Marrakech Morocco 5 Day Itinerary

Marrakech, Morocco 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Jemaa el-Fnaa

  • Accommodation: Riad Yasmine or Riad Dar Anika (highly recommended traditional riads with rooftop views)
  • Activities:
    1. Acclimate and rest after travel.
    2. Explore the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square at night, try local street food like harira soup, grilled corn, and snail soup. Don’t miss out on the traditional storytellers, musicians, and snake charmers.

Day 2: Historic Marrakech

  • Breakfast: Café des Épices for a delicious Moroccan breakfast with an amazing view of the square.
  • Activities:
    1. Bahia Palace – admire beautiful Moorish architecture and intricate mosaics.
    2. Saadian Tombs – explore the final resting place of the Saadi dynasty sultans.
    3. Ben Youssef Madrasa – learn about Islamic education in Morocco’s past.
  • Lunch: Le Tanjia for traditional Moroccan cuisine with a modern twist.
  • Activities (Afternoon):
    1. Koutoubia Mosque and Gardens – admire the stunning architecture and tranquil gardens.
    2. Souks (Markets) – explore the labyrinthine markets to find local goods like argan oil, spices, and textiles.
  • Dinner: Nomad or Le Foundouk for an authentic Moroccan dining experience with live entertainment.

Day 3: Bahia Gardens & Agafay Desert Day Trip

  • Breakfast: At your riad.
  • Activities:
    1. Marjorelle Garden – stroll through the beautiful gardens created by Yves Saint Laurent and Jacques Majorelle.
    2. Berber Museum – learn about Morocco’s indigenous people, the Berbers.
  • Lunch: Le Jardin for a peaceful meal in the stunning Marjorelle Garden.
  • Afternoon: Agafay Desert Day Trip – enjoy a camel ride, sandboarding, and sunset views in this unique desert landscape.
  • Dinner: At your riad or a local restaurant upon return.

Day 4: Palmery & Hammam

  • Breakfast: At your riad.
  • Activities:
    1. Menara Gardens – visit the well-preserved irrigation system and beautiful gardens.
    2. Palmeraie de Marrakech – explore the palm grove by horse-drawn carriage or quad bike.
  • Lunch: Al Fassia for a female-run restaurant specializing in Moroccan cuisine.
  • Afternoon: Hammam (traditional Moroccan bath) – relax and rejuvenate at Hammam de la Rose or Les Bains de Marrakech.
  • Dinner: La Maison Arabe for a special meal with a view of the gardens.

Day 5: Souk & Departure

  • Breakfast: At your riad.
  • Activities:
    1. Return to the souks for last-minute shopping or revisit your favorite spots.
  • Lunch: Le Foundouk or Le Grand Cafe de la Poste for a farewell meal.
  • Departure: Make your way to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) for your departure.

Things to know:

  1. Haggling is expected in the souks, but be fair and respectful.
  2. Always carry small bills as change can be difficult to come by.
  3. Dress modestly to show respect for local customs and traditions.
  4. Bargain for taxis or negotiate a daily rate for private transportation.
  5. Bring bottled water with you as tap water is not safe to drink.
  6. Learn a few phrases in Arabic (Darija) to connect better with locals.