Marrakech is the kind of destination that gets you daydreaming. Discover the best things to do and see in the city, recommended by a local.
Refined architecture, delicious food, welcoming people—a trip to this Moroccan city is something many travel enthusiasts dream about. To find out the best way we to see it, we interviewed Khalil Daoudi, a Software Engineer at TUI who’s lived in Marrakech nearly his entire life.
Khalil loves the city’s perfect mix of tradition and modernity, its rich cultural heritage, vibrant markets, historic buildings and beautiful gardens. He tells us that in Marrakech, you can feel a sense of warmth, emanating both from the environment and its inhabitants, who come from all over the world. There’s always an opportunity to meet new people and hear their stories.
“One of my favorite memories of Marrakech dates back to when we were children. My whole family used to spend afternoons together at the Menara Gardens, enjoying a classic Moroccan picnic. The weather was always perfect, and we would lay out blankets, share homemade food, and enjoy our time together. The food was always fantastic: freshly made tagines, bread, olives, and all the Moroccan delights. It was a moment of pure joy […]”
Read on to discover all his tips, from attractions to see to unmissable things to do in Marrakech, as well as what to eat and where.
What to visit in Marrakech
The beating heart of the city
- Jemaa el-Fna: Your visit to Marrakech should start with this square, the heart of the old city, around which the Medina was developed. During the day, it’s occupied by a huge bustling market, and as the sun sets, it gets packed with countless food stalls.
- The souks of the Medina: From colorful carpets to fragrant spices, the souks of Marrakech are a paradise for photographers and shoppers. Get lost in the narrow alleys, haggle (it’s a must!) with the merchants, and let yourself be enchanted by the local craftsmanship.
Architectural gems
- Ben Youssef Madrasa: This ancient Muslim school, now a museum, is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture, with its intricately decorated courtyards, zellige tiles, and stucco carvings.
- El Bahia: Built by the Grand Vizier of Sultan Hassan I, this 19th-century palace is spectacular, with richly decorated rooms and marble courtyards. Its 150 rooms tell a story of grandeur and aesthetic refinement.
- El Badi: Although today only the ruins remain, Palazzo El Badi retains an aura of grandeur. Its extensive gardens and reflecting pools are an oasis of tranquility.
- Qubba almoravide: This small building, off the traditional tourist routes, is the oldest monument in Marrakech. Its architecture and decorations are a splendid example of Almoravid style.
- Saadian Tombs: Rediscovered only in 1917, the Saadian Tombs are one of Marrakech’s main attractions. This mausoleum consists of three main areas and the surrounding gardens, featuring intricate decorations, stucco, and marble.
Spirituality and culture
- Koutoubia Mosque: With its 69m-high minaret, the Koutoubia Mosque dominates the Marrakech skyline. The interior is accessible only to Muslims, but the surrounding gardens are open to the public.
- Marrakech Museum: This museum houses a vast collection of Moroccan art and historical artifacts. The building itself, a 19th-century palace, is a masterpiece.
- Museum of Moroccan Culinary Arts: You’ll love this museum, which takes you on a journey through Morocco’s flavors and culinary traditions. From spices to traditional cooking methods, it’s an educational and sensory experience.
- The Tanneries: Take a journey back in time. Observing the traditional leather-working process is a fascinating experience, although the smell can be very strong. Accept the offer of a fresh mint sprig at the entrance to counteract it.
- Dar Si Said Museum: This museum houses a vast collection of Moroccan crafts, from carpets to furniture, from everyday objects to jewelry.
Urban oases
- Majorelle Garden: Designed by the French painter Jacques Majorelle and later purchased and restored by Yves Saint Laurent, the Majorelle Garden is an explosion of colors and tropical plants.
- Menara Gardens: With its large water basin and pavilion with the mountains in the background, the Menara Gardens are the perfect spot for a romantic walk or a picnic in the shade of ancient olive trees.
- The Secret Garden (Le Jardin Secret): This recently restored garden is an oasis of peace in the heart of the Medina. With its refined architecture and lush gardens, it’s a rejuvenating tucked-away gem.
Unmissable experiences in Marrakech
- Hammam: Ideal to try in the evening before going to bed, this wellness ritual is a unique experience. Ask your hotel or riad to recommend an authentic hammam nearby.
- Camel or quad ride in the Palmeraie: Explore the landscape of Marrakech’s Palmeraie, an extensive oasis of date palms north of the Medina. Khalil recommends seeing it either on a fun quad excursion or a more traditional camel ride.
- Desert excursion: If the desert calls, you have to answer! A tour of the Merzouga, Zagora, or Agafay desert offers the chance to enjoy an adventure among the dunes, soaking up those starry nights.
- Day trip to Essaouira: In about two and a half hours from Marrakech, you can reach this charming coastal city. Here, you can explore the UNESCO heritage medina, the picturesque port, and the traditional fish market. With a TUI Collection tour, you can also visit an argan oil cooperative.
