Marrakech is a city in Morocco that is full of history, cultural sights, wonderful food, and marketplaces unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s a thriving tourist destination which has a wide variety of activities and attractions for everyone who comes to the city. If you’re planning to visit Marrakech, here are some of the exciting things you can do.
Djemaa el-Fna
The Djemaa el-Fna marketplace is a must-see for anyone who visits Marrakech. Djemaa el-Fna is a large square where you can hear traditional storytellers and musicians perform, find one of a kind jewelry, cloth, apparel, and other merchandise, and enjoy some of the best of what the city’s street food vendors have to offer. Djemaa el-Fna is also a nighttime destination for locals and tourists, as well as a cultural icon in Marrakech.
The Marrakech Souks
If you’ve ever seen photos of bustling marketplaces with a huge array of goods, spices, vibrant cloths, friendly people, and exquisite carpets, then you have an idea of what the Marrakech Souks are like. These bazaars are perfect for those who love to shop, collect trinkets and antiques, or simply experience the local culture of the places they visit. When visiting the Marrakech Souks, remember that it’s ok to politely haggle for a good deal — it’s something of a tradition.
Koutoubia Mosque
The mosques of Marrakech reveal the city’s rich cultural and religious history, as well as some of the most amazing architecture in the world. Koutoubia Mosque, also known as Kutubiyya Mosque, is one of the historic mosques in Marrakech, as well as one of the city’s foremost landmarks. This mosque also has expansive, lush, beautiful gardens surrounding it that visitors can stroll and enjoy.
Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is another prominent landmark in Marrakech that is a popular place to visit for tourists and locals alike. It’s name means “brilliance”, which perfectly describes its beautiful architecture, inlaid ceilings, gorgeous tiling, and vibrant stained glass windows. Only 8 of Bahia Palace’s 150 rooms are open to the public, but that is plenty to tour within a day.
The Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs were discovered in 1917, and since then have been a source of intrigue to all its visitors. The tile work of the building really stands out and is an example of the elaborate style which defines many of Marrakech’s historic sites. The interior and outside grounds of the Saadian Tombs are the burial places of members of the royal Saadi Dynasty, which makes this stop a place of great cultural and significance.
Along with these destinations, Marrakech has a host of restaurants that will allow you an authentic taste of Moroccan cuisine, served in a traditional manner. The food and drink found in Marrakech is flavorful and delicious. The city’s hotels and inns are also a way to experience Marrakech’s hospitality, customs, art, and decor. If you get the chance to visit the beautiful, vibrant city of Marrakech, take plenty of time to enjoy the sights, sounds, flavors, and history that can only be found there.