It’s where history and modernity collide effortlessly, with souk market sellers still flogging traditional textiles, pottery and jewellery like their ancestors did thousands of years before them, and yet there is an element of luxury that comes with staying here.

Visitors will find there are plenty of great things to do in Marrakech, Morocco, from exploring the bustling streets to relaxing in the many gardens.

But to find the best attractions in Marrakech, we interviewed Amanda, a frequent traveller to Marrakech since 2004, when she met her Marrakechi husband.

And unlike many visitors to the red city her trips have a distinctly local flavor. Amanda tells us what to do in Marrakech as well as shares tips on places to eat, stay, shop, drink, and play.

Take it away Amanda.

Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?

Marrakech is the city of legends. One of the first things that attracted me to visiting Morocco was the mix of European, Middle Eastern and African culture and flavors. Marrakech epitomizes this.

It’s also perfect for any type of traveler; from the luxury traveler to the budget backpacker, from families with young children to senior citizens.

While Marrakech is known for its lively markets there is so much more to the city, from charming riads and enchanting gardens, and that’s what makes it worth visiting, in my opinion.

Things to Do in Marrakech

Now you know the reasons why you should add Marrakech to your bucket list, it’s time to show you the top attractions in the city!

1. Check out the Souk Markets

At the top of any visitors list is a trip to Djem L’Fna or the central souk and market.

Over the years it has been commercialized more and more. The layout can be confusing however it is divided into different sections such as the woodworking souk, the clothing souk, the leather goods souk (otherwise known as tanneries), the spice souk etc.

My best advice is to go as deep in as you can and then start shopping.

Anything on the perimeter will be the most expensive and odds are very good that you will find the same things for less money further inside.

Aside from visiting the souks of the medina (off of d’jem l’fna) there are a few other locations to get your shopping in.

Gueleiz is known for its boutique and specialty shops. This is not the rough and tumble haggling/shopping but higher end. Some of my favorite shops in this district are;

Moor (7 Rue de Liberte) – traditional Moroccan clothing updated and with a modern feel. They also have lovely home décor items.

Scenes de Lin (70 Rue de Liberte) gorgeous textile boutique featuring natural linens from Morocco and around the world as well as offering other cloth goods. Fabrics can be made into custom products.

Naturelle (5 Rue Sourya) Argan based products are all the rage and that’s what you’ll find at Naturelle. High quality products that are acquired through a commitment to helping the producers of argan in southern Morocco.

The Mellah is the Jewish Quarter of Marrakech (though the Jewish population itself is waning). Here you’ll find some great gold and jewelry as well as a wonderful spice souk. Remember to haggle for the best price.

In recent years gold has not been such a bargain. Sellers for the most part are looking for market rates or close to them.

Nearby you’ll also find Place Ferblantier where metalwork is for sale. This is the place to get Moroccan lanterns and lights as well as other metal furnishings.

2. Visit the El Badi Palace

Marrakech has many historical sites, but the most famous is the ruins of the El Badi Palace. The palace was originally built in 1578 by the sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty.

It was built using materials from Italy and Mali and took several decades to build. The purpose of the palace was to show off the Sultan’s wealth and power, and where he could hold parties.

But after he died in 1603, the palace was neglected and eventually fell to ruins. Many of the valuable materials such as marble were striped and reused in other buildings, but the remains still lie for visitors to see.

You can make out the shape of rooms, and in some areas see some intricate detailing from the original structure.

3. Take a Moroccan Cooking Class

A cooking class is a great way to appreciate the intricacy of Moroccan cooking and take home a unique souvenie.

Morocco is known for delicious food that are rich in flavor and color, and are usually using recipes that have been passed down through generations.

In a cooking class, you learn all about the spices and ingredients used in Moroccan cooking and their uses.

There are many cooking schools around the city, but I recommend the Hakima’s Moroccan Cooking School because your participation goes towards funding literacy and job skills for Moroccan women.

4. Relax in a Hammam

For a relaxing thing to do in Marrakech, try to visit a hammam. The traditional Moroccan bath is an experience in and of itself.

You are welcome to visit any of the neighborhood baths but may feel more comfortable in a more resort like setting.

La Bain Bleu and Les Bains de Marrakech are two suggestions though many hotels also have a hammam on the property.

