Local’s Amazing One Day in Marrakech Itinerary for 2024

Planning a quick one day in Marrakech itinerary? If so then you have come to the right place. 

I live in Essaouira and have visited Marrakech many times since this vibrant city is a short bus ride away. 

I love exploring the souks of the old Medina, hearing the call to prayer echo through the air, and relaxing poolside in an enchanting Moroccan riad. 

Sadly, 1 day in Marrakech is not enough time you see everything. 

But, if you plan your day in Marrakech well, you can experience many of the best things to do since the Medina is compact and easy to walk through. 

Just use this guide to 24 hours in Marrakech to get an overall feel for the city. Then, make a list of all the things you’ll want to do when you return. 

However, the Medina can be hard to navigate and all of the alleys can be confusing. So, use your GPS or download an offline map to find things. 

Also keep a lookout for small signs to Jemaa el-Fnaa. They are there but sometimes you miss them because they aren’t super obvious. 

Just ignore anyone who tries to help you find what you’re looking for. Some people are super nice, but many people in the Medina are just trying to get paid for taking you somewhere. 

Sometimes they will lead you on a wild goose chase through the Medina and then demand an outrageous amount of money. 

If anyone wants to show you where to go, just say no thank you and stick to your map. 

Other than that, the city is super safe and you can just relax and enjoy an amazing one day in Marrakech itinerary.

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Start Your Day At Jardin Marjorelle

Marrkech, and most of Morocco, do not get up early. So, I wouldn’t plan to start your day much before 8:00 am or 9:00 am since nothing will be open. Just be sure to grab an epic breakfast in Marrakech since this will be a long day.

Now your first stop during this one day in Marrkech is a gorgeous one. It’s filled with vibrant buildings and beautiful plant life that is stunning to behold. 

Just be sure to get up early and arrive right when they open at 8:30 am to avoid a long line. It’s also a bit outside the medina. So, walking will take around 30 minutes. Otherwise, you can try taking Bus 12 from Bab Doukkala.

Once you pay for your ticket, be sure to wander through the gardens and take lots of photos of the blue stunning villa. It was actually the home of the creator, Jacques Majorelle.

Just be aware that you have two ticket options. A visit to the garden only costs 70 Moroccan dirhams (l$7), while a visit to the garden and museum cost 100 dirhams ($10). I have been to both and the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Art was nice but not amazing. 

Definitely go and learn a bit about Berber culture and history. But, if you’re on a budget you can skip it since it isn’t super big. 

In total, will take you maybe an hour. Afterward, check out the next attraction on our list. 

Visit The Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Even if you’re not super into fashion, the Yxes Saint Laurent Museum is worth a visit. It does an excellent job of exploring the life and designs of iconic fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent.

Also, why not visit during your 24 hours in Marrkech since it is literally right down the street? 

See, this iconic French designer loved Marrakech so much that he actually purchased Jardin Majorelle in 1980 and made it is house. Crazy right? Talke about a baller. 

Anyway, the Musée Yves Saint Laurent is now dedicated to Yves’s impact on couture fashion and features a collection of his clothes that are from his 40+ year career. 

What I love about this museum is that you’ll get to see exquisite examples of his work, learn about his inspiration, and watch films about his life.

It’s not a huge museum but worth it IMHO. Therefore, it should take you about an hour to visit. The building is also modern and chic, with a cafe, bookstore, and library. 

Dar El Bacha Museum

It’s going to be a bit of a walk to our next stop. It will take about 30 minutes on foot or you can take the bus (just pay for a ticket in cash when you board). 

I would NOT take a taxi since they are notorious for ripping people off. 

Now, so far we have seen a ton of modern architecture during our 24 hours in Marrakech. So, why not see something a bit more historic? 

Well, that’s where Dar El Bacha Museum and coffee comes in. The cool thing about this place is that the museum is actually home to a STUNNING coffee shop that you can only visit if you go INSIDE the museum. 

So, upon arrival, you can pay to access the coffee shop alone or to visit the museum as well. I recommend getting a ticket for the museum since it’s a former governor’s palace and was home to the notorious Thami El Glaoui. 

Enjoy lots of stunning architecture and an impressive archaeological collection that is brought to you by American Patty Birch. It’s a great place to learn about how eastern and western culture intertwine with one another. 

Just be aware that this spot does not open before 10:00 am. So, don’t get here too early. But if you start at 8:00 am then you will probably arrive around 11:00 am.

Bacha Coffee

I would basically grab your ticket to the museum, head right to the back (you’ll see an amazing outdoor courtyard), and put your name down for a table at one of the prettiest coffee shops in Marrakech.

While you wait for a table, explore the museum and marvel at all the exquisite tilework, cedar ceilings, and stunning floral designs. 

Depending on the time of year, wait times for a table can be anywhere between a few minutes to over an hour. I promise the wait is worth it since this is one of the most stunning cafes that I have ever been to. 

Aside from the decor, the coffee and croissants are amazing. First of all, they give you a giant textbook filled with coffee options. Definitely ask for help when ordering and they will bring out a giant kettle full of coffee. 

You’ll also get fresh whipped cream and grated vanilla that you can add to your coffee. 

I also love getting a croissant with my coffee since the almond croissant is amazing. However, you get two croissants per order, so be sure to try two different flavors. 

I have also had the eggs but they were just okay. All in all, this is a great place to relax and soak up the atmosphere. The service is amazing and you will really just love sitting here. 

Plus, it is pretty affordable as far as Marrakech brunch options go. I thought it was gonna be super expensive given the ambiance and level of service. But, I think most people will be surprised by how affordable this coffee shop is. 

