Marrakech Travel Guide: What to See, Where to Eat, and Day Trips Worth Taking 🌿

Marrakech had been on my travel list for years—just like it probably is for many of you. There’s so much to say about this iconic Moroccan city, but today I’ll keep it simple and share a concise, curated list of must-see spots, a few incredible local cafes and restaurants, and two unforgettable day trips.

This post is all about helping you experience the real Marrakech—beyond Instagram clichés.

🕌 Must-See Mosques in Marrakech

Start with the spiritual and architectural heart of the city: the mosques. While non-Muslims can’t enter, the exteriors alone are breathtaking and worth a visit:

• Koutoubia Mosque – The largest mosque in Marrakech, built in the 12th century, and a key city landmark located right near Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Its 77-meter minaret inspired the Giralda in Seville.

• Kasbah Mosque – Located near the Royal Palace and the Saadian Tombs, this 12th-century mosque is less touristy and equally grand.

🪦 Tip: Right next to Kasbah Mosque, don’t miss the atmospheric Saadian Tombs, rediscovered in 1917 and dating back to the 16th century.

🏛️ Palaces That Transport You in Time

Marrakech’s palaces are a window into Morocco’s royal past:

• Bahia Palace – A 19th-century masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, filled with intricate tilework, serene courtyards, and elegant rooms once home to the grand vizier’s wives and concubines.

• El Badi Palace – A vast and haunting ruin of a once-glorious 16th-century palace built by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur. Today, it’s filled with nesting storks and stunning remnants of power.

🧭 Hidden Gems & Cultural Stops

Here are a few extra places we loved—places that don’t always make the top 5 lists but absolutely deserve your time:

• Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa – A former Islamic college with awe-inspiring craftsmanship. Its carved cedarwood, zellige tiles, and peaceful courtyard make it a favorite.

• Marrakech Museum – Located in the Dar Menebhi Palace, it mixes traditional Moroccan design with contemporary exhibits.

• Jewish Mellah – The old Jewish quarter of Marrakech, offering a rich, lesser-known layer of history.

• Place des Épices – A charming spice square filled with rugs, baskets, and scents that define Morocco.

• Majorelle Garden – A lush, electric-blue garden designed by Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent.

• YSL Museum – Fashion lovers: this one’s for you. A beautifully curated museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Yves Saint Laurent, right next to the Majorelle Garden.

• Gueliz District – The modern side of Marrakech, full of boutiques, cafes, and a totally different vibe.

🥘 Local Eats: Restaurants & Cafes We Actually Loved

It’s surprisingly hard to find authentic, good-value restaurants online that aren’t packed with tourists. Luckily, our riad sent us a PDF of local favorites before we arrived, and now we’re passing the torch.

All of these spots were charming, local-approved, and worth your time:

• Le Foundouk – Stylish interiors, rooftop vibes, and delicious Moroccan fusion.

• Atay Cafe Food – Cozy rooftop with sunset views and traditional dishes.

• La Table du Palais – Elegant dining in a hidden garden setting.

• Nomad – Famous for a reason: creative food, minimalist decor, and a stunning terrace.

• Dar Cherifa – Housed in a 16th-century riad, ideal for tea or a quiet afternoon read.

• Conciergerie La Sultana – A more upscale experience, perfect for a romantic dinner.

• Limoni – My personal favorite. A Moroccan-Italian courtyard spot where I had the best meal of the trip.

📸 Pro tip: Check these places out on Instagram first—many of them are even more stunning in person.

🌄 Day Trips from Marrakech You Shouldn’t Miss

There are dozens of excursions from Marrakech, but two really stood out to us:

1. Ourika Valley

Just an hour outside Marrakech, this peaceful valley offers a chance to:

• Visit Berber villages

• Sip tea in local homes

• Trek in the Atlas Mountains

• See how argan oil is made by hand

It’s a great introduction to the Berber culture and offers a dramatic change of pace from the city’s bustle.

2. Ouzoud Waterfalls

At 100 meters, these are the tallest waterfalls in North Africa. Located near Azilal, about a 2.5–3 hour drive from Marrakech, it’s a stunning place for a day of hiking, swimming, or even spotting Barbary macaques (yes, monkeys!).

☕ End your trip with a glass of mint tea on a terrace, watching the sunset over the red rooftops. It’s the perfect Marrakech moment.

🧳 Final Tips for Your Trip to Marrakech

• Stay in a riad (a traditional guesthouse with a courtyard). The rooftops are dreamy, and the hospitality is unmatched.

• Always have cash on hand, especially for small cafes and local shops.

• Dress respectfully, especially when visiting mosques or rural villages.

• Take time to get lost in the medina—every alley hides a new surprise.

Have you been to Marrakech or are you planning your first visit? Drop your favorite tips in the comments—or tag @studio.vesper in your photos so we can share your adventures.