I know it might sound cliché and predictable, but I absolutely fell in love with Marrakech. The fourth and final imperial city of our Moroccan road trip simply left me speechless. Yes, it’s touristy and, at times, less traditional and authentic, but it’s undeniably magical and incredibly captivating.
Getting lost in the medina of Marrakech is an experience everyone should have at least once in their life. Around every corner awaits a new surprise, a new wonder... so make sure not to forget to include it in your Moroccan road trip itinerary.

In Marrakech, the colors of the souks blend with those of elegant boutiques, street food stalls alternate with refined little restaurants and beautiful terraces overlooking the city, where you can watch the red hues of the sunset—all accompanied by the call of the muezzin echoing from the city's minarets.
Marrakech is a place of rare beauty; even though it is touristy and has partially modernized, it remains a unique and unforgettable destination.
Compared to Fès, there is so much more to do, and it is undoubtedly more suited to Western visitors. Yes, it’s more expensive, but it’s absolutely worth it.
To properly visit Marrakech, you’ll need at least two days, which should be enough to explore the city and its main attractions. To be clear, I’m referring to the Medina of Marrakech. If you plan to venture further out and visit the surrounding points of interest, like the Ouzoud Waterfalls, the stunning seaside city of Essaouira, the La Palmerie Oasis, or the Agafay Desert, then you’ll need more time.

What I loved most about this city was finally feeling completely safe and at ease moving around on my own without Enrico. One afternoon, we decided to split up (I went to the Hammam), and I wandered through the alleys of the medina without any fear or anxiety. Marrakech is, without a doubt, a destination in Morocco that I would highly recommend for a Girls’ Trip: shopping among the colorful and fragrant souks and elegant boutiques, an afternoon at the Hammam, and then wonderful aperitifs and dinners at sunset on Marrakech’s terraces, admiring fiery sunsets. Plus, you can take a trip to the Agafay Desert or enjoy a beautiful day by the sea in nearby Essaouira.
Marrakech is perfect for an amazing trip with friends, and I’m already planning one soon—I can’t wait to return!
Here’s what you can expect from this article about Marrakech:
Some general information and a bit about the city’s history;
Everything there is to see in Marrakech in 2 days, along with tips on how to make the most of your visit;
A detailed look at the various souks of Marrakech;
Everything you need to know about the Hammam and where to try this experience;
A list of my favorite spots to eat in Marrakech.

With Marrakech, we’ve reached the end of our road trip itinerary in Morocco!
As you can see on the map below, we arrived at the seventh and eighth days of our journey (⑦ and ⑧), which we spent entirely in Marrakech, exploring the city and making our final purchases in its beautiful souks before heading back to Italy.
We arrived in Marrakech on the morning of the seventh day, after leaving Ait-Ben-Haddou behind and crossing the Tizi n'Tichka Pass. On the morning of the ninth day, we left Marrakech early to head to Casablanca airport and fly back home, thus completing our road trip loop in Morocco.
If you want to know more about how to plan your Morocco travel itinerary then READ ALSO: Perfect Morocco itinerary for a 8-days-car trip
Don't miss all the insights on the various stages of this incredible trip:
part 1 - days ① and ② : Discovering Casablanca, Rabat and Meknes
part 2 - days ② and ③ : Chefchaouen, Morocco's Blue Pearl and Akchour Waterfalls
part 3 - days ③ and ④ : Fes, Morocco's Imperial Pearl - Morocco on the road
part 4 - day ⑤ : The Dunes of Erg Chebbi, Merzouga Desert
part 5 - day ⑥ : The route of the Thousand Kasbahs and Ait-Ben-Haddou
If you have already defined your itinerary and are thinking about the more organizational and logistical part of your trip READ ALSO: How to plan a road trip in Morocco in a few simple steps
Marrakech

