The top attractions in Marrakech

The essentials are Jemaa el-Fnaa (the great square) and the Koutoubia minaret that towers over it, the Bahia and El Badi palaces, the Saadian Tombs and the Ben Youssef Madrasa, plus the gardens — Jardin Majorelle, Le Jardin Secret and the Menara basin. Between them they cover the squares, palaces, gardens and craft heritage that define the city.

Two to three full days covers the headline attractions comfortably. One day does the medina core — Jemaa el-Fnaa, the Koutoubia, the Bahia and El Badi palaces and the Saadian Tombs, all walkable. A second day adds the Ben Youssef Madrasa, Le Jardin Secret and the tanneries, plus the Majorelle and Menara gardens in the new town.

Jemaa el-Fnaa, the exterior and gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque, the Menara and Agdal gardens, and viewing the tanneries are all effectively free (a tip is expected at the tanneries). The palaces, the Saadian Tombs, the Ben Youssef Madrasa, Dar Si Said and the Jardin Majorelle all charge a modest entrance fee, usually paid in cash.

Yes — a licensed local guide brings the history, court intrigue and craft detail that the mostly unfurnished monuments don't tell on their own, and navigates the medina and the touts for you. Our guided medina, monuments-and-palaces and gardens tours cover these sights; message us on WhatsApp with your dates and interests and we'll put a plan together.

Right at opening. The Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs and the Ben Youssef Madrasa all fill with tour groups by mid-morning, and the Saadian Tombs' single narrow entrance creates a real bottleneck. Arriving first thing gives you quieter courtyards, mirror-still reflecting pools and far better light for photographs.