A Magical Marrakech 2 Day Itinerary (2024)

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Bright gold lanterns illuminate ancient medina walls. The fragrant aroma of fresh mint tea wafts through the alleyways. All around you, the lively atmosphere of the Red City ebbs and flows. Welcome to Morocco! You’ve got 2 days to explore the magical oasis of Marrakech.

There’s a lot to do and see here which is why I’ve put together this 2 day Marrakech Itinerary. This guide will make planning your visit easier than you ever thought possible!

Your two day itinerary will take you through markets overflowing with spices, rooftop restaurants with breathtaking, and beautiful mosques lit up against the fading light of day. Ready? Let’s get started!

Gold lamps at the Marrakech souks

What you’ll see in this itinerary…
  • Koutoubia Mosque
  • Jewish Quarter
  • Bab Agnaou
  • Bahia Palace
  • Ben Youssef Madrasa
  • Medina & Souks
  • Jemaa El-Fna Square
  • El Badi Palace
  • Saadian Tombs
  • Jardin Majorelle
  • Yves Saint Laurent Museum
  • Berber Museum

Itinerary: Sights & Activities Overview
Day 1

Morning: Riad Breakfast & Walking Tour
Afternoon: Rooftop Lunch & Souk Shopping
Evening: Marrakech Food Tour

Day 2

Morning: Riad Breakfast & Ancient Wonders
Afternoon: Jardin Majorelle & Lunch
Evening: Camel Trek or Hammam Experience


IMPORTANT INFORMATION
  • In accordance with Islamic tradition, tourists are not allowed inside mosques.
  • Female travelers who want to minimize unwanted attention should dress modestly.
  • The Islamic call to prayer is broadcast over outdoor speakers 5 times a day.

When to Visit Marrakech

Morocco is a great destination year-round. The only time I would be wary of is summertime when the heat is sweltering. If you’re here for the beaches, this could be a good thing. Shoulder season weather is absolutely perfect, and wintertime is quite warm and mild as well. I visited in mid-January and found the daytime to be quite warm despite cold mornings and evenings. Morocco is a dry country so the wet season of November-April sees only 1-2 inches of rain per month.

  • Best Time to Visit: Shoulder seasons (March-May & September-November)
  • Ramadan occurs from late-March to late-April but most businesses will still be open.

Brief History of Marrakech

Marrakech, which has earned the nicknames of both the pearl of the South and the red town (due to the red Kasbah walls surrounding the medina) was founded in 1062. Before this time, the Berber tribes lived throughout Morocco and Northern Africa. Today, the majority of Moroccans are of either Berber or Arab descent.

Once settled, Morocco became the capital of the Almoravid Empire that stretched from Northern Africa (Mahgreb) to Europe. Marrakech became an important Islamic city with much commercial power and wealth. Over the following centuries, the city changed hands as empires fell and others took over.

Saadians took over in the 1500s, restoring the city to its former glory before it fell to ruin once more. In the early 20th century, when the French held Morocco as a protectorate, they established the Guéliz district which is now the city’s commercial center. When Morocco gained independence from France in the 1950s, Rabbat became the new capital. Today, Marrakech remains an important city where its Islamic roots mix with European influence.

Marrakech Travel Tips

From navigating the bustling souks to savoring the local cuisine, these tips will help you be prepared for anything on your trip to Marrakech!

  • Take breaks: Pace yourself while exploring Marrakech. Find respite at hotel rooftops or beautiful gardens to relax and recharge alongside other travelers.
  • Carry toilet paper with you: Especially in more traditional or remote areas, public restrooms may not provide any. (Often, there will be ladies selling some outside.)
  • Always carry cash and small coins: Credit cards may not be widely accepted in markets, souks, and smaller shops. Having small coins is useful for tipping since some locals will tell you they have no change, whether or not it’s true.
  • Exercise caution: when approached by local men or young boys offering help and directions. They will usually expect money in return. Politely decline if you’re not interested.
  • Be careful at night: Stick to well-lit and populated areas. Use official taxis or transportation arranged through your accommodation for added security.
  • Stay alert: Avoid prolonged phone or map usage in public to minimize the risk of pickpocketing.
  • Respect cultural sensitivities: When taking photos, especially of military or government personnel and buildings, always ask for permission first.
Moroccan spices in the old Medina

Marrakech Transportation

There are a number of ways to get around Marrakech. The Medina is highly walkable, but let’s be honest. If you’re anything like me, you’re going to get lost.