Marrakech is famous for its ochre-pink color, which sets it apart from other cities in Morocco. With its stunning ochre ramparts and magnificent palaces from a bygone era, Marrakech is the capital of southern Morocco.
It has always been a cultural crossroads thanks to its important role in trade. Founded by the Almohads in 1062, the city witnessed the rise and fall of noble dynasties, while architects, craftsmen, and sculptors of every era built royal palaces, enchanting mosques, and lush gardens in honor of its rulers.
Its millennia-long history is reflected in the beauty of landmarks such as the Koutoubia Mosque, with its towering 69-meter-high minaret; the El Badi Palace, constructed over 25 years using the finest materials; or the unforgettable Ben Youssef Madrasa, showcasing Andalusian-influenced architecture.
The tourist part of Marrakech essentially overlaps with the Medina, or "old city," which is the second-largest in the country after Fès. Meanwhile, most of the population lives in the Ville Nouvelle, or "new city," as Marrakech has a population of around 1 million.
Aside from the Jardin Majorelle and a few other attractions, there isn’t much to see in the Ville Nouvelle. For this reason, I recommend staying in a Riad within the Medina of Marrakech.
We chose Riad Amra: this riad has an excellent location, just a 5-minute walk from Jamaâ El-Fnaa Square, yet it’s in a very quiet and peaceful area. It’s also less than a 10-minute walk from the Koutoubia Parking lot (in front of the Koutoubia Mosque), where we had parked our car!
For all the details about accommodation, car rental, driving, costs, and the logistics of this trip, make sure to READ ALSO: How to plan a road trip in Morocco in a few simple steps
Marrakech in 2 days
Below, you will find our 2-day itinerary in Marrakech, followed by a guide on what to see in Marrakech and the must-visit attractions you absolutely shouldn’t miss!
First day in Marrakech:
lunch at Le Jardin
Ben Youssef Madrasa
Souk Haddadine
Place des Epices and Cafe des Epices
Souk Semmarine
Place Jemaa el-Fnaa
Koutoubia
Parc Lalla Hasna
Saadians Tombs
Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier
Dinner at Place Jemaa el-Fnaa - street food
Second day in Marrakech:
Jardin Majorelle
Bacha Coffee
Le Jardin Secret
Souk de Teintures
Les Tanneries
Cornes de Gazzelle Che Brahim
lunch at La Famille
El Bahia Palace
El Badi Palace
Place de Ferblantier
Hammam de la rose
dinner at NOMAD
Place Jemaa el-Fnaa
Jemaa el-Fna Square is the beating heart of Marrakech, its center, and the most important spot in Medina, where the social life of Marrakech unfolds, both day and night.
Recognized as an Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO to protect it from commercial development, the fame and beauty of Jemaa el-Fna Square have made it a backdrop for many films, such as The Mummy or Paris or Perish.
This square is so astonishing and unique because it completely changes its face throughout the day. In the morning and afternoon, it becomes a massive and colorful open-air market where you can buy fresh orange juice, and dates, or get a henna tattoo. But as the sun sets, it transforms into an even livelier space with street performers of all kinds showcasing their talents amidst rows of food stalls with tables and benches ready to welcome hungry visitors eager to try freshly prepared local dishes.
If you’re in Marrakech, you absolutely must visit Jemaa el-Fna Square and experience its charm, even though it is a very controversial place with some inhumane practices that reflect the city’s raw essence. Among the dance and music performances, jugglers, and magicians, you’ll unfortunately also witness distressing scenes of snake charmers and small chained monkeys exploited to collect a few coins. These cruel displays are nothing short of inhumane and should be discouraged, so I recommend avoiding them and not giving them attention.
That said, Jemaa el-Fna Square remains a spectacle worth exploring during the day to admire its market and sip on delicious fruit juice, but be sure to return at sunset! At this hour, you must step into one of the bars around the square, climb up to the terrace—I highly recommend Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier, which offers the best view—and spend a few Dirhams on a drink so you can observe the hustle and bustle of the square as it lights up at dusk, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Marrakech at sunset.
Afterward, head back down to the square and get ready for some delicious street food. The food is quite good, and the prices are fairly reasonable. There are about fifty stalls, all offering practically the same menu at nearly identical prices. Still, every waiter will stop you and try to persuade you to dine at their stall by showing you the menu. We chose stall no. 1, Chez Aicha (we had read it was the best), and we ate very well, but in my opinion, the quality is more or less the same at all of them!
So… Jemaa el-Fna Square is an irresistible place, attracting tourists from all over the world, but keep in mind that, as such a large and bustling square, you need to be especially cautious about scams.
If you want to dine at one of the stalls, it’s better to choose those frequented by locals (with stall no. 1, you can’t go wrong, we tried it ourselves), and it’s always safer to pick the ones with clearly displayed prices. Lastly, it’s important to always stay alert to pickpockets and scammers who wander around the square.

Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is the main mosque in Marrakech, and its minaret rises above the rooftops of the city. When its construction was completed in 1158, it was one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world.
The Koutoubia Mosque is characterized by its 77-meter-high minaret (which is somewhat reminiscent of the Giralda of Seville) and its characteristic pink color, typical of the city of Marrakech. Another interesting feature of the mosque is its name, which comes from the word “kutub” (booksellers) and means "mosque of the booksellers." It is believed that, in this area, there was once a souk of sellers of holy books or that scribes offered their services to the illiterate.
As in most mosques, entry is forbidden to non-Muslims, but it is possible to walk around the gardens surrounding the mosque.
Parc Lalla Hasna
Lalla Hasna Park is often underrated and rarely mentioned, yet I think it’s a real gem in Marrakech, a place where you can rest in the shade of a tree and recover from the hustle and bustle of the Medina.
Located in front of the Koutoubia Mosque, with its lined walkways and long fountain, it offers a wonderful perspective of the mosque.
Saadians Tombs

The Saadian Tombs are among the most visited attractions in all of Marrakech and have been open since 1917, the year they were discovered by a French expedition.
These tombs are the mausoleum of the Saadian dynasty and date back to the late 16th century. They are located inside a walled garden, which is accessed via a small corridor.
Inside the garden, there are over 100 tombs decorated with zellij tiles, where the bodies of the servants and warriors of the Saadian dynasty were buried. The most important building in the Saadian Tombs is the main mausoleum, where Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur (who ordered the construction of the complex) and his family members are buried. The main mausoleum consists of three rooms, the most famous of which is the Room of 12 Columns, where his sons are buried.
The entrance fee is 100 MAD per person (about €6.50), and the visit will take around 30 minutes to an hour at most, but I assure you it’s worth it, as they are truly stunning!
The Saadians Tombs are open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Ben Youssef Madrasa

The Ben Youssef Madrasa is one of the most fascinating attractions in Marrakech. Located within the Medina, it is a Muslim Quranic school specializing in religious studies. If you recall, we had already visited two other madrasas in Fès.
READ ALSO: Fes, Morocco's Imperial Pearl
The Ben Youssef Madrasa was built to host the students of the nearby mosque of the same name and is the largest madrasa in the country.
It was inaugurated in 1565, commissioned by Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib, and consists of 132 tiny rooms that resemble cells, where up to 900 students once lived.

The entrance fee is 50 MAD per person (around €4.60) and is absolutely worth the ticket price. The most spectacular part is undoubtedly the central courtyard, which features a fountain for ablutions.
The courtyard is richly decorated with typical zellij tiles, plaster stuccoes, and cedarwood carvings.
But the visit doesn’t end there: you can also access the upper floor to explore the labyrinthine network of cells and balconies overlooking the central courtyard or the narrow streets of the Marrakech Medina.
The Ben Youssef Madrasa is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
El Bahia Palace

The El Bahia Palace is one of the most significant architectural works in Marrakech and dates back to the late 19th century when it was completed at the request of Grand Vizier Adar Si Moussa with the intention of creating the most impressive palace of all time.
The name of the palace means "the beautiful," and for many, it is thought to be dedicated to the vizier's favorite wife, making it "The Palace of the Beautiful."
The palace is sensational, but it loses some of its allure as all the rooms are empty; when the vizier died, the rooms were looted. However, the ticket price is still worth it for the spectacular wall and ceiling decorations, as well as the beautiful gardens.

The palace spans 8 hectares and houses 150 rooms that open onto various courtyards and gardens.
The most intriguing part of the palace is the harem of the four wives and 24 concubines.
Once inside, it’s easy to feel like you’re getting lost: the labyrinthine structure of the palace makes the rooms unfold in a very intricate way due to the continuous modifications made during its construction.
The El Bahia Palace is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the entrance ticket costs 100 MAD per person (about €9.50).
El Badi Palace

