Marrakesh – a practical information guide is a small guide for travelers who want to visit this extraordinary city and better prepare for their journey. Marrakesh captivates with its colors, scents, and energy, but at the same time it can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. That is why it is worth knowing the basic rules for getting around the city, local customs, and practical information that will make everyday life easier while traveling.
Marrakesh – a practical information guide is a carefully prepared article in which you will find concrete and reliable tips on, among other things, transportation, getting around the medina, safety, prices, accommodation, bargaining, and planning sightseeing. It is a collection of the most important information that will help you avoid unnecessary stress and fully focus on discovering Marrakesh.
This guide was created for people who want not only to see Marrakesh, but also to understand its rhythm and culture. Whether you are planning a short city break or a longer stay, this practical guide will help you prepare for an encounter with one of the most fascinating cities in North Africa.
HOW TO GET TO MARRAKESH?
Getting to Marrakesh is relatively easy, especially for travelers from Europe. The city has an international airport, Marrakesh Menara (RAK), located just a few kilometers from the city center and the medina. This is the main and most convenient way to travel to Marrakesh.
BY PLANE
Direct flights to Marrakesh are available from many European cities, operated both by regular airlines and low-cost carriers. A flight from Poland or Western Europe usually takes between 4 and 5 hours. Menara Airport is well organized, and after arrival it is easy to find transport into the city. The airport itself is considered one of the most beautiful airports in the world. It combines the functionality of a modern terminal with elements of traditional Moroccan architecture. The terminal building stands out with its simple, elegant form, light-colored façades, and large glass surfaces that allow plenty of natural light inside. Architectural details feature characteristic Moroccan geometric patterns and mosaics that reference local heritage. The interiors are designed in warm, earthy tones—ranging from brown and beige to white—which creates a welcoming atmosphere and helps reduce travel stress.
BY TRAIN OR BUS FROM OTHER CITIES IN MOROCCO
Regardless of the mode of transport, Marrakesh is well connected to the rest of the country and serves as an excellent base for exploring Morocco further.
- By train from Casablanca, Rabat, or Fez.
- By long-distance bus from most major cities (popular carriers offer good standards and air conditioning).
HOW TO GET AROUND THE CITY?
Getting around Marrakesh is part of the local experience and requires a bit of patience, especially within the medina. The city is divided into the old part (the medina) and newer districts such as Gueliz or Hivernage, each of which follows slightly different rules.
FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTER
- by taxi – the fastest and most convenient option (it’s worth agreeing on the price before the ride),
- by bus – a cheaper alternative, running to the city center and the medina area (though these are often very crowded),
- by hotel transfer – often offered by riads and hotels. It’s worth checking this when booking.
ON FOOT IN THE MEDINA
The Marrakesh medina is largely a pedestrian zone. The narrow streets are not designed for car traffic, so getting around is mainly on foot. However, you should watch out for scooters, bicycles, and transport carts, which can appear unexpectedly in the maze of streets.
TAXIS
It’s always worth agreeing on the price before starting the ride or asking to turn on the meter. In the city, there are:
- petit taxi – small taxis operating within the city, ideal for short distances,
- grand taxi – larger vehicles used for longer routes or outside the city.
CITY BUSES
Buses are an inexpensive means of transport and work well outside the medina. However, they are not always easy to navigate for tourists, so it’s best to use them on simple routes, for example, between districts of the new city.
SCOOTERS AND BICYCLES
Scooters are common in the medina and often move very dynamically. There is also the option to rent a bicycle, although this is not the most popular form of transport in the crowded city center.
In summary: walking + taxi is the most convenient combination for a tourist. This way, you can freely explore the medina and quickly move between more distant points in Marrakesh.
WHERE TO STAY IN MARRAKESH?
Choosing accommodation in Marrakesh depends on how you want to spend your time. Do you prefer the authentic atmosphere of the medina, or comfort and modernity outside the historic center? Here is a practical guide to the most popular options:
STAYING IN RIADS
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an inner courtyard or garden, often with a terrace and fountain. It’s the best choice for those who want to fully experience the atmosphere of Marrakesh. Advantages of riads in the medina include: location in the very heart of the historic center, authentic architecture and ambiance. Breakfast and help with organizing trips are often included, and above all, you get an intimate, family-like atmosphere. However, it’s important to know that the narrow streets of the medina may make it difficult for a taxi to get close to the entrance. Not all riads have elevators, so luggage often needs to be carried up the stairs.
We stayed at Riadzie Dar Le Monde. I recommend it for the exceptionally warm, homely atmosphere created by the owner and staff. We were truly pampered during our stay. Its location in the northern, less touristy part of the medina might seem a bit shocking or intimidating at first, but we didn’t feel any danger at all.
