Best Things to Do in Marrakech 2025 | Red City Guide

Introduction

Wondering about the best things to do in Marrakech? This vibrant Moroccan city, often called the “Red City” for its terracotta-colored walls, blends ancient traditions with modern charm. From wandering through the bustling souks and admiring historic palaces to enjoying rooftop dining and taking unforgettable day trips into the Atlas Mountains or Sahara Desert, Marrakech offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re here for luxury, adventure, or family-friendly activities, this guide covers all the top attractions, hidden gems, and cultural insights to help you plan your perfect 2025 trip.

What to Expect in Marrakech in 2025

Marrakech, known as the gateway to Morocco, is a city where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary experiences. As of 2025, the Red City continues to attract travelers seeking vibrant culture, sensory adventures, and authentic encounters.

A City of Contrasts

• Historic Medina: Step into a maze of narrow streets filled with souks, mosques, and riads. The old town is where most of Marrakech’s character shines through.
• Modern Gueliz: Just beyond the old walls lies a cosmopolitan district with chic cafés, art galleries, and boutiques.
• Luxury Meets Tradition: From lavish hammams to five-star hotels, Marrakech has embraced luxury without losing its authenticity.

Why Marrakech Stands Out in 2025

• Sustainable Tourism: More eco-conscious tours and accommodations are being introduced, especially for desert excursions.
• Family-Friendly Developments: New parks, museums, and kid-friendly attractions make Marrakech increasingly popular with families.
• Adventure Base: As a hub for excursions, Marrakech is the perfect starting point for Atlas Mountains hikes, Sahara desert tours, and coastal day trips.

Whether you’re visiting for two days or two weeks, Marrakech offers a dynamic blend of history, adventure, and indulgence—a city where every turn reveals a new story.

Best Time to Visit Marrakech

Choosing the right time to visit Marrakech can transform your trip. While the city is captivating year-round, the season and climate greatly influence the experience.

Weather Overview

• Spring (March–May): The most popular season. Pleasant temperatures (20–28°C) make it ideal for exploring the souks, gardens, and palaces. The Atlas Mountains are lush and perfect for day hikes.
• Summer (June–August): Very hot, with temperatures often above 38°C. Best for those who plan on staying in luxury resorts with pools or venturing to cooler mountain regions.
• Autumn (September–November): Another prime season, with warm days and cooler evenings. The desert is especially beautiful at this time.
• Winter (December–February): Mild in the city (12–20°C), but chilly in the evenings. A great season for desert tours and cultural explorations without the crowds.

Best Times for Different Travelers

• First-time visitors: March–May or September–November for a balanced climate.
• Adventure seekers: Spring and autumn for trekking and desert tours.
• Luxury tourists: Year-round, since most high-end resorts provide comfort regardless of weather.
• Families: Spring break or fall holidays, when the weather is manageable for children.

Key Tip

Keep in mind the Marrakech time zone (GMT+1) and note that Morocco does not observe daylight saving time, so plan flights and tours accordingly.

Essential Local Tips & Cultural Etiquette

Marrakech is warm and welcoming, but like any destination, understanding local customs makes your trip smoother and more respectful.

Cultural Etiquette

• Dress Modestly: While Marrakech is cosmopolitan, modest clothing is appreciated, especially in the Medina and religious sites. Shoulders and knees covered is a good rule of thumb.
• Greetings Matter: A simple “Salam Alaikum” (peace be upon you) goes a long way. Handshakes are common, but always wait for the other person to initiate.
• Photography Etiquette: Always ask before photographing locals, particularly in the souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa performers.

Money & Bargaining

• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Carry small bills for taxis and markets.
• Bargaining: Haggling is expected in souks. Start at about half the asking price and meet in the middle with a smile.
• Tipping: In restaurants, 10% is standard. For guides, drivers, and hammam attendants, tipping is also customary.

Safety & Practical Tips

• Stay Alert in the Medina: The narrow streets can be overwhelming. Keep valuables secure.
• Tap Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water.
• Language: Arabic and French dominate, but English is increasingly spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tour companies.

Respecting Traditions

• Ramadan: If visiting during Ramadan, expect shorter opening hours and a quieter atmosphere during the day, but evenings come alive with feasts and celebrations.
• Mosques: Non-Muslims are generally not permitted inside most mosques, with the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca being a notable exception.

Embracing these customs ensures you’ll experience Marrakech with ease while respecting the local culture.

Must-See Attractions & Hidden Gems

Marrakech is a city of layered experiences: ancient palaces, fragrant gardens, bustling souks, and quiet corners waiting to be discovered. Here are the top attractions and hidden gems to explore.

The Medina & Souks

The Medina of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the beating heart of the city. Lose yourself in its maze of alleys lined with spice vendors, leather workshops, and lantern makers. Each section of the souk specializes in something different — from textiles to traditional slippers called babouches.

Travel Tip: Download a Marrakech map in advance, as GPS can be unreliable inside the Medina.

Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

No trip to Marrakech is complete without visiting Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s legendary square. By day, it’s filled with snake charmers, henna artists, and juice stalls. By night, it transforms into a massive open-air dining scene with sizzling tagines, kebabs, and live entertainment.

