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Page Contents
- Marrakesh For Solo Travellers
- Things To Do In Marrakesh
- Day Trips From Marrakesh
- Nightlife & Partying In Marrakesh
- Moroccan Cuisine In Marrakesh
- Where To Stay In Marrakesh
- Marrakesh For Digital Nomads
- Getting Around In Marrakesh
- Getting A SIM Card In Marrakesh
- Safety & Scams In Marrakesh
- And That’s A Wrap!
Marrakesh For Solo Travellers
Marrakesh, Morocco's most popular city, is a bustling, energetic metropolis loved by travellers. As the 4th largest city in country, Marrakesh does an extravagant job blending old traditional culture well with a modern outlook.
Marrakesh has plenty to see and do from the Old Medina to the picturesque Jardin Majorelle to the Yves Saint Laurent museum. Day trips to the desert and the Atlas Mountain range are perfect for those looking to explore beyond the city. Marrakesh is also a great place to experience the country’s culture through its numerous mosques, palaces, and gardens.
Budget-friendly and generally cheaper than popular European destinations like Spain, Morocco is a country that’s suitable for all types of travellers, especially ones on their solo journey. If, for whatever reason, you only have the time to see one city in Morocco, Marrakesh is the place to go. It encapsulates Morocco's culture exceptionally well and will leave you satisfied as a traveller.
I spent about two weeks travelling solo in Marrakesh and working remotely, taking in the culture at a slower pace than most. While a four-day trip is sufficient to see the main attractions, Marrakesh is also an excellent destination for longer stays for those who’d like to indulge in slow travel.
In the rest of this Marrakesh travel guide, you'll find detailed things-to-do, budgeting tips, accommodation recommendations, and insights into the rich culture and gems of Marrakesh.
What Are Things To Do In Marrakesh?
Marrakesh is brimming with vibrant experiences and must-see attractions. From historic landmarks to lush gardens, here are the top activities and sights to explore during your visit.
Explore Marrakesh’s Medina
The heart and soul of Marrakesh’s culture can be found in its medina, the historical old town buzzing with life and culture. Marrakesh’s medina is the most famous and busiest in Morocco, filled with street vendors selling everything from spices and souvenirs to leather goods and clothes.
The main square, Jemaa el-Fna, is bursting with street performers and food stalls. It’s all an unforgettable sensory adventure, with sights, sounds, and flavours that capture the essence of Moroccan culture. There’s so much to explore here, so if you’re not staying in the medina, I recommend dedicating an entire afternoon to discovering its vibrant streets.
Discover The Beauty Of Jardin Majorelle
Jardin Majorelle is a beautiful large garden filled with blue architecture and desert plants ranging from cacti to palms. It’s extremely picturesque and beautiful! I recommend getting to Jardin Majorelle early in the morning as the lines can get quite long here later in the afternoon.
⛲️ Learn More And Buy Your Tickets For Jardin Majorelle →
Immerse Yourself In Art & Fashion At Musée Yves St Laurent
Within the Jardin Majorelle complex is Musee Yves St Laurent. Yves St Laurent, a famous dead french designer whose fashion line still upholds his legacy used to visit Morocco a lot for inspiration. Here, you can explore a rich collection of his work and history.
🧥 Musée YSL's Official Website →
Take Off On A Camel Or ATV Adventure In La Palmerie
One of the most fun adventures I had in Marrakesh was riding an ATV through the sandy landscape of Morocco.
If you prefer a slower and relaxed activity, you have the option to ride a camel through the desert palms here. This will give you a taste of the desert experience along with the thrill and excitement that comes with it.
Step Into The Grandeur Of Bahia Palace
Bahia Palace is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, showcasing intricate tilework, stunning gardens, and lavish courtyards. Once the grand residence of a 19th-century nobleman, it offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Moroccan elite.
Admire The Architecture Of Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is Marrakesh's largest mosque and a stunning example of Moorish architecture. Its impressive minaret, visible from miles around, is an iconic symbol of the city. Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the mosque and take in the details of this landmark.
Capture Memories At Maison De La Photographie
Maison de la Photographie is a delightful museum showcasing a rich collection of vintage photographs and prints that chronicle Morocco’s history and culture. This hidden gem offers a unique perspective on the country, allowing you to capture memories of Marrakesh through the lens of the past.
Wander Through The Ruins Of El Badi Palace
Explore the remnants of El Badi Palace, once a magnificent 16th-century complex. Though now in ruins, the palace still showcases its former glory with vast courtyards, sunken gardens, and scenic views from the ancient walls. It’s a charismatic site that offers a glimpse into Marrakesh’s golden past.
