Marrakech, also known as the "Red City," is the fourth-largest city in Morocco and one of its most famous tourist destinations. The city is known for its enchanting diversity of markets, gardens, palaces, mosques, and more. It is divided into two main sections: the modern city, which features upscale hotel complexes, luxury stores, and cafes, and the old city, also known as the historic city, which is renowned for its traditional markets and handicrafts. The old city also holds a rich history and a deep-rooted culture, with many stunning historical landmarks. In this article, we will analyze the top 20 tourist attractions in Marrakech.
Jemaa el-Fnaa is considered one of the best tourist attractions in Marrakech, attracting thousands of both local and international tourists from all around the world. This square serves as a central meeting point that connects most of the major tourist landmarks in the city. Its history dates back to the 11th century during the Almoravid dynasty, and it was added to the UNESCO list of Cultural Heritage in 2001.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of entertainment shows in the square, including live music, snake charmer performances, and captivating storytelling by traditional narrators. At night, the square comes to life with candlelight stalls offering a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes.
Jardin Majorelle, named after its designer, the French artist Jacques Majorelle, is one of the top destinations in Marrakech for lovers of architecture and beautiful nature. This garden is home to more than 300 different plant species from all around the world, including cacti, palm trees, and ferns.
Located in the Gueliz area, Jardin Majorelle also houses a museum that showcases Islamic and Berber art. Visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings filled with water fountains, statues, colorful fishponds, and the sound of chirping birds.
Ben Youssef Madrasa was built in the 14th century during the Saadian dynasty and served as the home of many prominent scholars who taught religious sciences and jurisprudence. Today, it stands as the largest center for Islamic studies in Morocco and North Africa.
In addition to being an educational center, Ben Youssef Madrasa is an architectural masterpiece. Its design combines elements of Spanish and Roman architecture, with beautiful Kufic script adorning the interior walls, surrounded by fruit-bearing trees and greenery in the central courtyard.
Tourism in Marrakech is not limited to markets, mosques, and gardens; it also includes a number of historical palaces that date back several centuries. One of these is Bahia Palace, which stands out as one of the most magnificent historical landmarks in Marrakech. This palace tells the story of the region's rich history, including the influence of Berber, Arab, and Andalusian cultures.
The palace was built in the late 19th century during the Alawite dynasty and served as the residence of Grand Vizier Si Moussa. For those interested in exploring the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy during that period and admiring the beauty of traditional Moroccan architecture, visiting Bahia Palace is a must.
Islamic landmarks are an integral part of the history and culture of Marrakech, and the Koutoubia Mosque is one of the most prominent of these landmarks. Founded in the mid-12th century by the Almohads, the mosque derives its name from the nearby "kutubiyyin," or booksellers, who had their stalls in the area.
The mosque draws Islamic heritage enthusiasts and lovers of ancient architecture from around the globe. It is distinguished by its beautifully adorned 70-meter-tall minaret and its expansive area, covering approximately 5,300 square meters, making it the largest mosque in Marrakech.
Menara Gardens are among the most beautiful tourist spots in Marrakech, featuring a deep reservoir surrounded by numerous palm trees, olive groves, and orchards. The gardens also include a large pool that was historically used as a training center for Almohad soldiers to practice swimming.
If you're looking for an ideal place to relax and enjoy nature away from the city's noise, Menara Gardens, located about 3 kilometers from the old city walls, is an excellent choice.
For those passionate about historical artwork and traditional handicrafts, a visit to the Marrakech Museum is a must. The museum houses a diverse collection of artistic works, including paintings, historical books, Quranic inscriptions, and textiles. There is also a section dedicated to Moroccan coins.
Before it was transformed into a museum in 2017 by an initiative of Crown Prince Hassan, the building was a royal palace constructed by Mehdi Mnebhi in the 19th century. The museum's design is a unique blend of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture.
The Marrakech ramparts are among the most famous historical landmarks that adorn the Red City. These walls were built in the early 12th century by Sultan Ali ibn Yusuf of the Almoravid dynasty to protect the city from enemy attacks.
The ramparts stretch over more than 11 kilometers and stand about 10 meters tall. They are considered masterpieces of Islamic architecture and include around 25 gates, though only Bab Agnaou remains as the main gate to the Kasbah Quarter.
El Badi Palace is one of the most remarkable examples of architectural beauty in Marrakech. Its design draws on ancient Islamic art along with Portuguese influences that were prominent in Morocco during that era. Built in the late 16th century by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur, the palace later became a center for hosting important meetings and events.
