Marrakech Morocco 7 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Exploration
- Morning: Arrive at Menara Airport or take a taxi from Marrakech’s Gare Routière (bus station)
- Afternoon: Check-in at your riad (traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden) in the Medina. Recommended riads:
- Riad Yasmine www.riad-yasmine.com
- Riad Dar Najat www.riaddarnajat.com
- Evening: Explore the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Watch local musicians, snake charmers, and storytellers.
- Food: Enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine at Café Arabe www.cafearabe.com, located in the heart of the Medina.
- Tips:
- Learn some basic Arabic phrases to interact with locals.
- Be prepared for crowds and noise in the Medina.
Day 2: Imperial Cities
- Morning: Visit the Bahia Palace, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. Learn about the history of the palace and its intricate tile work.
- Afternoon: Explore the Majorelle Garden, a beautiful botanical garden created by French artist Jacques Majorelle. It’s now home to the Museum of Islamic Art.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Tannery www.le-tannery.com, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Day 3: Souks and Markets
- Morning: Explore the ancient souks (markets) in the Medina. Visit the Al-Kasbah, the old city’s fortifications.
- Afternoon: Visit the Dar Si Said Museum, which showcases beautiful examples of Moroccan craftsmanship.
- Evening: Enjoy traditional Moroccan coffee and snacks at Café de la Poste www.cafedelaposte.com.
Day 4: Day Trip to Essaouira
- Morning: Take a day trip to the charming coastal town of Essaouira. Visit the Skalla du Diable (Castle of the Devil), a medieval fortress.
- Afternoon: Explore the souks and beaches of Essaouria.
- Evening: Return to Marrakech and enjoy dinner at La Maison Arabe www.lamaisonarabe.com.
Day 5: Relaxation
- Morning: Take a leisurely walk in the beautiful Agdal Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
- Afternoon: Visit the Riad Yasmine, where you can relax and enjoy their pool and gardens.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir www.le-comptoir.com, a cozy restaurant serving modern Moroccan cuisine.
Day 6: Cultural Experiences
- Morning: Visit the Marrakech Museum, which showcases traditional Berber culture and Islamic art.
- Afternoon: Attend a traditional Hammam (steam bath) experience at a local hammam. A unique cultural experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at La Villa des Orangers www.lavilladesorangers.com.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring the Medina one last time.
- Afternoon: Depart for Menara Airport or take a taxi from Marrakech’s Gare Routière (bus station).
- Tips:
- Don’t forget to haggle when buying souvenirs at the markets!
- Be prepared for crowds and noise in the Medina.
Getting Around
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout the city. Agree on a price before you start your journey.
- Bus: Marrakech has an extensive bus network. You can catch buses from the Gare Routière (bus station).
- Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the Medina and get some exercise.
Language
- Arabic: Arabic is the official language of Morocco, but French and Spanish are widely spoken.
- English: Many locals speak basic English, especially in tourist areas.
Safety
- Pickpocketing: Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
- Scams: Be cautious of scams targeting tourists. Never give money to anyone who approaches you.
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly and respect local traditions.
Currency
- Moroccan Dirham (MAD): The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). You can exchange your currency at a bank or a currency exchange office.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Marrakech!