City guides / Marrakesh
Marrakesh travel guide
A walled medina, riad courtyards and the Atlas an hour away.
Marrakesh-Safi, Morocco · Local currency USD · Time zone Africa/Casablanca
Best time to visit Marrakesh
Flights and hotels are cheapest in July, August. Expect to pay the most in April, May, October, December.
Mild weather, typically no major events.
Still quite pleasant, no significant tourism spikes.
Spring begins, with mild temperatures.
Perfect weather attracts more tourists.
Beginning of festival season, increased visitors.
Warm temperatures, less crowded than peak months.
Hot summer days lead to a drop in tourists.
Peak summer heat, many locals vacate for cooler areas.
Temperatures start to moderate, gradual return of tourists.
Weather is perfect again; festivals start.
Seasonal transitions, generally nice weather.
Holiday season attracts increased tourism.
Getting around Marrakesh
Public transport
Public transport includes buses and a limited number of taxis; while taxis are frequent, they may not always be punctual. Payments are typically made in cash.
Driving and parking (8/10 difficulty)
Parking can be challenging in the Medina; it's advisable to use public parking lots outside the city center and explore on foot.
How locals get around
Locals often walk or use bicycles within the Medina; be mindful of pedestrians and donkeys, which are common. When using taxis, it's courteous to negotiate the fare before getting in.
Local customs in Marrakesh
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated and generally expected; rounding up the bill or leaving 10% is common in restaurants.
What to wear
Visitors should dress modestly, especially at religious sites like the Koutoubia Mosque; women may want to wear long skirts or trousers, while men should avoid shorts.
Cards and cash
While credit cards are accepted in many places, cash (Moroccan Dirhams) is often preferred, especially in markets; it's advisable to carry small denominations for tips and small purchases.
Phrases worth knowing
- Shukran
- — Thank you; use when someone provides a service.
- Salam Alaikum
- — Peace be upon you; a common greeting.
- B'keir, alhamdulillah
- — Great, thank God; reply when asked how you are.
- Mafi mushkil
- — No problem; use to address someone’s concern politely.
- Choukran bzaf
- — Thank you very much; use for expressing more gratitude.
Plan a Marrakesh trip in a couple of minutes
Journi builds a day-by-day Marrakesh itinerary around how you travel — stays, food near each day's activities, hidden gems and a packing list, with costs as you go.
Plan a trip to Marrakesh