15 Best Things to Do in Marrakech in 2026
Short answer: if you’re planning a trip and wondering about the best things to do in Marrakech in 2026, you should mix three elements: time inside the medina (souks, palaces, food), a few unique activities (like a hot air balloon or a quad ride) and at least one day trip to the Atlas Mountains or nearby waterfalls.
I work with travellers every season and I noticed something: people who enjoy Marrakech the most are not the ones who try to “see everything”, but those who pick a few good experiences and slow down a bit. So this list is not a dry checklist, it’s what I would suggest to a friend visiting the city for the first time.
1. Get lost (a little) in the medina and souks
The old medina is the beating heart of Marrakech. Yes, it’s busy, sometimes noisy, and you can get lost in the maze of streets, but that’s also why it’s unforgettable.
- Wander through the souks and see leather work, lamps, carpets, spices and ceramics.
- Stop for a fresh orange juice or mint tea when you feel overwhelmed.
- Visit a traditional riad or book one as your accommodation if you can.
Human tip: don’t try to “win” against the medina. Allow yourself to get a bit lost, then use Google Maps or ask your riad to send someone if you’re really stuck. Most visitors end up loving this part.
2. Jemaa el‑Fna by day and by night
Jemaa el‑Fna square is chaotic, touristy, sometimes loud… and still, it’s one of the must‑see places in Marrakech. The square changes completely between day and night.
- During the day, you’ll find juice stalls, henna artists, musicians and snake charmers.
- At night, food stalls appear, and the square fills with locals and visitors.
- The best view is often from a rooftop café around the square.
For a bit more background and history, you can also check the Visit Morocco – Marrakech page, which explains why the medina and Jemaa el‑Fna are UNESCO‑listed.
3. Bahia Palace & Saadian Tombs – a taste of royal Marrakech
If you like architecture and history, two of the most impressive places in Marrakech are Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs.
- Bahia Palace: colourful zellij tiles, carved wooden ceilings, peaceful courtyards.
- Saadian Tombs: a beautifully decorated royal necropolis hidden for centuries.
Tip: go early in the morning if possible, before the tour groups, so you can actually see the details and take your time.
4. Jardin Majorelle & the Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Even people who are “not into gardens” often fall in love with Jardin Majorelle. The intense blue walls, tall cacti and palm trees create a very special atmosphere.
- Book tickets in advance if you can – the garden is very popular.
- Combine it with a visit to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door.
- Allow at least 1,5–2 hours to enjoy the place without rushing.
External link (optional): for opening times and official info, you can refer visitors to the Jardin Majorelle website.
5. Koutoubia Mosque, Cyber Park & city viewpoints
The Koutoubia Mosque is the main landmark of Marrakech. Non‑muslim visitors can’t enter the prayer hall, but the outside and gardens are worth a stop.
- Walk in the gardens around Koutoubia and enjoy the view of the minaret.
- Pass through Cyber Park, a nice green space between the medina and the modern city.
- From some rooftops and terraces nearby you can see both the mosque and, on clear days, the Atlas Mountains in the background.
6. Traditional hammam & spa
One of the most relaxing things to do in Marrakech is to experience a hammam. It’s not just a bath; it’s almost a ritual.
- Choose between a very traditional local hammam or a more modern spa version.
- Typical package includes steam, black soap scrub and massage.
- After a busy day in the medina, this can reset your energy completely.
Human note: many first‑time visitors are a bit shy about hammams, but almost everyone comes back saying “I wish I had done it earlier in the trip”.
7. Rooftop sunset & Moroccan dinner
Marrakech has dozens of beautiful rooftop restaurants and cafés. Watching the city turn golden and then light up at night is a simple experience, but a memorable one.
- Book a table on a rooftop overlooking the medina or Jemaa el‑Fna.
- Order tajine, couscous or pastilla, and take your time.
- If you prefer something quieter, there are also rooftops in the new city (Gueliz/Hivernage).
8. Hot air balloon flight at sunrise
For a lot of travellers, a hot air balloon flight near Marrakech becomes one of their top memories from Morocco. You take off before sunrise, float above small villages and fields, and watch the sun come up over the Atlas range.
- Usually combined with hotel pick‑up, light breakfast and traditional tea after landing.
- Good weather is important, so it’s better to book earlier in your trip in case you need to move the date.
Marrakech Haff-Day Hot Air Balloon Flight
9. Quad biking in the Palmeraie or Agafay Desert
If you like a bit of adventure and dust, a quad biking tour around the Palmeraie (palm oasis) or in the rocky Agafay Desert is perfect.
- Typical tours last 2–3 hours with pick‑up from your hotel.
- You ride through palm groves, small villages or desert‑like landscapes.
- Short tea breaks in a local house or camp are often included.