My biggest regret from these two days spent in Marrakech is not being able to visit the El Badi Palace, which was unfortunately closed for renovations during my visit! But I’ll definitely make up for it on my next trip to the city, which I’m sure won’t be too far away! Let’s take a closer look at what makes it so special.
The El Badi Palace is what remains of a grand palace commissioned at the end of the 16th century by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour to commemorate the defeat of the Portuguese in the Battle of Alcazarquivir, also known as the "Battle of the Three Kings."
The palace is in ruins but has been well restored and is referred to as "The Incomparable" (El Badi) because it is said to have once housed over 300 rooms adorned with the finest materials of the era: gold, turquoise, and crystal. El Badi fell into ruin at the end of the 17th century when Sultan Moulay Ismail moved the country’s capital from Marrakech to Meknes, looting the palace in the process. What remains, they say, is still spectacular and an absolute must-see in Marrakech!
The El Badi Palace is open every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the entrance ticket costs 100 MAD per person (about €9.50).
Place des Ferblantiers
Place des Ferblantiers is located in the old medina, at the heart of the Mellah, the Jewish quarter of Marrakech. Known as the square of the iron artisans, it is where skilled craftsmen create incredible lamps and other iron objects. The square is just a short walk from the Bahia Palace.
The square is characterized by its large, square shape, lined with artisan workshops as well as numerous shops selling vibrant spices stored in huge barrels. You’ll also find women producing argan oil and selling henna, adding to the lively and colorful atmosphere..

Bacha Coffee
Bacha Coffee is nestled within the Dar El Bacha Palace (House of the Pasha), located at the entrance of Marrakech’s medina. This palace was built in the early 20th century as the residence of Thami El Glaoui, who was appointed Pasha of Marrakech by Sultan Moulay Youssef in 1912. In 2017, part of the palace was transformed into the Musée des Confluences de Marrakech, and the iconic Bacha Coffee reopened its doors within this historic setting.
The café, originally established in 1910, had been closed for 60 years before recently being restored to its former glory. It now serves 100% Arabica coffee in an ambiance that transports you back to the 1920s, evoking the golden age of Morocco and Art Deco. A true dream destination—so stunning, it almost seems too good to be true.
And here’s the catch: Bacha Coffee is located inside the museum. However, don’t worry! You can purchase a single-entry ticket exclusively for the café at just 10 MAD. The real challenge lies in its immense popularity. With limited seating and a high demand, there’s often a waitlist lasting hours. To increase your chances of getting in, I recommend stopping by early in the morning.

Les Tanneries
The tanneries of Marrakech, less known and visited compared to those in Fès, are located beyond the Bab Debbagh gate, known as the "tanners' gate". This area is situated to the east of the medina, near the Yssil River, a symbolic location representing the rising sun and, in turn, the "rebirth" of the animal hides worked in the tanneries. This symbolism granted the tanning corporation great prestige, to the point of being the only one with its own dedicated entrance gate.
The tanneries are deeply linked to the origins of Marrakech, with some saying that the tanners were among the first inhabitants of the city.
Unlike in Fès, where you can observe the tanners' work from the terraces above, in Marrakech the experience is more immersive: you walk right next to the workers, amidst vats and tools, surrounded by the typical pungent smell of the place. To make the visit more bearable, it’s recommended to keep mint leaves on hand.
However, visiting the tanneries in Marrakech might not meet your expectations, especially if you’ve already seen those in Fès. The architectural beauty and uniqueness found in the tanneries of "The Imperial Pearl" are missing here. For us, it was a big "no", as while we acknowledge its historical importance, the place felt less interesting and equally inhumane. READ ALSO: Fes, Morocco's Imperial Pearl
Le Jardin Secret

The Jardin Secret, as the name suggests, is indeed a secret garden that, until recently, was almost an abandoned dumping ground, waiting to see the light of day again. The building that houses the Jardin Secret dates back to the 16th century, during the reign of the Saudi Sultan Moulay ‘Abd-Allah, and was built during one of the city’s most prosperous periods. Unfortunately, after the fall of the Saudi empire, it was destroyed and for more than two centuries, it was rebuilt and sold off in cycles. After the death of the last owner in 1934, it was divided into multiple properties and gradually fell into a state of semi-abandonment.
In one of the rooms of the Jardin Secret, you will find photographs and videos documenting the restoration process, which involved Italian engineers, bringing the garden back to its current splendor and the creation of two distinct gardens: the Exotic Garden and the Islamic Garden, home to 83 different botanical species from around the world.

