Marrakesh is full of chaos, colour and energy – and it’s a dreamy place to spend a long weekend. From getting lost in the medina to finding quiet moments on the rooftops, it’s got a unique vibe that will stimulate each of your senses.
This article may include mentions of products from one or more of our affiliate partners. Unless explicitly stated, we are not being paid to include these. To learn more about our advertising policy, please refer to our Terms of Service.
My 3 day Marrakesh itinerary
I’ve been to Marrakesh a couple of times – quite a few years apart – and there’s always so much to pack in. I really enjoyed putting this itinerary together for you, as with a bit of planning there’s time for all the things you want to do.
If you love trinket shopping and bargain hunting, you can easily spend hours (days) wandering the souks and eyeing up your next purchase. Otherwise, there are loads of historic spots to check out, like palaces and gardens, plus you’re within easy reach of the desert for day and half-day trips and activities.
Right, let’s get into it!
Day 1
See Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is one of the most beautiful buildings you’ll find in Marrakesh, once built for an important official.
The architecture and decor is designed to show off his wealth and reputation – which it does in spades. Marvel at the colourful tiles, intricate wood work and elegant rooms – and the courtyards with their beautiful arches are a total must-see.
It can get pretty busy here, especially with photo opportunities in the courtyard, so it’s worth going here first thing to beat the crowds. Just know that it’s one of the most stunning spots you’ll see in the city – but there are plenty more to enjoy!
Whilst you’re in this area, check out Mellah, the Jewish quarter where there’s also a synagogue and spice market you can visit, and it’s a bit less intense than the medina.
Visit the medina
Take some time now to wander through the medina – the original walled centre of the city. Depending on where you’re staying you might have rushed through already to make it to Bahia Palace for opening time!
Lean into the hustle and bustle of the souks. Be prepared for lots of greetings to be shouted your way, invitations to browse and a lot of jostling and crowds. Also watch out for the motorbikes that come zooming past. You can get everything here, from soaps and sweets to leather goods like bags and slippers.
If you spot something you like at a stall or in a shop, remember not to accept the first price you are quoted – haggling is the way here! If you’re early on in your trip, it’s worth making a note of the place and continuing along your way, as lots of shops will have similar things that are worth scouting out before you make your final decision!
Have a stroll in Cyber Park
Cyber Park – full name Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdesalam – is Marrakesh’s city park, a huge expanse of green space where you can go to cool off.
When you reach the park, don’t stay on the fringes – head further in and you can leave some of the sounds of the city behind. There are lots of plants, flowers and cacti to see here and it’s a nice shady spot to escape for a bit.
If you’re wondering about the name, it was redeveloped by the national telecoms provider, so there’s a small museum and some techy bits like free wifi and digital screens.
There is a little slice of peace and quiet in the heart of the medina – Le Jardin Secret. There’s a fee to enter – £6.50 / 80 MAD – so you might prefer to get a picnic for lunch from a nearby supermarket and lounge in Cyber Park instead.
Grab lunch near the kasbah
The kasbah district is an area of the medina, and there are loads of small cafes and restaurants near the Kasbah (Moulay al-Yazid) mosque.
Try Cafe Clock for a chilled atmosphere and something a bit different – if you want to try a camel burger, you can find one here! Don’t worry, they have veggie options as well.
Visit Madrasa Ben Yousef
A madrasa is a type of school or college, and Madrasa Ben Youssef is another sight not to miss when you’re in Marrakesh. It was once the biggest Islamic college in North Africa.
This is another spot where you’ll be impressed by the architecture – more amazingly intricate woodwork, mesmerising tile patterns and ornate carvings. Again there’s a lovely central courtyard here.
After your visit, stroll over to Rabha Kedima – also called Place des Epices – a popular market with lots of spices. There’s also a popular carpet and textiles souk here over on the north side – La Criée Berbère.
Watch the sunset at Jemaa el Fnaa
Watch Marrakesh’s central square transform at sunset, as the food stalls start cooking for the evening and the entertainers and artists come out in force. If you’re staying in the throng, just be aware that if you take photos or linger you’ll probably get a request for money.
It’s lively and loud here – so retreat to the rooftop terrace of Le Grand Balcon du Cafe Glacier and sip a mint tea as you watch things unfold. Yes this is a very touristy and chaotic part of town, but it’s still special to see.
When you’re getting hungry for dinner, you can either try one of the food stalls in the square or head further afield. Bear in mind there are loads of different stalls here which will vary in quality and price – anywhere that’s very busy is likely to be a good bet, as reputation goes a long way!
Day 2
Visit Jardin Majorelle
Start your day with a wander through the Jardin Majorelle – this is one of the most famous spots in Marrakesh, and you might well recognise it from social media or coffee table books.