5. Splash Around at Oasiria Waterpark

Are you looking for things to do in Marrakech with kids? Then the whole family will love splashing around at Oasiria Waterpark.

Oasiria is a fun family activity and where you can cool off from the blazing heat of the Moroccan sun.

This waterpark is located slightly outside of Marrakech but has a free shuttle service running from Gueliz.

Make sure to bring your own towel and plenty of water. Snacks are allowed though there is a café and pizza restaurant on site.

6. Explore the Neighborhoods in Marrakech

I often feel the best way to get to know a place is to wander around the neighborhoods and take it all in.

The Kasbah is the old residential center of the city and for the most part still inhabited by families who have lived here for decades.

There are side shops down the main thoroughfare and small markets off to some of the sides. You’ll find some great food stalls set up here as well.

Gueliz/Hivernage is the “new city” and is a boutique shopping epi-center. Gueliz has fashionable shops and restaurants as well as art galleries.

Medina is the old city. The medina is a maze of winding streets that winds off of all sides of d’jem al fna and stretches back to residential areas. It’s home to the traditional houses known as riads, which are colorful and iconic examples of Moroccan architecture in Marrakech.

7. Try the Street Food in Marrakech

I truly believe the best food you will eat in Marrakech will be street food. I say that with a nod of caution because any intrepid traveler has been told not to do this. I’ve never gotten sick eating anything in Morocco but that’s not to say you won’t.

Street vendors offer a variety of foods; from fresh fruit, cookies, stews and tajines, grilled brochettes, sandwiches, and soups.

Eat at least once in djem l’fna at the open air stalls. Try the snail soup. Stop for breakfast at a hole in the wall shop. Pick up a string of sfinge (Moroccan doughnuts) for a snack.

I know there are some nice upscale restaurants in the city, but street food is the heartbeat of the city.

A quick note about water. Marrakech’s water is filtered and safe to drink however bottled water is cheap and accessible. Brushing your teeth might be alright in tap water but stick to bottled water for drinking.

We highly recommend that you use a reusable filtered water bottle to reduce plastic usage, which is terrible for the environment – plus it will save you money! This one by Grayl comes highly recommended for good filtration and removal. Don’t skimp out on having something that will clean your water and keep you healthy.

If you need to refresh yourself, Morocco’s Mint Tea is legendary!

Be sure to try Tangia, the signature dish of Marrakech. You won’t find it anywhere else in Morocco (and if you do you shouldn’t eat it!).

It’s traditionally the “bachelor” meal because of the easy preparation, but I promise you’ll never eat lamb so tender and full of flavor.

8. Try Moroccan Wine

Morocco is a Muslim country so alcohol is a little more difficult to come by, but you should definitely try some Moroccan wine if you have the chance.

When it comes to finding somewhere to drink, most larger hotels have bars and some have rooftop terraces that double as bars.

Bo-zin is a restaurant/bar located a bit outside of the city center, located on Rue de l’Ourika, but very accessible by taxi. It features a restaurant, bar and beautiful outdoor garden area with traditional tents.

Le Comptoir, located on Rue Echouada, is another good option if you’re looking for a meal or nightcap. It is similar in ambiance to Bo-zin but a little more expensive.

Djellabar, Villa Bougainvillé 2 rue Abou Hanifa, Hivernage, is a great place for drinks. I really like the modern bohemian feel of Djellabar. Come for dinner and drinks, check out the shopping for some really unique art, books, and fashion items, and enjoy a good glass of wine.

9. Take a Free Walking Tour

I feel like Marrakech is written about all over the place so my best tip would be to make friends with a local and have them show you around.

If you don’t know a local, you should take a free walking tour, which are always run by friendly locals who love their city. Not only do you get to see all the highlights with a knowledgeable guide and learn about the history and culture, but you can ask your guide for recommendations on where to eat, drink and explore off the beaten path.

This will help you experience the real Marrakech and not the tourist packaged version. Of course, the tours are free, but it’s expected to give your guide a tip if you enjoy the tour.

10. Catch a Performance at The Royal Theater

If you’re looking for things to do in Marrakech at night, then a visit to The Royal Theater is a must.

The theatre itself is gorgeous, with a stately 21st-century design, featuring an open-air stage and a classic domed room.

The theatre hosts several operas, ballets and classic music concerts. The Royal Symphony plays throughout the year.