You should be able to use your phone to navigate about 85% of the time, but have a backup plan just in case.

Marrakech also has a regulated taxi system that was confusing to figure out. Let’s take a look at how this system works.

How to get from Marrakech Airport to City Center

The best way to get from Marrakech airport to Medina is to book transportation with your Riad or hotel. Prices are fair and all tourist transportation has regulated rates meaning it costs the same no matter where you stay.

Airport Taxi: For transportation between the Marrakech Menara Airport and various city destinations, larger Airport Taxis are available.

Airport Taxi Rates: In Morroco, taxi prices are determined by a fixed rate depending on your destination and taxi size. These rates will be posted outside the airport.

Old Medina in Morocco

The Marrakech Taxi System

There are two types of taxis in Marrakech, and each has its own way of calculating rates. Note that taxis may pick up other passengers while you’re in the car. You pay by seat rather than trip.

Petit Taxi
  • Petit Taxis are small, red taxis for short-distance travel.
  • 3 passengers max
  • Equipped with meters, fares are calculated based on the distance traveled.
  • They are not permitted to leave the city limits.
Grand Taxi
  • Grand Taxis are beige or white and suitable for longer distances or shared rides.
  • 6 passengers max
  • Fares for grand taxis are negotiated in advance.
  • They operate within the city and beyond it.

Transportation Tip: In high-traffic tourist areas, you may be approached and asked if you need a taxi. Sometimes, groups of drivers will converse in Arabic before one of them beckons you to his car. This habit concerned me until I learned the reason behind it.

Marrakech taxi fares are regulated and there is typically a taxi leader who will tell you the correct rate and help you find a driver.

Negotiating Taxi Prices: In less crowded areas, you’ll have to negotiate Grand Taxi rates on your own. Do this before you get in the car.

Common Taxi Scams: It’s worth noting that some Petit Taxi drivers might claim their meter is malfunctioning so you may want to ensure it’s on or negotiate a fare before departing.

Room in Riad Be Marrakech

Where to Stay in Marrakech

When you visit Marrakech, you have to stay in a riad! These traditional Moroccan houses turned boutique accommodations provide a peaceful oasis with their serene courtyards, and incredibly welcoming staff.

Plus, have you seen these things? They are beautiful. Jaw-dropping. Indescribable. Marrakech riads are a slice of interior design heaven.

I stayed at Riad BE Marrakech which I highly recommend thanks to the warm hospitality, yummy food and rooftop paradise. They have two connected buildings: The Oasis and The Essence, both of which are equally stunning! There’s also a private riad, The Douiria.

Wait until you see it… not only is this place stunning. It’s actually pretty affordable! You’ll want to book well in advance.

  • Average Price: $150+ per night
  • Amenities: Yoga Studio, Complementary Breakfast, Hammam, Tours
  • Location: Northwest Medina, 20 min walk to Jemaa El-Fnaa

More Places to Stay in Marrakech

Riad Yasmine (Avg. $175 per night)

If you’ve seen only one riad while scrolling through Insta, it’s probably this one. Le Riad Yasmine is a stunning green-hued escape with the perfect emerald dip pool and a rooftop you’ll never want to leave.

Beautiful space in Marrakech hotel

El Fenn Hotel (Rooms start at $300 per night)

This luxury hotel is equipped with 3 pools, a rooftop restaurant with bar, and its own hammam. Impeccably decorated with an explosion of colors, this is the perfect place to stay if you’re coming to Marrakech on a girl’s trip.

