Marrakech Morocco 7 Day Itinerary

Marrakech, Morocco 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Medina (Old City)

  • Morning: Arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport and take a taxi or shuttle to your riad (traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden) in the old city.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the narrow alleys and souks (markets) of the medina, including Souk Semmarine and Souk el Khamis.
    • Visit the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • Try some traditional Moroccan tea at a local café.
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy dinner at Le Foundouk, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Moroccan cuisine.
    • Relax at your riad or explore the nearby streets for some live music and entertainment.

Day 2: Palaces and Gardens

  • Morning: Visit the stunning Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the serene Jardin Majorelle, a beautiful botanical garden created by French artist Jacques Majorelle.
    • Visit the nearby Berber Museum, which showcases the art and culture of Morocco’s indigenous people.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Tobsil, a romantic restaurant serving gourmet Moroccan cuisine.

Day 3: Hammams and Souks

  • Morning: Relax at a traditional Hammam (Moroccan bathhouse), such as Hammam Dar el Bacha or Hammam Rosa.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the vibrant Souk el Attarine, where you can find everything from spices to jewelry.
    • Explore the colorful Souk des Tapis, a carpet market with stunning examples of Moroccan craftsmanship.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Café Arabe, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Moroccan dishes.

Day 4: Atlas Mountains

  • Morning: Take a guided hike in the Atlas Mountains, just outside Marrakech. This is a great opportunity to experience Morocco’s natural beauty.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit a local Berber village, where you can learn about traditional Moroccan culture and way of life.
    • Enjoy a picnic lunch with stunning views of the mountains.
  • Evening: Return to Marrakech and enjoy dinner at Le Grand Imperial, a luxurious restaurant serving gourmet cuisine.

Day 5: Museums and Galleries

  • Morning: Visit the Marrakech Museum, which showcases Moroccan art, history, and culture.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the Musée de la Photographie et des Arts Visuels, a museum featuring stunning photography and visual arts.
    • Visit the Galerie 127, a contemporary art gallery showcasing local and international artists.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Le Comptoir Darna, a stylish restaurant serving modern Moroccan cuisine.

Day 6: Food and Drink

  • Morning: Take a Cooking Class with a local chef, where you can learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Souk el Khamis, a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and other ingredients.
    • Explore the Café des Épices, a charming café serving traditional Moroccan coffee and pastries.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Al Fassia, a cozy restaurant serving authentic Moroccan cuisine.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute sights.
  • Afternoon: Return to Marrakech Menara Airport for your departure flight.

Accommodation

  • Riad Yacout: A luxurious riad in the heart of the medina, offering stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • Riad Azoulay: A charming riad with comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.

Transportation

  • Taxi: The easiest way to get around Marrakech is by taxi. You can find them at the airport or in the city center.
  • Bus: The city bus network is extensive and affordable, but can be crowded during peak hours.
  • Walking: Marrakech is a walkable city, and exploring on foot is a great way to discover hidden gems.

Tips and Essentials

  • Dress modestly: Morocco is a conservative country, so it’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas.
  • Haggle: Haggling is a part of Moroccan culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices at souks and markets.
  • Learn some Arabic: While many Moroccans speak French or English, learning some basic Arabic phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
  • Stay hydrated: Marrakech can be hot, especially during summer months, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Other Things to Know

  • Morocco is a Muslim country, and Ramadan (the holy month of fasting) may affect opening hours and daily life.
  • Be prepared for crowds and chaos in the medina, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Marrakech is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Additional Resources

  • Lonely Planet Morocco: A comprehensive guidebook with detailed information on Marrakech and beyond.
  • Marrakech Tourism Website: The official website of the Marrakech tourism board, offering insights into the city’s history, culture, and attractions.