theme.
My opinion: A museum that is quickly explored with a rather expensive entrance fee (13 euros). It is not possible to take photos in the main part of the building, which is unfortunate. For fans of styling/fashion.
Majorelle Garden and Berber Museum
First, there is this Majorelle blue that you will remember for the rest of your life.
Then there is the art deco villa, half spaceship, half oriental palace, followed by the botanical garden and a superb ethnography museum dedicated to the Berbers .
The Majorelle Garden is the most visited paid attraction in Marrakech. Touristy and quite unmissable!
Late afternoon is a pleasant time of year when the light is usually softer. The garden is then a little less crowded than in the morning.
You will need to purchase your ticket with a time slot online before your visit. Remember to book as early as possible; demand is high and the number of visitors per day is limited. There is no ticket office on site.
My opinion: The most touristy place in Marrakech is a colorful, botanical, and architectural marvel not to be missed. The same goes for the Berber Museum, well designed, rich, and fascinating. Too bad you can’t take photos there.
Day 4, 5, 6 + in Marrakech: Excursions around Marrakech
Marrakech occupies a plain irrigated by several rivers at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. Its geographical location allows for numerous excursions around the city , into valleys, to the foot of waterfalls, into stony deserts, or to the summits of mountains. If you have time, you can even venture as far as the Atlantic Ocean or the Sahara.
Anima Garden
Anima Garden is the most surreal garden in Marrakech, accessible by shuttle bus in 45 minutes. It’s somewhere between the Garden of Eden and Alice in Wonderland.
Agafay Desert
The Agafay Desert is a rocky desert . On the agenda: camel rides, dinners under the stars, and quad bike excursions. It’s an excellent choice for exploring a desert landscape while staying close to Marrakech.
Located almost 30 km from Marrakech and a 45-minute drive.
Ourika Valley
The Ourika Valley offers opportunities to explore traditional Berber villages , hike along rivers to the Setti Fatma waterfalls, and enjoy spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains. This valley is ideal for a nature getaway close to the city.
About 1 hour drive from Marrakech.
Mount Toubkal
Mount Toubkal is the highest peak in North Africa located in the national park of the same name.
Accessible from Imlil, the Atlas Mountains offer hikes for all levels.
The climb to Toukbal is more demanding and requires a night in a mountain hut. Remember to book a place on site and find a mountain guide, two essential steps to reach the summit.
About 2 hours from Marrakech.
Ouzoud Falls
Ouzoud Falls are among the highest in Morocco. It’s a bit of a hike after a long drive, but the falls are impressive and offer a refreshing, family-friendly escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Located approximately 150 km from Marrakech, almost 2.5 hours away.
Excursions to the Ouzoud Falls .
Essaouira on the Atlantic Ocean
Essaouira is a port city on the Atlantic Ocean . It offers a unique combination of culture, history, water sports (surfing and kitesurfing) and seaside relaxation.
Add in opportunities to sample fresh fish and seafood, and you have one of the most enjoyable destinations in Morocco.
About 3 hours from Marrakech.
Merzouga
Merzouga is the most popular sand desert from Marrakech. It’s quite far and takes at least 3 days round trip.
Alternative route through Marrakech in the footsteps of Art Deco
Several places in Guéliz (but also in the Hivernage district) allow you to familiarize yourself with a local version of Art Deco created by French architects on Moroccan soil: Hotels, cafes, company headquarters, churches, residential buildings.
Our 8-step itinerary allows you to spend half a day exploring the unique side of Marrakech. Less than half a day if you don’t visit all the museums and galleries, longer if you visit them all.
Length and duration of the walk: 5 km on foot and approximately 1 hour 10 minutes of walking from the starting point.
Tour of the most interesting art galleries in Marrakech
Unlike the art museums you’ll find in various parts of the city (Medina, Kasbah, Palmeraie, and elsewhere), Marrakech’s art galleries are mostly located in the Guéliz district . Most of them are located within a few neighboring streets, in what seems like an imaginary territory: Rue de Yougoslavie.
This proximity allows us to move from one to the other effortlessly, with lightness and curiosity.
Visiting the galleries is free (which is never the case with museums in Marrakech) and it is often possible to have interesting discussions with the gallery owners.
- Where To Stay In Agafay Desert in 2026: Luxury Moroccan Holidays
- 14 Most Beautiful Beaches In Morocco (2026)
- What To Wear In Morocco (2026): Real-World Travel Guide For Female Travellers
- 3 Best Places To Stay in Marrakech Medina [2026 Updated]
- 10 Days in Morocco Itinerary in 2026: The Ultimate Trip (Cities, Desert, Coast + Hidden Gems)
