For the first day of this Marrakech itinerary, let’s start with the number 1 tourist attraction and one of the top things to do in Marrakech: visit Djemaa el-Fnaa square. This will be your first stop after dropping your bags at your accommodation and checking into your room.
The Djemaa el-Fnaa square is a must do in Marrakech. It is a large square and marketplace in the city’s centre. It’s the heart of Marrakech. It’s full of stalls selling everything from souvenirs to spices, and you’ll also find a lot of snake charmers and monkey handlers (which I would avoid at all costs as it’s just not ethical).
To get to the square, you’ll have to navigate yourself through the maze that is the Medina.
Top tip: download the maps.me app and pin the locations you want to visit and your accommodation. Maps.me works offline and is more accurate than google maps. Google maps isn’t that trustworthy when it comes to the maze that is the Medina. See more useful travel apps here.
Follow the colours, smells, noise and flow of the traffic until you reach the iconic main square of Al Jemaa el-Fna Square.
If you’ve come intending to browse something in particular, like spices, leather goods, fabrics and cushions, there’s a good chance you’ll find it here. Just remember to haggle, as that’s part of the fun!
Do keep your eyes and ears out, though, as this spot is known for pickpocketing and gimmicks.Â
Walk across the square and make your way to the Koutoubia. Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech and it’s impossible to miss thanks to its towering minaret. The mosque was built in the 12th century but the minaret wasn’t added until the late 18th century. You’re not able to go inside as it’s a functioning mosque but you can admire the beautiful exterior.Â
At night, the square comes to life as food stalls set up shop and people congregate to eat and socialise, especially on the rooftops surrounding the square as the view you get of the city at sunset is one of the best in the city and has famously become not only one of the best things to do in Marrakech, but one of the best things to do in Morocco as it’s so epic.
Find yourself a seat on a rooftop — the best view is from Cafe du France or Cafe Argana. Get some drinks, and enjoy the hustle and bustle from afar until the sun goes down.
Even though both these cafes offer incredible views of the Square, the food isn’t as highly valued so make your way to another restaurant in the Medina for dinner. I would recommend any of the following:
