Marrakesh is a very lively, modernized city located in Western Morocco. You will find large marketplaces known as souks, palaces, gardens, mosques, and delicious Moroccan cuisines. The city oozes culture and must-see sights making it an incredible destination to explore! I will be going over everything you need for a 48 Hours in Marrakesh Morocco Trip.
48 Hours in Marrakesh Morocco Agenda:
- Best Time to Travel
- Accommodations
- Transportation
- Things to Do
- Places to Eat
Best time to Travel to Marrakesh Morocco
The best time to travel to Marrakesh Morocco is over the shoulder seasons: March through May or September through November. It means way less tourists, cheaper prices, and great weather ranging in the 70’s F. We traveled to Marrakesh over Easter in April 2018.
Accommodation
Riads
The dollar goes a long way in Marrakesh so I recommend staying in a Riad. A Riad is a traditional Moroccan home with an interior courtyard and open ceiling. Each home is different but they are typically multi-level with many bedrooms and often have a rooftop seating area.
Riads are usually passed down from family to family, but they originally belonged to only the wealthiest citizens. Now you can rent them from the owners on AirB&B and other booking sites!
Staffed Riad Next to Jemaa el-Fna
We booked a staffed Riad next to Jemaa el-Fna and it was AMAZING, I highly recommend it! We went with four other friends and split the cost of $300/per night between 6 people.
This place has 4 different levels, 5 different bedrooms and bathrooms. The main floor holds the courtyard with the pool and it is surrounded by clay walls and an open ceiling. You will also find the kitchen, dinning area, sitting room, and staff bedroom here.
The next 2 floors house the Moroccan themed bedrooms and the top floor is an amazing roof top with a small sitting area, garden, and views of the city.
They even have a projector on the second floor that displays on one of the giant clay walls. This is perfect for a late night movie!
Staff – Chef & Driver
Not to mention this place does include a staff who will cook you traditional Moroccan meals for a small extra cost, therefore you have to try them out!
They also have a driver who knows the main spots and will take you for a day trip for an additional small cost.
The owner was extremely helpful in coordinating the driver for all of our activities, getting us to and back from the airport, and he provided great recommendations for restaurants.
Transportation
The first day we checked out the main square, Jemaa el-Fna, which is only a 5 minute walk from the Riad. On the second day the owner of the Riad booked the driver to take us to all of our activities. The driver stayed with us the whole day – 9 hours. It only cost a couple dollars per hour. Gotta love the prices here!
Things to Do in Marrakesh
There are so many things to do in Marrakesh from exploring the markets, to checking out the palaces, or even four wheeling through the desert at sunset. I recommend hiring a taxi driver for the day and explore the endless activities!
48 Hours in Marrakesh Things to Do
- Jemaa el-Fna – bustling main square, be prepared for people trying to sell you things, including a picture with a rattle snake!
- Get lost in all the markets – Its quite amazing here with all the spices and beautiful rugs. Come prepared with your negotiation skills.
- Jardin Majorelle – tranquil gardens, nice place to relax after the markets. Note, this is voted the #1 thing to do on TripAdvisor so it is normally pretty packed and overrated. You could easily skip if you needed to save time.
- Koutoubia Mosque – The largest mosque in Marrakesh.
- Tanneries – Located just northeast of the Medina. Watch locals hand dye materials for trade in the city!
- Museums – Marrakesh is filled with historic museums. The Museum of Marrakesh and Dar Si Said Museum are some of the highest rated.
- Camel Ride – Do your research and make sure you go through a company who does not abuse the animals.
- ATV ride at sunset – perfect for groups!
Places to Eat
The main square has many restaurants but I do not recommend going to any of these spots. Typically, they are tourist traps and will leave you disappointed. You don’t have to travel far, just get out of the main square for some traditional Moroccan meals! I listed some of our favorites!
- Homemade traditional Moroccan meals at the Riad – made by the chef!
- Snack Othmane – Locals favorite breakfast spot!
- Naranj – It is a Lebanese restaurant, but still a must!
- Chez Hassan Bab Kasbah – Great fish and Kebobs!
48 Hours in Marrakesh Morocco Conclusion
Marrakesh is the perfect city to explore if you are looking for culture, adventure, and great cuisines! Make sure to use your negotiation skills in the souks, four-wheel through the desert, and try the delicious Tajines! This 48 Hours is Marrakesh Morocco has everything you need for your own trip!
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