Although the palace has faced challenges throughout history, its walls still hold traces of its rich past and intricate designs.
A visit to Marrakech would be incomplete without wandering through the old city, known as the Medina or the ancient city. Founded in 1060, the Medina was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1985 due to its narrow, tightly packed streets and colorful houses, making it one of the most important cultural heritage sites in the world.
The Medina offers a wide array of wonderful handicrafts and Moroccan artwork in its many souqs, including the Shoe Souq, the Carpenter Souq, the Perfume and Spice Souq, and the Leatherworker Souq, where artisans display their work in traditional ways.
For those with a passion for fashion and French design, a visit to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum is a must. Situated next to Majorelle Garden, this museum allows visitors to explore the iconic works and designs of the legendary French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The museum houses many of his most famous dresses and haute couture pieces.
In addition to the fashion exhibits, the museum features a café and a restaurant, as well as a cinema room that offers a documentary about the life of Yves Saint Laurent. It also includes an extensive library with more than 5,000 books.
No trip to Marrakech is complete without a visit to Souq Semmarine, a vibrant marketplace where you can find a variety of souvenirs and rare artisan crafts. The souq offers a wide selection of traditional Moroccan clothing, footwear, accessories, lanterns, and other locally made goods.
For those who love handcrafted products, it’s worth setting aside some time to explore the stalls of Souq Semmarine. Be sure to take photographs and enjoy a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea while you shop.
Among the historical sites that are worth visiting in Marrakech are the Saadian Tombs, which date back to the 16th century and were commissioned by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur. The tombs were later expanded in the 17th century.
The tomb complex consists of two main sections: one that includes three halls, such as the Mihrab Hall designated for prayer and the Twelve Columns Hall, which houses the tomb of Sultan al-Mansur and his son. The second section features a large room with balconies, and the tomb’s interior is adorned with intricate carvings on its walls and ceilings.
Located in the heart of the old city, Le Jardin Secret is one of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Marrakech. This historical site dates back to the Saadian dynasty and is known for its exceptional Islamic and traditional Moroccan design. The garden provides visitors with the opportunity to explore its stunning buildings and landscapes, reminiscent of the grand Andalusian palaces.
For nature lovers and those looking for tranquility, Le Jardin Secret offers a perfect retreat, with a wide variety of plants and flowers from different regions around the world.
The Artisan Market is a key destination for tourists in Marrakech. Visitors will find a wide range of traditional products, from handmade crafts to unique souvenirs. The market offers reasonable prices, and it’s common to negotiate with sellers to get a better deal.
Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdesalam is one of the most popular tourist spots in Marrakech, especially for those who enjoy nature. The park is famous for its wide green spaces, diverse trees, and tranquil environment, offering visitors a chance to unwind and breathe fresh air.
Located near Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the park provides a peaceful escape after exploring the bustling city center. What’s more, there are no entrance fees, making it an accessible option for all visitors.
One of Marrakech’s must-visit locations is the Photography Museum, a haven for photography enthusiasts. The museum features an extensive collection of photographs, each telling a unique story of the city and its people. Visitors can also enjoy a stunning view of Marrakech from the terrace, making it a great spot to capture your own photographs.
Dar Si Said Museum is another must-see for those interested in Moroccan architecture and culture. The museum beautifully displays traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, with decorative carvings on the walls and ceilings, alongside a collection of authentic Moroccan rugs.
The museum offers visitors the opportunity to experience the artistry and elegance of Moroccan heritage, making it a perfect stop on any Marrakech tour.
The Kasbah Quarter, also known as the Royal Quarter, is one of the best places to visit in Marrakech. It represents the historical and cultural heart of the city, with its elaborate architecture and intricate carvings that have stood the test of time. Even though centuries have passed, the quarter retains its original charm and beauty.
The Kasbah Quarter is home to several major landmarks, including the Koutoubia Mosque, making it an important area to explore.
A trip to Marrakech wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the desert safari. This unforgettable adventure allows visitors to travel to the desert, ride camels, and take stunning photos. Visitors can also climb the sand dunes and enjoy a long tour of the Sahara Desert. One of the highlights is watching the breathtaking sunset from the tops of the sand dunes – truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In conclusion, Marrakech has become one of the top tourist destinations due to its rich history, natural beauty, and stunning architectural heritage. It has been described by many visitors as a "1001 Nights Dream." If you're planning a trip to Marrakech, WINGIE offers the cheapest prices and easy, secure booking options for your flight to Marrakech.