A guided tour is the best way to discover Marrakech, its history and its architecture. Here is an itinerary covering the main sights.
1. Jemaa el-Fna square
The heart of Marrakech: street performers, snake charmers, musicians and food stalls. It is at its liveliest at sunset.
2. The medina and souks
The old town, a World Heritage Site, with alleys full of craft shops, spices and textiles. In the souks you will find rugs, leather and ceramics.
3. The Koutoubia
Marrakech’s largest mosque, with its 77-metre minaret, a fine example of Almohad architecture. Non-Muslims cannot enter, but the exterior and gardens are superb.
4. Majorelle Garden
An oasis of calm created by the painter Jacques Majorelle, famous for its intense blue and exotic plants. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum is next door.
5. Bahia Palace
A 19th-century palace with decorated halls, courtyards and gardens that show the splendour of the court at the time.
6. Saadian Tombs
The tombs of the Saadian sultans, rediscovered in 1917 and famous for their exquisite decoration.
7. El Badi Palace
Built in the 16th century by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur, now in ruins but still impressive for its walls, courtyards and pools.
8. Ben Youssef madrasa
A Koranic school with a magnificent central courtyard and intricate decoration on its walls and ceilings.
9. Menara Gardens
Outside the centre, a large pool among olive groves with views of the Atlas: beautiful at sunset.
10. Maison Tiskiwin
A small museum devoted to Berber and Saharan culture, with rugs, clothing and everyday objects.
Practical tips
- Duration: a guided tour usually lasts 4 to 6 hours.
- Local guide: explains the history, culture and architecture and saves you time in the medina.
- Dress: modestly, especially near religious sites.
- Water: always carry some, especially in the hot months.
Many of our tours from Marrakech include a guided city tour.
More about Marrakech on Wikipedia.
Keep reading
3 min readWhat to see and do in MarrakechWhat to see in Marrakech: Jemaa el-Fna square, the souks, a hammam, the Koutoubia, Ben Youssef madrasa. We help you plan your trip.Read article →
1 min readWhy travel to MarrakechWhy visit Marrakech: the medina and Jemaa el-Fna, the Koutoubia, the modern city's museums and restaurants, and day trips to Ourika.Read article →
3 min readWhat makes Fes specialWhat to see in Fes, Morocco's oldest imperial city: the UNESCO medina, Al Qaraouiyine, the madrasas, the Chouara tanneries, Bab Boujloud and practical tips.Read article →