Marrakech is a prominent city in Morocco, and it is a popular destination for tourists from around the world.
Marrakech is home to a plethora of ancient mosques and palaces, stunningly beautiful gardens, and unique and wonderful culture. There are also plenty of family-friendly venues including waterparks, theme parks, zoos, and more.
With origins dating back to the Berber Empire, Marrakech is full of architectural and historical wonders. It’s not only interesting because of its past though, today the city is a vibrant, bustling metropolis that is sure to delight any visitor.
Here’s a list of some of the most popular things to do in Marrakech…
Marrakech Medina
Marrakech Medina, the old part of the city, is home to a thriving market scene with souks selling everything from oriental spices to vibrant textiles to one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Visitors can enjoy the Hamman bathhouses by day and the dazzling Jemaa el-Fna square entertainments by night. The medina really comes alive once the sun sets, with folk dances, snake charmers, and more all performing well into the night.
Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is noteworthy for many reasons, including its variety of names. Its name has been rendered as ‘Kutubiyya Mosque’ ‘Jami’ al-Kutubiyah’ ‘Kutubiyya Mosque’ ‘Kutubiyya Mosque’ and ‘The Mosque of the Booksellers’.
Most of the names surround the Arabic word for ‘librarian’ because it used to be surrounded by souks selling all kinds of manuscripts. Koutoubia Mosque is the largest out of all the mosques in Marrakech and is next to beautiful gardens and a strait of towering palm trees.
Le Jardin Secret
Le Jardin Secret centres around a beautiful 19th-century palace complex and is famous for its ornate and traditional design that captures the spirit of both ancient and modern Morocco.
The surrounding gardens are landscaped in a classic Islamic style and are an absolute haven for horticulturalists. There’s also a shop and cafe on-site, where visitors can enjoy the views with some delicious local delicacies.
Jardin Majorelle
The Jardin Majorelle Botanic Garden is another wonderful attraction for gardening enthusiasts and anyone looking for the perfect Instagram photo. It was created by Jaques Majorelle, a French orientalist artist who began work on the garden in 1923.
The garden wasn’t finished until almost forty years later, with a gorgeous Cubist villa added halfway through by French architect Paul Sinoir. Today, the garden covers over two and a half acres and is full of tropical plants, cacti, and stunning architectural features.
Palacio de Bahia
The Bahia Palace is a 19th-century landmark that is famous for its interior decor, which includes arabesques, geometric patterns, muqarnas, marble tiles, and beautiful Arabic inscriptions carved into the walls.
The palace was originally built in 1859 by the Grand Vizier of Alaouite sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahma, Si Musa. It was then expanded in 1894, and construction continued until 1900 when it was completed to everyone’s satisfaction.
Yves Saint Laurent Museum
One of the more surprising highlights you’ll find in Marrakech is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Saint Laurent first visited Morocco in the 60’s and it was love at first sight, he went on to buy a house in Marrakech with his then partner Pierre Berge, and it continued to be a favourite holiday destination throughout his life.
According to Pierre Berge “it was natural to build a museum dedicated to the work of Yves Saint Laurent in Morocco, as he—even in the colours and the forms of his clothing—owes so much to the country.”.
Maison de la Photographie
The Maison de la Photographie is a museum devoted to Moroccan art and photography. It features some fascinating permanent exhibits as well as other rotating displays of different pieces from a variety of photographers.
The building and interior are just as interesting as the pictures themselves, with ancient artifacts and beautifully designed architecture and balconies overlooking the bustling city below.
El Badi Palace
El Badi Palace is an ancient building that was commissioned by sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty in 1578. Throughout his reign, the sultan kept expanding the palace, forever adding embellishments and new features to make it even more impressive.
Today, the palace lies partially in ruins, but it is still worth a visit to see the classic architecture of the era. The name ‘El Badi’ means ‘brilliance’ so that’s quite an advertisement.
Nikki Beach
If you’re tired of looking at historical landmarks and walking around the city, then the Nikki Beach club report is just the place for you. This beautiful resort rivals what you’d find on St Maarten or St Tropez in both beauty and luxury.
With sun lounges so comfortable you could be in a king-size bed and cabanas with the perfect amount of shade, you won’t ever want to leave. The food here is second to none, and the ambiance really is absolutely fabulous.
Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs are a royal necropolis, located in the Royal Kasbah district. Among the ancient royals buried in the tombs are Muhammad al-Sheikh, Lalla Mas’uda, Moulay Abdallah himself, and possibly Sultan Abd al-Malik.
The tombs, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were built in the late 16th century, under the reign of Sultan Ahmed el Mansour. They are easy to get to, and there is only a small entrance fee.
Aqua Fun Club
Marrakech is a very family-originated city, and there are plenty of activities and places geared toward kids. The Aqua Fun Club is the largest waterpark in Marrakech, and one of the most popular.
It is made of 16outdoor pools and heated pools, many waterslides, and countless activities. The staff here are known for their friendly and approachable manner, as they go above and beyond to ensure you have the best experience possible.
Oasiria Waterpark
Another great option for a family day out is the Oasiria Waterpark. Kids of all ages are sure to enjoy visiting this vast adventure park.
There are water slides of every shape and size, a wave pool, meandering rivers, and splash zones for younger children. Basically, it’s a mini Disneyland that’s sure to keep everyone entertained.
Rahba Kedima Square
Rahba Kedima Square is another must-see neighborhood. Here you’ll find souks, alleys filled with shops, and boutiques that sell all kinds of items, including clothes, ceramics, jewelry, shoes and slippers, and more.
The bustling atmosphere here is the perfect representation of Marrakech; it’s busy, friendly, and vibrant. You’ll also see beautiful ornate pavilions and pools, along with modern rooftop cafes that offer amazing food and amazing views.
Musée de la Musique
The Musée de la Musique is full of exhibitions that explore the history of music throughout Morocco. It’s a must-visit spot for music fans and aficionados.
Here you can explore the diverse musical culture and unique Moroccan history. There are displays of old photos, ancient musical instruments, and much more, all housed inside a grand restored 16th-century house.
Menara Mall
No trip is complete without a proper shopping expedition, and Menara Mall is the perfect place to go. It’s a new development that only opened in 2015, and it has everything you could possibly be looking for.
This vast two-story building spans over 50,000 square metres, and even has an indoor recreation park for children. Inside you’ll find over 100 shops, from brand names and luxury stores to boutiques and venues selling unique souvenirs.
