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    Top 20 Things to Do in...

    Marrakesh

    A Family-Friendly Adventure in the Red City

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    Introduction

    Marrakesh, the vibrant and exotic heart of Morocco, is a city that captivates the senses and ignites the imagination. With its labyrinthine medina, bustling souks, and enchanting gardens, Marrakesh offers a treasure trove of experiences for families seeking an unforgettable adventure. From exploring ancient palaces and savoring delicious Moroccan cuisine to embarking on thrilling desert escapades, this city has something for every age and interest. Join us as we unveil the top 20 things to do in Marrakesh, tailored especially for families looking to immerse themselves in the magic of this alluring destination.

    Brief History

    Founded in 1062 by the Almoravid dynasty, has long been a significant religious, cultural, and trading center in Morocco. The city’s strategic location at the crossroads of ancient caravan routes from Timbuktu to the Mediterranean Sea contributed to its growth and prosperity. Over the centuries, Marrakesh has been ruled by various dynasties, each leaving their mark on the city’s architecture, art, and culture.

    The Almohads, who replaced the Almoravids, built many of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Koutoubia Mosque and the Kasbah. The Saadians, who took control in the 16th century, further embellished the city with opulent palaces and gardens, such as the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs. Under the Alaouite dynasty, which has ruled Morocco since the 17th century, Marrakesh continued to flourish as a center of trade, religion, and culture.

    Today, Marrakesh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and unique blend of Berber, Arab, and European influences. With its timeless charm and endless attractions, the city beckons families to embark on an unforgettable journey through history and culture.

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    Marrakesh or Marrakech?

    In English, the spelling is “Marrakesh.” However, “Marrakech” (the French and Spanish spelling) is frequently used, which adds to the confusion. To continue, the name is officially spelled Mṛṛakc in the Berber Latin alphabet and Marraquexe in Portuguese,

    1. Explore the Medina

    The heart of Marrakesh is its ancient medina, a walled city dating back to the 11th century. This labyrinthine network of narrow streets and alleys is a treasure trove of sights, sounds, and smells that will captivate the entire family. Wander through the bustling souks, where artisans display their wares, from colorful textiles and intricate pottery to aromatic spices and glittering jewelry.

    Kids will love the thrill of getting lost in the maze-like streets, discovering hidden courtyards, and (maybe?) haggling for souvenirs. Be sure to visit the Souk des Teinturiers, where you can watch dyers at work, creating vibrant hues using traditional techniques. For a sweet treat, stop by the Mechoui Alley, where vendors sell delicious slow-roasted lamb and freshly squeezed orange juice.

    Tip: Hire a local guide to help you navigate the medina and provide insights into its rich history and culture.

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    2. Visit The Koutoubia Mosque

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    The Koutoubia Mosque, with its iconic 77-meter-high minaret, is the largest and most famous mosque in Marrakesh. Built in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty, this stunning example of Moorish architecture is a must-see for any visitor to the city.

    While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, families can admire its exquisite exterior, with its intricate brickwork, colorful tilework, and ornate arches. The mosque’s surrounding gardens, with their palm trees, orange groves, and fountains, provide a peaceful respite from the bustle of the medina.

    Tip: Visit the Koutoubia Mosque at sunset to see its minaret illuminated against the colorful sky and hear the haunting call to prayer.

    3. Discover the Bahia Palace

    The Bahia Palace, built in the late 19th century, is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship. This opulent palace, with its lush gardens, intricate woodwork, and colorful mosaics, was designed to be the greatest palace of its time.

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    Families can explore the palace’s many courtyards, rooms, and galleries, each decorated with exquisite detail and showcasing the skill of Moroccan artisans. Kids will love playing hide-and-seek in the palace’s nooks and crannies, while adults can admire the stunning zellige tilework and cedar carvings.
    Tip: Visit the palace early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.
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    4. Marvel at the Saadian Tombs

    The Saadian Tombs, dating back to the 16th century, are a stunning example of Moorish architecture and a testament to the wealth and power of the Saadian dynasty. This elaborate mausoleum, with its intricate carvings, colorful mosaics, and Italian marble, was hidden for centuries until its rediscovery in 1917.

    Families can explore the tombs’ main chamber, where the most important members of the Saadian dynasty are buried, as well as the smaller rooms and gardens surrounding it. Kids will be fascinated by the tombs’ eerie beauty and the stories of the rulers and their families buried there.

    Tip: Combine your visit to the Saadian Tombs with a stop at the nearby Kasbah Mosque and the Bab Agnaou gate for a fuller understanding of the city’s history.

    5. Get Lost in the Majorelle Garden

    The Majorelle Garden, created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and later restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, is a lush oasis in the heart of Marrakesh. This enchanting garden, with its cobalt blue buildings, exotic plants, and tranquil pools, is a feast for the senses and a welcome respite from the city’s heat and noise.

