Where is Marrakech

Marrakech is located at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, in the southwest of Morocco and is deemed one of Morocco’s four imperial cities.

Often referred to as the “Red City” due to its distinctive red sandstone buildings, Marrakech is nestled in the Marrakesh-Safi region at roughly 327 kilometres south of the capital Rabat.

It’s a vibrant epicentre known for its culinary highlights, bustling souks, Instagramable landmarks, and historic Medina, while also serving as a gateway to both the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains – this makes it an utterly popular destination for travellers seeking culture, nature, architecture, and adventure

Where to stay in Marrakech

Marrakech is without question among the world’s leading destinations when it comes to Instagramable aesthetics, and not surprisingly so, many unique and picture-perfect accommodation options are found right there.

Whether you’re after a traditional riad – which in my opinion, you should- a boutique hotel, a luxury resort in the Palmeraie (a lush area in the outskirts of the city), or something in between, there’s a wide range of incredible options catering to all travel styles, budgets and needs.

To help you out, I’ve picked my favourite out of the bunch:

Riad Kheirredine | First things first, when I plan a trip to Marrakech, I immediately check if there’s availability at the stunning 5-star Riad Kheirredine.

Tucked away in the winding alleys of the Marrakech Medina, Riad Kheirredine is a serene oasis that blends traditional Moroccan charm with impeccable hospitality. 

Only a short walk from the souks, Riad Kheirredine offers beautifully designed rooms featuring super comfy beds, intricate design, and luxurious bathrooms that feel like a private spa. 

Then there’s the rooftop terrace, complete with panoramic views and a plunge pool, which, if you ask me, is pure magic and perfect for hot summer days. 

Throw in their exceptional personalised assistance, the most amazing breakfast spread you can imagine, and you’ll quickly understand why I returned to Riad Kheirredine three times already.

Make sure you see it for yourself here.

Riad Kasbah & Spa | Situated at just a short walk from the majestic Saadian Tombs, Riad Kasbah & Spa is a peaceful refuge where traditional Moroccan architecture meets warm, modern comfort. 

The rooms are spacious, light and perfectly decorated with stunning furniture in earthy tones, while also providing a stunning view of the riad’s patio and centrally positioned pool. 

At just €134 a night during the high season, I believe Riad Kasbah & Spa is an absolute steal. 

Make sure you check Riad Kasbah & Spa here.

No clue which one to pick? Make sure you give ‘My take on the best riads in Marrakech‘ a read too.

1. Admire the Ben Youssef Madrassa

In a world dominated by the likes of Instagram, many sights with historical and religious significance are now also considered famous on social media platforms.

The Ben Youssef Madrassa has, somewhat sadly, become such a place too.

Nestled in the heart of the Marrakech Medina, it is no wonder that the Ben Youssef Madrassa has become a huge hit on Instagram, as it’s one of the finest examples of Moroccan architecture, marked by intricate tile-work, stunning carved wood, and ornate Arabic calligraphy.

Once the largest Islamic College in the world, with around 900 devoted students at its peak, the Ben Youssef Madrassa is still of religious and spiritual significance – yet now, with open doors to visitors from all over the globe.

Symmetrically, in a league of its own, this architectural masterpiece is, in many ways, one of the best things to do in Marrakech, and taking a wander around will deepen your admiration for the exquisite craftsmanship that went into the creation of this madrasa.

2. Get lost in the twisting laneways of the Marrakech Medina

As with all places I travel, taking a roam without a plan has always been my favourite.

Authentic, intoxicating, yet rewarding in every sense of the word, the Marrakech medina is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, home to vibrant souks, a plethora of hidden riads – more on that later – and, somewhat surprisingly, quiet corners away from the hustle and bustle.

While I wouldn’t deny the fact that the maze-like medina will one-hundred-percent confuse, overwhelm and misguide you, it is exactly this that provides you a look into the day-to-day moments that make Marrakech, Marrakech.

One moment you’re dodging impatient mopeds, the next you’re winding your way through a myriad of spice stalls, then a friendly local insists on guiding you – leading you through the twisting alleyways and straight into a store selling hundreds of lamps, before, all of the sudden, you find yourself in a a tucked-away courtyard restaurant that feels worlds away from the chaos.

For first-timers, this can be quite a culture shock, but once you get the hang of it, just the thrill of wandering around will provide a treasure trove of sights, sounds, and scents – a multisensory experience that is hard to rival.

If you’re not entirely sure if you can handle the chaos of the medina, you can always opt for a guided walking tour instead, where a local guide navigates you to all the right places.

