Visit Marrakech: unique and unmissable places, an immersion in Moroccan culture

To discover the culture and history of Morocco, start by visiting the museums of Marrakech.

Marrakech hosts several museums, enchanting spaces that showcase the artistic and artisanal feats of Morocco, unveiling treasures deeply rooted in the country's history. Here are some of these cultural gems, delving into the heart of Moorish heritage.

The Grand Museum of Marrakech, a former palace from the late 19th century, has been transformed into a museum by Moroccan patron Omar Benjelloun. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this museum features various contemporary art exhibitions, providing a captivating journey into the region's rich artistic past.

The Dar si Saïd Museum, the city's oldest, invites you to explore the beauty of Moroccan craftsmanship. From woodwork to pottery, ceramics to jewelry, weapons to musical instruments, it holds the largest collection of works among all museums in Marrakech, offering a true odyssey through the country's artisanal history.

The Photography Museum, established in 2009 in the heart of the medina in a former foundouk, showcases an impressive collection of photographs from 1870 to 1950. Its goal is to highlight Morocco's diversity by immersing visitors in the lives of Moroccans in the 20th century.

The Marrakech Ecomuseum, formerly known as Casbah, is a living museum located in the heart of the Ourika Valley. It highlights the skills of the Moroccan population and contributes to the development of the neighboring village, providing an authentic immersion into Berber culture.

Finally, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum in Marrakech, the second of its kind after Paris, is a tailor-made haven for fashion enthusiasts and all others. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to access the Majorelle Garden adjacent to the museum, completing the cultural experience with a vibrant touch.

A witness of the Moorish period, the Ben Youssef Madrasa is a Koranic school with a stunning architecture not to be missed. More recently, the Bahia Palace is a must in Marrakech, a true masterpiece of Moroccan architecture; it is one of the emblematic monuments of the country's cultural heritage, just like Bab Agnaou, one of Marrakech's 19 gates. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Medina, a veritable labyrinth with its narrow streets and dead ends, is the historic heart of the city. A very touristy place, but definitely not to be missed.

Jemaa el-Fna Square is the most famous of the city, very popular for its traditional and popular aspect where you can see snake charmers and fully immerse yourself in the city's atmosphere.

Marrakech, breathtaking gardens and landscapes

Marrakech is also an immersion in a wild nature that will delight hiking enthusiasts and those who love extraordinary landscapes. You'll be able to see gardens such as the Menara Gardens, the Majorelle Garden or the Palm grove of Marrakech, which has more than 100,000 trees on more than 15,000 hectares. It is possible to visit the Palm grove on camels or quad bikes for an extra exotic touch.

Just a few hours from Marrakech, the Ourika Valley in the High Atlas offers a breathtaking scenery and a real excursion on a rocky path with its bridges over rivers flowing on the slopes of the mountains.

Another place in the heart of nature 150 kilometres from Marrakech: The Ouzoud Falls are considered as the most beautiful and highest waterfalls in the country. In addition to the sight they offer, this is an ideal place to swim, picnic and spot monkeys.

Our tips and advice on how to spend a dream holiday in Marrakech

To come to Marrakech, there are several options available for you. Flying is the fastest way and in the off-season you can find very interesting prices. From the airport it is possible to take taxi to get to the city center, as usual, ask for the price before taking the cab. To stay in Marrakech there are of course many hotels but also riads, traditional houses turned into travellers' accommodation. These hostels allow you to discover the city from the inside. Another alternative are the guest houses in which you can soak up the city's culture.

To discover the traditional cuisine of Marrakech, it is best to visit the souks to discover the spices and traditional ingredients. To taste the country's culinary specialities, go to traditional restaurants or riads, without forgetting the place of Jemaa el-Fna which is an open-air restaurant.

Trip to Marrakech: avoiding tourist traps

As in most touristic destinations, it is advisable to be vigilant, especially in busy places. In general, always ask for the price before a service or purchase. In Jemaa el-Fnaa, always ask the price when you are offered pictures. Also, always ask for the fare before taking a taxi to avoid unpleasant surprises. Scams involving handmade Berber carpets are also quite common because most of the time the carpets sold are not authentic and are very expensive.