Marrakech 2 Day Itinerary

48 Hours in Marrakech: A Tourist’s Guide

This itinerary is designed for a traveler with two days to explore the vibrant city of Marrakech. It focuses on the highlights and offers suggestions for customization based on your interests.

Day 1: Exploring the Medina & Beyond

Morning:

  • Start in Djemaa el-Fna: Wake up early and experience this bustling square in its quieter moments. Enjoy a coffee at a café overlooking the square and watch it come alive as vendors set up for the day.
  • Visit the Koutoubia Mosque: This iconic landmark is visible from across the city. Take photos of its stunning architecture from afar (non-Muslims are not allowed inside) and soak in the history and beauty of Marrakech’s oldest mosque.

Afternoon:

  • Explore the souks: Get lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the souks, browsing for spices, carpets, leather goods, pottery, and traditional crafts.

Things to consider:

  • Time: Plan for 2-3 hours exploring the maze that is Djemaa el-Fna and the surrounding souks.
  • Crowds: Expect crowds in the afternoon. It’s best to visit the main areas of the square early morning or late evening.
  • Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in the markets. Be prepared to negotiate prices, but do so with respect and a smile.

Evening:

  • Dinner at Jemaa el-Fna: The square transforms into a foodie paradise at night. Enjoy a delicious dinner from one of the many food stalls.
  • Riad Stay: Experience the charm of a traditional Moroccan riad in the heart of the Medina.

Day 2: Gardens & Culture

  • Visit a Jardin: Start your day exploring the serene beauty of Marrakech’s gardens like the Majorelle Garden, Le Jardin Secret, or the peaceful Menara Gardens.

  • Immerse yourself in history: Explore the ancient history of Marrakech at its many historical sites. Some suggestions include:

    • The Bahia Palace: A stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture and design.
    • The Saadian Tombs: Beautifully preserved tombs with intricate carvings and mosaics.
    • The Ben Youssef Madrasa: An architectural gem showcasing traditional Islamic craftsmanship.

  • Explore the Museums:

    • Musée Yves Saint Laurent Marrakech: Dedicated to the fashion designer’s life and work, as well as his love for Marrakech.
    • The Dar Si Said Museum: Showcases a diverse collection of traditional Moroccan artifacts like Berber jewelry and weapons.

Things to consider:

  • Weather: Marrakech can be hot, so plan your activities for early morning or evening hours during the warmer months.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Remember to dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) when visiting religious sites.
  • Jardin Etiquette:
    • Respect the Gardens: Be mindful of the gardens and their beauty. Avoid littering and damaging plants.

Tips for Customization:

  • Foodie Traveler: For a more immersive culinary experience, visit a local cooking class and learn to make some traditional dishes.

  • Adventure Seeker: Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or the Sahara Desert for stunning views and unique activities.

  • History Buff: Explore the Marrakech Museum, which houses artifacts from the city’s rich past, including ancient pottery, jewelry, and weapons.

Shopping & Dining:

  • Souk Exploration: If you’re interested in shopping, spend some time wandering through the labyrinthine alleyways of the souks, exploring the different stalls and their offerings.

  • Hammam Visit: Consider a traditional Moroccan bathhouse (hammam) experience for relaxation and cultural immersion.

  • Explore Jemaa el-Fna at Night: This square truly comes alive in the evening. Enjoy the street performers, food vendors, and bustling atmosphere.

  • Riads: Marrakech has beautiful Riad gardens and architecture. Spend the day exploring these charming traditional guesthouses.

Note: This is just a sample itinerary. You can customize it based on your interests and preferences.

For example:

  • Shopping:

    • Souk Cherifia: A great place to find spices, spices, herbs, and other local goods at affordable prices.
    • Jemaa el-Fna: For a more “traditional” Moroccan experience, try exploring the food stalls in the evening.

Further Information:

  • Best time to visit: Marrakech is best visited during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November) months for pleasant weather.

  • Food recommendations:

    • Nomad Restaurant: Enjoy delicious and modern Moroccan cuisine with stunning rooftop views of Djemaa el-Fna square.

  • Djinns & Riad Culture:

Things to know about Marrakech:

  • Negotiation: Prices in the souks are flexible, so don’t be afraid to haggle (respectfully) for the best deals.

  • Currency: The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).

  • Safety: Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the Souks: Immerse yourself in the traditional bustling markets, but remember to agree on a price before purchasing anything.
    • Visit the Jardin Majorelle: For a glimpse into the world of Yves Saint Laurent’s design and artistry, visit the stunning gardens he created.

  • Visit the Jardin Majorelle: A beautiful garden with vibrant colors and exotic plants.

  • Be aware of scams: While most people are honest, be wary of overly friendly vendors or anyone offering deals that seem too good to be true.

  • Dress for the occasion: Remember that traditional clothing is expected at religious sites in Morocco. It’s best to dress conservatively and respectfully when visiting mosques and tombs.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Yves Saint Laurent Museum: Immerse yourself in the world of Moroccan culture and fashion.

  • Start with a visit to the Djemaa el-Fna: This famous square is the heart of Marrakech, and it’s a great place to experience the city’s vibrant culture and energy.

  • Visit one of the many traditional riads: These are beautiful examples of Moroccan architecture and offer an insight into the history of the region.

  • Take a cooking class: Learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine, including how to prepare dishes like tagine and couscous.

  • Explore the souks in Marrakech: A great place to find souvenirs and practice your haggling skills.

Things to do:

  • Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the souks: These bustling markets are filled with history, culture, and a wide variety of goods.

  • Enjoy the unique beauty of each riad garden: From the serene courtyards to the vibrant gardens,

every riad offers its own unique charm and beauty.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Jardin Majorelle: This square is renowned for its beautiful gardens and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Experience the Culture:

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Marrakech.

  • Enjoy the bustling nightlife:

The Djemaa el-Fna experience goes beyond the food. Enjoy the lively music, dancing, and storytelling performances at night.