Marrakech Pocket Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting the “Daughter of the Desert”
Marrakech isn’t just a city—it’s a sensory overload in the best way possible. From the maze-like alleys of the medina to the hypnotic rhythm of the Jemaa el-Fnaa, this city pulses with life and color and energy. You’ll find yourself navigating spice-scented souks, dodging motorbikes, and being charmed by the call to prayer echoing through the city, and you’ll find yourself being shaken by the vibrancy of it all.
the Marrakech series…
CLICK TO JUMP!✷ 10 Beautiful Riads to stay in Marrakech
✷ Marrakech Food Guide: What to Eat and Where to Eat (coming soon!)
✷ Best Things to Do in Marrakech (coming soon!)
I first visited Marrakech during the summer of 2022. And it was an instant “flechazo”, as we say in Spanish, an instant arrow to the heart. I immediately fell in love with the color, rhythm, and artistry that runs through the city’s veins. And last summer of 2024 I got to go back with my family. I knew my parents would love Marrakech too, so it was incredible to experience the city again, showing them the places and corners I had loved the most so far.
Marrakech is a city that I feel I will go back to over and over again, I would even consider going back to stay for several weeks and continue unraveling the colorful layers of life in the Red City. However, as much as I fell in love with this city, I’m also aware that it’s a city that takes some wit to navigate.
I’ve always said the Marrakech is like a triple shot of espresso straight to the senses. Wonderfully chaotic. But chaotic nonetheless. This city can be overwhelming if you’re not at least mentally prepared.
So that’s where this pocket guide comes in—a no-nonsense rundown of what to see, eat, and experience, so you can soak it all up and make the most of this remarkable destination. Let’s wander.
MARRAKECH 101
the essentials
WHERE:
Center of Morocco
LANGUAGE:
Arabic, French and Berber
CURRENCY:
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
RELIGION:
Islam
POPLUATION:
1,067,000
Marrakech is generally a safe city to visit, though, like any destination, it requires a bit of awareness. The medina’s winding streets and vibrant souks are packed with life, but they can also be hotspots for pickpockets and scams (keep scrolling for more on the most common scams!).
While you can expect a bit of culture shock in Marrakech, especially if it’s your first time in an Arabic country, most people you encounter will be incredibly friendly and welcoming.
Morocco is also incredibly multicultural. Arabic is one of its official languages, alongside Tamazight (Berber). Modern Standard Arabic is used for official purposes, while Moroccan Arabic, or Darija, is the everyday spoken dialect.
Morocco’s identity is a blend of Arab, Amazigh, and African influences, with European elements stemming from its colonial past with France and Spain. This rich mix is portrayed in its architecture, traditions, and cuisine. And it is what makes Morocco such a colorful destination.
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AREAS TO KNOW IN MARRAKECH...
✷ The Medina
Also known as “The Old City”, this is the historic part of Marrakech, and the most famously known for its desert-colored maze of narrow streets and alleyways full of hidden, and not-so-hidden surprises. As a traveler, most of the things you’ll do and see will be within the Medina, so book a beautiful riad and get ready to get lost.
Founded in 1070-72 by the Almoravid dynasty, The Medina served as a key hub for trade and culture in North Africa. Its pink-ish walls were built from local clay, and gave the city its nickname, the "Red City." And over time, Marrakech became a melting pot of Arab, Berber, and Andalusian influences.
✷ The Kasbah
With broader streets and away from the bustling souks, the Kasbah is the quieter side of the Medina. This area is home to historical treasures like the Saadian Tombs, and the ruins of the grand El Badi Palace. And while you’ll find many things to do and see in this area, it also has more of a residential feel to it than other corners of the Medina.
Pz. While exploring this area, stop at Zeitoun for a Moroccan breakfast, along with some mint tea or fresh juice.
✷ Gueliz
The modern heart of Marrakech. The Gueliz district is the cosmopolitan side of the city, and it’s filled with trendy cafes, designer boutiques, and contemporary art galleries. The iconic Jardin Majorelle is anchored in this district, so you can plan a day of exploring Gueliz, alongside your visit to the garden.
✷ Other areas to know…
Hivernage is an upscale district of Marrakech, known for its leafy boulevards, luxury hotels, and chic lounges. It’s right next to La Mamounia Hotel, one of Marrakech’s most exclusive stays, and to the tranquil Menara Gardens.
Palmeraie, an area on the city’s outskirts, is a sprawling oasis of date palms and luxury resorts. If you want a taste of Marrakech’s desert charm, come to this area to enjoy adventures like quad bike riding.
Is Marrakech safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Marrakech can sometimes feel overwhelming for females due to unwanted attention or catcalling. Dressing modestly and staying in well-populated areas helps, as does maintaining a calm, assertive demeanor. At night, the medina can feel maze-like, so it’s best to stick to well-lit, familiar routes and avoid wandering alone in quiet corners.
While it wouldn’t be my first choice to travel solo, it’s still totally doable and generally safe. Just use your street smarts!
10 ESSENTIAL THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO MARRAKECH
1. Cash is King
While some places accept cards, most transactions in Marrakech—especially in the souks—are cash-based. Shopping, tipping, street food, taxis…they’ll all require cash only. Keep your Moroccan Dirhams at hand.
💱 Where can I get cash?