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    Families can stroll through the garden’s shaded paths, admiring the colorful bougainvillea, towering cacti, and fragrant jasmine. Kids will love spotting the garden’s resident turtles and koi fish, while adults can visit the Berber Museum, which houses a collection of traditional Berber artifacts and clothing.

    Tip: Visit the garden early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

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    6. Cooking Class

    Take a Cooking Class Moroccan cuisine, with its rich flavors, aromatic spices, and fresh ingredients, is a highlight of any visit to Marrakesh. What better way to immerse your family in the local culinary culture than by taking a cooking class?

    Many restaurants and culinary schools in Marrakesh offer family-friendly cooking classes, where you can learn to make traditional dishes such as tagine, couscous, and pastilla. Kids will love getting their hands dirty, kneading dough, and mixing spices, while adults can learn about the history and techniques behind each dish.

    Tip: Choose a cooking class that includes a visit to a local market, where you can select fresh ingredients and learn about Moroccan produce and spices.
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    7. Explore the Ben Youssef Madrasa

    The Ben Youssef Madrasa, founded in the 14th century, was once the largest Islamic educational institution in North Africa. Today, this stunning example of Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship is open to the public, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich educational and religious heritage.

    Families can explore the madrasa’s many rooms and courtyards, each adorned with intricate stucco work, colorful mosaics, and ornate cedar carvings. Kids will be amazed by the building’s maze-like structure and the stories of the scholars who once studied there.

    Tip: Visit the madrasa in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and the crowds, and don’t forget to look up to admire the stunning ceiling carvings.

    8. Discover the Museum of Marrakesh

    The Museum of Marrakesh, housed in the beautifully restored 19th-century Dar Menebhi Palace, offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. The museum’s collection includes traditional Moroccan art and crafts, such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry, as well as historical artifacts and photographs.

    Families can explore the museum’s many rooms and courtyards, each showcasing a different aspect of Moroccan life and culture. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, such as the traditional weaving loom and the calligraphy station, while adults can admire the stunning architecture and decor.
    Tip: Combine your visit to the Museum of Marrakesh with a stop at the nearby Maison Tiskiwin, which houses an extensive collection of Berber and sub-Saharan African artifacts.

    9. Palm Grove

    Enjoy a Camel Ride in the Palm Grove No visit to Marrakesh would be complete without a camel ride in the city’s lush palm grove, known as the Palmeraie. This vast oasis, with its towering palm trees, green fields, and traditional Berber villages, offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

    Families can take a guided camel ride through the palm grove, admiring the stunning scenery and learning about the area’s history and ecology. Kids will love the thrill of riding on a camel’s back, while adults can relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
    Tip: Choose a reputable tour company that prioritizes animal welfare and provides safety equipment and instructions for riders of all ages.

    10. Explore Menara Gardens

    The Menara Gardens, located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, are a stunning example of traditional Moroccan landscaping and irrigation techniques. These lush gardens, with their olive groves, fruit orchards, and reflecting pool, have been a popular retreat for locals and visitors alike for centuries.

    Families can stroll through the gardens’ shaded paths, admiring the stunning views of the mountains and the city skyline. Kids will love feeding the ducks and geese that call the pool home, while adults can learn about the ingenious irrigation system that keeps the gardens green and fertile.

    Tip: Visit the gardens in the late afternoon to enjoy the golden light and cooler temperatures, and don’t forget to bring a picnic to enjoy by the pool.

    11. Atlas Mountains

    Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains The Atlas Mountains, located just a short drive from Marrakesh, offer a stunning landscape of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and traditional Berber villages. A day trip to this majestic mountain range is a must-do for families seeking adventure and natural beauty.

    Many tour companies offer guided day trips to the Atlas Mountains, with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and visiting Berber villages. Kids will love the thrill of exploring the rugged terrain and meeting local children, while adults can admire the stunning scenery and learn about Berber culture and traditions.

    Tip: Choose a tour that includes lunch in a traditional Berber home for a truly authentic and immersive experience.

    12. Visit The Yves Saint Laurent Museum

    The Yves Saint Laurent Museum, located next to the Majorelle Garden, is a must-see for fashion lovers and art enthusiasts. This stunning museum, opened in 2017, showcases the life and work of the iconic French fashion designer, who fell in love with Marrakesh and drew much of his inspiration from the city’s colors and culture.

    Families can explore the museum’s extensive collection of Saint Laurent’s designs, sketches, and photographs, as well as learn about his creative process and his connection to Marrakesh. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and the colorful displays, while adults can admire the stunning architecture and the designer’s legacy.

    Tip: Combine your visit to the museum with a stroll through the Majorelle Garden to see the colors and landscapes that inspired Saint Laurent’s work.