HOTELS OUTSIDE THE MEDINA
If you want more comfort, modern amenities, and easy access to restaurants, cafés, and nightlife, it’s worth considering hotels outside the medina, especially in the districts of:
- Gueliz – the modern part of Marrakesh with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants; a great base for those who enjoy walking along wide avenues and the city atmosphere.
- Hivernage – a luxury district with elegant hotels, pools, and gardens; ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and higher-end services.
The advantages of hotels outside the medina include larger rooms, often with air conditioning and modern equipment, pools, spas, on-site restaurants, easier taxi access, and a quieter neighborhood, especially in the evening.
If you decide to book accommodation in Marrakesh, I recommend using the Booking.com platform, which we have trusted dozens of times. Through this link, you can book your stay with a 15% discount!
Enter your desired dates and book safely:
MARRAKESCH – WHERE TO EAT?
Marrakesh is a true paradise for lovers of Moroccan cuisine. Here, food is not just a daily necessity but an important part of culture and social gatherings. Depending on the location and time of day, you can choose between street food in the medina, local restaurants, and elegant venues in the new part of the city.
RESTAURANTS
In the medina, there are many restaurants serving traditional Moroccan cuisine, often hidden on the rooftops of riads. They offer classic dishes such as couscous, pastilla, or tagine in a calmer setting than the main square. Here are a few we dined at and recommend for their great rooftop views and excellent food:
- La Terrasse Ben Youssef – it’s an elegant restaurant that has the highest‑situated terrace in the entire Medina
- Laire des Gourmes – an ideal spot for watching the sunset, with friendly service and excellent food
- Table de la Medina – an elegant restaurant with a nice terrace and very good food served in huge portions.
- Simple Restaurant Marrakech – a restaurant in the northern part of the Medina with very good food and a cozy atmosphere.
- Limoni – a restaurant in an old riad, charming and atmospheric, with very good food.
- La Porte Du Monde – a charming restaurant in the heart of the medina with a covered terrace and nice colors.
CAFÉS
Marrakech is also famous for cafés serving mint tea, Moroccan sweets, and pastries. Rooftop cafés offer beautiful views of the medina and are a great place to relax during the day.
MARRAKECH – WHAT TO EAT?
The cuisine of Marrakech is a blend of aromatic spices, fresh ingredients, and centuries-old traditions. When in this city, it’s worth trying local dishes that best reflect the character of Moroccan cuisine.
- TAGINE – One of Morocco’s most famous dishes. Cooked in a clay pot, it comes in many versions – with chicken, lamb, beef, vegetables, and sometimes with dried fruits and almonds. Tagine is aromatic, tender, and satisfying.
- COUSCOUS – Traditionally served on Fridays, but available almost everywhere. Couscous is served with vegetables, chickpeas, and meat, usually lamb or chicken. It’s a classic Moroccan home-cooked dish.
- PASTILLA – A unique dish combining sweet and savory flavors. Thin pastry filled with meat (usually pigeon or chicken), almonds, and spices, topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon. Often served on special occasions.
- HARIRA – A thick soup made from tomatoes, lentils, and chickpeas, often eaten in the evening or during Ramadan. Hearty and warming, perfect for dinner.
- GRILLED MEATS – At street stalls and Jemaa el-Fnaa square, you can try skewers of beef, chicken, or lamb, often served with bread and spicy sauces.
- MINT TEA – A symbol of Moroccan hospitality. Sweet, strong mint tea is enjoyed at any time of the day.
Marrakech is a city where food is part of the daily ritual. Tasting local dishes is one of the best ways to truly experience its culture and atmosphere. Throughout the medina, you’ll find stalls selling nuts, fruits, and freshly squeezed juices.
MARRAKECH – WHAT TO BUY?
The medina in Marrakesh is a true shopping paradise. The souks offer a huge variety of products, which can be both beautiful souvenirs and practical additions for your home. Here are some of the most interesting items worth considering while shopping:
SPICES
Colorful spices are one of the most characteristic Moroccan shopping discoveries.
POTTERY AND CERAMICS
Hand-painted plates, bowls, and jugs make a great souvenir from Marrakesh. Their distinctive patterns and colors turn the ceramics into beautiful home decorations.
MOROCCAN LAMPS
Intricately crafted metal and glass lamps add an oriental touch to any interior. In the medina, you can find various sizes, from small table lamps to large chandeliers. You can also find interesting lamps made of reed.
