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Rugs in a Marrakech souk, Morocco

How to Spend 72 Hours in Marrakech

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By Emilia Navato


Marrakech, a city full of atmosphere and charm, is a true delight for the senses. Boasting colourful old souks, stunning architecture, musical street merchants, and the aroma of spices filling the air.

Having just returned from a short trip to this enchanting city, I thought I would share my experiences of how to explore the best of Marrakech in just 3 days.

Day 1: Culture & Cuisine

Morning


Marrakech’s Medina is a beautiful maze of narrow alleys and traditional souks, consequently it can be a bit overwhelming to navigate alone! Begin your 72 hours in Marrakech exploring the Medina with a local guide, on a small group or private tour. Our guide took us to the Bahia Palace and told us tales of the many wives and concubines of the King, whilst we admired their intricately mosaiced chambers. We visited a small bakery where the locals were preparing their Khobz, admired the beautiful pictures of old Marrakech at the photography museum, and visited a herbalist who taught us about the many uses of various native herbs and spices. 


Trailfinders recommends our Private Introduction to Marrakech tour.


 

a window in a palace in Marrakech

Afternoon & Evening


After spending the morning discovering hidden gems with your local guide, stop off at a traditional Moroccan restaurant to try some of the local delicacies. Enjoy the sugary mint tea, served in opulent silver teapots, or perhaps indulge in a flavourful kefta tagine presented to you in a hand painted clay pot. Slowly meander through the pink streets of the Medina in search of a lovely spot in a hidden riad to enjoy more traditional Moroccan cuisine, you might even find yourself lucky enough to witness a belly dance show during dinner! 


Trailfinders recommends our Tagine Cookery Class.


 

Moroccan mint tea with sweets

Day 2: Botany & Bustling Streets

Morning


Visit the iconic Jardin Majorelle, otherwise recognised as Yves Saint Laurent’s house. Make sure to book your ticket in advance as this does sell out and consider booking an early morning slot to try beat the crowds. Weave your way through the lush botanical garden, filled with exotic cacti and brightly coloured plant pots. See the strikingly bright blue art deco house and sit on a quiet bench to take in the calm surroundings.


Afterwards, why not retreat to your riad for some respite by the pool whilst the midday sun beats down, or continue discovering more beautiful gardens and roam around Le Jardin Secret. Concealed amongst the narrow lanes and unassuming souks, Le Jardin Secret comprises of two landscaped courtyards within one of the largest and most ancient riads in Marrakech.


 

Plants against a bright blue backdrop in Marrakech

Afternoon & Evening 


Spend your afternoon at the fascinating souks and haggle yourself some unique souvenirs, be it a hand-crafted leather bag, silk patterned scarf, clay tagine pot, or some gorgeous jewellery. This evening, engage in the lively charms of Djemaa el Fna Square, packed with captivating snake charmers, musical street vendors, and enchanting fortune tellers. Spend your evening at a local bar in the main square and enjoy an authentic experience with live music, perhaps paired with some local wine.


 

Moroccan style lighting in a shop in souks in Medina Marrakech

Day 3: Scenery & Serenity

Morning


Head off this morning with a private transfer to the Atlas Mountains, taking in the scenic valleys and foothills along the way. Just a short distance away from the hustle of Marrakech, you will reach the picturesque heart of the Atlas Mountains - North Africa’s highest mountain range. With your private guide explore remote Berber villages or take advantage of the speculator trekking opportunities, before enjoying a delicious lunch with panoramic views of Mount Toubkal.


Alternatively, enjoy a slow morning today before a deeper dive into Marrakech’s fascinating history and culture at Madrasa Ben Youssef or Dar Si Said Museum.


Trailfinders recommends our Private Atlas Mountains Tour.


 

High Atlas mountains of Morocco, a Berber village is perched on a steep hillside, with snowcapped Jbel Toubkal, the tallest mountain in North Africa

Afternoon & Evening


After a few days filled with exploration, enjoy a serene Hamman Spa. The tradition of the Hamman ritual offers an escape from the stresses of everyday life, where you are cleansed head to toe and left to relax in a humid steam room. Treat yourself to a soothing facial or massage to feel deeply rejuvenated, before heading out to enjoy a final North African sunset from one of Marrakech's many rooftop bars famed for their stylish décor.


 

Tourist watching over Jamaa el-Fna Market Marrakesh - Morocco

For more inspiration take a look at our Morocco Holidays pages.

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Written by Emilia Navato

Emilia is a Procurement Manager for Australia and the Pacific in our Kensington head office.

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