Riad Jardin Secret (Avg. $175 per night)

This riad in the heart of the medina is truly magical. Featured in dozens of design magazines, you’ll swoon over the pink rooftop where only guests can dine for breakfast. 

Entrance of the Royal Mansour

Royal Mansour (Avg. $500+ per night)

Royal Mansour is the perfect escape. With dreamlike gardens, award-winning interiors and excellent customer service, this is somewhere you’ll never want to leave. This 5-star resort is owned by the King of Morocco himself so you know this is the best of the best!

La Mamounia (Avg. $500+ per night)

Yes, this is the La Mamounia. If you’ve seen Netflix’s Inventing Anna, this is the very place our antiheroine demands to stay after seeing the Kardashians crash here. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that La Mamounia is a serious splurge. With jaw-dropping interiors, a large pool, a number of delicious restaurants, and a spa pool that Instagram dreams are made of, a stay at North Africa’s Best Hotel is the place to go if you’re ready to treat yourself.

solo traveler at a marrakech riad

What to Wear in Marrakech

The typical dress in Morocco is pretty different from Western cultures. Although Islam significantly influences the way many Moroccans dress, you’ll notice that it varies between cities. Even different neighborhoods within each town can their interpretations of conservative dress. My recommendation is to wear what makes you feel comfortable. Nonetheless, expect to receive attention if you don’t cover yourself up, at least a little.

For all my ladies out there, you might want to dress a bit more conservatively and consider covering yourself with long sleeves. As a woman and outsider to the country, you’ll undoubtedly get enough attention. I didn’t want to give men any more of a reason to target me so I was always pretty covered up. (Although I don’t believe it’s a woman’s responsibility to mitigate a man’s behavior, I prioritized my comfort level.) To play it safe, consider maxi dresses or longer skirts. Be prepared with a silk scarf, in case you want to convert a tank dress, or to cover your shoulders. They can also help keep you cool!

How to Prepare for a Trip to Marrakech

Before your 2 day trip to Marrakech, do as much research as possible on Morrocan customs and culture, especially if you’re visiting a Muslim country for the first time.

For this itinerary, you’ll want to book tours and restaurant reservations in advance. Everything except the visit to El Badi Palace and Saadian Tombs where you can get tickets at the entrance.

Here’s a checklist to complete as your trip gets closer.

3-12 months
  • Book your flight
  • Check your passport
  • Look into visa (n/a for Americans)
1-3 months
  • Book your accommodation
  • Book tours
  • Request currency exchange from bank
1 month
  • Enroll in STEP
  • Make restaurant reservations
  • Book transport
Marrakech gardens in the afternoon

2 Day Marrakech Itinerary

Let’s dive in to your exciting Marrakech 2 day itinerary!

Preparation Tip: When you arrive, your Riad will likely offer you mint tea and a map they’ll go over with you. Even though you may be tired, take advantage of this time. Save notes on your phone with the information below. It will come in handy, trust me!

  • Exact directions to your Riad
  • The best taxi pick-up and drop-off locations near you
  • Average taxi fair for spots you know you’ll want a ride to
  • Phone number and WhatsApp information in case you get lost
  • Try to make any reservations you haven’t gotten to
  • Book transport to the airport or your next destination
Early breakfast in Marrakech

Day 1: Moroccan Cuisine & the Marrakech Medina

Riad Breakfast | Rooftop Lunch | Souk Shopping | Food Tour | Jemaa El-Fna Square

On the first day of your Marrakech itinerary, get ready to delve into the labyrinthine streets of the Medina, marvel at the intricate tilework of the Bahia Palace, and lose yourself in the vibrant chaos of Jemaa el-Fna square at night.

MORNING: Breakfast & Walking Tour

Rise and shine! Grab an early breakfast before heading to the meeting point for an introductory tour to Marrakech.

Early Breakfast at Your Riad: You’ll need to be up early for your walking tour so start the day with breakfast at your Riad. Many offer a full Moroccan breakfast served on their lovely rooftop. A truly epic beginning to your 2 day trip.