Tip: wear sunglasses and something you don’t mind getting a bit dirty.
Unique Experience: Quad Ride in the Palmeraie of Marrakech
10. Day trip to the Ourika Valley
When the heat in Marrakech becomes a bit too much, locals and visitors escape to the Ourika Valley, about an hour away in the Atlas foothills.
- Riverside restaurants where you can literally sit with your feet in the water.
- Small Berber villages and weekly markets.
- Short hikes to modest waterfalls for those who enjoy walking.
Spring and early summer are especially beautiful in Ourika.
One-Day Excursion to the Ourika Valley from Marrakech
11. Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip
The Ouzoud Waterfalls are higher and more dramatic than Ourika’s falls, and they deserve a full‑day trip (it’s about 2,5–3 hours each way).
- Different viewpoints over the waterfalls.
- Small boat rides close to the base of the falls.
- Chance to see wild monkeys in the surrounding area.
It’s a long day, but if you like nature, it’s absolutely worth it.
Day Trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls From Marrakech
12. Evening in the Agafay Desert
If you don’t have time to go all the way to the Sahara, the Agafay Desert (rocky desert near Marrakech) is a good compromise.
- Sunset camel rides with views over the Atlas Mountains.
- Dinner in a desert camp with music and lanterns.
- Possibility to combine with quad biking or buggy rides.
13. Cooking class with Moroccan flavours
Moroccan food is one of the reasons many travellers fall in love with the country. Joining a cooking class in Marrakech is a fun way to bring something back home that’s more useful than a magnet.
- Shop for ingredients in a local market with your host.
- Learn how to prepare tajine, salads, mint tea or even pastilla.
- Share the meal with the group in a relaxed atmosphere.
14. Museums and cultural spaces
Marrakech is not only about souks and Instagram spots. There are several interesting museums and cultural centres you can add to your list:
- Dar El Bacha – Musée des Confluences: beautiful palace with a well‑curated museum and a famous café.
- Museum of Marrakech: traditional architecture and rotating exhibitions.
- MACAAL (Museum of African Contemporary Art): for modern art lovers.
For up‑to‑date events and exhibitions, you can check the Visit Marrakech official website.
15. Day trip to Essaouira or Ouirgane & Marigha
Finally, one of the best things to do while based in Marrakech is to leave it for a day and come back with fresh energy.
- Essaouira: a charming Atlantic coastal town with a relaxed medina and long beaches.
- Ouirgane & Marigha: a calmer part of the Atlas region, with lake views, hiking options and cool air in summer.
Both are great options if you want to add nature and sea (or mountains) to your Marrakech stay.
Enjoy a 1 day excursion to Essaouira from Marrakech
Ouirgane & Marigha
Practical questions about visiting Marrakech in 2026
Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
In general, yes. Like in any busy city, you should keep an eye on your belongings, avoid flashing expensive items in crowded areas, and use licensed guides and official taxis. Travelling with an agency you trust, such as Asmaa Travel, usually makes things smoother.
How many days do I need in Marrakech?
If you only want a quick taste, 2–3 days is the minimum: one day for the medina and palaces, one day for Majorelle and modern areas, and maybe a half‑day activity. With 4–5 days, you can add 1–2 day trips like Ourika, Ouzoud or Essaouira.
What is the best time of year to visit Marrakech?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) usually offer the best weather: warm but not too hot. Summer can be very hot in the city, but you can still enjoy early mornings and evenings. For typical temperatures, sites like Meteoblue for Marrakech are useful.
What should I wear in Marrakech?
Marrakech is relatively relaxed, but it’s still a traditional city. Light, breathable clothes that cover shoulders and knees are usually a good idea, especially when visiting religious or historic sites. A hat and sunscreen are almost essential in sunny months.
Can I visit Marrakech with children?
Yes, many families travel to Marrakech. Kids usually enjoy the colours, the food, the animals in Jemaa el‑Fna, the pools, and activities like camel rides or quad tours (with age limits). It helps a lot to choose a hotel or riad with a pool and some quiet space.
Do I need a guide to explore Marrakech?
You can walk around on your own, but having a local guide for at least half a day in the medina can make a big difference. You’ll understand more and waste less time being lost. After that, you can go back to your favourite areas at your own pace.
Final thoughts: how to choose your own “best things to do in Marrakech”
Every traveller is different. Some people want to tick all the big monuments, others prefer food, or nature, or just to relax and watch the city from a rooftop. Use this list of 15 best things to do in Marrakech as a toolbox, not as a to‑do list you must finish.
If you tell us how many days you have and what you enjoy (culture, food, adventure, relaxing), Asmaa Travel can help you pick the right mix of city visits, activities and day trips – so that your 2026 visit to Marrakech feels like your version of the city, not just a copy‑paste itinerary from the internet.
