Marrakech, Morocco-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) and take a taxi or shuttle bus to your hotel.
  • 10:00 AM: Check-in at Hotel Maison MK, a charming riad in the heart of the medina.
  • 11:30 AM: Visit the Bahia Palace, a stunning 19th-century palace built for the sultan’s brother. Take your time to explore its beautiful gardens and intricate tile work.
  • 1:00 PM: Head to Le Comptoir d’Argan, a cozy café for lunch. Try their delicious tagines and salads.
  • 2:30 PM: Explore the nearby souks (markets) and get lost in the narrow alleys of the medina. Be sure to haggle over prices when shopping!
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Le Tannat, a French-Moroccan restaurant with excellent cuisine.
  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll through the Jemaa el-Fnaa square and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 2: Imperial Cities

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Majorelle Garden, a stunning botanical garden created by French artist Jacques Majorelle. Don’t miss the beautiful tiles and mosaics.
  • 11:30 AM: Head to the Palace of the Bahia’s gardens, which are a hidden gem in the heart of the medina.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Dar Yacout, a traditional Moroccan restaurant with delicious cuisine.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Saadian Tombs, an ancient burial site for the Saadi dynasty.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Le Grand Café, a cozy restaurant with excellent cuisine.
  • Evening: Take a relaxing stroll through the peaceful gardens of the Majorelle Garden.

Day 3: Souks and Spice Markets

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Souk el-Khamis, one of the largest spice markets in Marrakech. Be sure to haggle over prices!
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the nearby souks and get lost in the narrow alleys of the medina.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Le Pain Quotidien, a cozy bakery with delicious breads and sandwiches.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Koutoubia Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Marrakech.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Le Petit Café, a cozy restaurant with excellent cuisine.
  • Evening: Take a leisurely stroll through the Jemaa el-Fnaa square and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 4: Relaxation and Leisure

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning relaxing at your riad or hotel. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take some time to read or relax.
  • 11:30 AM: Visit the Royal Tennis Club, one of the oldest tennis clubs in Marrakech. Take a leisurely stroll around its beautiful gardens.
  • 1:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Le Café de la Poste, a cozy café with delicious sandwiches and salads.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Moulay Idriss Zerktouni’s shrine, an ancient burial site for the founder of Marrakech.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Le Fondue de Marrakech, a cozy restaurant with delicious fondue and meat dishes.
  • Evening: Take a relaxing stroll through the peaceful gardens of your riad or hotel.

Day 5: Departure

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute sights in Marrakech.
  • 11:30 AM: Head back to the airport and depart from Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK).

Things to Know

  • Language: Arabic is the official language, but French, Spanish, and English are widely spoken. Consider hiring a local guide or using a translation app to help with communication.
  • Currency: Moroccan dirhams (MAD) are the local currency. You can exchange your money at the airport, hotels, or currency exchange offices in the city center.
  • Weather: Marrakech has a hot desert climate. Be sure to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
  • Safety: Marrakech is generally a safe city, but be aware of pickpocketing and scams in crowded areas.

Transportation

  • Airport Shuttle Bus: The airport shuttle bus (CTM) runs between the airport and the city center. You can find it outside the terminal building.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but make sure to use reputable taxi companies or negotiate a fixed price before getting into a taxi.

Tips

  • Haggling: Be prepared to haggle over prices when shopping in souks and markets.
  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and respect local customs, especially when visiting mosques or other sacred sites.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day.

Additional Tips

  • Learn a few Arabic phrases: Learn basic Arabic phrases like “hello” (marhaba), “thank you” (shukraan), and “how much?” (kefayya?).
  • Download a translation app: Download a translation app on your phone to help with communication.
  • Be patient and flexible: Marrakech is a bustling city, and things don’t always go as planned. Be patient and flexible, and enjoy the ride!