TIP: Budget time accordingly, because breakfast isn’t something they rush through here and you won’t see a buffet in Morocco.

Morning Walking Tour: Start your first day in the red city with a walking tour by a local licensed guide. This is the perfect way to learn about both Moroccan history and modern-day political landscape while you get the lay of the land in the Medina.

You’ll also discover the architectural marvel of the Koutoubia Mosque, learn about the Jewish Quarter, pass through the Bab Agnaou gate, and explore the exquisite Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef Madrasa.

Book your walking tour now!

Bahia Palace courtyard
Bahia Palace

This stunning 19th-century palace is a must-see when you’re in Marrakech. I could spend hours admiring its stunning stuccos, intricate mosaics and mix of colors. Seriously, the detail here is incredible and exactly what you come to Morocco to see. Instagrammers and photographers, have your cameras ready! Entrance fee: 70 dirham

Ben Youssef Madrasa courtyard
Ben Youssef Madrasa

Another stunning example of Marrakech’s architecture, Ben Youssef Madrassa was actually the largest Islamic college before it became a historical site. Recently renovated and reopened, this building is more exquisite than ever. Don’t skip this stop. Entrance fee: 70 dirham

Beef with Prunes from Nomad Cafe in Marrakech
Beef with prunes
Moroccan mint tea for lunch
Moroccan mint tea

AFTERNOON: Rooftop Cafe & Souk Shopping

Conveniently transition to lunch since your tour guide will point out Nomad Cafe and the tour itself will end near the rooftop restaurant.  

Rooftop Lunch at Nomad: Nomad is one of the hippest spots in Marrakech. Enjoy the incredible panoramic views of the city’s bustling streets. For a taste of traditional Moroccan cuisine try one of the savory tagines or opt for a touch of sweetness with a flaky chicken pastilla.

If you slept through it in the morning, get ready to hear your first official call to prayer. It can be a little startling at first, but you’ll get used to it quickly since it happens 5 times a day.

Alternative option: Just across the street is the equally popular Cafe des Epices. They’re owned by the same family and their menus are quite similar, but you’ll find more familiar options like cheeseburgers.

Solo Female Traveler enjoying Marrakech

Shop the Souks & Explore the Medina: After you finish lunch, you’re in the perfect place to do a little solo exploration in the Medina. (And yes, I’m talking about shopping!)

Just around the corner is Souk Semmarine, a vibrant marketplace where you can try your hand at haggling for a deal on a  range of artifacts, including clothing, spices, leather goods, ceramics, and traditional Moroccan handicrafts.

TIP: Head to Herboriste Avicenne in the Rahba Kedima Square next to Nomad for a photo opp and to grab some spices for home. When I visited, the shopkeeper was kind enough to give me a walkthrough of all the different spices and some of their homeopathic remedies.

Cocktail at a Marrakech hotel rooftop bar
El Fenn's rooftop view of the Koutoubia tower

Afterward, you may want to rest. If you don’t want to head back to your Riad, the El Fenn Hotel has a great rooftop with cocktails and an amazing view of the Koutoubia mosque tower. Otherwise, head back and relax at Riad with some mint tea. 

EVENING: Food Tour & Jemaa El-Fna Square

After your respite, get ready to dive head-first into an adventurous evening of culinary and cultural exploration.

Moroccan tangia
I never would’ve gotten to try tangia without this tour!

Evening Street Food Tour: Head to the main square where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. This incredible food tour is the best way to try authentic Moroccan food from local food stalls and street vendors. You’ll get to taste everything from cheesy briouates and Moroccan donuts (life-changing, btw) to steamed sheep’s head and snail soup.

Don’t be scared off by the adventurous options! You’ll have more (like, way more) than enough opportunity to get your fill with couscous, savory tangia, and Moroccan sweets. Just make sure you come hungry, because full does not begin to describe how I felt by the end of this tour.

PS: This street food tour was even featured on Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil so you know it’s going to be epic!

Book your food tour now!

Jemma El Fnaa Square at night

Check out Jemaa El-Fna Square: By the end of your food tour, you’ll notice the Medina has gotten crowded. Head to the main square to see how its transformed into an energetic evening carnival. 

