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Visiting Marrakech in Morocco: How many days to plan for

Written on : 20 June 2025
By : Alexis Steinman
Visiting Marrakech in Morocco: How many days to plan for

Are you dreaming of a trip to Marrakech, but do not know how many days you need? Whether you are planning a weekend trip, a short break or a whole week, Marrakech has something for everyone. This guide will help you build the perfect experience for the duration of your getaway, combining culture, nature, gastronomy and relaxation in your luxury villa.

How many days should you spend in Marrakech? A handy travel guide

How many days should you spend in Marrakech? A handy travel guide

Is 2-3 days in Marrakech enough? The cultural & culinary musts

A weekend in Marrakech allows you to explore the narrow streets of the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. If it is your first time in the city, start at the main square, Place Jemaa el-Fna, for tantalising street food, then venture into the Marrakech souk to discover Moroccan crafts. Plan to visit the Jardin Secret, whose lush gardens are a great place to take a break. Head inside to treat yourself to a traditional hammam followed by dinner in the Gueliz district to savour Moroccan cuisine.

4-5 jours: Between traditions and well-being  

Visiting Marrakech for a few days gives you time to visit the Jardin Majorelle, the Musée Yves Saint Laurent, the 16th-century Saadian Tombs and enjoy activities in the Palmeraie. Book a day to remember Marrakech with a cookery course or pottery workshop. Pair your discoveries with a spa treatment, sunset drinks on the terrace in Gueliz or a hot-air balloon ride at dawn.

1 week in Marrakech: Explore the city, desert, and mountains 

During a weeklong holiday in Marrakech, combine culture, relaxation and escapades. Explore the museums of the Medina, lose yourself in the narrow streets of Marrakech's Jewish Quarter, or stroll through the galleries of Gueliz. Plan a day in the Agafay Desert with a guided tour and a ride on a camel or buggy. If you are staying in Marrakech with your family or friends, do not miss the Atlas Mountains or the Ourika Valley for a day out in the countryside and a mint-tea tasting in the desert.

Why is Marrakech so popular with travellers?

Why is Marrakech so popular with travellers?

On many people's bucket list, the city of Marrakech attracts travellers from all over the world with its unique atmosphere and rich culture. From monumental gates to flower-filled patios and secret gardens, every corner reveals a piece of Moroccan history. The city brims with crafts, Moroccan flavours, museums, inspiring interiors and well-maintained traditions. For a sensory and intimate experience at every turn.

Tourism in Marrakech: Must-sees and things to do

Tourism in Marrakech: Must-sees and things to do

It is impossible to visit Marrakech without passing through the vibrant Place Jemaa el-Fna, a veritable open-air theatre where snake charmers and stalls selling fresh fruit juice and food set the tone. From here, you can admire the minaret of the Koutoubia mosque and plunge into the Marrakech souk, a lively maze of spices, pottery, jewellery, leather and local crafts. Not far away, Bahia Palace and El Badi Palace, the home of the sultan Ahmad Al-Mansur, are beautiful buildings that reveal all the richness of Moroccan architecture. In the Medina, the 14th-century Madrasa Ben Youssef, a former school, plunges you into the architectural treasures of a fascinating era.

For a colourful cultural break, head to the Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent museum. More discreet, but just as enchanting, the Jardin Secret in the Medina offers a moment of calm between spirituality and botany. Finally, the Musée des Confluences and Bacha Coffee will appeal to lovers of art, history and gastronomy, in a refined setting that combines culture and oriental elegance.

Activities and excursions near Marrakech: Places to see

Activities and excursions near Marrakech: Places to see

Discover the Agafay Desert when holidaying in Marrakech 

Located just a few kilometres from Marrakech, this multifaceted destination invites you to enjoy an unforgettable experience while discovering Morocco's natural and cultural treasures. Both wild and accessible via a day trip from Marrakech – the Agafay Desert offers a change of scenery through guided tours, camel rides, quad or buggy rides, and enchanting dinners under a Berber tent, all in an authentic atmosphere.

Hikes and Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains & Ourika Valley 

Further south, about an hour's drive from Marrakech, the majestic Atlas Mountains and the verdant Ourika Valley welcome you for panoramic hikes, waterside lunches and touching encounters with the inhabitants of Berber villages. An absolute must-visit for immersing in North Africa's Berber culture.

Camel rides and relaxation in the Palmeraie in Marrakech

The Palmeraie in Marrakech is an ideal place for a camel ride or horse-drawn carriage ride through the palm trees, or a moment of total relaxation in a refined spa. Do not miss the chance to discover the secrets of argan oil, a real local treasure, often produced by hand in these regions rich in ancestral know-how.

A lodging guide based on your holiday's duration and type

A lodging guide based on your holiday's duration and type

A riad in the Médina for a weekend in Marrakech

For an authentic experience, choose a riad in the Medina. These traditional Moroccan houses offer a charming setting with patios, hammams and staff dedicated to your well-being, so you can stay as close as possible to the local culture. For a short stay or a weekend, booking a riad in Marrakech's Medina brings you close to the sights, such as the Place Jemaa el-Fna.

Villas in the Palmeraie and on Ourika Road

For a longer stay, opt for a villa in the Palmeraie or on Ourika Road. Enjoy calm, gardens, heated swimming pools, house staff, a private chef. No matter how many days you stay in Marrakech, you will find everything you need for an unforgettable trip, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Villanovo in Marrakech: Exceptional stays and luxury concierge service

Our exclusive collection of villas and riads in Marrakech

Villanovo offers villa and riad rentals with a swimming pool, spa, staff, private chef or cook. Our thoughtfully designed homes are located in the most sought-after areas: the Palmeraie, Marrakech Medina, and Ourika Road. We also offer stays in Essaouira near Marrakech to extend your discovery of Morocco.

A unique experience for discovering activities in Marrakech

Our concierge service tailors every Marrakech trip to suit your wishes: chauffeur-driven tours, a day in the desert, museum visits, bookings at a rooftop restaurant, hammams, guided tours of Gueliz, camel rides in the Palmeraie or excursions to the Ouzoud waterfalls.

To help you plan your Morocco itinerary, Villanovo offers you a Marrakech travel diary containing its best addresses: Marrakech souks, secret garden, shops, restaurants, spas, and tips for young and old close to your riad or villa. You get a turnkey holiday with Villanovo, so all you have to think about is enjoying your holiday, whether you spend a week or 3 days in Marrakech. 

Discover Villanovo's selection of luxury villas for Marrakech

Dar 118

(107 reviews)
350 € - 600 € per night
6 3 3

Marrakech - Medina

Villa Palmeraie 32

(50 reviews)
2 500 € - 4 000 € per night
32 (34 max.) 17 16

Marrakech - Palmeraie and nearby