3 Days in Marrakech: The Complete Things-to-Do Guide

Nicknamed "the red city" for its ochre earthen walls, Marrakech is Morocco's most visited destination. Between the UNESCO-listed medina, gardens, palaces and the buzz of Jemaa el-Fnaa, here's what to do in Marrakech over three days.

Day 1 — the medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa

The heart of Marrakech is Jemaa el-Fnaa, a UNESCO square: storytellers, orange-juice sellers, musicians and night food stalls. All around spread the souks — spices, leather, rugs, lanterns. Look up to the Koutoubia, the emblematic 12th-century minaret.

Day 2 — palaces, gardens and a hammam

• The Bahia Palace and its zellige courtyards
• The Saadian Tombs
• The Majorelle Garden and the YSL museum
• The Menara gardens and olive groves
• A traditional hammam to unwind

Day 3 — day trips and adventure

Marrakech is a great base for adventure: quad biking in the palm grove and Agafay desert, an Atlas day trip, or an escape to Essaouira on the coast.

1. Quad biking or buggies in the Agafay desert
2. The Ourika Valley and Atlas Berber villages
3. Ouzoud waterfalls (2h30)
4. Essaouira and the coast (2h30)

Getting around & where to stay

In the medina, everything is walkable. But a rental car opens up the Atlas, Agafay and Essaouira at your own pace. On Orid, compare local agencies and book online, then choose a riad in the medina or an apartment in Guéliz.

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