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8 Top Things To Do in Marrakesh, Morroco

Authors
  • avatar
    Name
    Jonathan Chum
    Twitter
    @jchum

Introduction

Marrakesh, Morocco is one of the most picturesque cities in the world. It's full of history and culture, and it's incredibly easy to get lost in its winding streets and beautiful architecture. While you're there, don't forget to check out these five must-see attractions:

Go to Djemaa el-Fna

One of the best things to do in Marrakech is to visit Djemaa el-Fna, a large square, and marketplace that is located at the center of the old city. The grandest square in Marrakesh, it's also one of the most chaotic. People come from all over Morocco to shop here and see some entertainment.

If you go here during sunset you will have plenty of time to explore before night falls on this city and all its stalls close up for business. There are many interesting performers here who perform music or dance routines -- but beware: many jokers will try to get your attention by performing magic tricks or offering henna tattoos (which are quite lovely). You can also find plenty of places where you can eat traditional Moroccan foods such as tajine (meat cooked in sauce) or couscous with chicken shawarma and salad dressing (a typical meal).

Djemaa el Fna is also known as Black Friday because that's when everyone comes out onto these streets -- so if there were ever a good place to experience what life is like outside touristy hotspots like Jemaa el Fna then this would probably be it!

See the Majorelle Gardens

Known as the Majorelle Garden, this oasis of tranquility is a must-see for visitors to Marrakech. The garden was designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1930s, who was inspired by his travels through Morocco and Africa. The gardens were also designed to reflect his love of nature and art---each plant comes from different parts of the world and has its own story behind it.

When you're not admiring all of the beautiful plants and trees, don't forget to check out how much color there is! There are little mosaic benches scattered throughout where you can sit down for a moment to relax under an umbrella tree (the name comes from how their leaves look like umbrellas). Be sure not to miss out on these hidden gems because they add such an interesting element with their bright colors!

The Majorelle Garden is open daily from 9 am-5 pm except for Fridays when it remains closed due to prayer time during Ramadan - so don't forget your camera! If you want more information about what's open or closed during Ramadan, there's an entire list here: https://www.ehowtofranceguide.com/marrakesh-ramadan-holidays

Visit the Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace is one of the most iconic buildings in Marrakesh. Built-in 1884 by Sultan Moulay Hassan I, it was intended to be a gift for his wife. Today, you can visit this beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and walk through its lush gardens. It's free to enter and open from 9 am - 6 pm every day except Friday when it's closed for prayer services.

Go to the Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque, built in the 12th century, is one of the most iconic buildings in Marrakesh. It was named after the nickname of its builder, Yacoub el Mansour. The mosque is located on top of a hill and can be seen from anywhere in this touristy town.

After visiting this massive mosque you'll want to make your way down to the souks (open-air markets) and buy some souvenirs as gifts for friends back home or even yourself!

Spend some time at the Saadian Tombs

For those who love history, the Saadian Tombs are a must-see. Located in the ancient city of Marrakech, these tombs were built for an influential Moroccan Sultan - Ahmad al-Mansur. The complex itself is comprised of two separate parts: one that was built as a mausoleum and another that served as a place to house his wives and daughters.

The first thing you'll notice when you get there is how much effort was put into making the site look like it had been there since the beginning of time. The second thing you'll see is how well-preserved everything is - even after hundreds of years!

Once inside, you'll be greeted by some beautiful architecture and carvings created by artisans over 500 years ago! If this doesn't give your senses goosebumps then nothing will...it's truly an experience unlike any other!

Marvel at the Dar Si Said Museum

The Dar Si Said Museum is a 19th-century palace built in the Andalusian style. The museum houses an amazing collection of Islamic art, including manuscripts, books, and calligraphy from the Middle Ages. It also has a large collection of contemporary Moroccan art from local artists such as Mohammed Ghouili, Ahmed Rabi, and Bahia Abdelouahab.

The building itself is beautiful and makes for a great backdrop to your photos!

The museum is located in the medina (city center) so it's easy to get there by foot or by taxi. While Marrakesh can be pretty crowded during peak season (March-June), this place will give you some peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city!

Explore El Badi Palace

Located in Marrakech's old city, El Badi Palace is the epitome of medieval Moroccan architecture. The palace was built by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour in the late 15th century and has since been used as a residence for several sultans.

The palace was built with several special features that have helped it remain standing for so long---the most notable being its freestanding wall, which is made entirely out of red bricks and serves to keep the heat out during summer months. The walls are decorated with intricate patterns made from marble and stone imported from Spain and India. There are also four towers at each corner of the building, which were used as watchtowers at first but later became places where guards could keep an eye on what was happening outside while they rested inside their respective towers.

El Badi Palace is located just outside Marrakech's city center between two other popular attractions: Koutoubia Mosque (a landmark mosque) and Yves Saint Laurent Museum (formerly known as Dar el Makhzen). You can reach this site by taking buses 82 or 96 from Gueliz train station or using an airport shuttle service like Green Motion (which will cost about USD 5 per person).

Get away from it all at Jardin Marjorelle

If you're looking for a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, Jardin Majorelle is your go-to spot. The garden was created by Jacques Majorelle, a French artist, and designer who moved his family to Morocco in 1930. He built this garden as a personal sanctuary from the city---and it's easy to see why. A recent renovation has made it even more beautiful than before: imagine lush vegetation in every shade of green imaginable, an idyllic leafy canopy overhead, and almost no other people around!

The best part? This oasis can be yours for just $7 (400 Moroccan dirham), which includes admission into an adjacent museum where pieces from Mr. Majorelle's life are displayed. You'll also get access to two cafes serving drinks and snacks (and don't forget about their impressive selection of ice cream). If you want some privacy during your visit here then head out early before 11 am or after 2 pm when there will be fewer crowds roaming through the gardens.

Conclusion

Marrakesh is a city that has much to offer. The city comes alive at night, but it's worth seeing during the day as well. Tourists should try to make time in their trip for the Koutoubia Mosque and Saadian Tombs, which both represent important religious sites in the city's history. If you're looking for things to do outside of Marrakesh or nearby towns then consider visiting Essouira or Chefchaouen!