Best Tourist Attractions in Marrakech

by Youssef Ayoub
Best Tourist Attractions in Marrakech

Explore the Best Tourist Attractions in Marrakech. Marrakech, the enchanting city of Morocco and once an imperial capital, beckons to visitors with its exotic allure. Whether arriving swiftly or leisurely pondering like Charles Boyer and his Kasbah, the medieval tapestry of this North African gem unfolds with endless intrigue. Marrakech boasts a medley of delights, from haggling at bustling souks to marveling at the mesmerizing dance of snake charmers. Delve into the highlights that define the very best of Marrakech.

10. Menara Gardens

Herd of wildebeests during migration at Serengeti National Park in Tanzania
Wildbeast Migration at Serengeti TanzaniaImage source: DongDongdog/Shutterstock.com.

As a cool refuge from the scorching summer days in Marrakesh, the Menara Gardens are a favorite destination for both residents and tourists. Originally built in the 12th century, the gardens’ primary function was to provide a respite from the heat and a fertile growing environment for locals. A big arterial lake is the focal point of the garden, and it is surrounded by smaller gardens that are fed by canals. The orchards are where palm trees, olive trees, and fruit trees are grown, therefore tourists will often come across workers tending to the trees. The pavilion or minzeh, previously used by the sultan and family, offers picturesque views of gardens.

Best Tourist Attractions in Marrakech: Saadian Tombs

Saadian Tombs in Marrakech, Morocco
Saadian Tombs in Marrakech, MoroccoImage source: Checco2/Shutterstock.com

Beginning around the middle of the sixteenth century, the Saadian Tomb was utilized as a burial site for kings and nobles throughout the next couple of centuries. The final burial took place in 1792, and thereafter the tombs were abandoned until they were rediscovered in 1917. The tombs include two large mausoleums with a total of 66 burials and an additional 100 graves in the gardens with tiled headstones. The structures are striking; some are simple while others are lavishly decorated.

8. El Badi Palace

El Badi Palace in Marrakech, Morocco.
“El Badi Palace in Marrakech, Morocco”Image source: posztos/Shutterstock.com

The Portuguese paid a ransom to the winners of the Battle of the Three Kings in the middle of the sixteenth century, and this ransom financed the construction of El Badi Palace. During the 25 years it took to build the palace, only the finest and most costly materials were employed. The Sultan exchanged sugar for the Italian marble used in the columns, which he then set in place.

More than three hundred and sixty apartments and a number of pavilions could be found throughout the palace. As a consequence of a subsequent sultan pillaging the structure for its luxurious materials and furnishings to decorate his own palace, only the remains are now visible.

Read more: Best Places To Visit In Morocco In Winter

Best Tourist Attractions in Marrakech: Koutoubia Mosque

Koutoubia Mosque minaret in Marrakesh, Morocco
Koutoubia Mosque Minaret in Marrakesh, MoroccoImage source: Serenity-H/Shutterstock.com

The Koutoubia Mosque is a prominent structure in Marrakesh, dominating the city’s skyline from the city’s southwest medina. The minaret of this mosque, which dates back to the 12th century and is 77 meters (253 feet) tall, makes it the most clearly recognizable religious landmark in Marrakesh. Other roads may all lead to Rome, but in Marrakesh, they all lead to the mosque. The mosque served as the hub of the city’s road system under the French occupation. The red stone mosque was built with six rooms stacked on top of each other so that no one could see the king’s harem from the tower. Visitors who aren’t Muslims aren’t allowed here.

6. Bahia Palace

Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, Morocco
Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, MoroccoImage source: Wizard8492/Shutterstock.com

Bahia Palace, located in the medina, or old city, of Marrakesh, took 60 years to construct using only the best Moroccan workers. It was well worth the time and effort required to combine one large home and numerous smaller ones into a palace. It was constructed in the nineteenth century for a powerful vizier and features a fusion of Islamic and Moroccan design. State guests visiting Morocco are now welcomed here at the palace. The harem quarters and gardens are available to the public, but the rest of the structure must remain in use as a government building.

