Marrakesh, a former imperial city in western Morocco dating back to the Berber Empire, for us, was the portlet into Africa. We fell in love with this immensely diverse, cultured, mesmerizing and artistic city filled with twisty alleyways, intimate gardens and bustling souks from where you can purchase traditional textiles, pottery, jewelry and many other souvenirs. The city is filled with intricate palaces and mosques and bustling with the most hospitable people who welcome tourists with open arms!
Where to stay in Marrakesh
Marrakesh is known for it’s traditional Moroccan interior gardens associated with house and palace architecture – also called the Riads, which are buried within the maze-like structure of the city. Riad is technically a garden but it also means a townhouse built around a central courtyard. Most of the courtyards have an astounding pool and dining area followed by more seating on the terrace. Riads are normally owned by individuals and provide topnotch hospitality. We had the pleasure of staying in 2 Riads which included free breakfast and traditional Moroccan tea! Be sure to get exact directions for your Riad. Google maps usually fails to pinpoint the exact location.
Marrakesh Currency
The currency of Morocco is the Moroccan Dirhams. This is a closed currency which means it can only be bought once you enter the country. The ideal place to get some cash would be the airport which would also give you the best rates. You’ll also find many money exchange centers in and around the Medina. They accept most major currencies and the rates are usually put up on the board in front of the store.
Top sites in Marrakesh which are hard to miss!
Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is a late 19th century palace located in Marrakesh. Today, it is a well-known historic monument and a tourist attraction which is quite famous for its intricate interiors. The floors are paved with colored marbles and tiles and it’s walls feature Arabic inscriptions, geometric patterns and complex designs. It is also known for it’s cedar wood painted and carved wooden canopies of major doorways. Artisans from all over the country were employed to construct this beautiful monument. It is highly recommended to get here first thing in the morning as this place can get very crowded. The decor here is so splendid that you’d definitely get to click many insta-worthy photos!
Entrance fee: 70 Dirham
Saadians Tomb
The Saadians Tombs are a historic necropolis located in Marrakesh close to the Kasbah Mosque. This complex is regarded as a high point of Moroccan architecture by many art historians due to its luxurious decorations and intricate interior designs. The main structure within this complex is called The Chamber of the Twelve Columns which can also be viewed from outside. This complex was used as a burial place for most of the Saadian Sultans even after the demise of the Saadian dynasty. Today, it is a garden cemetery covered with colorful tiles that are immaculately preserved. This place is absolutely worth visiting especially if you are an architecture lover. While here, you also have an option to get a guided tour to learn more about the Saadien sultans.
Entrance fee: 10 Dirham
Kasbah Mosque
The Kasbah Mosque in Marrakesh is a Friday Mosque that was built in the 12th century. It is located in the old royal Kasbah district of Marrakesh and is also known as the royal district. It is one of the most important historical mosques in Marrakesh and is surrounded by the city’s exquisite sites, cafes and restaurants. Unfortunately, this mosque is open only to Muslims but nevertheless, one should definitely visit to admire the beautiful exteriors.
Kutubiyya Mosque
This is the largest mosque in Marrakesh and is located in the southwest Medina quarter of Marrakesh near the famous public place of Jamaa el-Fna. It is flanked by large gardens and has a high minaret that is usually considered as the focal point for tourists’ guides to various places of interest. It is surrounded by many shops and restaurants. Unfortunately, only Muslims are allowed to enter here as well. But, you’d definitely want to get a snap of this monument with the Sun hiding behind the tallest point of the minaret – absolutely beautiful!
Jemaa el-Fna
With the Koutoubia mosque at a visible distance, Jemaa el Fna is a market square bustling with locals and tourists! It’s lined up with antique store, restaurants, cafes and eateries. While here, you will find many local musicians and snake charmers entertaining the crowds. This place is a mix of colors, smells and sounds that would keep your adrenaline levels high up most of the time! The exhilarating energy in this market is so intense that you’d definitely want to visit here both during the day and the night. Spend your time haggling with the vendors to purchase practically anything or grab a bite at any of the numerous eateries or just take a stroll – there is something for everyone!
Bab Agnaou
Bab Agnaou is one of the many majestic gates in Marrakesh and is also the main public entrance to the royal Kasbah. It is located in the southern part of the Marrakesh Medina. It’s name implies that it was the “Black People’s Gate” probably because black slaves from brought here from Africa. We had the pleasure of entering the city via this gate! It is slightly far from the Medina, but an evening walk to this grey gate for a photo stop should definitely be on your list of things to do.
Jardin Majorelle
The Majorelle Garden is a two and half acre botanical garden which took the french painter Jacques Majorelle forty years to construct. The garden was owned by YSL and Pierre Berge between 1980 and 2008. After YSL died in 2008, his ashes were scattered here. This garden is one of the most enchanting and mysterious gardens in Morocco. It is quite small but the beautiful, radiant colors here make this place worth visiting.
Entrance fee: 100 Dirham
Le Jardin Secret
Le Jardin Secret is an ornate and elegant 19th century palace with traditional Islamic gardens, shops and a cafe. It is located right in the middle of the Medina. Once you step inside the garden, you’d feel like you are in a complete different world and will get carried away with the garden’s tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. You’d also find soothing fountains, lush greenery and beautiful pavilions everywhere. A must-visit while in Marrakesh!
Entrance fee: 40 Dirham
El Badii Palace
El Badii is currently a ruined palace which was commissioned by the sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadien dynasty a few months after his accession in the 16th century. There is plenty to see here, including the outstanding views from the roof, the beautiful orange trees, reflection pools and much more. The palace is so remarkably preserved that you can almost envision the court thriving with people and entertainment. History buffs would definitely want to tickle their curious minds while here.
Entrance fee: 10 Dirham
And the most important of all.. Shopping in the Medina.
You cannot and should not step out of Marrakesh without experiencing the art to shop in the Medina!! Marrakesh ranks among the greatest shopping cities in the world. You’d never get tired of passing by hundreds of stores wherever you go around Marrakesh. Look out for our upcoming blog “Shopping in Medina” that should give you tips on what to buy in Marrakesh and how to bargain to get the best rates.
Marrakesh travel tips
- Keep cash wherever you go. May it be paying for your Riad, for your meals or just some souvenirs, it is advisable to keep cash on you at all times. Most places accept credit cards but not all places give you a good conversion rate.
- Be mindful of the people around you. Marrakesh sees its fair share of tourists, but is a third world country. So, beware of pickpockets.
- People are super friendly and very helpful. We have had nothing but good memories in dealing with the Marrakesh locals. Do not hesitate to ask for help when in need, especially with directions.
- Haggle for everything! Always negotiate with taxi drivers and souk owners. Start by quoting half of what they ask you to pay.
- Marrakesh Dirhams cannot leave the country. Airport officials here are well known for confiscating Moroccan currency from out bound tourists. So, make sure you spend whatever you have during your trip.
Happy Travels!!
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