Insider Tip: Climb to a rooftop café for the best view of the square at sunset.

Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Step away from the Medina’s bustle at the peaceful Majorelle Garden, once owned by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later revitalized by Yves Saint Laurent. The cobalt-blue buildings, exotic plants, and tranquil pools make it one of Marrakech’s most photographed spots. The nearby YSL Museum showcases the designer’s work and Moroccan-inspired collections.

Bahia Palace & El Badi Palace

• Bahia Palace: A 19th-century gem of Moroccan architecture, adorned with intricately carved ceilings and tranquil courtyards.
• El Badi Palace: Now in ruins, this vast complex offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of the Saadian dynasty.

Hidden Riads & Artisan Workshops

Step off the main streets and you’ll discover Marrakech’s quieter side:

• Riads: Traditional Moroccan guesthouses with lush courtyards and rooftop terraces. Many offer cooking classes or intimate hammam experiences.
• Artisan Workshops: Visit cooperatives to see how carpets, ceramics, and lanterns are made — and buy directly from the makers.

Day Trips from Marrakech

Beyond the city walls, a range of day trips reveal Morocco’s diverse landscapes:

• Atlas Mountains: Just an hour away, perfect for hiking, Berber village visits, and cooler air.
• Essaouira: A charming coastal town famous for seafood and laid-back vibes.
• Agafay Desert: A rocky desert near Marrakech offering camel rides, quad biking, and luxury desert camps.
• Sahara Desert Tours: Multi-day journeys take you deep into the dunes of Merzouga or Zagora.

Transportation & Accommodation Guide

Navigating Marrakech and choosing the right place to stay are key to a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Getting Around Marrakech

• Walking the Medina: Most of Marrakech’s points of interest are in the Medina, which is pedestrian-friendly but often crowded. Wear comfortable shoes.
• Taxis: Small taxis (petit taxis) operate within the city; larger taxis (grand taxis) connect to nearby towns. Always agree on a fare before starting, or ask for the meter.
• Public Transport: Buses are available but not very tourist-friendly. For convenience, stick with taxis or rideshare apps like Heetch.
• Car Rentals: Not recommended for city driving, but useful if you plan day trips beyond Marrakech.
• Tours & Transfers: Many hotels and riads arrange private transfers or guided Marrakech tours, which simplify logistics.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

Marrakech offers accommodations for every budget and style.

Riads in the Medina

• Traditional houses with inner courtyards and personalized hospitality.
• Ideal for travelers who want an authentic Moroccan atmosphere.
• Many riads include rooftop terraces and plunge pools.

Luxury Resorts & Hotels

• Found mostly in Palmeraie and Gueliz districts.
• Offer spas, large swimming pools, golf courses, and fine dining.
• Perfect for families and luxury seekers who want comfort with cultural access.

Mid-Range & Boutique Hotels

• Stylish boutique hotels blend modern amenities with Moroccan décor.
• Often located just outside the Medina for quieter stays.

Pro Tip: Book accommodations well in advance during spring and autumn, the busiest travel seasons.

What to Pack & How to Prepare

Packing smartly for Marrakech ensures you’ll be comfortable while respecting local customs.

Clothing Essentials

• Lightweight Layers: Marrakech days can be warm, but evenings cool down, especially in winter.
• Modest Outfits: Loose trousers, maxi dresses, and shawls are practical for visiting the Medina and cultural sites.
• Comfortable Shoes: The cobblestone streets of the Marrakech town centre require sturdy sandals or walking shoes.
• Swimwear: For riad pools, hammams, or luxury resorts.

Practical Items

• Travel Adapter: Morocco uses type C and E plugs (220V).
• Sunscreen & Hat: The sun is strong year-round, even during the cooler months
• Reusable Water Bottle: Many hotels offer filtered water stations.
• Small Backpack: Handy for souk shopping and day trips.

Preparing for Your Trip

• Visas: Most visitors from Europe, North America, and many other countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days.
• Health: No mandatory vaccines, but consider routine travel shots. Pharmacies are common in Marrakech for basic needs.
• Language Prep: Learning a few phrases in Arabic or French goes a long way.
• Navigation: Download an offline Marrakech Morocco map before arrival, as internet service in the Medina can be patchy.

For Day Trips & Desert Tours

• Warm Layers: The desert gets cold at night, even in summer.
• Scarf or Shawl: Useful for sun protection and blending in culturally.
• Camera Gear: Desert tours and Atlas Mountain hikes provide some of Morocco’s most photogenic moments.

Pro Tip: Leave extra space in your luggage — shopping in Marrakech’s souks is irresistible!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the most common queries travelers ask when planning a trip to Marrakech.

Conclusion: Marrakech Awaits

Marrakech is a city that stirs the senses and stokes the imagination. With its rich tapestry of colors, sounds, and stories, it offers every traveler a chance to step into a world both ancient and alive. From the chaotic charm of the souks to the quiet elegance of hidden riads, from desert adventures to gourmet rooftop dinners, the Red City delivers unforgettable moments for all kinds of visitors.

Ready to explore Marrakech for yourself? Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for more, start by browsing our handpicked Morocco tours or dive into more inspiration on our destinations page. Let Marrakech be the highlight of your Moroccan adventure.