Marrakech Things to do

Souks
Wander around the fascinating souks of Marrakech, taking in the vibrant colours and sounds of these traditional markets. Selling everything from locally made crafts, silks, carpets and leather to teas, herbs and spices, the labyrinth of streets offer a delight to explore and plenty of bargains to haggle over.

Main square
The heart of the city, the legendary central square of Djemaa el Fna, is Marrakech at its best. Declared a World Heritage Site, this historic square is bustling night and day, and packed with food stalls, tradesmen, musicians, acrobats, fire-eaters and snake-charmers - a must-see for any visitor to Marrakech.

The City Walls
Tour the medina, the oldest part of the city, filled with palaces, mosques and tombs, and encircled by 13th century rose-coloured walls, known as the 'ramparts'. Take a horse-drawn 'caleche' tour around the city walls - an ideal way to soak up the sights.

Historical sights
Other sights to see in Marrakech include the citys' landmark, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Musee de Marrakech, the tranquil Ben Youssef Medersa, and the Palais el-Badia. The Saadian Tombs, which lie in lavish mausoleums and surrounded by rich flower gardens, are a popular tourist attraction, as are the colourful Majorelle Gardens, owned by Yves St Laurent.   

Hammam steam baths
The public baths in the city are an age-old tradition, and a complete experience for the adventurous visitor. Choose from private or public, single-sex or communal, and enjoy a calming and cleansing retreat from the hub of the city.

Dining and entertainment
Cafes, food stalls, bars and restaurants abound in Marrakech, all serving a vast array of Moroccan and international food. Try the local specialities, such as couscous, tagine and pastillas, or watch the world go round over a mint tea or strong Moroccan-style coffee. The city is home to a wealth of entertainment options, from traditional shows in the square and authentic belly-dancing, to trendy bars and modern discos and clubs.

Day trips
Marrakech is a great base for exploring the neighbouring Atlas Mountains, with plenty of day trips available for trekking and experiencing the local Berber village life. Trips into the Sahara Desert can also be arranged from the city, and the popular port town of Essaouira on the coast is a 3-hour trip.

 Search for Marrakech holidays