    13. Explore the Bab Agnaou

    The Bab Agnaou, one of the 19 gates of Marrakesh, is a stunning example of Almohad architecture and craftsmanship. This 12th-century gate, with its intricate stone carvings and ornate arches, was once the main entrance to the Kasbah, the city’s royal citadel.

    Families can admire the gate’s exquisite details and learn about its history and significance, as well as explore the nearby Kasbah Mosque and the Saadian Tombs. Kids will love playing in the small square in front of the gate, while adults can shop for souvenirs and local crafts.

    Tip: Visit the gate in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat, and don’t forget to take plenty of photos of this iconic landmark.

    14. Hot Air Balloon Ride

    Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride For a truly unforgettable experience, take your family on a hot air balloon ride over the Marrakesh countryside. Many tour companies offer sunrise or sunset flights, providing stunning views of the city, the palm groves, and the Atlas Mountains.

    Kids will love the thrill of soaring high above the ground, spotting wildlife and villages from a bird’s eye view. Adults can enjoy the peaceful serenity of the flight and the breathtaking landscapes below.

    Tip: Choose a reputable tour company with experienced pilots and safety equipment, and be sure to book in advance as flights can fill up quickly.

    15. Visit the Maison de la Photographie

    The Maison de la Photographie, located in the heart of the medina, is a must-see for photography enthusiasts and history buffs. This small but fascinating museum showcases a collection of over 10,000 photographs documenting life in Morocco from the 1870s to the 1950s.

    Families can explore the museum’s three floors of exhibits, each showcasing a different aspect of Moroccan culture and history. Kids will love the interactive displays and the vintage cameras, while adults can admire the stunning black and white photographs and learn about the country’s colonial past.
    Tip: Don’t miss the museum’s rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the medina and the Atlas Mountains, as well as a delicious selection of Moroccan teas and pastries.

    16. Explore The Dar Si Said Museum

    The Dar Si Said Museum, housed in a stunning 19th-century palace, is a must-see for families interested in Moroccan art and culture. The museum’s collection includes traditional textiles, pottery, jewelry, and musical instruments, as well as exhibits on Moroccan architecture and decorative arts.

    Kids will love exploring the museum’s many courtyards and rooms, each decorated with colorful mosaics, intricate woodwork, and ornate stucco. Adults can admire the stunning craftsmanship and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Morocco.
    Tip: Don’t miss the museum’s collection of traditional Moroccan carpets, which includes rare and exquisite pieces from across the country.

    17. Visit The Boucharouite Museum

    The Boucharouite Museum, located in a beautiful riad in the medina, is a unique and fascinating museum dedicated to the art of boucharouite, or rag rug weaving. This traditional Moroccan craft, which involves weaving discarded scraps of fabric into colorful and intricate rugs, has gained international recognition in recent years as a form of sustainable and creative art.
    Families can explore the museum’s collection of stunning boucharouite rugs, each telling a story of the women who made them and the communities they come from. Kids will love the hands-on workshops, where they can learn the basics of rag rug weaving and create their own small masterpieces.
    Tip: Combine your visit to the museum with a shopping trip to the nearby carpet souks, where you can purchase your own boucharouite rug to take home as a unique and meaningful souvenir.

    18. Moroccan Hammam

    Take a Moroccan Hammam No visit to Marrakesh would be complete without experiencing a traditional Moroccan hammam, or steam bath. This ancient ritual, which involves steaming, scrubbing, and massaging the body, is a beloved part of Moroccan culture and a must-do for families seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

    Many riads and spas in Marrakesh offer family-friendly hammam experiences, with separate areas for men and women and gentle treatments for children. Kids will love the novelty of the experience and the feeling of being pampered, while adults can unwind and let the stress of travel melt away. We chose a place called Isis. It was probably the highlight of our time in Marrakesh. 

    Tip: Choose a reputable and hygienic hammam, and be sure to bring your own towels, bathing suits, and toiletries. Don’t be shy about asking for help or guidance if you’re new to the experience.
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    19. Visit The Cyber Park

    Visit the Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdeslam For a fun and educational break from the hustle and bustle of the medina, take your family to the Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdeslam. This unique park, located in the heart of Marrakesh, combines traditional Moroccan landscaping with modern technology and interactive exhibits.
    Families can stroll through the park’s lush gardens, admiring the fountains, sculptures, and rare plants. Kids will love the interactive displays on Moroccan culture and history, as well as the playground and sports facilities. Adults can take advantage of the park’s free Wi-Fi and relax in the shade of the trees.

    Tip: Don’t miss the park’s small museum, which showcases the history of Moroccan gardens and the importance of green spaces in Islamic culture.

    20. Attend The Fantasia Show

    Attend the Fantasia Show For a thrilling and unforgettable evening of entertainment, take your family to the Fantasia show, also known as the “Moroccan Nights” spectacle. This stunning performance, which takes place in a large arena outside the city, features horseback riders, acrobats, dancers, and musicians in traditional Moroccan.