Check with the Marrakech tourist office (Office National Marocain du Tourism) to see what’s on when you’re there.

11. Take a Trip to The Sahara Desert and Atlas Mountains

The most famous desert in the world, the Sahara. Of course, no trip to Morocco would be complete without taking a trip out to see it in all its vastness.

If you have time on your side, I recommend doing a three day trip to the Sahara which includes a camel ride through the desert to the Atlas Mountains, which are often snow-capped in the winter and vibrant with swaying palm trees in the summer.

Have you ever wanted to sleep under the stars in a Berber village in the desert and wake up to the incredible dunes surrounding you from every angle? Now’s your chance!

Just outside Marrakech is the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou, the Valley of the Roses, and Tinghir, Todra Gorge and Erg Chebbi dunes, the highest dunes in Morocco.

It’s a desert paradise, and a landscape so unique to Morocco you won’t believe you’re still on planet Earth.

To see it all, it really takes a few days, following the Tizi Ntichka pass to the high Atlas Mountains.

12. Visit the The Marrakech Arts Festivals

There are two major festivals in Marrakech worth visiting if you happen to be in the city at the right time.

The Marrakech International Film Festival and Marrakech Popular Arts Festival are two big events to attend if you’re in town.

There are many smaller festivals through the year, but the film festival and popular arts festival are the biggest and most bustling events.

13. Check out the Saadian Tombs

Another top attraction in Marrakech to not miss are the Saadian Tombs. The tombs are the resting place of the historic royal necropolis and are located on the site of the Kasbah Mosque, inside the royal kasbah.

They are the graves of the Moroccan monarchy, dating back to the Saadian dynasty (1578–1603) and a few royals from after this dynasty.

It is one of the best preserved examples of Saadian architecture, since the tombs feature intricate decoration and design.

For history lovers, don’t miss the opportunity to see this ancient style in its preserved form.

14. Admire the Architecture of Ben Youssef Madrasa

For those looking for beautiful Moroccan buildings with classic Moroccan styles, you will love the design of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, the largest Islamic college in Morocco.

The school features some of the most beautiful examples of Andalusian-Arabic architecture, with arched windows and geometric carvings in the plasterwork. The school was built in the 14th century by Sultan Abou al Hasan, but it’s now a museum.

Visitors can wander the old college halls and visit the dorms where students studied the Quran and other science and religious subjects.

It’s a great place to visit if you are curious about the Islamic religion and traditions, as well as see the beautiful building.

15. Check out the Bahia Palace

Another beautiful building known for its intricate decoration is the Bahia Palace. Along its walls and floors, you’ll see several thousand tiles, as well as geometric patterns carved into the walls stucco.

The Grand Courtyard of the Bahia Palace is the place to be to see this intricate beauty in all its glory.

The Bahia Palace was built in the 19th-century palace by Si Musa, grand vizier of Alaouite sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman.

It was used as the family residence, but after his son passed away, it was handed to the royal family who used it to entertain foreign guests. Even today, the King sometimes uses the palace when foreign guests come to visit.

When it’s not in use by the royal family, it’s a bustling tourist attraction, so be sure to get there early to avoid the crowds.

16. Marvel at the Koutoubia Mosque

Most local mosques are closed to non-Muslims, but tourists can see the design and architecture of the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest and most recognizable mosque in the city, from the outside.

The mosque is one of the oldest buildings in the city, built in 1147 by the Almohad caliph Abd al-Mu’min shortly after he conquered Marrakesh.

The original mosque was remodelled a short while later in 1158, but this is the building you see before you today.

It’s a classic example of Almohad architecture, and is decorated with geometric arch motifs. It’s one of the most striking buildings in the city, so be sure to check it out.

17. Take a Day Trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls

Contrary to popular belief, Morocco is not all desert landscapes. In fact, the Ouzoud Waterfalls are some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world!

At 110 m high, they are the second tallest waterfalls in Africa. To reach them, you must hike down winding trails, through rainforest and olive groves, as well as an argan oil plantation.

Then, you can get up close and personal with the falls on a relaxing boat ride. It’s one of the most unmissable attractions in Marrakech!

18. Visit the Marrakech Museum Courtyard

The Marrakech Museum is a fascinating museum showcasing exhibits on Morroco’s history, with a collection of weapons, pottery and artifacts found across different parts of Morocco.

