Getting to know Marrakech
Lying near the the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is the 3rd largest city in Morocco and a popular destination among tourists from all over the world. Its fascinating contrasts attract over 2 million visitors in a year. The two distinct parts that you will find here (the Medina – the historical city, and Gueliz – the modern district) compose a delightful, diverse image of this wonderful tourist destination.
What you can do for free in Marrakech
- Visit Medina
The historical city of Medina is where you should go if you want to feel the local vibe, to understand the cultural origins of Marrakech and its people and to enjoy the commotion around you. If you want, you can buy just about anything you can think of from the shops around. - Cyber Parc Arsat Moulay Abdeslam
For a more relaxed day in Marrakech, take a look at this fantastic park. The various plants are nicely laid out, next to many great sitting areas, creating a beautiful scenery and a great setting for your most laid back day in the city. - Koutoubia Mosque
The tower of the mosque is one of Marrakech’s most outstanding landmarks. Walk around the gardens to the mosque and minaret and enjoy the great views.
Top spots to visit
- Medersa Ben Youssef
The largest theological college in Morocco, and also a fascinating piece of architecture and design, the Medersa of Ben Youssef is definitely worth a visit, as it is one of Marrakech’s most beautiful buildings. - Saadian Tombs
66 members of the Saadian dynasty are honored in this 16th-century burial ground. A garden surrounds the mausoleums, completing the fascinating ambience that this tourist spot has. - Bahia Palace
This magnificent building can be likened to a peacock. Built in the late 19th century as the residence of the Grand Vizier Bou Ahmed, the palace has a fabulous, colorful interior design, that will mesmerize any visitor.
Hidden spots to visit
- Tiskiwin Museum
Moroccan artifacts and exhibits can be found in this small, but very well organized museum. This spot allows its visitors to learn a lot about the history of Marrakech and understand its fascinating culture. - Anima Andre Heller Garden
Here you will find numerous wonderful sculptures that blend perfectly with all of the beautiful greenery, such as palms, cacti, lemon trees, orange trees and so on. - Almoravid Koubba
This is the oldest monument that Marrakech has and the only piece of Almoravid architecture left on its lands. The small building was once part of a mosque, built in 1117.
Restaurants
If you’re in Marrakech, you definitely have to try the traditional moroccan tajine, and some of the best restaurants where you can do that are La Table – Royal Mansour, Cafe Des Epices, Al Fassia Aguedal, Dar Zellij and Comptoir Darna Marrakech. Marrakech has many great restaurants where you can enjoy all kind of foods, and most of them offer Moroccan and African dishes, alongside other dishes from the international cuisine.
Recommended time for visiting
When it comes to great weather, the best periods for visiting Marrakech are from mid February to early May, and from early October to late November. The busiest and most expensive months in Marrakech are September, November and March, so planning a vacation outside this time frame might be a good idea.
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Avg. temp. (°C) | 13 | 14 | 17 | 18 | 21 | 24 | 29 | 29 | 27 | 21 | 17 | 14 |