Curator’s statement
Marrakech is a city that awakens all five of the human senses. Watch the awe-inspiring sight of the sun rising above the Atlas Mountains. Then, listen to the sounds of the hustle and bustle of the Medina. Breathe in the fragrances emitted from traditional fanoos lamps, and taste the spices perfectly incorporated with succulent meats in a traditional tagine. Finally, feel the delicate fibers of a freshly woven Berber rug.
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Things to do in Marrakech
Hot air balloon ride in the desert
The tour I took offered blankets and hot mint tea while the balloons inflated under the dawn sky. This was much appreciated, as the desert is biting cold before sunrise. Interestingly enough, once you take flight, the heat from the flame overhead warms you up quite quickly. Experiencing that gradual ascent with views of colorful balloons against the backdrop of the Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains is a moment I’ll never forget.
Madrasa Ben Youssef
An old school that showcases the best of Moroccan architecture, this attraction harbors over 130 rooms and a beautiful reflecting pool in the center of its courtyard. Get there as soon as they open for smaller crowds and the best opportunities for pictures! Cats frequent the grounds, so make sure to capture some photos of them in front of the vibrant mosaics.
Jardin Majorelle
Located on the same property as the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, this oasis has over 300 distinct plant species from five continents. The path is linear, so you’ll need to follow the trail without doubling back. Villa Majorelle is the garden’s iconic landmark, so be sure to linger there to fully take in the building’s unforgettable shade of blue.
The Medina
The old city of Marrakech holds thousands of stalls with numerous souks dedicated to specific Moroccan crafts. All transactions involve haggling, so be prepared for a little back and forth. I found a lamp I loved, but when we couldn’t agree on a price, I asked the shopkeeper to include a second lamp for his asking price. He agreed! Now I have two gorgeous Moroccan lamps for the price of one. See what deals you can find so you can bring home a piece of Morocco you truly value.
Koutoubia Mosque Gardens
The grounds feature the tallest mosque in Marrakech, with rows of palm and orange trees aesthetically arranged throughout. On a scorching Moroccan day, this is the perfect place to find a natural canopy and a reprieve from the desert sun. Having already clocked nearly 25,000 steps that day, the bench I found felt like a true lifesaver.
Places to eat & drink in Marrakech
Bacha Coffee
This coffee house located in the Dar el Bacha Palace features ornate ceilings, lavish decor, and white-glove service. The wait can be long, but it’s well worth it. After putting my name in with the hostess, I explored the outer garden and was able to see some gorgeous Morrocan architecture on the property. Once called in, I flipped through their endless coffee menu, and chose an Ethiopian blend. The ritual of enjoying that cup in such a polished ambiance was extraordinary.
Dar Yacout
Serving traditional Moroccan cuisine, this Marrakesh staple delivers an immersive experience for every guest. Expect live music, piping hot tagines, and vibrant Moroccan energy from the moment you walk through the door. Especially during peak season, be sure to book your reservation several days in advance.
La Terrasse Ben Yousef
This Medina rooftop serves delicious Moroccan food with unbeatable views of the Atlas Mountains. The servers are extremely friendly, striking up a conversation as we headed up the stairs to the terrace. My kefta tagine was served with an egg and had surrounding tables staring at my dish. I even witnessed at least three other customers ordering the same thing after seeing how good it looked!
La Kamounya
Another great terrace (enclosed but still elevated) that offers a break from the bustle of the Medina. If you’re lucky, you can dine with a view of the white storks that commonly nest in the Kasbah. I ordered the Tanjia Marrakchia (beef over melted potatoes), which might have been my favorite meal in all of Marrakesh.
The juice stands of Jemaa el-Fnaa
There is an abundance of choice in the square, but a major highlight is the long row of juice stands offering endless fruit combinations. With Morocco’s bounty of fresh oranges, pomegranates, and watermelons, the quality is unbeatable. These stands are hard to miss, as the vendors will be calling out to invite you over. Be prepared to haggle here, too!
Need to know
Cash is king in Morocco. There is a currency exchange in the Marrakesh airport, but for the best rates, head into the city. Pre-book an airport transfer online so you do not have to worry about having cash for the ride.
Stay in a riad. These traditional Moroccan houses have inward-facing rooms over an open-air courtyard. They typically serve breakfast as well!
The emphasis on the negotiation culture in Morocco cannot be understated. From wandering the souks, to paying for taxis, make sure you are bartering and getting the best price for all goods and services.
Take advantage of the local spas and hammams. The experience is traditional and authentic, and a perfect way to feel rejuvenated, especially after a long day of travel. Just be sure to book your reservation in advance!
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Marrakech page.