Marrakech is the town that seduces your spirit, a destination where past and present blend. This is a reassembled 48-hour journey through Marrakech, its mobbed medina front part and quiet patio gardens and history-sustaining landmarks in between.
Day 1: Immersion in the Soul of Marrakech
Morning: Old Medina and Souks
Start your Marrakech tour at the prominent Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in the city. Dating back to the 12th century (commissioned by the Almohad dynasty), it is a striking example of Marrakech’s regional architecture featuring its famous 253-foot minaret. Though non-Muslims may not go inside, the garden areas of the mosque and its unique minaret are well-worth checking out.
After soaking up the sight of Koutoubia, head to Jemaa el-Fna Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a hub for living in Marrakech. The big square is full of juice sellers, henna painters, snake charmers, and street artists. For centuries this energetic square at the heart of Marrakech has been a metropolis in itself, encapsulating its enfolding pulse. Spend a moment wandering about, capturing the vibrant surroundings, and getting some natural OJ from one of the nearby stalls.
Mid Morning: Forget Cash, Time for the Souks
Head to the warren of souks in Medina Square for all manner of products reflecting Moroccan craftsmanship and culture. The souk is a treasure trove of everything from handwoven textiles and intricate lamps to enamelware dishes, exotic spices, leather goods (yes, even ubiquitous Berber slippers), and traditional ceramics. Never forget to negotiate the price with a smileᅳit’s allowed and an important part of shopping.
Dar Si Said Museum is a hidden treasure for those with an affinity towards history. The museum, located close to the souks, highlights Moroccan craftsmanship. It is named after the country’s first ironically modern monarch, built in a magnificent 19th-century palace that houses stunning collections of Berber jewelry, carpets, pottery, and an impressive array of weapons from around Morocco.
Meal: Traditional Moroccan Lunch
Enjoy a leisurely Moroccan lunch in one of the city’s tiny medina restaurants or riads. Eat: Slow-cooked taginesᅳchoose a delicious lamb with prunes or chicken with preserved lemons and olives. Also, pair it with Moroccan mint tea served hot and sweetᅳa staple in Morocco.
In the Afternoon: Visiting Bahia Palace
Late afternoon, wander to Bahia Palace, where a 19th-century palace features intricate tilework and lovely courtyards surrounded by lush gardens. This lavish palace aspired to encapsulate Moroccan and Islamic styles with rooms and halls reflecting the grandeur of Morocco’s royal history. The House of Rich cedar ceilings and courtyards gives a taste of what Moroccan royals once lived like.
Start at the Bahia Palace, then make your way to the El Badi Palace. Built in the 16th century to mark Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour’s victorious defeat of the Portuguese invaders, today this palace is mainly a spectacular ruin. Those leftᅳa mix of walls and courtyards, specked with stork nestsᅳmake an atmospheric mess that’s a favorite for photographers. Be sure to visit the underground passageways and go out on top of the terrace, where you can see a great vantage point from Marrakech’s old city.
Night: Jemaa el-Fna Square at Sunset
Head back to Jemaa el-Fna Square for the night market as soon as it is sunset and also visited by a large number of people. Surrounding Haraga Square are a number of food stalls, offering up the entire battalion of local fare: skewered meats, Harira soup in all its chunky tomato and noodle glory, and chebakiaᅳfilo dough pastries soaked in honey.
Imbibe the flavors and colors of this melodramatic drama among musicians, storytellers, and street performances.
Day 2: Gardens and Museums
Morning: Jardin Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Start your second day with a visit to Jardin Majorelle, a botanical masterpiece created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. The garden is a lush oasis in the heart of the city, with exotic plants, fountains, and vivid blue and yellow art deco structures. Majorelle’s distinctive cobalt blue—known as “Majorelle Blue”—is a hallmark throughout the garden. Don’t miss the Berber Museum within Jardin Majorelle, which showcases a fascinating collection of Berber artifacts, jewelry, and textiles.
Just next door, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum honors the iconic designer’s love for Marrakech. The museum houses some of his best haute couture pieces and a rotating exhibit on Moroccan art, making it a worthwhile stop for fashion and art enthusiasts alike.
Lunch: Rooftop Dining in the Medina
For lunch, head back to the medina for a relaxing meal at one of Marrakech’s many rooftop cafes. Enjoy traditional Moroccan salads, freshly baked bread, and a variety of spiced meats and vegetable dishes while soaking in the panoramic views over the medina’s rooftops and minarets.
Afternoon: Saadian Tombs and Mellah Quarter
After lunch, visit the Saadian Tombs, a significant historical site dating back to the late 16th century. These tombs were rediscovered in 1917 and are the final resting place of members of the Saadian dynasty. The site is known for its detailed tilework, Arabic calligraphy, and beautifully maintained gardens. The Chamber of the Twelve Columns, where Sultan Ahmed el Mansour is buried, is particularly noteworthy.
Next, explore the nearby Mellah, the old Jewish quarter of Marrakech. This area provides a glimpse into Morocco’s rich history of religious and cultural diversity. You can visit the Jewish Cemetery and the Lazama Synagogue, one of the few synagogues still open in the city.
Evening: A Relaxing Hammam Experience
End your two-day journey with a quintessential Moroccan experience: a visit to a hammam (traditional bathhouse). Many riads offer private hammam services where you can relax and rejuvenate after a busy day of exploring. The hammam experience typically includes exfoliation with black soap and a deep massage, leaving you refreshed and ready for your next adventure.
Additional Tips for Exploring Marrakech
- Dress Modestly: Marrakech is a city with strong cultural values, so dressing modestly is both respectful and helps you blend in. Loose-fitting, breathable clothing is ideal for staying cool in the warm climate.
- Stay in a Riad: For an authentic experience, consider staying in a riad, a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard. Riads offer a unique glimpse into Moroccan culture and are often beautifully decorated with tilework and fountains.
- Mind the Traffic: The medina can be chaotic, with motorbikes, carts, and pedestrians all sharing narrow streets. Stay aware and be cautious when navigating busy areas.
- Cash and Haggling: Many places in the medina only accept cash, so it’s a good idea to carry enough with you. Bargaining is expected in the souks, so don’t be afraid to negotiate, but always do so respectfully.
This two-day itinerary captures the essence of Marrakech, taking you from its historic medina and vibrant souks to the tranquil beauty of Jardin Majorelle and the splendor of its palaces. Whether you’re savoring Moroccan dishes, haggling in the souks, or relaxing in a hammam, Marrakech promises a memorable journey filled with vibrant colors, sounds, and experiences that will stay with you long after you leave.