Indulge In A Hammam Experience
For a truly relaxing and authentic Moroccan experience, visit Hammam De La Rose. A hammam is a traditional public bathhouse and spa from the Arab world. This highly recommended experience comes with a serene setting where you can unwind and relax with soothing rituals and luxurious treatments that make the hammam unforgettable.
🧼 Book Your Hammam At Hammam De La Rose →
Explore The Exhibits At Musée Des Confluences
Musée des Confluences offers a fascinating blend of history, art, and culture, highlighting the rich heritage of Morocco. The museum's unique exhibits showcase diverse artefacts and stories that illustrate the confluence of various cultures over the centuries. If you’re interested in understanding Morocco's intricate culture, this one’s for you.
Marrakesh Activity Map
Here is a Google Map of all the activities I've suggested to help you get a better view of where things are in the city and how you can plan your itinerary. This will also help you consider which activities to combine for a more efficient and enjoyable trip.
What Are Some Day Trips I Could Take From Marrakesh?
Escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakesh with these exciting day trips to some of Morocco's most captivating destinations. Marrakesh can be overwhelming, so if you have the time, take a day trip outside the city and discover more of what Morocco has to offer.
Visit The Coastal Fishing Town Of Essaouira
Essaouira holds a special place in my heart as one of my favourite cities in the world. My time exploring Essaouira remains one of the most memorable times in all of my travels.
Ideally, I’d recommend spending two nights in Essaouira, but if you are tight on time, you can make a day trip from Marrakesh.
Marvel At Ouzoud Waterfall
Ouzoud Waterfall is a breathtaking natural wonder, cascading over 100 metres into the river below. Surrounded by lush greenery and the occasional sight of wild monkeys, it's a perfect spot for nature lovers and a great day trip from Marrakesh.
Journey To Ait Benhaddou's Ancient Kasbah
Ait Benhaddou is a striking UNESCO World Heritage site featuring an ancient kasbah with earthen buildings. This fortified village in the desert has been a filming location for many famous movies and TV shows. A visit to Ait Benhaddou gives you a glimpse into Morocco's history and architectural heritage.
Other Tours & Experiences To Book In Marrakesh
Explore additional tours and experiences in Marrakesh from our partners at Get Your Guide. Check these out to make the most of your stay in Marrakesh.
Some of these activities are perfect for solo travellers to meet like-minded globetrotters while doing something fun and engaging in Marrakesh.
What Is Nightlife & Partying Like In Marrakesh?
Marrakesh can really be a party city if you’re big into nightlife with clubs open till the early hours and lot of energy! What truly stood out to me about the nightlife in Morroco was the music. While most international clubs stick to the global Top 40 hits, Morocco's after-hours soundtrack is different with a blend of French, African, and Arabic music -- and those beats go hard till 5am.
Gueliz has a lot of watering holes, rooftop lounges, and funky cocktail bars such as Entrepotes and Barometre. Hivernage is home to most of the big clubs, including Marrakesh’s Casino, Epicurien, and Theatro. Both Epicurien and Theatro offer amazing nights out. Theatro, often hailed as the best nightclub in Africa, lives up to its reputation with an unforgettable, wild experience. Epicurien provides a fun night with live performances and dancers, creating a carnival-like atmosphere.
If you’d like a fun a guided tour of the nightlife while meeting other likeminded travellers looking for a fun night out, sign up for Marrakesh’s nightlife tour. I've found pub and club crawls to be one of the best ways to make new friends while travelling solo.
🎉 Sign Up For Marrakesh's Nightlife Tour →
What Is The Cuisine Like In Marrakesh?
Moroccan cuisine is an absolute gem, often overlooked by many. Its rich flavours, aromatic spices, and vibrant colours will leave your taste buds fulfilled. Moroccan food has tons of dishes rich in flavour! Here's a run down of some iconic Moroccan plates that left a mark on my palette.
Tajine
A tajine is a type of slow-cooked stew or casserole that originated in North Africa. It is made by combining meat and vegetables with spices, then simmering slowly in a shallow, terracotta pot with a conical lid. Traditionally, tajines are cooked over an open flame, but they can also be made in a slow cooker or oven.
Tajines are available in a diverse range of styles, including beef and prunes, chicken and lime, fish, lamb, calamari, kefta, and vegetable varieties, among others. Each option is undoubtedly worth trying!
Batbout
Batbout is a type of Moroccan flatbread, similar to pita, that is often enjoyed as a street food. It can be filled with a variety of ingredients like meats, cheeses, or vegetables. Batbout is soft, fluffy, and perfect for a quick snack or a light meal.