A special feature of this garden is that it is irrigated by a complex and ancient system of communicating vessels connected to an underground hydraulic network, which the engineers restored without modifying.
After the Jardin Majorelle, this is the other garden in Marrakech that you absolutely must not miss: located in the heart of the medina, it’s a true haven of peace where you can catch your breath from the chaos that fills the alleys of the old city, just outside the garden walls.
The Jardin Secret is a real gem in the heart of Marrakech: the scent of the flowers will allow you to relax under the shade of some exotic trees, perhaps sipping a cup of Moroccan tea, or if you prefer, you can climb the tower to admire the medina from above.
The entrance ticket costs 100 MAD (about €9.50) per person, while access to the tower costs an additional 40 MAD (about €4.70).
Opening hours:
From March to September: 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM
In February and October: 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM
From November to January: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Jardin Majorelle + Musée YVES SAINT LAURENT Marrakech

The Jardin Majorelle is undoubtedly one of the symbols of Marrakech, one of the most visited attractions in the city.
It is a complex of botanical gardens located in the New City of Marrakech, just outside the medina, designed by the French artist Jacques Majorelle in 1931 during the colonial period. Here’s a brief history of this garden, which is also known for its connection to famous personalities.
Majorelle bought a palm grove to build a Moorish-style villa and created the garden around it, inspired by traditional Moroccan gardens. He created a work of art with exotic and rare plants, fountains, and ponds. In 1937, the artist created the color “Majorelle Blue,” an ultramarine blue that he used to paint the walls of his villa and the entire garden, which he opened to the public in 1947.
Majorelle passed away in 1962, and the villa and garden fell into disrepair until Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé purchased and restored them in 1980.
The ashes of Yves Saint Laurent were scattered in the rose garden, and a memorial was erected in his honor in the garden. In 2010, Princess Lalla Salma, wife of the King of Morocco, inaugurated the exhibition Yves Saint Laurent et le Maroc, showcasing the creations of the designer Yves Saint Laurent.

"An oasis where the colors of Matisse blend with those of nature" – this is how Pierre Bergé, Yves Saint Laurent’s partner, described the Jardin Majorelle, and I believe there is no better description.
Despite being very touristy and always crowded, the Jardin Majorelle is one of the must-see attractions in Marrakech. Once you pass through the entrance, it feels like walking inside an open-air work of art where yellow and blue dominate the delightful pathways, neat ponds, and beautiful exotic plants from all corners of the world fill this garden.
It is one of the most memorable gardens in Morocco (and perhaps the world), which is why it is so popular. So, let's see how to optimize this visit in the best possible way!
The ideal time to visit the Jardin Majorelle is early in the morning, to avoid crowds of tourists fighting for the perfect Instagram photo and long ticket lines.
I booked tickets in advance online to avoid the queues I had read so much about during my research. You can buy tickets here on the Jardin Majorelle website and choose your entry time. We opted for the first available slot at 8:00 AM, and I must say it was a perfect choice: there was no line, and although there were people, it wasn't crowded enough to make the visit unpleasant!
You can choose from various types of single or combined tickets depending on what you want to see: the Majorelle Foundation complex consists of the Jardin Majorelle, the Musée YVES SAINT LAURENT Marrakech, and the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts (inside the villa within the garden).
Jardin Majorelle : 170 MAD (16,5€) - children >10 years old and students 95 MAD
Musée YVES SAINT LAURENT Marrakech : 140 MAD (13,5€) - children >10 years old and students 75 MAD
Jardin Majorelle + Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts : 230 MAD (22€) - children >10 years old and students130 MAD
Jardin Majorelle + Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts + Musée YVES SAINT LAURENT Marrakech : 330 MAD (31,5€) - children >10 years old and students 180 MAD

We decided not to visit the YVES SAINT LAURENT Museum Marrakech: before making the decision, I gathered a lot of information and the general impression I got was that the museum is very beautiful architecturally – the building is definitely stunning – and the café inside is also lovely, but the exhibition inside is somewhat boring, and many have said it doesn't justify the price of the ticket. Considering I knew for sure that Enri would hate it, we decided to skip it.
If you still want to give it a try, know that it is open every day except Wednesday, from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM).
The Jardin Majorelle, on the other hand, is open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM).
Marrakech's Souks

The magic of Morocco begins in the labyrinthine souks of the medinas, and Marrakech is no exception: the various souks of Marrakech meet and intertwine, merging into one enormous, indistinct souk that occupies much of the northern part of the medina, extending from Jemaa el-Fna square to the Ben Youssef mosque.
Before diving into the details of the various souks, let's first understand what a souk is!
A souk, or bazaar, refers to the large city market, with the first ones dating back to 3000 B.C., although the definitive organization was established during the Muslim rule, which set construction norms that were followed in every city of the Islamic world.

