Things to do in Marrakesh

The bylanes of Medina serve as the star attraction of Marrakesh which are very high on the vibrant front. The narrow alleys are laced with all sorts of colours, scents and sounds, making up for a perfect sightseeing trip. There are countless small shops selling all sorts of stuff imaginable. So if you wish to go on a shopping spree in Marrakesh, now you know just the place! For shopping lovers, this is one of the best things to do in Marrakesh.

The Djemaa el-Fnaa is a vibrant hub of stalls, storytellers, musicians, fortune tellers and snake charmers. The entertainment starts from late afternoon and goes on till midnight! This hub makes for a perfect Moroccan experience as you wander through local musical groups and acrobat troupes. As the sun sets, you can go on a food hunting spree as there are many stalls serving cheap local snacks. There are many cafes at the outline of this square which provide a panoramic view of the whole Djemaa el-Fnaa. If a leisurely evening is in your mind, spending time here is one of the best things to do in Marrakesh.

Built in the 19th Century, the Bahia palace is a sublime testimony to the acclaimed Moroccan architecture. Apart from the gorgeous exterior, the tastefully designed interior is bound to blow your mind. Several Moroccan artisans gave their all in designing the interior as its walls are carved with painted ceilings and beautiful tiles. The two main attractions here include the opulent salons of the haram area and the massive marble garden courtyard.

If you’re looking for relaxing things to do in Marrakesh, this should be on top of your list! Exploring the city of Marrakesh will leave you dusty, tired and hot but thankfully, there’s a natural way of relaxing and rejuvenating after your excursions. A hammam is basically a communal bath which has the benefits of steaming, washing and later on, exfoliation of the skin. There are many hammam bath facilities splattered across the city which might also include the addition of spa add-ons with beauty treatments and massage.

Built by Vizier Si Said, this lovely old palace hosts a wonderful collection of jewellery of the Berber people – considered to be the most ancient tribe of North Africa. This is what makes it one of the best things to do in Marrakesh if the history of a place astonishes you. Other artefacts in this museum include pottery artefacts, embroidered leather, marble, finely worked silver and oil lamps from Taroudant. Since it’s a display of Moroccan lifestyle, on display are also Moroccan carpets, door, window frames which highlight the traditional Moroccan style. It is a good place to spend an hour or two if you wish to know more about the Moroccan lifestyle.

Marrakesh has many Riad hotels which are a traditional medina mansion. For many travellers, staying in a Riad hotel holds a very important place in their Moroccan endeavours. Many of the Riad hotels have now turned into boutique hotels which are laced to the T with luxury. In the larger riads, modern features like hammam baths and plunge pools are very common. Staying in a medina riad hotel has to be one of the best things to do in Marrakesh.

With its 70-metre-tall minaret, the Koutoubia Mosque is considered to be Marrakesh's most famous landmark. Built in 1162, it is renowned to be one of the greatest achievements of Almohad architecture. The northwest side of the mosque has now turned into an archaeological site which also exhibits the foundations of the earliest mosque built there. Local legends suggest that when it was first built, the main prayer man of the mosque was turned blind because the minaret was so tall that it overlooked the emperor’s harem. Visiting this iconic mosque has to be one of the best activities to do in Marrakesh.

It took 40 years for the French Painter Jacques Majorelle to build this oasis which is now considered to be one of the hottest tourist destinations in Morocco. After Majorelle’s death, this aesthetic botanical garden was bought by French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. He took the mantle of restoring the Majorelle gardens to their former glory. The other attractions at Jardin Majorelle apart from the gardens include a museum, a boutique and a quaint café.

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A sun-rise hot-air balloon ride while soaking in the panoramic views of the Marrakesh city sounds like a dream but many tour companies are making it a reality in Marrakesh. One can also bask in the glorious views of the surrounding arid plateau and the spine of the Atlas Mountains which can be seen beyond the horizon. After the hour long flight, you can also devour a picnic breakfast of traditional Berber dishes.

Constructed more than 400 years ago, the Le Jardin secret has been home to some of the most important political figures of Marrakesh and Morocco. It is a perfect getaway from the mad city rush and you’re also bound to its Moroccan architecture. It is never too crowded, making it one of the best spots to have your afternoon coffee at its rooftop café.

The huge Menara gardens once served as a royal retreat but in recent times, it has become a favourite spot for locals who wish to seek some peace and serenity. A large reflective pool with its fine pavilion serves as the main attraction here. On a clear day, this place can turn out to be a perfect backdrop for good pictures. Moreover, one can also spot the Atlas Mountain Range reflected in its water on a clear day. These factors make the picnic at the Menara Gardens one of the best things to do in Marrakesh if you’re with your family.

This burial ground dates back to the 16th century and is home to 66 members who belonged to the Saadian dynasty. This dynasty ruled over Marrakesh between 1524 and 1668. The Saadian tombs were discovered in the early 20th century and from then on, it has gained immense popularity in Morocco.