3. Behold the stunning Koutoubia Mosque

Ever since my first visit to Marrakech, the Koutoubia Mosque has served as my quiet anchor.

You see, its towering minaret is seen from just about every point in Marrakech, serving as a constant reminder that Jemaa el Fna is never far away whenever I feel slightly lost.

Okay, jokes aside. Well, actually, it wasn’t entirely a joke.

Perched right on the edge of the Marrakech Medina, the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque is an absolute icon, with the 77-metre minaret as its undeniable centrepiece. 

While entering the mosque itself is off-limits to all but Muslims, admiring it from various points in town or roaming around it is more than enough to appreciate its architectural grandeur.

4. Spent the night in an authentic riad

Ever since Marrakech first appeared on my radar, one question repeatedly came to mind; have you truly been to Marrakech if you haven’t spent at least one night in a traditional riad?

To me, it’s simple; there’s only one correct answer to the question and that’s no.

You see, these traditional Moroccan houses offer an authentic insight into traditional Moroccan culture, while also providing an oasis of calm amidst the hectic streets of the Marrakech Medina.

During my time exploring the beautiful city of Marrakech, I was lucky enough to spend 4 nights at the incredible Riad Kheirredine.

Nestled in the bustling streets of the medina, at around a 15-minute walk from Djemaa El Fna, Riad Kheirredine is an exceptional riad marked by several exquisite open-air courtyards, gorgeous traditional Moroccan tile-work & wood carvings, and the most friendly staff ever.

Add to that their mouth-watering cuisine, an outdoor pool with a sun terrace, and tailored-fit assistance throughout your entire stay, and Riad Kheirredine is up there with the absolute best riads in Marrakech!

Given staying in a riad is likely atop of most travellers’ list of ‘things to do in Marrakech’, and the fact that my stay at Riad Kheirredine was absolutely amazing, I’ve also written an in-depth article on my stay here – which you can read here.

5. Visit Maison de la Photographie

As a photographer and an enthusiast of all things artistic expression, stumbling upon the impressive Maison de la Photographie de Marrakech was an absolute blessing. 

Housed in a small, yet adorable riad, Maison de la Photographie de Marrakech is a private institution initiated by Hamid Mergani and Patrick Manac’h with one clear goal: portraying the immense diversity of Morocco through imagery.

Opened in 2009, the museum is an invitation to gain an understanding of Morocco, where a spectacular archive of photos taken between 1860 and 1960 will navigate you through years of Moroccan history, culture, and daily life.

Here, every photograph carefully captures the essence of Morocco, its people, and their traditions, creating a rich and intimate collection that invites visitors to uncover the soul of Morocco.

It’s exactly the type of photography that I admire, with the portraiture of Berber tribes, vibrant Marrakech street photography, and serene vistas of both the desert and High Atlas being my absolute favourites.

The maison also houses a cosy cafe with incredible views on the rooftop, perfect for enjoying a quick coffee or juice before continuing your explorations around Marrakech.

7. Uncover the vast ruins of El Badi Palace

Set within the vibrant Kasbah district in the southern part of the Marrakech Medina, the enormous ruins of El Badi Palace are a phenomenal reminder of the city’s former grandeur.

El Badi, meaning ‘the Incomparable’ in Arabic, was built under Saadian rule in the 16th century, with one clear purpose: to show off Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur’s power and prestige.

Marked by floors and columns of the finest Italian marble, ceilings gilded in Sudanese gold, intricate zellige tilework and stunningly carved cedarwood throughout, the palace was not just opulent; it stood as an indisputable statement of wealth and authority.

While much of its grandeur was moved to Meknes after Moulay Ismail Ibn Sharif dismantled the Saadian Dynasty in 1707, the palace, even in its stripped-back state, continues to tell the story of what was once one of Morocco’s, if not the world’s, most magnificent imperial residences. 

Once you set foot inside the ruins, it’s almost impossible to believe that a palace of such sheer size is nestled in the maze-like streets of Marrakech, adding to its brilliance.

Given its extensive size, roaming the time-worn grounds feels worlds away from other, more compact places of importance in Marrakech, inviting slow explorations and contemplation of its former magnificence.

9. Visit the opulent Saadian Tombs

Right at the heart of the historic Kasbah district are the opulent Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur, as well as many of his relatives.

Once you walk their grounds, it is easy to see that the Sultan, known for his wealth, went to great lengths to reflect his power, leaving his legacy as a prosperous leader very much alive.

The necropolis is believed to be the pinnacle of Moroccan architecture, with the Chamber of the Twelve Columns widely viewed as the architectural highlight.

