How to Plan the Perfect 48 Hours in Marrakesh

Marrakesh is one of Morocco's most popular destinations, welcoming travelers with its lively atmosphere, vibrant culture, and labyrinthine souks. Although it has a lot for visitors to experience, Marrakesh also makes for an ideal weekend away or a two-day stop on a longer Morocco itinerary. If your time is limited, there are several things to consider when planning your trip, including where to stay, what to do, and where to eat. Each person's perfect 48 hours will vary, but consider this a good starting point when creating your ideal itinerary. 

Where to Stay in Marrakesh

Most travelers tend to book a stay at a riad (a traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden or courtyard) or one of the city's many luxury hotels. Marrakesh is home to dozens of colorful boutique riads, which often surround a swimming pool. Riad Melhoun & Spa, located near Bahia Palace, offers a relaxed, classic feel, while El Fenn pairs Moroccan style with a sense of effortless cool. Select your riad based on location, amenities, and budget — many are surprisingly affordable. 

Those who prefer a hotel will find a vast array of options, from the ornate, historic La Mamounia, to the sumptuously beautiful Royal Mansour Marrakech, which is worth the splurge for a special occasion. Unlike the centrally located riads, Marrakesh's hotels tend to be more spread out, which is something to consider when planning a trip. While things may not look far on the map, the intense traffic can make transportation slow. If you prefer to walk from place to place, a riad in the medina might be a better choice. 

What to Do in Marrakesh

There is so much to see and do in and around Marrakesh, which can be overwhelming. If your trip is short, plan two days' worth of highlights (and then schedule a return trip to see everything else).

Known for its mosaic tile, Bahia Palace, built in the 19th century, welcomes visitors daily. Start your first day in Marrakesh with a tour of the palace and its grounds before heading to the nearby Dar Si Said Museum, which exhibits both historical and contemporary Moroccan objects. The museum itself is set in a mansion and gives first-time visitors a taste of Marrakesh's vast culture and history. In the afternoon, venture into the medina. Here, you'll find one of Marrakesh's famous souks, the Souk Semmarine, which twists and turns through narrow streets filled with vendors. 

No visit is complete without a stroll through the Jardin Majorelle, an Instagram-worthy botanic garden attached to the and adjacent to the . Start your second day with a visit to the garden and/or the museums before doing a little shopping at the outdoor mall, , or back in the souk. If rushing around the city is wearing you out, fear not: Marrakesh is known for its many hammams. Slow things down with a treatment or two at the expansive , or try a traditional hammam experience at the .