It’s named after the French painter who designed it, Jacques Majorelle, but was later bought and lived in by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The gardens are gorgeous – a lush oasis filled with amazing plants and tinkling water features, surrounding an incredible cobalt-blue building that is even more special in the flesh.
Even though this place gets busy, it does feel worlds away from the city. Visit first thing to avoid the crowds – you’ll need to book in advance and be aware your ticket is for a time slot – you won’t be able to get in if you miss it! A visit to the gardens is 170 MAD / £14.
If you’re into your fashion, then definitely check out the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door (you can buy a combined ticket for both attractions). While you’re in this part of town, you could make the short walk to Le Grand Cafe de la Poste, a lovely old building that was once the post office, for a fresh juice and a snack.
Take a Moroccan cooking class
In the afternoon, get your hands messy with a Moroccan cooking class. This is a fun way to understand a bit more about the food and culture here – plus you get a meal thrown in (even if you’ve had to make it yourself)!
Some classes might take you on a little market tour first to pick up ingredients – which is a nice addition to the experience. Then you’ll head to a traditional kitchen to learn how to make classics like tagine and Moroccan salads. You’ll finish up by enjoying your meal as a group.
Swing by the Maison de la Photographie
This photography museum is a real gem, and you’ll find it hidden away in the medina. It costs about £5 / 60 MAD to get in.
It houses a big collection of photos from the 1800s and 1900s in Morocco – giving you a great insight into every day life back in the day. It’s really interesting if you love photography, history, or just seeing what people used to get up to! And that’s not all – the building it’s in is beautiful. It’s a traditional riad-style one, with a courtyard in the middle – and when you’re done, treat yourself to a mint tea at the rooftop cafe.
Treat yourself to a hammam
After a couple of days’ sightseeing, why not treat yourself to a hammam? Now, you’ll need to consider whether you want a spa-style pampering experience, or a more authentic – but extremely vigorous – scrub down.
For something a bit posh, try Hammam Rosa. To get scrubbed to within an inch of your life, try Hammam Mouassine. Prices will vary – a locals’ spot will be cheap, but for a more tourist-focused experience, you can expect to pay anywhere between £25-£100 or even more at the seriously bougie places.
Day 3
Do a desert safari or take a hot air balloon ride
After a couple of days the medina can feel a bit overwhelming, so you might want to spend your final day getting out beyond the city.
Try a desert safari adventure, like quad biking in the Agafay desert, or take a hot air balloon ride over the Atlas Mountains.
Go quad biking in the Agafay Desert
Get an adrenaline hit with a quad biking adventure in the Agafay desert, just outside Marrakesh. Think red and rocky landscapes that look like they could be on Mars!
You’ll be zipping over hills and weaving your way along dried-out river beds, with the Atlas mountains as your backdrop. Lots of tours include a pit stop for refreshments at a Berber family home or desert camp. Choose an early morning or sunset tour for some unreal light – just bring a scarf and your sunnies to ward off the dust.
Take to the skies in a hot air ballon
An unforgettable start to your final day is certainly a hot air balloon ride.
Now these tend to leave early doors, so you’ll need to make sure that backup alarm is set. But it’s an unmissable experience, as you watch the skies turn from blue to gold and the sun coming up over the Atlas Mountains.
The peace you’ll feel in the skies is a nice contrast to the city’s hecticness, and you get to see amazing views from high up too. Some rides will finish with a traditional Berber breakfast after you land.
Remember to wrap up warm as it’s pretty cold in the skies especially in the early morning.
If you’d prefer to stay in town, we recommend heading to see the Saadian tombs before heading out to the Anima Gardens.
See the Saadian tombs
The Saadian Tombs is a historical site tucked away behind the Kasbah mosque. These royal tombs date back to the 1500s and were rediscovered in the early 20th century.
The decorative details – which you can see in the intricate tiles, arches and ceilings – are really beautiful. It’s £8 / 100 MAD to enter.
Check out Anima Gardens
Whilst Jardin Majorelle is one of the most popular spots in Marrakesh, there’s another garden here that’s definitely worth your time.
Anima Gardens is the creation of an Austrian artist, André Heller, and it’s a sort of garden wonderland. Imagine a botanical garden with sculptures and mosaics, kind of like an open-air gallery, with amazing plants and the immense backdrop of the Atlas mountains.
It’s a beautiful, peaceful spot and takes about 40 minutes to drive to from the city. There’s even a free shuttle bus – just be sure to book in advance.
Get To Know Wonderful Marrakesh With Our Ulitmate 3 Day Itinerary
Enjoy Marrakesh! Whether you stick to this itinerary or mix and match, you’re in for an unforgettable trip. Marrakesh is a riot for your senses and a great spot for a city break – just pace yourself and bring your comfiest shoes!