After visiting twice, I would confirm this without hesitation.

Although it is surely the centrepiece, there are 170 different tombs spread around the calming garden, including the ones of Ahmed’s beloved mother, wives, and many of his advisors.

As a whole, the Saadian Tombs are one of the best things to do in Marrakech, as their intricate design and tranquil gardens make for a rare yet refined mix of serenity and imperial grandeur.

10 | Roam the extensive Bahia Palace

Another brilliant example of Moorish architecture, the Bahia Palace, which literally translates to brilliance in Arabic, is downright magnificent.

Initially built around 1866 under Si Moussa and later expanded under the authority of his son Bou Ahmed, this palace is as breathtaking as it is extensive.

And when I say extensive, I mean really extensive.

You see, with a total surface area of over 8,000 m², roughly 160 intricately adorned rooms, and endless corridors connecting it all, the Bahia Palace almost feels like a city within a city. 

At its heart lies the Grand Courtyard, featuring an outstanding marble-paved floor, a central fountain, and exquisite arwiqa (covered arched porticos) marked by elaborate zellige tilework.

One thing I truly admired was the many passages, which added a delicate touch of mystery to the palace, providing plenty of excellent photography opportunities.

11. Experience the famous Jemaa el Fna

Like always, I’d be completely honest with you; I have long been conflicted if I had to include the Jamaa El Fna square on my list of things to do in Marrakech.

You see, the famous Marrakech square is not a place that matches the picture-perfect aesthetics you come across when researching Morocco’s beloved ‘Red City’ on Instagram.

No, sadly, Jemaa El Fna is everything but.

Instead, it’s a place where animal cruelty, misleading scams, and shady figures such as pickpockets, drug dealers and prostitutes largely take the upper hand.

Here, you’ll stumble upon intrusive henna artists who uninvitedly attempt to decorate your arm, men with chained monkeys forced to perform tricks, as well as thieves & scammers, all with one motive: moving hard-earned money of overwhelmed travellers straight into their own pockets.

While I clearly didn’t like Jemaa El Fnaa, I still chose to write about it here.

The reason for this is that, despite its shady nature, I still believe the square is of significant cultural and historical importance.

Luckily, there is a way better alternative to experience the oh-so-famous square, simply by taking a seat on the terrace of Le Grand Balcon du Café Glace.

At the terrace, you can enjoy a fresh mint tea or juice while overlooking the chaos from a comfortable distance, which, compared to visiting the square itself, is actually quite special.

12. Walk Jardin Majorelle and then visit Musée YSL

If the medina becomes a little too much (which, trust me, it will at some point), taking a stroll among the lush greenery of Jardin Majorelle will offer a welcome change of pace.

Initially designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé, the iconic garden is carefully curated with the finest exotic flora from five continents.

While the rare herbage and calming ponds are gorgeous, it’s the minimalist architecture painted in Majorelle blue that makes this garden one of the most recognisable places in Marrakech.

Today, it also marks the final resting place of Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé. 

Unlike other burial sites, this memorial is a more symbolic and understated one, where their ashes had been scattered peacefully among the garden’s vegetation.

Next door is the Musée Yves Saint Laurent, an elegant museum that honours the life and works of the legendary French designer, while also celebrating his deep adoration for Marrakech.

It is worth noting that, as one of the best things to do in Marrakech, you shouldn’t expect an entirely tranquil escape. So keep that in mind when planning your visit.

13 | Spent the night in the stunning Agafay Desert

Think of Morocco, and you think of the Sahara Desert; it’s as simple as that.

But what if I told you that there’s another remarkable desert just an hour away from Marrakech?

Marked by its moon-like landscapes and sweeping views of the Atlas Mountains, the rocky desert of Agafay is a welcoming escape from the city, offering a taste of desert charm without the long journey south.

It’s the perfect alternative for those short on time, while still delivering on that unmistakable desert appeal: think luxury desert camps, infinite horizons, adventurous activities, and memorable sundowns – all within easy reach of Marrakech.

To me, the magic of Agafay is best experienced by spending a night in a luxury desert camp.

I’ve spent a night at the outstanding Scarabeo Camp, where I enjoyed an elaborate dinner beneath the stars, all while the crackle of a bonfire and live music harmoniously filled the stillness of the surrounding desert. 

During my time in the desert, I also enjoyed Scarabeo’s stunning infinity pool, went on a thrilling quad ride through the dunes, and took time to unwind with a nice read under the sun.

If you’re really short on time, you can also opt for an Agafay day tour, which often includes a quad bike ride, a camel ride and a sunset dinner, followed by a short journey back to Marrakech.