Things to Do in Marrakesh

The gardens surrounding Marrakesh's largest mosque. Free to walk through; the mosque itself is closed to non-Muslims. The minaret (77m tall) is a landmark visible from most of the medina. Palm trees, fountains, and paved paths make this a cool spot f

🕐 Gardens open 24 hours; mosque closed to non-Muslims

💡 Come at sunset for the call to prayer echoing across the square — impressive even if you're not religious. The gardens are quieter around 6pm after the heat fades.

Marrakesh's main square is a bustling open space with performers, food stalls, and markets. By day it's quiet; by night it transforms into a chaotic spectacle of storytellers, musicians, and smoke from grills.

🕐 24 hours daily; market stalls active from late afternoon to midnight

💡 Arrive at dusk to see the square come alive. Eat at stall #14 or #1 for reliable tagine; agree on prices for any henna or snake-charming before they start.

16th-century royal tombs rediscovered in 1917. Decorated with marble, stucco, and intricate tilework. Entry is 70 dirhams (about £5.50) — worth it for the quiet courtyard and dark, atmospheric burial chambers. Small but impactful.

🕐 9:00-17:00 daily

💡 Go early (9am) or late (4pm) to avoid queues that can stretch 30 minutes. The tomb of Ahmad al-Mansur has the finest decoration. Combine with nearby Bahia Palace for a half-day history tour.

19th-century palace with ornate courtyards, mosaic tiles, and carved cedar ceilings. Entry is 70 dirhams (about £5.50) — one of the best-value historical sites. Much quieter than the nearby Saadian Tombs.

🕐 9:00-17:00 daily

💡 Arrive before 10am to avoid tour groups. The central courtyard has the best light for photos around 9am. No toilets inside; use the ones outside the entrance (free).

A compact botanical garden with striking blue buildings, cacti, and water features. Created by painter Jacques Majorelle, later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. Costs 150 dirhams (about £12) — cheaper than most sights.

🕐 8:00-18:00 daily; last entry 17:30

💡 Go at 8am sharp when it opens; queues build fast. Skip the on-site café — overpriced and crowded. Free to enter the adjacent YSL museum with same ticket.