Souks typically emerge near the main mosque, together with it forming the social heart of the medina. They are generally covered or semi-covered areas divided into zones specialized in the sale of specific types of goods. You can therefore find the souk for leather goods, textiles, gold, shoes, and so on.
Specifically, the souk of Marrakech is made up of 18 souks that have existed for 8 centuries and were originally organized by commercial sectors: leather (Souk el Kebir), hides (Souk Cherratine), slippers (Souk des Babouches or Souk Smata), carpets (Souk des Tapis or Souk Joutia-Zrabi), copper and brass (Souk Seffarine), jewelry (Souk des Bijoutiers or Souk Dhabia), spices (Souk Attarine), musical instruments (Souk Kimakhine), wool (Souk Laghzal), wicker, olives, and candied fruit (Souk Ablouh), pastry shops (Souk Semmarine), clothing (Souk Kassabine), dyers (Souk des Teinturiers or Souk Sebbaghine), saddlers (Souk Serrajine), basket makers and woodturners (Souk Chouari), carpenters (Souk Nejjarine), blacksmiths (Souk el Haddadine), potters (Souk Fekharine), and the flea market (Souk el Khemis).
Souk Haddadine
The Souk el Haddadine is the souk of blacksmiths and is perhaps one of the most iconic souks of Marrakech. Here, to the rhythm of hammer blows, you can purchase beautiful lamps as well as fine tea sets.
There are many stalls and small shops offering all imaginable styles of Moroccan lamps, so much so that Souk el Haddadine is often referred to as the Souk of Lanterns.
Place des Epices
Place des Epices, also known as Rahba Kedima, is the location of the famous Café des Epices. Place des Epices is a small square to the north of Place Jemaa el-Fna, where, until 1912, the market for selling cereals and slaves, mostly from Sub-Saharan Africa, used to take place.
In my opinion, this square hosts one of the most beautiful souks in Marrakech: here you’ll find a myriad of wicker and straw craft stalls selling bags, hats, placemats, baskets... everything!
Compared to the usual souks, this one is quite different: open and airy but as lively and colorful as the others we’ve already visited... unmissable! After a bit of shopping, you can stop to regain your energy by sipping a nice cup of tea on the beautiful terrace of the Café des Epices.
Souk Semmarine
The Souk Semmarine is the iconic market of Marrakech: the most famous and perhaps the largest one, where you can truly find everything: from shoes, clothes, and ceramics, to carpets. It is one of the most touristy areas, just a few steps from Place Jemaa el-Fnaa, but this doesn’t make it any less captivating.
The Souk Semmarine then transforms into two other souks: the Souk Nejjarine and the Souk El-Kebir, although in reality, nearly all the smaller souks branch off from this main artery made up of these three.
What this souk is famous for are the typical Moroccan shoes: you’ll find many babouches, but be careful as some of them may not be made here, but in other countries. Another thing this souk is known for is counterfeit luxury brand products: sneakers, branded bags, t-shirts, and clothes from famous brands, all at very affordable prices. I advise against purchasing them, as customs checks in Italy often target these types of items.
Souk de Teintures or Souk Sabbaghine
The dyers' souk is one of the most characteristic corners of all of Marrakech, thanks to the wool hanging from the stalls. What makes this souk unique is the bright colors with which the wool is dyed: from red to ochre to blue... and the men working tirelessly in front of large cauldrons create unique and unforgettable images. This is by far one of the most beautiful and scenic souks in Marrakech!
Hammam in Marrakech
Here we are at one of my favorite moments of these two days in Marrakech: the moment when I finally tried the much-talked-about Hammam.
When we talk about Morocco, you often hear about hammams, but what exactly is a Moroccan hammam?
A hammam is nothing more than a Turkish bath, but pay attention, it’s not just a place to relax and wash for the Arabs, but a true religious ritual that originates from the custom of purifying oneself before prayer inside the mosques — the ritual of ablution.
The hammam is therefore considered a true daily purification ritual that both men and women undergo.
Specifically, the traditional ritual consists of a "savonage/gommage," which is a treatment that involves washing on the floor with buckets of water and applying a special type of Moroccan black soap (Beldi soap) all over the body, massaging with a rough glove called a kessa. This treatment has many benefits: the temperature and high humidity of the hammam promote sweating and the expulsion of toxins from the body, also benefiting the hydration of the respiratory tract. Additionally, the scrub on the skin promotes cell turnover and leaves the skin soft, smooth, and regenerated.
