Marrakech: Your Guide to the Red City of Contrasts

Marrakech is a city that engages all your senses at once. The scent of spices mixes with the aroma of mint, the hot desert wind is cooled by the shade of historic palaces, and the buzz of the souk intertwines with the call to prayer from the minarets. After my visit, I have one very clear conviction: two days are completely sufficient to feel its magic and see the key attractions. Here is my personal guide to Marrakech, which will (I hope!) help you plan your perfect trip.

Marrakech – The Souk

A Pinch of History: Why Marrakech is Unique

Founded in the 11th century, Marrakech was the capital of powerful Berber dynasties for centuries. It was during the rule of the Almoravids and later the Saadis that the city flourished, becoming a center of trade, culture, and learning. Its heart, the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways where time seems to have stood still. The surrounding walls, made from characteristic red clay, give the city its nickname, the “Red City.” This blend of rich history and pulsating modern life creates the unique atmosphere of Marrakech.

Marrakech – Bahia Palace

Where to Stay? Riad in the Medina vs. Apartment in Gueliz

Marrakech offers two main accommodation styles, and I had the chance to try both.

  • Riad in the Medina: This is a must-do experience. For 35 euros, you are transported into a traditional Moroccan house with an inner courtyard. Our riad was full of character, although the room with an ensuite bathroom wasn’t very spacious. But it’s not about the square footage! It’s about the atmosphere, the silence behind the thick walls, and having breakfast on the rooftop with a view of the mosque towers. It’s the perfect base for exploring the authentic, vibrant Marrakech.
  • Apartment in Gueliz: This is the modern district, full of restaurants and shops. For 50 euros, we had a nice little apartment. It’s a great option if you need more space or prefer a more contemporary environment. The Medina is about a 30-minute walk away.

My Tip: For your first night, definitely choose a riad in the Medina for the full experience!

Marrakech – Medersa Ben Youssef

Day 1: In the Heart of History – Medersa, Palace & Tombs

We started our tour with places that take your breath away.

  1. Medersa Ben Youssef (50 MAD)
    This is the oldest and one of the most beautiful Quranic schools in the Maghreb. Stepping into its courtyards is like traveling back in time. Exquisite, precise Islamic art (featuring no depictions of people or animals) covers every inch of the walls. The main courtyard with its water basin is an absolute architectural gem. From the 16th to the 20th century, it was home to “talibes” (students of the religious school), who lived and studied in tiny, ascetic cells. This place is an absolute must-see.
  2. El Badi Palace (or Bahia Palace – 100 MAD)
    This 19th-century palace impresses not so much with its architecture but with its details. Beautifully decorated rooms, wooden ceilings, and zellij tiles create a feast of colors. The palace is surrounded by greenery that provides pleasant shade on hot days. Even if part of the complex is under renovation (as it often is), the rest fully justifies the ticket price.
  3. Saadian Tombs (100 MAD)
    A beautiful mausoleum from the 16th century, decorated with marble and gold, where members of the Saadian dynasty are buried. Unfortunately, the visiting logistics are a nightmare. The tombs can only be viewed from the entrance threshold, which fits a maximum of 2-3 people. We were there after 3:00 PM, waited over an hour, and each of us got maybe 30 seconds to admire the view! My advice is to come right after it opens in the morning. Then the 100 dirham expense will feel more justified.
  4. Koutoubia Mosque
    The symbol of the city, its 77-meter minaret towers over Marrakech. The mosque itself is closed to non-Muslims, but it’s worth approaching to see it from the outside. The surrounding park is the perfect place to catch your breath after a tiring day. Sit on a bench in the shade and take a break from the hustle and bustle.
Marrakech – Saadian Tombs

Day 2: Smells, Colors & Local Life

The second day was about discovering the city’s less obvious but equally fascinating sides.

  1. Tannery in the Medina (Entry is a suggested donation)
    This is an experience for those with strong nerves and a strong stomach. The smell is… intense. At the entrance, you’ll be given mint leaves to help mask it. You can’t enter on your own; you must go with a “guide.” His story (in broken English) about the leather tanning process is fascinating, however! The most interesting, though slightly shocking, step involves soaking the skins in… pigeon droppings to remove the smell and remaining hair. The manual labor in these conditions is incredibly hard. Of course, it ends with a shop where prices are astronomically high. You can politely thank them and leave. All in all, I recommend it – it’s a unique lesson in traditional craftsmanship. It’s worth noting that the Marrakech tannery is a worthy alternative to the more famous one in Fes.
  2. The Gardens – Planning is Key!
    • Jardin Majorelle: The famous garden once co-owned by Yves Saint-Laurent. Unfortunately, its popularity is so immense that we failed to get in. The tickets were sold out, and tickets cost 170 MAD. Key advice: Buy your tickets ONLINE at least 2 days in advance! Otherwise, you might end up like us.
    • Menara Gardens (Taxi for approx. 70 MAD): When we didn’t get into Majorelle, we went to the Menara Gardens instead. It’s a completely different, but very pleasant, vibe. A huge olive grove where locals have family picnics. It’s peaceful and quiet, and you can buy fresh orange or pomegranate juice. An ideal spot to relax.
  3. The Souk – The Final Shopping Spree
    No trip to Marrakech is complete without a visit to the souk. It’s a labyrinth of stalls selling spices, leather goods, lamps, rugs, and a million other things. Remember to haggle, as the initial prices are inflated. This is where my travel companion gave in to her inner hunter, and I… simply ran out of steam. It was our final, intense highlight in the city.
Marrakech – Koutoubia Mosque

Summary: Marrakech in 48 Hours

Marrakech is a city of contrasts – between the peace of the riads and the chaos of the souk, between historic beauty and the raw reality of the tanneries. After my visit, I am certain: two days are completely enough to see the main attractions and feel the unique atmosphere of the Red City. Plan them wisely, and you certainly won’t leave disappointed.