Mint Tea
Mint tea is a classic Moroccan beverage and an integral part of the culture. You'll see people sipping Moroccan mint tea at restaurants and cafes everywhere. It's extremely delicious and refreshing. Be sure to try it at Foundouk Gargaa if you’re around the medina.
Pastilla
Pastilla is a traditional Moroccan dish that consists of a savory pie made with thin layers of dough. I tried the chicken variation and the seafood variation when I was there. I was not a fan of the chicken flavour as it had a sweet taste to it, however, the seafood pastilla was one of the best things I ate during my trip.
Harira
Harira is a traditional Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb. It’s a staple during Ramadan but enjoyed year-round. Its hearty, rich flavour is reminiscent of Indian daal if you've ever had that.
Kefta
Kefta are Moroccan meatballs, which can be served dry or as part of a tajine dish with a spiced tomato-based sauce. They are typically made from ground beef or lamb, mixed with spices and herbs.
Brochettes
Brochettes are skewers of marinated meat, typically lamb, beef, or chicken, grilled to perfection. The marinade usually includes a mix of spices, garlic, herbs, and olive oil, giving the kebabs a rich and savoury flavour. They are often served with fresh bread and a side of tangy dipping sauce.
Couscous
Couscous is a high-protein grain that is often served with meat and vegetables mixed in. It’s a staple in Moroccan cuisine and is extremely delicious. The light, fluffy texture of couscous pairs perfectly with the rich flavours of the accompanying stew or meat. Personally, couscous is one of my favourite grains out there!
Where Should I Stay In Marrakesh?
Choosing the right place to stay can significantly change your trip in Marrakesh based on the vibe you’re chasing on your travels. Let’s breakdown three popular neighbourhoods you could consider for your visit.
Medina
The Medina is the central old city, perfect for those seeking a traditional Moroccan experience. Here, you can stay in a Riad or a Dar, which are traditional Moroccan houses with beautiful courtyards and architecture.
Gueliz
Gueliz is the modern part of Marrakesh, known for its shopping malls, European vibe, and vibrant bars. I personally chose to stay in Gueliz in an Airbnb and had an enjoyable stay. This choice suited my longer stay in Marrakesh, especially since I had booked Riads for other cities on my trip.
Hivernage
Similar to Gueliz, you’ll have Hivernage which is a modern neighbourhood as well. Hivernage is a high-end area, renowned for its top-notch hotels and clubs. It's an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy luxury accommodations and vibrant nightlife.
Is Marrakesh Good For Digital Nomads?
Marrakesh is a buzzing city that tends to attract digital nomads for its affordable cost of living and relatively hot weather. The internet connectivity in the country is good for the most part. The internet in my Airbnbs was slower than what I was used to however, most of my video calls went smoothly without any hitches. When the internet seemed sluggish, I seamlessly switched to 4G using my local Moroccan SIM card, encountering no problems.
Coworking Space Recommendation
During my time in Marrakesh, I primarily worked from my cozy Airbnb. However, some days, I'd venture over to Coworking L'BLASSA – a chic coffee shop-connected coworking space – to both work and connect with fellow remote professionals. It's got that modern vibe and quiet atmosphere. So, if you're on the hunt for a work spot, I totally give it a thumbs up!
How Do I Get To Marrakesh By Flight?
If you’re arriving in Morocco, you’ll likely be flying into either Casablanca or Marrakesh. Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) is well-connected with many international destinations, making it a convenient entry point for your Moroccan adventure.
Check out some of your flights options below with Skyscanner.
How Do I Get Around In Marrakesh?
To navigate Marrakesh efficiently, it's best to use ridesharing apps like Careem and Roby. Taxis may try to overcharge you, so relying on these official apps ensures fair pricing and convenience. Aditionally, as a solo traveller, it's a safer experience to rely on ridesharing apps.
Getting A SIM Card In Marrakesh
As a solo traveller and a digital nomad, I always make sure I'm connected at all times during my travels. Accessing maps, websites, social networks, and messaging apps on my fingertips at all times makes travelling solo journey as smooth as butter.
I'd recommend picking up a SIM card directly from the airport when you land. I went with Maroc Telecom and received a positive and reliable service from them. SIM card prices at the airport and in the cities are comparable, so it's best to grab one as soon as you arrive.
Is Marrakesh Safe To Travel?