Sounds beautiful and very inviting, right? You’re probably already dreaming of having this treatment after days of exploring Morocco, right? Well, before you jump into the first Hammam you find, it’s essential to know that there are two types of hammams: public hammams and private spa hammams.
These are two completely different experiences: I’ve heard that private spa hammams don’t offer the real Moroccan bath experience that locals enjoy, but at the same time, those who dared to try public ones have described raw and intense scenes they would never want to repeat again in their lives. But let’s try to clarify:
Public Hammams in Marrakech
These are the ones frequented by locals and are often dark places where men and women are strictly separated. The entry fee is usually a few dirhams (usually 30 MAD), and the hammam ritual is performed in large rooms full of women/men, of course, not so used to seeing a Western woman/man naked among them.
Additionally, the hygienic conditions of public hammams are not always up to the standards that a Westerner might expect.
Let’s just say that what comes out of the stories from friends who tried the experience is a common denominator of dirt, discomfort, and nothing relaxing.
Private Spa Hammams in Marrakech
Private spas, on the other hand, are a recent addition to the Marrakech scene and have been designed for tourists.
They are usually located inside resorts, riads, or luxury establishments, so their cost is significantly higher, and as you can imagine, the experience offered is very different from the one you experience in public hammams among locals.
If you're daring enough to try a public Hammam, based on my research before my trip, I would recommend Hammam Moussine on Rue Sidi el Yamani. It’s one of the oldest hammams in the city (built in 1562!) and is still heated by a wood fire. The cost is 150 MAD per person for a traditional hammam with black soap gommage. Hammam Moussine is recommended in the Lonely Planet Morocco guide and is a historic hammam also frequented by tourists, so it's a good compromise: not a modern spa with all the Western comforts, but also not the neighborhood public bath.
Hammam de la Rose
Honestly, I didn’t want to take any chances, and since I had saved this experience for the last afternoon of my trip, I wanted to play it safe. I was looking for a place where I could relax and pamper myself after 8 days of road trip, and my choice fell on Hammam de la Rose.
I had high expectations, and believe me, they were all more than exceeded: you can ask Enri... I came back to our riad saying that I felt reborn and that I had just come from 3 hours in paradise.
It’s a beauty and spa center not located inside a riad or hotel, and it's just a few steps from Riad Amra, where we were staying, practically across from Palais Dar El Bacha.
The hammam and various treatments can be done individually or in pairs/with friends. I went alone because Enri wasn’t interested in this kind of experience, and me, I chose the Ritual de la Rose.
Whatever hammam you choose to try, it’s always best to book in advance to avoid surprises and ensure you can experience it.
I booked a couple of weeks before departure on the Hammam de la Rose website, choosing from the various treatments available: there are several hammam rituals, massages, beauty treatments, and also combination packages. The one I chose — the Ritual de la Rose or Ceremony of Roses — is a package that includes 45 minutes of full hammam with a rose mask and 50 minutes of relaxing massage for 800 MAD (about 76€).
Upon arrival, I was given a locker key containing a bathrobe, slippers, and an underwear piece, and after changing, I was taken to the hammam room. There, a very kind lady took care of my hammam, lathering me with eucalyptus soap and doing the scrub with the kessa, the rough glove. After that, she gave me a shower, shampoo, and conditioner with caramel-scented products, followed by a rose mask on my body and face. Once everything was rinsed off, she washed me again with a green tea shower gel and then covered my entire body in rose oil.
After the hammam, I was taken to a relaxation room where they offered me mint tea, cookies, and water, and they gave me the kessa glove as a gift.
At this point, I was led to the massage room, where I had a wonderful relaxing massage that relieved all the fatigue of the past days.
I loved everything, from the first to the last minute: there’s a lot of attention to the client and care for details. Plus, even though I was afraid it would be a very awkward experience that would make me uncomfortable, being washed by someone else was not as traumatic as I expected. The lady who took care of me was very gentle and respectful.
In short... I can only recommend Hammam de la Rose if you want to experience a hammam in Marrakech: the value for money is excellent when you consider the cost of just a single massage here in Italy, and the treatments are truly of high quality.
I highly recommend it both as a solo experience and with a partner or friends: this is definitely something I will do again with my friends on my next Girls Trip to Marrakech!