While it’s a popular tourist attraction, this experience felt more authentic than I expected! The main square and Medina was filled with locals who’d come to eat and shop.

TIP: This is where you’ll see snake charmers, dancing men, monkeys, men with dancing monkeys. While fascinating, I chose not to give any attention or money since these animals are often mistreated.

When you’re ready to go, head past the post office and towards the Jemaa El Fnaa bus stop where you can grab a taxi.

The ruins of El Badi Palace
The ruins of El Badi Palace

Day 2: Ancient Palaces & Chic Garden Oasis

Gear up for another day of incredible sightseeing in Marrakech! Today, you’ll explore some of the city’s oldest historical sights before a luxurious afternoon at the Majorelle Gardens.

MORNING: Sultan Dynasty Sightseeing

Take the morning at your own pace with breakfast at your Riad or grab some msemen (Moroccan pancake) as you make your way to today’s attractions.

Explore the interesting history and architectural splendor of two 16th-century sites from the Saadian Dynasty’s reign. Both built by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur. these structures were a symbol of his wealth and power.

El Badi Palace: Weave through the ruins of El Badi Palace, once the largest and most extravagant palace complex in Morocco. Today, storks have made the clay walls surrounding the complex their home, becoming the new symbol of El Badi.

Saadian Tombs: Venture through this extraordinary historical site home to tombs of Saadian rulers. Rediscovered in 1917, these beautifully adorned tombs are incredible to see with intricate tilework and stunning mausoleums.

Solo female traveler wearing long sleeves and scarf in Morocco
Servers at Cafe Majorelle are also photographers.
Moroccan tagine from Restaurant Majorelle
The best tagine I had while in Marrakech!

AFTERNOON: Lunch & Jardin Majorelle

When you’re done admiring the architectural marvels, grab a taxi and head to the Majorelle Gardens where you can explore a few different sites in the area. (Reminder to book your tickets to the garden ahead of time.)

Majorelle Gardens: Grab your camera and explore the famous oasis designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. The gardens feature a diverse collection of exotic plants, tranquil pathways, and the iconic cobalt blue villa, creating a captivating haven that enchants visitors with its tranquil ambiance.

Lunch at Cafe Majorelle: I was pleasantly surprised by this chic cafe. Even though it’s definitely on the pricier side, their zesty chicken tagine with potatoes, lemon preserves and olives was one of the best meals I had in Marrakech!

Berber Museum: The small Berber Museum, situated in the Majorelle Gardens, celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Berber people of Morocco. Its remarkable collection of traditional artifacts, textiles, jewelry, and art is definitely worth checking out.

Yves Saint Laurent Museum: This museum pays homage to the iconic fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, offering a glimpse into his creative process and enduring influence on the fashion world.

Camel ride in Agafay Desert

EVENING: Rooftop Dinner, Camel Ride or Hammam

It’s your last evening Marrakech already. Can you believe it? Tonight, take your pick of a camel trek, relaxing spa experience or simply head back to the Medina for more shopping and dining.

Camel Ride Excursion: Embark on a memorable sunset camel ride among swaying desert palm trees in the Palmeraie Oasis. Book your tour now. (Includes pick-up!)

You can also combine your Garden Majorelle visit and camel ride with this guided tour that takes you to both locations!

Rooftop Dinner: Indulge in a romantic rooftop dinner at Dar Dar, where you can savor delectable Moroccan cuisine under the starry sky, while enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s captivating skyline.

Rejuvenate at a Moroccan Hammam: Rejuvenate your body and mind with a revitalizing Moroccan hammam experience, where you can indulge in traditional spa rituals, including steam baths, exfoliation treatments, and soothing massages, leaving you feeling refreshed, relaxed, and renewed. Book now!

Marrakech Day Trips

If you find yourself with extra time after exploring Marrakech for two days, consider adding a captivating day trip to your itinerary. From exploring the Atlas Mountains to visiting coastal gems like Essaouira or venturing into the desert, these day trips offer a wonderful opportunity to discover more of Morocco’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.

