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The crown jewel of Morocco, Marrakech charms with its rich culture, colourful landscapes, and traditional craftsmanship and food. The Red City's special blend of luxury and authenticity make it one of the most beloved destination. As do the short flights to Marrakech from Europe. Navigating a new city can be challenging. That's why we have created this guide of useful Marrakech travel tips—from what to wear to where to stay—to ensure you have the most enjoyable stay.
While the mild weather and climate in Marrakech make it a pleasant place to visit all year long, the best seasons are spring and fall. Between March and May, the temperatures are an enjoyable 15 - 25°C. September - October have slightly warmer temperatures, with September attracting the most tourists to Marrakech. Though relatively mild, winter is the rainy season, particularly in November. The summer months are quite hot in Morocco, up to 38°, limiting daytime exploring and outdoor activities. People like to beat the heat at a luxury villa with a pool.
The neighbourhoods in Marrakech are as diverse as the array of locally-crafted goods. Take a trip back in time with a stay at a Moroccan riad in the Medina. These traditional ancient homes brim with luxurious design and authenticity. Gueliz and Hivernage are modern districts that mix contemporary and heritage. For villas near Marrakech, book a stay in the chic oasis, Palmeraie, on Ourika Road, or besides the city's best golf courses.
One of the most emblematic places of Marrakech, the Medina is an ideal start to your stay in the Red City. The old town charms with its narrow streets that weave past hammams, souks, and riads hidden by ornate wooden doors. Stroll the souks that brim with clothing, leather goods, and jewellery crafted by expert artisans. Taste Moroccan cuisine like bisarra (fava bean soup) and makrout (date cakes) at the main square, Jemaa-el-Fna's, street food vendors, who also sell bottled water (a top tip.) The Medina is also home to the Jardin Secret, whose ornate gardens lure people looking for a break from the city's bustle. To help navigate the Medina's dizzying maze, each Villanovo villa comes with a travel diary filled with hidden gems. Another option is to have your concierge book a walking tour since the vendors don't always speak English.
We recommend sticking to local cultural practices when travelling to Morocco out of respect for their rich tradition. Do tourists have to cover up in Marrakech? Since Morocco is a Muslim country, it is common sense to avoid skimpy attire that can attract unwanted attention. Women, particularly solo female travellers, should wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, especially in the Medina. You can always buy a scarf for a low price at the souks to cover up. When dining, use your right hand to eat and pass dishes. Know that during Ramadan, the Muslim holiday that requires fasting, locals are okay with visitors eating during the day since Marrakech is a tourist destination. Using French or Moroccan Arabic words is an easy way to show locals respect for their language. The common greeting is 'Assalaamu alaykum' (peace be with you) or simply 'Salam' (peace.)
Brimming with more treasures than Ali Baba's cave, the souks are a traditional part of Marrakech daily life. To point you in the right direction, we suggest taking via Dar el Bacha (Rue Sidi Abdelaziz), a street of lovely shops that blend tradition and modernity, to Place des Epices. Keep your eyes out for the most popular goods: babouches (slippers), caftans, jewellery, metal lamps, spices, and leather goods. The Cherratine souk is a leather wonderland of sandals, purses, and bags while the fragrant Attarine souk seduces people who love spices and food.
One of the most essential Marrakech travel tips is that haggling is expected. Never take the first price. You can find a good exchange rate for Moroccan dirhams at ATMs or the Hotel Ali. Don't withdraw too much money - Morocco limits how many dirhams you can take home. Part of the fun is getting lost in the souks, which is why its best to avoid going at night. For a more luxury experience, have your Villanovo concierge book a private shopping tour.
Though there is no shortage of things to do, you'll want to leave enough time to take a day trip from Marrakech. Get your thrills on a 4x4 ride or buggy in the Agafy Desert. A helicopter tour over the desert is one of the best experiences in Marrakech. Go trekking with a guide in the Atlas Mountains to immerse in its beautiful landscapes, climb Morocco's tallest peak, Mount Toukbal, and visit Berber villages, the best way to immerse in local culture. Cool off in the waterfalls of the Ourika Valley. Take a multi-day adventure to the Sahara Desert. People love the camel ride that takes visitors to an outdoor camp to watch epic sunrises and sunsets.
Villanovo has a wide choice of luxury villas and riads in Marrakech. Stay in a villa with a swimming pool, a private chef, house staff, or a hammam to pamper yourselves like the locals do.
Our exclusive riads and villas are located in prime locations across Marrakech. Rent a traditional riad in the Medina, a villa in Palmeraie or a villa near the Amelkis or Royal Palm golf courses.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can focus on your Moroccan holiday. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, whether you need restaurant reservations, excursion bookings, a private chef, and more. Last but not least? Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel guide for each stay in one of our villas. You'll find all our recommendations and great addresses for restaurants, shops and other experiences to discover in Marrakech.
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