You can find ATMs, but commissions and conversion rates can get high. It’s better to bring cash and then head to the Money Exchange counter at Hotel Ali (near the Kotoubia) to exchange money. The conversion rate is usually pretty good and it’s a safe place too. There’s always a lot of people here so there might be a line, but it goes fast, don’t worry. Ps. Don’t forget to bring your passport, you’re going to need it.
2. Mind the Calendar
When planning your trip I’d recommend you check if any local festivities or celebrations will be taking place while you’re there. And trust me, I’m saying this because it happened to me.
The last time I visited Marrakech I accidentally booked, our trip starting on Eid al-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice, one of the most significant Islamic holidays celebrated across Morocco. This festivity commemorates the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, who then provided a ram to sacrifice instead.
On this day, every family sacrifices a ram to then enjoy a feast together. And it's common to see families roasting parts of the sacrificed animal on open fires around the city, or pushing carts with dead rams on their way to the butcher. It’s an incredible cultural sight, but definitely not one for the faint of heart or stomach (ask my cousin, she almost passed out!).
Personally, I love accidentally coinciding with local festivals and festivities because they can provide an amazing window into local culture, making your trip extra special.
But also, schedules and times for places you might want to visit can be different, or places can even be closed. So if you wanna make sure you’re definitely not going to miss the items on your bucket list, double check everything will be open while you’re there.
Experiencing Eid al-Adha in Marrakech felt like walking through a National Geographic story, but it also meant everything was closed during most of our first day in the city. And the dark corners and alleyways of the Medina with NO people or noise can feel really eerie and like something out of a zombie movie. It was quite the experience!
3. Master the Art of Haggling
Bargaining is an integral part of the Souk experience. Moroccans are good at haggling, and it’s a part of the daily dynamic at the markets and shops around the Medina. Start at half the price offered and work your way up with a smile—but remember, be respectful and keep it a win-win situation always.
Don’t be surprised if vendors keep offering you lower prices as you pull away. They don’t often take a first “no” for an answer. Say “No, thank you” or “Non, merci” politely and walk away.
2. Dress Respectfully
You don’t have to dress in any way while in Marrakech. But, Marrakech is a conservative country, so it’s best to dress modestly, especially outside tourist hotspots. Keeping your shoulders and knees covered is a good rule of thumb.
3. Learn Basic Phrases
Knowing a few words in Arabic or French can go a long way. Learn a simple "Shukran" (thank you) or even just "Bonjour" (hello) to connect and be respectful to locals. A quick Google search can lead you to simple phrases, or spend a few weeks using Duolingo before your trip.
4. Beware of Scams
While Marrakech is a pretty safe destination, there are some scams to be on the lookout for.
Mostly, be cautious of unsolicited “help,” like overly friendly guides or shopkeepers offering services without clear agreements on price, especially offering to show you the way if you look lost. Don’t worry, no harm will come to you if you accidentally fall into this game, but they will expect money for their “services”. So save yourself the uncomfortable moment and be on the lookout for this.
While most locals are kind and welcoming, it’s wise to stay firm and confident if anyone gets overly persistent.
5. Prepare for Sensory Overload
The smell of spices hanging in the air, people haggling and bargaining energetically, scooters swooshing by from every direction…since my first visit I’ve constantly described Marrakech like a triple shot of espresso to the senses. It can be chaotic, in a wonderful way, but chaotic nonetheless.
And it can get overwhelming and overstimulating at times. Especially if you’re highly sensitive, or have never been to a destination as bustling as this one. Make sure to include some chill and downtime moments in your itinerary, whether it’s cooling off in your hotel, sipping some mint tea on a rooftop bar, or getting pampered in a hammam.
6. Prepare for the Heat…and the Humidity
Marrakech can get scorching, and incredibly Humid, especially in summer. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and explore early in the morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. And I’d recommend packing breathable and fresh clothes. It goes without saying to leave your tight jeans at home!
Remember to refill your bottle of water at your Riad every morning, or at bigger restaurants too. But sadly, water will be mostly available to you in plastic bottles in all the mini marts and shops around the city.
7. What about Tipping?
Yes, tipping is customary! At restaurants, leave 10%–15%, and give small coins to guides, porters, or anyone providing a service.
9. Navigate the Medina Wisely
The medina is a maze! You’re going to get at least a little bit lost, at least once. Make sure you download the area in Google Maps offline to make things easier for you!
I like to memorize things on my way to and from
10. Respect Locals, their Daily Life, Customs and Traditions
Marrakech is so colorful and picturesque that it has also become some sort of Instagram playground. Take photos to your heart’s content…but do so respecting locals always! Also, Marrakech is a predominantly Muslim city. During prayer times, some shops may close temporarily, and public displays of affection are best avoided. Be a mindful traveler, and you’ll have the best experience ever.
love, emilia
Ps. So far, I’ve only explored Marrakech, but I can’t wait to explore other Moroccan destinations like Essaouira, Casablanca, Fes, and Chefchaouen sometime soon. I would LOVE recommendations for those locations if you have any, leave them in the comments or reach out at info@holaemilia.com
Never, ever travel without Travel Insurance!
While Marrakech is pretty safe, travel insurance is a must, no matter your destination. Accidents and incidents can happen anywhere and anytime. Unexpected medical bills, stolen items, missed flights…make sure you and your belongings are protected abroad.
🗺️ Find all the places in this pocket guide in my Marrakech map here!
Some of the links in this blog are affiliate links. If you purchase something using these links, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using these affiliate links, you’re directly supporting my work and my ability to continue creating for you! ♥ love, Emilia