If you want to see the Sahara Desert, you’ll need at least 2-3 days for the full desert trip, but if a day is all you’ve got, the Agafay Desert should do the trick.

Atlas Mountains
Atlas Mountains

Visit authentic Berber villages nestled among the High Atlas Mountain, interact with the welcoming locals, and gain insights into their traditional way of life through cultural encounters, handicraft demonstrations, and enjoying authentic Berber cuisine.

Recommended Tour: Berber Villages Tour

Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou
Ait Benhaddou

Explore the fascinating and well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ait Beh Haddou Kasbah. Visit the ancient mud-brick buildings and take in once-in-a-lifetime panoramic views of the awe-inspiring historical site.

Recommended Tour: Ourzazate & Ait Benhaddou Day Trip

Seaside coast of Morocco
Essaouira

Try a full-day tour to Essaouira, a charming coastal town known for its fishing port and relaxed old medina. Many tours include a stop at an argan oil co-op, where you can learn about the traditional production process and sample various products.

Recommended Tour: Food & Walking Tour

Agafay Desert hotel
Agafay Desert

Embark on a mesmerizing day trip to the nearby Agafay Desert to get a feel for the tranquility of the Moroccan desert. Enjoy a camel ride, quad biking, or an overnight stay at a desert camp, where you can relax beneath the clear, star-studded sky.

Recommended Tour: Sunset Dinner Tour

Wandering the Medina

More Things to Do in Marrakech

If you decide to stay a little longer, there’s plenty more to do in Marrakech! Here are some suggestions to help fill any extra free time.

Koutoubia Gardens (Lalla Hassna Park)

The Koutoubia Mosque stands tall at 77 meters and is the most visited monument in Marrakech. Get an amazing perspective of the mosque from the magnificent Koutoubia Gardens, also referred to as Lalla Hassna Park.

Situated next to Jemaa el-Fna in Medina, this park is an oasis of greenery and tranquility shrouded in mystery. The park features an immaculately maintained rose garden, symmetrically designed walkways, and plenty of benches to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds.

The center of the park features a white-domed Koubba, which houses the tomb of Lalla Zohra, a daughter of a slave. Legend has it that Lalla transformed into a dove at night to escape from her old master and explore Marrakech. Her story and tomb remain a source of fascination to many locals and are believed to hold secrets.

You can visit the Koutoubia Gardens free of charge at any time to witness the enchanting transformation of the mosque and gardens illuminated by the sunlight.

PS: Did you know that the Spanish region of Andalusia is filled with some of the same Moorish architecture you’ll find in Morocco?

You have to know where to look, but if you’re interested in exploring the connection between these two regions, I highly recommend Seville solo travel where you can see La Giralda, the twin of Marrakech’s Koutoubia Tower!

Pile of clay tagines

Moroccan Cooking Class

Experience a slice of Moroccan heritage and immerse yourself in the local food culture with Khmisa and Kawtar, two passionate local chefs. These expert Moroccan women will welcome you to their family restaurant in the heart of the Medina of Marrakech.

Learn from chefs with culinary experience in Morocco’s most renowned hotels, and specialize in Moroccan cuisine. They’re enthusiastic about teaching visitors about Moroccan food culture and will teach you all sorts of tips and tricks during your cooking class.

You’ll start by visiting the local Souk market to purchase fresh, local produce.

Then you’ll return to the restaurant and be welcomed with traditional mint tea before the cooking commences. Together, you’ll prepare a few starters, a main course, and a dessert. Afterward, sit down together for a shared meal and enjoy everything you’ve just made!

Hiking in the High Atlas Mountains

Get adventurous on a 2-3 hour hike through the Atlas Mountains where you’ll discover Berber villages and even go on a camel ride!

Journey through the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains on foot and enjoy picturesque trails with incredible views of surrounding Berber settlements.

