Things to Do in Morocco Marrakech

There are many fascinating things to do in Marrakech, Morocco. Visit the Bahia Palace, and the Moulay El Yazid Mosque for some history, and you can even sample some local cuisine. Of course, you should also shop at the bustling open-air market and buy some exquisite rugs and spices. The people of Morocco are incredibly hospitable and willing to share their culture with you.

Bahia Palace

If you have never visited the Bahia Palace, you must. This historic building is an absolute must see, and the city’s central square is full of life. You can buy fresh fruit and juice, or watch people play street games. You can even buy a monkey to play with for a fee. Be sure to tip the entertainers, too. They’re used to tourists tipping them well.

Boutiques

In the oldest part of Marrakech, the souks are still divided by trade. While artisans still make handlooms, wood and metal products, there is an increasing number of boutiques selling new designs of age-old crafts. For some, shopping at the souks can be as much of a cultural experience as the shopping. If you are visiting in the summer, be sure to visit during the Marrakech Flea Market, which is a bustling marketplace.

Things to Do in Morocco Marrakech: El Badi

In the late 16th century, a king from Saadiya named Ahmed el Mansour decided to build a palace on the site of a former Portuguese fortress, which is now in ruins. Moreover, the palace was a showcase of exquisite craftsmanship and was made of the most expensive materials of the time, including Italian Carrara marble and Sudanese gold. El Badi is now an important museum, and English-speaking guides are available to educate visitors about the palace’s history. Some of these tours even include a visit to the dungeons.

YSL collection

Marrakech has many attractions, but a visit to the YSL collection in Morocco is definitely worth it. The fashion designer’s museum was founded in 1963 and includes over 5,000 pieces of haute couture, as well as tens of thousands of sketches and art objects from the museum’s archives. The city has a permanent museum display, a Jacques Majorelle park, and a Berber museum.

Things to Do in Morocco Marrakech: Yves Saint Laurent

The Musee Yves Saint Laurent is one of the most exciting contemporary buildings in Marrakech. While, this building rises from a granito base of Moroccan marble and stone and features a lacework of terracotta bricks. This textured arrangement of bricks is intended to mimic the weft and warp of fabric. In addition to displaying the designs of YSL, the interior is also a great place to visit if you want to learn about the history of the fashion house.

Guided walks around the medina

Among the highlights of a visit to Marrakech is a walking tour through its medina, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the place where Marrakech’s royals lived, international trade was done, and cultures flourished. While a guided walk around the medina is not as easy as it sounds, it is an excellent way to get a sense of the city and its rich history.

Things to Do in Morocco Marrakech: Day trips from Marrakech

While you’re in Morocco, you should take advantage of the many day trips from Marrakech. The red city is home to a bustling souk, or Berber bazaar, filled with exotic spices, clothes, and home decor. For history buffs, Chefchaouen is home to the historic Old Media, which dates back to 1471. Chefchaouen’s CBD is smaller than Marrakech’s Medina, but it still boasts the famous Andalusian Gardens.