Places to visit and best things to do in Marrakech city
Marrakech City:
Marrakech city is a vibrant destination with a rich history and incredible landmarks. Whether you’re exploring the Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, or the bustling Jemaa El Fna square, there are countless places to visit in Marrakech that offer an unforgettable experience. The city’s unique charm draws travelers from all over the world, eager to explore its culture, architecture, and markets.
Bahia Palace:
This palace with traditional gardens was built in the 19th century by Si Moussa Ba Ahmed, the grand vizier of the sultan. It represents the essence of Islamic and Moroccan style. It had 150 rooms, a beautiful tiled fireplace, colorful stained glass windows, and intricate floors. Opening times are 9 AM to 4 PM daily. It is closed during religious holidays.
Ben Youssef Madrasa:
Built during the rule of Sultan Sidi Abdallah al-Ghalib in the Marinid style, this was once an Islamic college. Today, it stands as a site dedicated to Islamic history.
Saadian Tombs:
These tombs date back to the late 16th century and were constructed by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty. The tombstones are crafted from finely worked cedar wood and stucco, while the monuments are made from Italian Carrara marble.
Koutoubia Mosque & Garden:
The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech, Morocco. It features curved windows, ceramic strips, pointed merlons, and decorative arches. It has a large square with gardens and is beautifully lit at night. The minaret stands 77 meters high and is adorned with an arrow and orbs. It was completed during the reign of the Berber Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansour (1184-1199).
Yves Saint Laurent Museums and Majorelle Gardens:
The Majorelle Gardens were created by French Orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle over nearly forty years, beginning in 1923. It features a Cubist villa designed by French architect Paul Senior in the 1930s. In the 1980s, the property was purchased by fashion designers Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, who restored it. The villa now houses the Islamic Art Museum of Marrakech, the Berber Museum, and has recently opened the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
Enjoy the Labyrinth of Marrakech Medina and Jemaa El Fna Square:
Jemaa El Fna is a square and marketplace in Marrakech’s Medina Quarter (the old city), which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. During the day, the square is filled with orange juice stalls, water sellers with traditional leather water bags, and brass cups. As the day progresses, the entertainment changes—snake charmers leave, and in the evening, the square becomes even more crowded with Chleuh dancing boys, storytellers, magicians, and peddlers of traditional medicines. As night falls, the square is filled with dozens of food stalls, and many people gather to enjoy the atmosphere.
Badi Palace:
The Badi Palace was commissioned by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty shortly after his accession in 1578. The original building is thought to have consisted of 360 richly decorated rooms, a courtyard, and a central pool.
Accommodation in Morocco – Riad:
Let yourself be seduced by the charm of a riad, a type of traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. Areas like Medina, Mechouar-Kasbah, and Gueliz are popular among travelers visiting Marrakech.