FABRICS, TEXTILES, RUGS
Colorful fabrics, shawls, scarves, and handwoven rugs are popular items worth checking out. Berber rugs are especially valued for their quality and unique patterns.
LEATHER GOODS
Leather bags, belts, slippers (babouches), and wallets – Marrakesh is famous for its high-quality leather. It’s worth visiting the leather souk and negotiating the price.
HANDICRAFTS: BOXES, TRAYS, BAGS
Carved wooden boxes, frames, metal or woven trays, and brass details are original items made using local techniques. Here you can also find interesting woven or sewn bags and purses.
ARGAN OIL, COSMETICS AND MEDICINES
Argan oil is one of the greatest Moroccan shopping treasures, used both in cooking and cosmetics. You’ll also find local soaps, creams, and cosmetics made from natural ingredients, as well as interesting medicines not commonly known in Europe.
SOUVENIRS, JEWELRY
Small magnets, talismans, jewelry with Moroccan motifs, or miniature lamps and dishes make perfect little souvenirs for friends and family.
HOME DECOR
In Marrakesh, you can also buy almost complete home furnishings, even doors. Traditional patterns, natural materials, and usually entirely handmade. Of course, it’s impossible to take these items on a plane yourself, but the shops offer delivery services and handle all the necessary arrangements.
SAFETY AND RULES
Marrakech is a tourist-friendly city, but like any popular travel destination, it’s worth knowing the basic safety rules and local customs. This makes your stay calmer and more comfortable. We spent 8 days in the medina and basically didn’t encounter any unpleasant situations; only the dark alleys we accidentally wandered into gave a sense of discomfort.
SAFETY
The medina can be crowded and chaotic, so you should watch out for pickpockets, especially around the souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa square. It’s best to keep your documents and money in a closed bag or pouch worn under your clothing. It’s also advisable to avoid empty, poorly lit streets after dark.
INTERACTIONS WITH LOCALS
The people of Marrakech are generally open and helpful, but sometimes they may offer “assistance” in finding your way, expecting payment afterward. If you don’t want to accept, a polite but firm “no, thank you” is enough. A few times someone tried to take advantage of us, but overall we had a very positive impression (compared to other Muslim-African countries) when it comes to the locals.
DRESS AND BEHAVIOR
Although Marrakech is a tourist city, cultural rules apply. Modest clothing is recommended, especially in the medina and at religious sites. Covered shoulders and knees are appreciated.
PHOTOGRAPHING PEOPLE AND ANIMALS
Before taking photos of people, especially street performers or snake charmers, it’s worth asking for permission. They often agree, but may expect a tip in return. You should also be mindful of the use of animals for tourist purposes and avoid supporting such attractions.
BARGAINING
Haggling in the souks is the norm and part of the local culture. It’s important to do it with a smile and respect. If the price doesn’t suit you, you can simply walk away. Often, this is the best form of negotiation. I managed to buy many items for a price lower than what was initially quoted during negotiations.
WHAT TO SEE AND VISIT IN THE CITY?
Marrakech is a city where history, culture, and daily life intertwine in an extraordinary way. When visiting, it’s worth combining trips to historical sites, strolls through the medina and souks, and relaxation in parks and gardens. Here are the key spots to include in your travel plan. The medina, as well as Marrakech’s museums, palaces, and necropolises, are described in separate guides. Here are the links to them:
SIGHTSEEING IN MARRAKESH : MUSEUMS, PALACES AND NECROPOLEIS >
MEDINA IN MARRAKESH >
Other places outside the medina worth mentioning include:
DISTRICTS NORTH OF THE MEDINA
Just beyond the northern walls, the area is unfortunately not very pleasant. Many homeless people gather here, and trash is scattered everywhere. The further north you go, the more modern the buildings become, but due to the very busy roads, walking through the area isn’t very enjoyable. This is mainly because of the loud noise and the dust lingering in the air.
AREA AROUND THE MAJORELLE GARDENS
The area around the Majorelle Gardens is the most well-maintained part of the city. There is plenty of greenery, and the traffic is not as heavy as in other parts of Marrakech.
GUELIZ DISTRICT
The Gueliz district is the modern part of Marrakech, with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. There is noticeably more greenery here than in other parts of the city, but the architecture still blends with the rest of Marrakech, as even private buildings and apartment blocks are painted in the same light pink shade.
ART GARDEN
The last place I managed to visit outside the medina was the Art Garden. In reality, it is a small square near a roundabout with fountains in the center, where a few sculptures have been placed.
OTHER PLACES IN MARRAKESH WORTH VISITING
Due to transportation issues, we weren’t able to reach many places. Below, however, I leave a list of them with links to their locations: