< Back
What to Visit in Marrakech: A Complete Itinerary Through the Charms of the Red City
Just 1 hour and 30 minutes by flight from Lisbon, Marrakech is one of the most fascinating cities in Africa. Vibrant, chaotic, and full of soul, it captivates travelers with its labyrinthine souks, historic monuments, exotic palaces, and tranquil gardens. A visit to the Red City is an intense sensory experience, where the scent of spices, the sounds of street vendors, and the explosion of colors make every moment memorable.
The ideal starting point for this Marrakech itinerary is the iconic Jemaa el-Fna Square, the true heart of the city. During the day, it hosts snake charmers, street musicians, and fresh orange juice vendors. At night, the square transforms into a lively open-air food market, where the aromas of Moroccan cuisine fill the air and the atmosphere becomes even more magical.
For those seeking a moment of peace away from the chaos of the city center, the Majorelle Gardens are a must-visit. Created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle and later acquired by Yves Saint Laurent, these botanical gardens enchant visitors with an impressive variety of exotic plants, shaded pathways, fountains, and the famous cobalt blue building that stands out in every photo.
Another unmissable site is the Bahia Palace, a true jewel of Moroccan architecture. Built at the end of the 19th century, this palace features spacious courtyards, halls decorated with colorful tiles, carved wooden ceilings, and lush gardens. Visiting the palace is like taking a trip back in time, where one can feel the splendor of the Islamic era.
The Koutoubia Mosque, with its 77-meter-high minaret, is the tallest building in Marrakech and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Although its interior is reserved for Muslims, its exterior beauty and the gardens surrounding it make it one of the city’s main landmarks.
Just a few steps away is the Ben Youssef Madrasa, an ancient Quranic school that impresses with its detailed architecture. The walls decorated with stucco and carved wood, the central courtyard, and the small student cells offer a unique perspective on Islamic academic life of the past.
Another site that cannot be missed on this Marrakech itinerary is the Saadian Tombs, hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917. These tombs belong to the Saadian dynasty, including Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur, and stand out for their detailed tile work and delicate stucco decorations.
To better understand the local art and culture, the Marrakech Museum is an excellent choice. Housed in a 19th-century palace, it holds a diverse collection of carpets, ceramics, jewelry, and traditional artifacts, all set within a palatial architecture that impresses at first sight.
Finally, no itinerary in Marrakech would be complete without exploring its famous souks. In these markets, you will find everything from colorful spices to fabrics, wooden crafts, ceramics, lanterns, and the renowned Moroccan rugs. Be prepared to get lost in the alleys and, of course, to bargain — it’s all part of the experience.
In short, Marrakech is a city that stays in memory and heart. This itinerary allows you to discover the best of Marrakech, combining culture, history, and leisure.