The main reason to visit the museum is for the building itself, which is the former Dar Mnebhi Palace, which has the most beautiful central courtyard.

It was built in a late 19th century design with a huge chandelier in its centre and colorful tiles on the floor, with natural light pouring into the space from its domed glass ceiling.

Many photographers visit the museum just to snap photos of the courtyard, but do make sure to wander around the exhibits as well.

19. Visit the Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Marrakech is known for its luxury shopping and designer clothing, so why not learn about the history of the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent at the museum dedicated to him.

The museum is set in the designer’s former home, known as Villa Oasis, and houses exhibits telling the story of his life’s work.

Also attached to the museum is the beautiful Majorelle Gardens, which were designed by a French artist, Jacques Majorelle, who actually holds the patent for the color blue used in the architecture of the garden.

Majorelle Blue is used several times in the home of Yves Saint Laurent. The house and gardens are simply stunning, and the perfect backdrop for photography lovers.

Where to Stay in Marrakech

To be fair I’ve stayed in very few Marrakech accommodations because I stay in our family home, however I have spent a good deal of time connecting with travelers and visitors to make a few recommendations.

One note worth mentioning, prices no matter where you stay in Marrakech will be much higher in the summer months.

If you travel during the off-seasons you will find accommodations at a fraction of the summer rates.

• Peacock Pavilions (Kilometer 13 Route de Ourzazate) If you want to have a relaxing vacation in Marrakech outside the hustle and bustle of the city center you must stay here. Peacock Pavilions is a guest house built by an American expat family and matriarch Maryam (who is a fantastic designer!) creates unique charm in each and every corner of this boutique hotel. Some unique features include an outdoor theatre, a dining tent and an outdoor gym. Shopping trips, babysitting, and spa reservations can also be arranged.
• Hotel Mamounia – I would really be remiss if I didn’t mention this shining beacon of Marrakech. Recently remodeled and updated the Mamounia is a landmark in Marrakech. The price is on the higher end but if you visit in the off season, it’s really worth it to spend at least one night here.
• Riads are bed and breakfasts that offer a handful of rooms. In Marrakech many riads are traditional homes that have been repurposed for renting rooms. Prices range from $20 a night to $200+ a night.
• Dar Najat (Dar Graoua Derb Lala Chacha #18) I have heard fantastic raves about this riad and the price is very good. Meals are provided on site. The one comment I have heard over and over about this riad is the service provided to guests is exceptional.
• Riad Layla Rouge (Rue el Ksour Derb Rokni 23)  This is a riad/hostel located just off djem l’fna. If you’re hunting for a bargain this might be your stop! Hostel accommodations can be found for under $20 a night (depending on season) and a private room for around $60. The colors of Marrakech will surround you during a stay here!

Vacation Rentals in Marrakech

A last option to consider, especially if your visit will be longer term is apartment rentals in Marrakech. There are numerous furnished apartments available at anytime in the city.

When Moroccans travel in the country this option is one they usually use. Often this will put you in more residential neighborhoods but the price is much more bearable than a hotel stay.

I like this option the best for families that are traveling to Marrakech.

Best Time of Year to Visit Marrakech

Fall (mid- Sept until early December) and Spring (March to May).

Summer in Marrakech is very, very hot and chances are you won’t want to be outside very much. Winter tends to be rainy and cool.

Ramadan is another month out of the year that you might not want to visit. During the Muslim holy month shop and restaurant hours are often changed and there is less activity as most of the country is fasting from dawn to dusk.

Getting To and Around Marrakech

Many major and discount airlines fly into Marrakech and Morocco’s train system runs a few times daily to the city. If you’re coming from Europe I would fly a low-cost carrier like EasyJet or RyanAir.

Major airlines that fly into Marrakech are Royal Air Maroc, Air France, Iberia, BMI and TAP.

I have found that it’s often easier to get much cheaper flights to Casablanca and then take the train to Marrakech. It takes more time but the cost difference often makes up for it.

If you’re looking to visit other parts of Morocco the train runs to major cities but no further south than Marrakech. Morocco does have a fairly good coach bus system to access small cities from the train line.

Supratours and CTM have the best reputation for bus companies, but Supratours is my preferred coach bus. They have commissioned the old train station as their depot.