- Excursion to the Atlas Mountains: A 4×4 excursion through the Atlas Mountains will take you through breathtaking landscapes and traditional Berber villages. Whether you choose the Ourika Valley, Imlil, or Mount Toubkal, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views and a deep dive into Berber culture.
What and where to eat in Marrakech
Moroccan breakfast
A rich and varied breakfast, consisting of fresh bread, honey, eggs, olives, and, of course, mint tea.
Where to try it:
- Beldi fusion kitchen, Rue Bahia Bab Mellah
Tajine
A stew-based dish made with chicken, lamb, or fish, flavored with prunes, dried fruits, tomato, and spices.
Where to try it:
- Safran, Rue Jbel Lakhdar
- Zeitoun Café, 107 Place Jemaa El Fnaa
- Dune Rooftop Food & Drinks, Rue des banques, N39
- Cafe Restaurant Dar L’hssira, 13 Rue Riad Zitoun el Jdid
- Chez Zaza, Db jamaa, 69 Riad Zitoun Lakdim
- Le Slimana Restaurant & Rooftop, 53 Kaat Benahid
- Chez Fatima, N, 50 Rue Mohammed el Beqal
Rfissa
A traditional spiced dish made with msemen, broth, ras el hanout, and fenugreek. Served with chicken or pigeon.
Where to try it:
- Beldi fusion kitchen, Rue Bahia Bab Mellah
- Chez Fatima, N, 50 Rue Mohammed el Beqal
- DarHome, N° 163 Av. Mohammed V
- Dar Naji, 3 Rte Dar Daou
Tanjia
A unique specialty of Marrakech, traditionally prepared by men and slowly cooked in a terracotta pot.
Where to try it:
- Chez Lamine, Derb Semmarine
- Best tanjia
Couscous
An ancient recipe with countless variations, spiced, flavorful, and enriched with vegetables and meat or fish.
Where to try it:
- Dar L’hssira, 13 Rue Riad Zitoun el Jdid
- La Table Ocre, Au 1er étage du Medina Mall, 91 Avenue Homman Fetouaki
- Chez Fatima, N, 50 Rue Mohammed el Beqal
- MY TAHER, 9 Rue des Banques
- La Cantine des Gazelles
Pastilla (Bastilla)
A pie traditionally filled with pigeon meat, now more commonly made with chicken, flavored with cinnamon, almonds and sugar.
Where to try it:
- Ksar Essaoussan, Rue des Ksour, 3 Derb El Messoudyenne
- Dar Cherifa, 8 Derb Chorfa Lakbir
- Beldi fusion kitchen, Rue Bahia Bab Mellah
- Al Fassia, 55 Bd Mohamed Zerktouni
Harira
A soup typically eaten during Ramadan and on special occasions. Made with meat, legumes and vegetables, it’s spiced and energizing.
Where to try it:
- Le grand baza, Place Jemaa El Fna
- Dar Sharifa, 8 Derb Chorfa Lakbir
- Chez Brahim, Jamaâ El Fna Rue derb dabachi n° 38, fondek El Massioui n° magasin 26, 40000
- Tanjia secrets, N, 59 Rue Kennaria
Mechoui Royal
A traditional dish of roasted and spiced lamb. Its preparation is a true ritual, delivering a dish of the highest quality.
Where to try it:
- Chez Lamine, Derb Semmarine (arrive before 2pm as the dish might run out)
Traditional desserts
Moroccan desserts are known for their rich and satisfying flavors. You absolutely must try kaab el gazhal (gazelle horns), briouats (phyllo pastry triangles filled with almonds), makroud (made with semolina and dates), and chebakia (honey and sesame cookies). But feel free to experiment with whatever takes your fancy in the pastry shops.
Where to try them:
- Pâtisserie des Princes, Pass. Prince Moulay Rachid
- La Patisserie de la Terrasse Spices, Sidi Abdel Aziz, Souk Chérifia
- Pâtisserie Corne de Gazelle, Rue Riad zitoun el jadid N137
- Chez Madame Khadija, J2J6+XHG, Rue Amsafah
A perfect day in Marrakech
Finally, for our last question to Khalil we asked him to describe the perfect day in Marrakech for a visitor. He told us he’d start with a traditional Moroccan breakfast, the best way to get a taste of the local flavors. Then, he’d go exploring the city’s historical sites, such as El Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and El Badi Palace, to admire their unique architecture and stroll through their peaceful gardens.
For lunch, a stop at a traditional tanjia restaurant is a must. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that you absolutely must try in Marrakech. In the afternoon, Khalil suggests getting lost in the Medina’s souks, where colors, smells, and energy will captivate you. Then, head to Palmeraie for a camel or quad excursion through characteristic landscapes, ending at sunset with a delightful mint tea and traditional sweets.
For dinner, there’s nothing better than dining on a rooftop in the Medina, enjoying delicious Moroccan food accompanied by traditional music in the background. Finally, Khalil says to conclude the evening in a quiet Riad, sitting in the beautiful courtyard reliving the highlights of the day.
