Marrakesh Attractions

Marrakesch, a city with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, is full of fascinating attractions and landmarks. From palaces and museums to vibrant markets and gardens, there is something for everyone in Marrakesch. In this article, we will explore the top sights and experiences that you should not miss when visiting Marrakesch.

When thinking of Marrakesch, the first thing that comes to mind is the Djemaa El Fna square. It’s the hub of street performers, storytellers, and snake charmers. The square is a perfect representation of the hustle and bustle of this Moroccan city.

The Koutoubia Mosque is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Marrakesch. Its 77-meter tall minaret overlooks the Djemaa El Fna square, making it one of the most prominent landmarks in the city.

The Medersa Ben Youssef is one of the most impressive cultural treasures in Marrakesch. Located in the heart of the Medina, this Koranic school is the largest and most important in the Maghreb.

The Koubba El-Badiyin is a medieval building located in the Medina. It’s one of the few remaining buildings from the Almoravid dynasty, making it an essential historical landmark in Marrakesch.

The Bahia Palace is one of the most visited attractions in Marrakesch. The palace’s labyrinth of rooms, halls, courtyards, hammams, and gardens span over 8,000 square meters. It’s a perfect representation of the luxurious lifestyle that Moroccan princes once lived.

The El Badi Palace was once the largest and most magnificent palace in the Maghreb. Although now mostly in ruins, it still remains an important historical site.

The Saadier Tombs is a large complex of tombs that was rediscovered in 1917. It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Marrakesch, despite its relatively simple design.

The Souks of Marrakesch are a labyrinth of narrow alleys and small shops that sell everything from traditional clothing and jewelry to spices and ceramics. They’re the perfect place to get lost in the city’s bustling atmosphere.

Marrakesch has a few museums that are worth visiting. The Museum Marrakesch is a great place to explore Moroccan art and architecture.

The Maison de la Photographie is a small museum located between the tannery district and the Medersa Ben Youssef. It houses thousands of original documents, photographs, postcards, and antique signs that showcase Morocco’s history.

Located close to the Bahia Palace, the Dar Si Said Museum is a great alternative to the larger palace. Although smaller in size, the museum boasts impressive collections of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts, including carpets, textiles, jewelry, and pottery.

Adjacent to the Dar si Said Museum, the Museum Dar Tiskiwin houses the private collection of the Dutch art historian Bert Flint. The museum showcases an extensive range of traditional Moroccan and North African crafts and artifacts, including clothing, musical instruments, and household items.

Opened in 2017 in honor of the late fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, this museum is a must-visit attraction for fashion enthusiasts. Saint Laurent lived in Marrakesch for many years, and his works were heavily influenced by the city’s vibrant colors and patterns. The museum displays a vast collection of Saint Laurent’s designs, including 100 pieces of clothing and thousands of accessories.

Located between the Bahia Palace and the Palais el Badi, the Mellah is the former Jewish quarter of Marrakesch. The Mellah is a fascinating place to explore, with narrow streets, traditional houses, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

The Bab Agnaou is one of the nineteen gates of the old city walls, and it leads to the Kasbah district of Marrakesch. The Kasbah is a historic district with a mix of residential homes, markets, and mosques. The district is known for its stunning architecture and intricate decoration.

The Jardin Secret is one of the oldest and largest Riads in Marrakesch, and its gardens are open to the public. The gardens offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city, with various trees, flowers, and water features.

The Jardin Majorelle is a popular tourist destination and one of the most beautiful gardens in Marrakesch. The garden was designed by the French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé in 1980. The garden features a stunning array of plants, fountains, and sculptures.