Any taxi driver will be able to know the difference if you tell them the bus company you are looking for. CTM buses pick up near Bab Doukkala.

When getting around Marrakech, the best way is by taxi. There are two types of taxis, the grand taxi and the petit taxi.

Grand taxi’s tend to go from point to point (i.e. you can’t really tell them easily a specific point you want to go to). They also tend to cram as many people in as possible. Imagine 7 passengers in a 1970’s Mercedes sedan.

The petit taxi is the best way to get around Marrakech. They are reasonably priced and run on a meter, whereas with a grand taxi the price is agreed on ahead of time. They also will take you point to point.

Marrakech does have a bus system but the times are not very reliable and they are overcrowded. Let’s just say in nearly 8 years of visiting I’ve never taken a bus ride.

Check Skyscanner and Going (formerly, Scott’s Cheap Flights) for flight deals.

Final Thoughts on Things to Do in Marrakech

I love Marrakech because it’s always changing!

Visiting from year to year I feel like there is always something new and exciting happening. I do miss some of the old charm that has been erased in just under a decade but I am excited for the new possibilities as well.

Whatever you decide to do in Marrakech, remember to just enjoy yourself.

In Morocco people aren’t ever in a hurry so don’t try and keep a strict schedule, so just let what happens happen!

There’s a Moroccan saying when someone asks you when something will be done. The answer is “tomorrow after tomorrow” or it will happen when it happens!

Allow this ethos to seep into your mindset and let your worries fade away. The world will sort itself out around you as you just have fun.

Tours of Marrakech

Our partner, Get Your Guide offers tour operators with many Marrakech tours and attractions tickets. They have the lowest prices, guaranteed — no booking fees or hidden charges.

You can pre-book tickets and skip the line at top attractions and cancel up to 24 hours before.
Some best-selling Marrakech tours are below:

More Northern Africa Travel Tips

Are you planning on visiting other parts of North Africa? Then you may find these other guides helpful…

• 23 Beautiful Reasons to Visit Morocco
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• Top things to do in the Canary Islands
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The country has a lot to offer – beautiful scenery, tasty food, hospitable people, and a quality and simplicity of life that is rare in our days.

These are the things that (in my eyes) make Morocco one of a kind travel experience.

1. Sahara Desert

The Sahara Desert is the main reason why people travel to Morocco.

In Merzouga you can see the highest dunes and Morocco is a relatively safe destination to travel in comparison with the other countries where the desert occupies large parts of their territories.

2. Hassan II Mosque

Hassan II is the landmark of Casablanca but also the most beautiful mosque in Morocco.

It is a surrealistic experience to walk around its impressive construction surrounded by the mist coming from the ocean. Try to visit the mosque on Sunday morning when many people go to the prayer and the place comes alive.

3. Majorelle Garden

Created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle but later the home of the designer Yves Saint-Laurent, this garden is a beautiful masterpiece combining oriental colors and exotic plants.

It is a quiet place in the middle of Marrakech, the busy imperial city of Morocco and also the house of the Berber Museum, exhibition of the Berber culture, lifestyle, and handcrafts.

4. The Riads

Riads are traditional Moroccan houses that often are turned into small hotels.

Feeling cozy behind the thick walls of your guest house after wandering on the small narrow streets of the medina will be your time for indulging in all things Morocco has to offer – good food, excellent service and magical environment.

5. Medina

Walking in the medina can be really challenging for a woman.

But the feeling of treasure hunting makes you feel excited in front of all these colorful babush slippers, spices, jewelry pieces, leather bags, tasty food and freshly baked bread.

There are hundreds of items that you can choose from, many of them handmade.

6. Moroccan mint tea and pastries

Tasting mint tea and local pastries is another thing you should absolutely do while visiting Morocco.

It is always a good time when you enjoy these two, especially with a good view and pleasant company. The tea is served everywhere and tastes the same but the pastries vary depending on the place.

Be happy, you will always have those for breakfast in your hotel and you can kick start your day with a slice of pleasure!

7. El Bahia Palace, Marrakesh

This palace has certain melancholy that is difficult to explain but easy to feel at the moment you put your foot on its floor.

The beauty of the architectural details and the refreshingly green garden make this place one of the top five to visit in Marrakech.

8. Morocco Interiors

Another of Morocco’s charms are its cozy houses and bold house fixtures. The sofas are large and low, the tables are small but just enough for the tasty food and refreshing tea.

Lanterns make mysterious shade and the ochre color of the tiles makes the whole room look warm.

Everything in the Moroccan style interior design is rustic but made with clear attention to the detail.

9. Carpets

Having shared my addiction to the Moroccan interiors, it is understandable to share my love for Moroccan carpets.

As everything in this country, they are in strong and warm colors, with simple designs that can fit any style.

Your house can get a bright retouch with a Moroccan rug. The only problem can be its weight and volume for transporting it back home.

See how I landed in a carpet scam in Morocco – CAroline

10. Moroccan Landscapes

Pictures speak for themselves, but you can’t get the real beauty of any landscape in a photo. Better to see it with your own eyes!

11. Oasis

Well, you have to go out of the famous cities like Marrakech and Casablanca, to pass the Atlas Mountains and on your way to the south you finally will get to take these unbelievable photos in orange and green colors.

Oasis still exist in Morocco, just like at the time of Lawrence of Arabia.

12. Colors

In my opinion, Morocco is the most colorful country in the world.

The colors are everywhere you go.

The nature is full of bold reds, mulberry and orange, and ochre; the houses are overwhelmed with green and even the food has the whole gamma of colors thanks to the spices and freshly collected veggies.

13. Cats

The funny thing about Morocco that totally surprised me was the presence of the cats.

They were everywhere – at the town squares, tourist sites, hotel lobbies and even in the corners of the medina, calmly resting on their master’s motorbike.

And also like the human, they represent the typical features of their habitats – looking like beggars on the streets or having the look of a king in the garden of Saadian Tombs.

14. Hotel Mamounia

Synonymous for luxury and grandeur, La Mamounia is an obligatory stop for travelers in Marrakech because of its history and notorious clientele. And don’t worry if you don’t have the means to pay for a night stay.

You can just go and have a coffee at the hotel’s terrace where you will mix with the rich and famous people of the world.

15. Moroccan Architecture

Kasbah is another traditional style house in Morocco which is mainly built inside the ksar, the Berber villages made from adobe.

You can see these villages at the foot of the Atlas Mountains when heading to the Sahara Desert.

Today, the typical architecture and traditional techniques and materials involved in the construction of the kasbah are used for building unique Moroccan hotels.

16. Hotels with amazing views

Moroccan landscapes are some of the most beautiful in the world.

They are changing with the regions but also with the change of the sunlight. And very often your Moroccan hotel will have a terrace with such a wonderful view that your time for coffee or tea will last much longer than you planned.

You just can’t take your eyes off the magnificent scenery!

17. Magical guesthouses

Remember the 1001 Nights fairytale?

Staying at most of these traditional guest houses feels like you are in a different time and place, an imaginary world that can only be found in…Morocco, of course!

18. Todgha Gorge

Some places in Morocco are spectacular with their formations and colors. Todgha Gorge is one of them.

Its orange rocks are scary and impressive at the same time. The canyon is a favorite place for climbers but if you are not up to this, there is a small market where you can buy handmade goods and beautiful carpets from local people.

19. Volubilis

It is somewhat surprising to see Roman ruins in the abounding green fields near Meknes.

In our minds, Morocco is about the desert and Arabic lifestyle but in the past the life here had a different look.

The huge architectural site is full of small and beautiful ornamental details, different architectural styles and you most probably will take the whole morning to walk around these beautiful sites from another time.

20. Tajine

Moroccan food is what you will miss most back home. The reason why it is so tasty is in the spices used but also in the locally produced fresh ingredients.

Tajine (also ‘tagine’) is a method of slow cooking where the ingredients are placed in an earthen pot. There are different types of tajine, but you should definitely try the Berber tagine.

21. Moroccan pottery

Tajine is the name of the dish but also the pot used for its cooking. What you can do is to take one home with you, and every time you have a craving for Moroccan food you can do one at home.

When shopping for pottery in Morocco you should have in mind that some of the beautifully colored tajines are not for cooking and you better ask the seller for advice on which one is suitable for cooking and which one just for serving.

22. Unique places to relax

After days spent walking among the desert dunes under the strong sun of the Sahara, you can relax surrounded by traditional architecture, clay walls, palm trees, and if you are lucky enough even a swimming pool.

Enjoy your time in this unique environment, you will not find it anywhere else in the world.

23. Unique souvenirs to buy

You may not be a person who buys souvenirs often, but here in Morocco you may find yourself seriously challenged.

In addition to the traditional pottery, rugs and lanterns, the fossils found in the Sahara desert are one of the best souvenirs that you can bring back home.

Desert roses and fossilized snail shells are sold by the Berber people that you will encounter in the desert. Sometimes it is the only way they can make some money and you can take beautiful pieces back home while helping these people to have a better life.

Popular Morocco Tours

Don’t want to visit Morocco alone?

You don’t need to take a tour in Morocco (you can travel there independently). But, if it’s your first time visiting, especially as a solo woman, it is a place to consider exploring with a guide.

1. Alongside Intrepid, G Adventures is our preferred recommendation for group tours for their quality, adventure and service to giving back to local communities. See more tours of Morocco here. 
2. Our partner, the Get Your Guide tour company offers tour operators with many Morocco tours and attractions tickets. They have the lowest prices, guaranteed — no booking fees or hidden charges.

You can pre-book tickets and skip the line at top attractions and cancel up to 24 hours before. Some best-selling tours are below:

Plan Your Trip to Morocco

More Northern Africa Travel Tips

• Things to do in Marrakesh, Morocco
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• 8 things to do in the Canary Islands
• What to Do in Ethiopia
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• How to Become a Master of Baksheesh in Egypt
• What to do in Cairo, Egypt
• Kaftan, cous Cous, and Carpet Scams in Morocco

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Do you have any tips or questions on visiting Morocco? Please share in the comments below.

“No problem, No problem. You just sit here with us, and they in there. Room not big enough. Would you like some apple tea?”

We all looked around at each other, shoulders hunched and nervous grin showing slight amusement.

We were adorned in traditional Moroccan dress and couldn’t help but feel like we were being played. I’m sure the Moroccan carpet seller in front of us was laughing hysterically on the inside at us all sticking out like ostriches at the race course.

Travel Mystique

Secretly, I really enjoyed the whole mystique of the moment. This is the stuff that travel is about, getting into bizarre situations that make you inwardly giggle and give you those memories that are worth sharing in years to come.

Aren’t we just Moroccan princesses?

And really we looked great in our brightly coloured kaftan robes with their ornate swirling patterns, stitching, and beading, accentuating the bronze the colour our skin had turned after a couple of months spent touring Europe in the summer. I felt like Jasmine waiting patiently for Aladdin and his genie to appear and rescue me.

The boys in their  djellabas, long loosely flowing hooded robes looked like they had just stepped off the set of Joseph and his techni-coloured dream coat.

From Europe to Africa in a Day

We had just ducked over to Morocco for the day from Gibraltar. Europe is like that, you can just duck over to a new country for the day or afternoon. You could just duck on over to a whole new continent even. Totally unlike my island home Down Under, where there is no ducking, only hours of flying to get anywhere other than the Great South Land.

My first time stepping on African soil, a dream I had for years. If only it was much longer than a day.

We came over with the “Teletubbies” and “The Big Rig“,  the two campervans we had spent the last two weeks travelling through Spain with.

I ran into Mark in Pamplona, in Lisbon and then again in Lagos, where we decided we might as well all just travel together. I grew up with Mark; he played cricket with my brother for years. It was great reconnecting with him during this time in Europe.

Our time together was coming to a close so for a final farewell celebration we decided to catch the ferry over to Morocco for the day. Something different than celebrating in the Gibraltan bars that one evening lead to the piercing of my belly and the travel tattoo on Davos ankle.

We arrived at the port of Spanish Cueta, not really knowing what to do. We had no map, no bearings and absolutely no idea of even what there was to do in the country.

Whirlwind Tour of Tetouan, Morocco

So we did what anyone would do, let the nearest tout convince us that a one day whirlwind guided tour of nearby Moroccan city of Tetouan was worth it. And as any professional traveller would know we got well and truly ripped off with the price we paid, but the experience that lives on in my mind of that day makes it completely worth it.

Wandering the Medina

I was in an ancient land, being led through the labyrinth of narrow alleys that twisted and turned throughout the town and market places where people performed their craftsmanship, like weavers, jewellers, and  leather workers.

Snake Charmers

Snake charmers played their flutes and tambourines convincing the hypnotized cobras to uncoil themselves from their sleeping boxes and come dance for us, causing us to step back several feet in fear.

Only, Kahn and Pedro were brave enough to allow the man to place the snake around their shoulders once the dance was over.

The snake slithered down Kahn’s top.

A cobra?

Wait a minute, is that really a cobra?

Cous Cous

A delicious serving of chicken and cous cous for lunch was placed before us at a Moroccan restaurant. It was the first I had heard of the dish, but I would never forget the soft flakiness of it as it kind of just melted into my mouth. Now every time I eat cous cous, my mind darts back to that time inTetouan , when I first tried its cinnamon goodness. As I said priceless memories.

Our excited guide could not contain himself any longer after our filling lunch. “Now we go to see Moroccan carpets, but first you get to wear traditional Moroccan dress. Come follow me.”

Moroccan Carpet Scams

He lead us to the Carpet markets and straight up to the rooftop for hazy views into the clustered white walled Medina below and African mountains in the far distance.

We all looked at each other knowing that this indeed was where the real fun begins.

Which then led to us being in the rooms, sipping apple tea and being conned.

Out came the carpets one by one in elaborate colours, designs and sizes. We learned all about how they were created using the best natural fibres you could ever find. Each carpet was unique creation based on basic or intricate designs passed down since the beginning of time.

They were hand woven on wooden looms or laboriously knotted by handed by the mountain Berber people of North Africa, each carpet took several months to make and would last for centuries.

These carpets were so amazing you could spill anything on it and it would not stain, just an easy wipe away. You could even light it with a match and it wouldn’t burn. True story, he even proved it by taking out a lighter and putting it to the carpet. It did not catch, not one lick of flame.

The whole time I was watching and listening in my fancy dress, feeling very much like the “authentic” traveller having a moment no one else could ever be lucky enough to say they had, I had my eye on the beautiful pink carpet in front of me.

My sister was getting married in just a few months’ time. Imagine if I gave her a Moroccan carpet for her wedding gift.

Each of us were then taken into a separate room for harassment bargaining. I started to get a little concerned and angry. The magic of the moment slowly washing away.

“For you I give you special price. 900 pound”

If I still had my apple tea I would have spat it all over him. No wonder the interrogation was happening on our own. I needed back up.

He would not take a no or my last price of 100 pounds. He marched me out of the room, so Rob could be next, and demanded I sit on the stairs and not talk to anyone.

The sellers were running around me going from one room to the next in a fit of crazy bargaining. With great daring,  I snuck off the stairs and crept into some of the rooms to find out the prices. Mark and Dean gave in at 200 pounds.

I really wanted the carpet for my sister, actually, I think I wanted to buy it more for the story. Despite freaking me out with their you buy or else approach, I could not help going in for another round of bargaining, inspired by Kahn, Colin’s and Jumbo’s price of 15o pounds.

And that was that. We settled on 150 pounds.

He wrapped it up and gave it to me.

Now we were allowed to come together for photos in our traditional garb.

Time was running short and we were brisked back to the port, the last part of the tour we were promised now suddenly all forgotten.

I carried my heavy carpet so proudly back onto the ferry to Gibraltar and lovingly looked after it for the remaining 6 weeks of my European campervan tour.

I took it back to London to show all my friends my amazing Moroccan souvenir and then flew it all the way home to my sister for her wedding present.

“Oh wow! I love it. I can’t believe you bought us a Moroccan carpet. We love it.”

“And it is made from the best natural fibres by the Berbers, you can spill anything on it and it won’t stain you can just wipe it away and you can even put a match to  it and it won’t burn.”

When I next returned home to Australia, I couldn’t find the beautiful Moroccan carpet and asked my sister where it was.

“Oh yeah Ca. I’m not sure if it was the real thing. We spilled red wine on it accidentally and then it when we tried to fix it; it all shrivelled up and was destroyed. Sure did look good though.”

“Don’t tell me you burned it too?”

“No but we should have. That’s all it was probably good for in the end.”

Ahh, just another Moroccan memory.

Have you ever had a whirlwind day like this that was lots of fun even though you were scammed? Would love for you to share.

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