As a guy travelling solo, I felt pretty safe travelling in Marrakesh during the day time. Even at night I felt pretty safe for the most part in the right neighbourhoods like Gueliz and Hivernage though I was told to avoid wandering around the Medina in the late hours. For a safe trip, I'd ask you to keep it simple and remember the basics:
- Don't trust strangers
- Don't wander into shady alleys
- Avoid walking home alone at night
- Beware of your belongings to avoid being pickpocketed
- Use common sense and avoid risky behaviour
These safety tips aren't vastly different from what you'd consider in other developing countries. I’d advise you to be particularly mindful of my surroundings like most travellers should be. But it didn’t stop me from having an amazing time!
For solo female travellers, the experiences vary. Some women I spoke to felt entirely secure and encountered no issues, while others had reservations about the forward and pushy behaviour of some men.
Local Scams In Marrakesh
Moroccan are super friendly people — though they can get aggressive and sleazy if they’re trying to sell something. Especially for us solo travellers, the target is a lil bigger on our backs so beware of some of these scams.
Nothing Is Free
You will come across locals on the street who will try to give you something for free, show you a sale in the local market, or take you to their father's shop that is only 2 minutes away (spoiler: it's never 2 mins away). It becomes pretty obvious when a local is trying to sell you something or coax you in to a travel scam. If someone asks you to follow them, just don't. If someone says something is for free, it usually comes with strings attached.
Asking For Directions
If you ask a local for directions in a touristy area, it is common for them to ask for a tip in return. If you're ever lost in a medina, don't ask a local on the street, ask a shopkeeper as they won't expect a tip in return. I always had Google Maps on my phone so I never really got lost -- but I could see myself getting lost without GPS.
Haggling And Negotiating
Research prices before making purchases because shopkeepers often overcharge tourists. Always haggle for a fair price when shopping locally, whether it's in a market or taking a taxi. Using ridesharing apps can also help you avoid being overcharged by taxi drivers.
Cabs Overcharging
Cabs, especially from the airport, can often overcharge. When you land, note that a cab should cost around 30 MAD for a one-way trip to the city from the airport.
And That’s A Wrap!
Travelling in Marrakesh is a culturally rich and sensory stimulating adventure. The city’s vibrant atmosphere, historic sites, and diverse cuisine offer a true taste of Morocco. Marrakesh perfectly captures the essence of the country, making it a favourite destination for solo travellers from around the world. I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Marrakesh. Enjoy your trip and safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions About Marrakesh
Is Marrakesh good for tourists?
Absolutely! Marrakesh is Morocco's top tourist destination. Marrakesh gets tons of tourists every year to explore the city and enjoy Moroccan culture. I'd absolutely recommend it as a tourist spot.
Can you drink alcohol in Marrakesh?
Yes, you can drink alcohol in Marrakesh, but it’s typically available in more tourist-centric areas, such as hotels, restaurants, and bars in Gueliz and Hivernage. I had a great time exploring the nightlife in these areas, with spots like Theatro and Epicurien with fun atmospheres with drinks flowing at these hubs.
Is it safe to go out at night in Marrakesh?
Generally, Marrakesh is safe to go out at night, especially in well-populated areas like Gueliz and Hivernage. However, it's always wise to stay alert and be cautious. Stick to well-lit streets, avoid walking alone late at night, and use ridesharing apps like Careem and Roby for transportation. During my stay, I found these precautions helped me feel secure while staying out late.
Is it expensive in Marrakesh?
Marrakesh is relatively affordable compared to many European destinations and most cities in the US. You can find a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets, from traditional Riads to modern hotels. Food, especially local cuisine, is reasonably priced, and shopping in markets can be budget-friendly if you're good at haggling. During my stay, I found that my expenses were manageable, making Marrakesh a great destination for budget-conscious travellers.
Is Marrakesh good for digital nomads?
Yes, Marrakesh is a popular choice for digital nomads. The city has a great mix of traditional and modern elements, with plenty of coworking spaces and cafes to get work done. Plus, there's so much to see and explore when you're not working! I spent about 2 weeks working remotely from here and could see myself spending more time in hindsight if I had to take things slower.
What is the most tourist-friendly city in Morocco?
Marrakesh is probably the most tourist-friendly city in Morocco. Its vibrant markets, historical sites, and modern amenities make it a favourite for travellers. Chefchaouen is also a must-see for its stunning blue streets and artistic energy in my opinion.
What is the best city in Morocco for digital nomads?
While each city offers its own unique vibe, I personally found Marrakesh, Essaouira, and Tangier to be the best for digital nomads. Marrakesh is a lively city with coworking spaces and bustling markets, while Tangier provides a relaxed coastal atmosphere, and Essaouira had some beautiful small city hippie energy.