Trek through Ait Mizan, Targa, and Imoula, and admire the stunning views of ancient irrigation terraces for barley, corn, and vegetables, as well as cherry orchards and walnut trees in Tamatert. Then, rest and recharge with a traditional lunch in a welcoming Berber home in Ait Souka where you’ll be treated to mint tea and other traditional Moroccan staples before returning to Marrakech.

Steaming plate of Moroccan couscous
Steaming dish of Seven Vegetable Couscous

What to Eat in Marrakech

Discovering the best of Marrakech in 2 days involves eating tons of amazing Moroccan food! Take a look at the suggestions below to get familiar with some of the most delicious dishes you’ll want to order.

  • Couscous: A delicious grain served with diverse meat and vegetable combinations. This is nothing like Western grocery store couscous! Moroccans prepare couscous with TLC, and the outcome is heavenly, with warm and fluffy grains that soak up the delicious broth. On Fridays, the Muslim holy day, families traditionally prepare couscous, but you can find it in most restaurants throughout the week. Try the popular Seven Vegetable Couscous made with a mix of pumpkin, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, turnips, cabbage, and onion.
  • Tagine: Both the name of a flavorful dish and the clay pot used to make it. You can try various types of tagines prepared with any combination of meat, vegetables, and sometimes dried fruit, slow-cooked, and spiced perfectly. Beef with prunes is a cherished option, but chicken with lemon preserves is my favorite tagine.
  • Pastilla: For a sweet yet savory combination, pastilla is the go-to dish. The flaky pie was traditionally prepared with pigeon meat, but don’t panic: chicken pastillas is more common these days.
  • Mesmen: A squared, soft Moroccan bread resembling a crepe and made with semolina dough and butter. You can eat it with soft cheese, jam, or olive oil.
  • Fruit Juice: You must try the fresh fruit juice, a delightful and refreshing drink. My favorite combo was avocado and mint!
Food Safety in Marrakech

It’s pretty common to get food poisoning while visiting Morocco, or any foreign country for that matter. Contaminated or unfamiliar food and water can hit your stomach hard.

I managed to avoid getting sick while I was there, but I’ve heard plenty of stories from travelers who weren’t so lucky.

If you’ve got a sensitive stomach, stay away from drinking tap water and eating raw foods or street food. Be sure to pack a first aid kit, just in case.

Travel insurance with a provider like World Nomads can definitely help you relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about any medical bills.

Inner courtyard of Riad Be Marrakech

Marrakech FAQs

Is 2 days in Marrakech enough?

Two days in Marrakech can give you a taste of the city’s highlights, allowing you to explore the main attractions and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the medina. Any more than that and your experience may be compromised from the stress of the Medina.

What makes Marrakech worth visiting?

Marrakech is worth visiting for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere. It offers a unique blend of traditional Moroccan charm, bustling markets, exquisite gardens, and a warm hospitality that immerses visitors in an enchanting and memorable experience.

Do they speak English in Marrakech?

While English is not as widely spoken as Arabic or French in Marrakech, you can still find many people, especially in tourist areas can communicate effectively. Those at restaurants and hotels will know plenty of English.

Do you tip in Morocco?

Yes, tipping is expected in Morroco. Most acceptable tips range from 5 dirhams ($0.50) to 100 dirhams ($10) depending on the service. You should always tip in cash, and will want to have exact change.

QUICK MOROCCAN TIPPING GUIDE
  • Coffee: 2 dirham
  • Casual Meal: 5 dirham
  • Nice Meal: 10 dirham
  • Hotel Porters: 5-20 dirham
  • Gas Attendants: 4 dirham
  • Valet: 4 dirham
  • Public Toilet Attendants: 2 dirham
  • Hotel Staff, Tour Guides & Parking Attendants: Your discretion
2 Days in Marrakech Pin
Marrakech 2 Day Itinerary Pin

Sydney

Sydney is a solo travel expert who’s extensively explored Spain, Portugal, Morocco, California, and more! She creates travel guides and itineraries to share everything she's learned about the Iberian peninsula through personal experience and exploration.

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