Best Tourist Attractions in Marrakech: Jardin Majorelle

Le Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech, Morocco - tropical garden with blue walls and fountain
Le Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech, MoroccoImage source: Serenity-H/Shutterstock.com

When it’s time to relax from the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh, seasoned tourists know to go to Jardin Majorelle, a tranquil garden filled with stunning flowers, thick vegetation, and terraces where they can sit and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Jacques Majorelle, a French painter who settled in Morocco, spent 40 years developing the garden that bears his name. As of 1980, Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé have owned the garden. Although relatively modest in size, the garden’s exotic flora, fountains, and winding walkways all strive to transport guests to Morocco.

4. Ben Youssef Madrasa

Ben Youssef Medersa, the largest Islamic college in Marrakesh, Morocco.
Ben Youssef Medersa, Marrakesh, Morocco.Image source: saiko3p/Shutterstock.com

Historically, Ben Youssef Madrasa served as a Quranic studies school. It used to be the biggest school in North Africa, with room for up to 900 students. The madras has a spacious courtyard at its center, with a beautifully constructed prayer hall located at its rear. The madrasa’s unusual style recalls the Alhambra in Spain and has made it a popular tourist attraction. The whole structure is covered with Arabic inscriptions. The mosaics and 14th-century architecture attract many tourists.

Best Tourist Attractions in Marrakech: Marrakech Medina

Souvenirs on display at Jamaa el Fna market in Marrakesh, Morocco.
Souvenirs on Jamaa el Fna Market in Marrakesh, Morocco.Image source: Serenity-H/Shutterstock.com

The old medina of Marrakech is a warren of narrow passageways and colorful shops. In addition, riads, traditional Moroccan houses with an interior courtyard, can be seen in the Medina. The vast majority of the building’s windows face the interior atrium. The lack of display windows and other outward signs of affluence is in keeping with Islamic architectural norms. They are wonderful places to stay, providing a quiet spot to rest and rejuvenate.

2. Marrakech Souks

Narrow passage in the Souk Haddadine market in Marrakech, Morocco
Narrow passage in the Souk Haddadine market in Marrakech, MoroccoImage source: Checco2/Shutterstock.com

Anyone who hasn’t been shopping in the souks of Marrakesh is missing out. There are a total of five primary souks in the city, and each one specializes in a different product. One is for carpets, and the other is for babouches, the typical leather slippers of Morocco (the bright yellow ones are for males). Another deals in metallurgy, while a fourth offers an aromatic selection of spices. The Mellah, or Jewish Quarter, isn’t really a souk, but it is a great area to shop for textiles and accessories. Customers should anticipate haggling and offer no more than half the asking price at the outset.

Best Tourist Attractions in Marrakech: Djemaa el Fna

Night market on Djemaa el Fna square in Marrakesh
Night market at Djemaa el Fna square in Marrakesh, MoroccoImage source: posztos/Shutterstock.com

Djemaa el-Fna, situated in the medina, is the main square in the city as well as the most famous tourist destination in Marrakesh. As a market, it also provides visitors with the opportunity to purchase orange juice or see a snake charmer at work. Later in the day, food booths replace the snake charmers, traditional dancers, and magicians. One side has a souk selling essentials, while the other features hotels. In Hitchcock’s The Man Who Knew Too Much, the vibrant market square plays a significant role.


Conclusion

Morocco, a land of captivating beauty and diverse culture, offers travelers a unique and enriching experience. From the bustling markets of Marrakech to the serene landscapes of the Sahara Desert, this North African country is a treasure trove of adventures and discoveries.


People Also Ask :

Where is the nicest place in Morocco?

Morocco offers numerous beautiful places, but some of the nicest include Marrakech, Chefchaouen, the Sahara Desert, and the Atlas Mountains.

What are 4 tourist attractions in Morocco?

Four popular tourist attractions in Morocco are the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, the medina of Fes, the Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech, and the ancient city of Ait Benhaddou.

What are 2 famous cities in Morocco?

Two famous cities in Morocco are Marrakech, known for its vibrant markets and historical sites, and Fes, renowned for its well-preserved medina and traditional craftsmanship.

What to do in Morocco for 5 days?

In 5 days in Morocco, you can explore Marrakech's markets and historic sites, visit the Atlas Mountains, take a desert excursion to the Sahara, and immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Fes.


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  1. Official Website of the Kingdom of Morocco

    • This is the official government website of Morocco, providing information about the country’s government, culture, and more.
  2. Tourism in Morocco – Wikipedia

    • Wikipedia’s page on tourism in Morocco offers comprehensive information about the country’s popular tourist destinations, attractions, and travel tips.

 

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