Balloon Ride over the North of Marrakech
If there's one experience I truly regret not being able to do during these two days in Marrakech, it's the hot air balloon ride! Unfortunately, the activity lasts half a day, and with only a couple of days in the city, it was pretty complicated, but it’s definitely something I’ll do as soon as I return to Marrakech!
Since it was something I really wanted to do, I did a lot of research and based on my findings, after consulting various websites and agencies, I feel confident in recommending the Civitatis tour.
The hot air balloon ride starts with a transfer to Jebilet, about an hour away from Marrakech, through beautiful desert landscapes: the transfer is included in the price, and you’ll be picked up directly from your hotel in Marrakech by a 4x4 vehicle.
Once at the destination, a light breakfast is offered, including coffee, tea, juice, and croissants. Then, ready for takeoff, it will be time to board the hot air balloon and fly through the Moroccan sky for a one-hour ride, spotting Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains.
After landing, enjoy some Moroccan tea and head toward a typical Berber tent to taste an aperitif made with fresh, local products before returning to Marrakech.
This hot air balloon ride in northern Marrakech lasts about 5 hours and includes:
English-speaking guide
Pick up and drop off at your hotel
Transport by Toyota 4X4 vehicle
1-hour hot air balloon flight
Tea, breakfast, and aperitif with local products
The price is 189€ per adult and 126€ for children under 10 years old: this is an excellent price for the services offered compared to other options I found.
You can book up to 18 hours before, subject to availability, and cancel for free up to 48 hours before the ride. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and book it!
Where to eat in Marrakech
Marrakech offers an overwhelming variety of culinary experiences: from street food in Place Jemaa el-Fna to the charming little restaurants tucked inside riads or on stunning terraces, like NOMAD, where we celebrated our last dinner in Morocco.
In this post, I won't go into too much detail about the wonderful family atmosphere and the entirely vegetarian menu at La Famille, or the breathtaking location of Le Jardin. Even the incredible sweets from Cornes de Gazzelle - Chez Brahim, a fantastic patisserie in the heart of the Medina, will have to wait, as we'll talk about all of this in a separate post dedicated to discovering all the must-try dishes on a trip to Morocco.
So, I won’t elaborate any further and will just list the places we tried that, in my opinion, are unmissable for a weekend in Marrakech:
Le Jardin
Cafe des Epices
Bacha Coffee
Cornes de Gazzelle chez Brahim
La Famille
NOMAD
Atay Cafè
El Fenn
Street food in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Marrakech travel guide
As you probably know by now, I never leave for a destination without my trusted Lonely Planet in my backpack. For your trip to Marrakech, the Lonely Planet Pocket Marrakech is absolutely essential. It’s a more compact version and it's lighter and more manageable compared to the classic Lonely Planet guides. It contains everything you need to explore this fascinating city in the best way possible.
Here we are at the end of these two days of exploration in Marrakech, the last stop of our road trip through Morocco.
Don't miss all the detailed posts about the previous stages of our journey:
part 1 - days ① and ② : Discovering Casablanca, Rabat and Meknes
part 2 - days ② and ③ : Chefchaouen, Morocco's Blue Pearl and Akchour Waterfalls
part 3 - days ③ and ④ : Fes, Morocco's Imperial Pearl - Morocco on the road
part 4 - day ⑤ : The Dunes of Erg Chebbi, Merzouga Desert
part 5 - day ⑥ : The route of the Thousand Kasbahs and Ait-Ben-Haddou
For an overview of the entire itinerary, READ MORE: Perfect Morocco itinerary for a 8-days-car trip
If you’re planning your trip to Morocco, make sure not to miss the article with all the tips and tricks for organizing a perfect road trip in this beautiful country. You’ll find information about flights, accommodations, car rentals, parking, fuel, and many other useful tips. READ ALSO: How to plan a road trip in Morocco in a few simple steps

Did you just book a trip to Morocco but don't know where to start planning your time there? Then, let me present to you my digital map of the country which includes: Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Chefchaouen, Fez, Merzouga, the Street of a Thousand Kasbahs and Marrakech.
Thanks to this map you will be able to build your entire road trip in Morocco.
This is a private map on Google Maps on which you will find:
more than 100 places t