Marrakech in 48 hours
Marrakech is a sensory city: the storytellers and smoke of Jemaa el-Fnaa, the maze of the souks, quiet riad courtyards and gardens of palms and orange trees, with the snow-capped Atlas on the horizon.
Best time to visit. March to May and October to November. Summer often passes 40°C.
Where to base yourself
- The Medina. The walled old city, its souks, palaces and riads.
- Kasbah. Near the Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace.
- Hivernage. Modern district of hotels and restaurants near the medina walls.
- Gueliz. The French-era new town, with galleries and cafés.
- The Palmeraie. Palm groves on the edge of town, for resort stays.
Two perfect days
Day one · The medina
- Morning
- Souks in the cool of the morning
- Afternoon
- Ben Youssef Madrasa and Bahia Palace
- Evening
- Sunset over Jemaa el-Fnaa
Day two · Gardens
- Morning
- Jardin Majorelle and the YSL Museum
- Afternoon
- Lunch in Gueliz
- Evening
- Hammam, then dinner in a riad
Getting around
Walk in the medina, where cars can't go. Petit taxis are cheap; agree a price or insist on the meter. The airport is about 15 minutes away.
Local tips
- Bargaining is expected in the souks
- A polite 'no, thank you' deters unofficial guides
- Dress modestly in the medina
- Most mosques are closed to non-Muslims