Curator’s statement
Marrakech is a city of contrasts—quiet riads hidden behind heavy doors, vibrant souks that never seem to slow down, refined dining just steps away from simple street stalls, centuries-old traditions meeting contemporary design. It’s a place people tend to react to strongly: you either feel instantly drawn in, or you decide one visit is enough. For me, the city left a lasting impression. Not in an obvious way, but in layers, the rhythm, the textures, the moments in between. I hope sharing my experiences gives you a sense of Marrakech beyond the clichés, and perhaps nudges you to experience it on your own terms one day. Below is the 5-day itinerary I’d recommend if you want to see the city through a more considered lens.
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Day 1: Desert landscapes, kasbah living & candlelit dinners
Kasbah d'If
Begin your journey in the Agafay Desert, just outside Marrakech, where the pace immediately shifts. The Agafay desert is about an hour’s drive from Marrakech’s airport and it offers not only a beautiful landscape, but various activities like hot air ballooning or camel rides. Stay in a traditional kasbah—an old fortress reimagined as a boutique hotel, such as Kasbah d’If—and end the day with a classic Moroccan dinner, simple, generous, and rooted in local tradition.
Day 2: Slow mornings, desert rides & spa time
The spa at Kasbah d'If
Start the day at an easy pace. In Morocco, there’s no need to rush—many places don’t open until late morning, including the spa at Kasbah d’If. Take your time with breakfast in the hotel’s inner garden, then head out for a camel ride in the desert.
In the afternoon, slow things down again by the infinity pool or book time at the spa. A traditional hammam is well worth trying if you want to fully switch off before the next part of your journey.
Day 3: Courtyard riads, cultural highlights & sunset rooftops
DarDar Rooftop restaurant with a view of the Koutoubia Mosque
Transfer into the old city, the Medina of Marrakech, and check into a traditional riad—a Moroccan house built around an inner courtyard, often with a small pool. Staying in the Medina puts you within easy reach of many of the city’s main sights, making it a convenient base for the next two days.
Spend the day exploring highlights such as the Yves Saint Laurent Museum Marrakech, Jardin Majorelle, El Badi Palace, and the Ben Youssef Madrasa. Make sure to have your entry tickets pre-booked to the YSL Museum and Jardin Majorelle as it can get busy during the day and same-day entry is usually not guaranteed.
For food, stop by Maison Amaj for brunch and pastries, or keep it light with lunch at Farmers. In the evening, head to DarDar, one of the city’s best rooftop spots, for dinner and views over the Medina.
Day 4: Design-led hotels, Atlas Mountains & Italian dinners
Hotel Amanjena
For a more elevated stay, choose one of Marrakech’s leading hotels such as Amanjena, Royal Mansour, or Mandarin Oriental Marrakech, all known for consistent service, privacy, and well-designed spaces.
Set aside a day for a trip to the Atlas Mountains, and half a day to join a traditional tagine cooking class and get a closer look at everyday Moroccan cuisine beyond restaurants.
For dinner back in the city, book a table at Arva, Amanjena’s Italian restaurant—still one of the best Italian meals I’ve had, anywhere.
Day 5: Final swims, unhurried mornings & farewells
Medina - Old Town of Marrakech
Enjoy a slow breakfast and a last dip in the pool before heading back home full of memories and couscous.
Need to know
Bacha Coffee is extremely popular and doesn’t accept reservations. Known for its grand interiors and extensive menu of single-origin coffees from around the world, it has become one of Marrakech’s most talked-about cafés. Wait times can stretch to several hours, which is why many people consider it a must-visit. If you want to go, it’s best to arrive early in the morning, ideally before opening.
As an alternative, I recommend 1112 Tea House, which offers a similar atmosphere without the long queues and is a much calmer experience overall.
Local taxis are very affordable (around €5–10 for most rides), while hotel-arranged transfers for the same distance can cost significantly more (€20–30). If you use local taxis, always agree on the price in advance; you can usually hail them directly on the street.
Travel Advisor
Eva Szoradi
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Marrakech page.