Explore The Souks

Upon leaving the museum, I would put the name of our next destination ( Bab Agnaou Gate) into your GPS and explore the souks on the way to save you time. 

See, the Medina is a giant maze of souks, or shops, that sell everything from lanterns to tagines to clothes. 

It is quite literally a giant labyrinth and you could easily get lost in here for hours looking at all the spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. 

Personally, I would buy souvenirs in a smaller city, like Essoaria, The prices are cheaper and the quality is better. 

In fact, I bought a scarf in Essoaire and someone loved the quality so much that they tried to buy it from me in Fes! Yeah, he just approached me on the street and was like, “Hey, can I buy your scarf?”

Wander through the souks and just soak up the atmosphere. They vendors tend to be a bit aggressive but ignore tham and keep walking if you don’t want something. 

I would also not buy antiques unless you know what you’re talking about because most are expensive and not genuine. 

I would only purchase bags/shoes/leather goods in Fes since this is what that city is known for. 

Otherwise, just explore the souks and enjoy the feel of 1 day in Marrkech. Also be sure to haggle. I usually start at 50% of what they ask for and go up from there since vendors usually charge tourists a much higher price. 

Additionally, bring cash since most shop owners won’t accept card. You’ll also may want to withdraw the cash you need in Marrakech since bigger cities have higher winthdrawl limits at ATMS. 

Also, be sure to carry cash at all times since the only places that accept cards are hotels/bi restaurants in major cities. 

In particular, Souk Semmarine is like the main street of the souks. It’s filled with lanterns, homemade  leatherwork carpets, and more. You can visit the Rahba Kedima (the spice market) and souk Haddadine (blacksmiths alley) from here. 

I would explore the area for one to two hours. It really just depends on how much you like shopping. Personally, I recommend getting some Andy Wahloo souk wear. 

The brand has an Andy Warhol, pop art vibe but is very Moroccon. I got a cool sweatshirt from a local store that I still love it. 

Local Tip: If you visit on a Friday the souks will be a lot less lively and many shops will be closed. That’s because Friday is a holy day for Muslims and many shop owners will be at the mosque. 

Visit Le Jardin Secret Or The House Of Photography (Optional)

If you’re not into shopping or don’t want to spend a ton of time wandering through the souks, then I have two great options for you. 

Both are well-located in the Medina and are pretty easy to get to. So, if you like museums then stop by the House of Photography. 

It’s a historic three-floor riad that was transformed into a museum filled with old Morocan photographs from anywhere between 1870 and 1950.

They were collected by Patrick Menac’h and Marrakshi Hamid Mergani and are a great wait to see the evolution of Marrakech over time. You can also head to the cafe on the roof and enjoy views of the city. 

Additionally, Le Jardin Secret is another great place to visit if you like gardens. 

It’s tucked away in the Medina and is an ornate palace and garden that dates back more than 400 years to the Saadian Dynasty. 

It was rebuilt in the mid-Nineteenth century and features a lot of traditional Moroccan architecture that is perfectly complemented by a well-maintained garden. 

Try Some Moroccan Food And Mint Tea (Optional)

If you’re hungry and  shopping isn’t your thing, you can head to any local shop and grab a pot of mint tea and a Moroccan pancake. 

Known as m’smen, they are kind of like a fried tortilla and made with semolina flour. They are super good and my partner’s mom makes them and they are incredible. 

They are served with honey, spreadable cheese, spreadable chocolate, and amlou (almond butter). It really just depends on what you like. We usually eat it with cheese and amlou. 

We just spread the cheese on top of the pancake, roll it up like a burrito, and gobble it up. It’s simple street food and will be very cheap and so good. 

Harcha is also great and is a small, round corn cake that is served with jam and spreadable cheese. It is a little like cornbread and is also really nice.  

Other foods you’ll want to try in Morocco are dates (a darker color means that are ripe and sweet), harira (a delicious vegetarian soup made with lentils and chickpeas and served with dates on the side), and tagine (vegetables and meat steamed in tagine and served with a flavorful broth on the bottom).

When eating tagine, dip your bread in the broth and eat with your hands like a real Moroccan. You can use the bread to grab the meat/veggies so your hands don’t get dirty. 

However, my fave is the Berber Omlet. It is kind of like Shakshuka but better IMHO. It is made with eggs and tomato. Definitely order it here since it is not as common in the north. 

Take Some Photos With Bab Agnaou Gate

This is basically a local landmark and a giant Marrakech landmark. So, your visit shouldn’t take a ton of time. Take maybe 15 minutes to take some photosand marvel at the main entrance to the other side of the Medina. 

It was constructed out of stone between 1188-1190 and is very impressive. 

It is also worth checking out since it is right down the street from the next stop on this 1 day in Marrakech itinerary, Moulay El Yazid Mosque.

Grab Some Photos Of Moulay El Yazid Mosque

This is another quick stop during our 24 hours in Marrakech since you can’t actually go inside. 

The interior is only open to Muslims so this is another photo op. It’s stunning and a great example of Moroccan architecture with green tiles laced around a giant tower. 

Visit The Saadian Tombs

Located right next door to the mosque, the Saadian Tombs are built atop a necropolis. It was once a cemetery that was transformed into a tomb by Saadian Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Ed Dahbi in the 16th century. 

Grab your ticket for around 60 Moroccan Dirham ($6.00) and explore the two musoleums housing  tombs filled with Italian marble, gold plasterwork, and geometric tombs. 

The architecture is super impressive and well worth exploring. Just keep an eye on the time when exploiting the souks since this place closes at 4:00 pm. It’s also relatively small and should take less then an hour to visit. Definitely something that should be on your one day in Marrakech itinerary.

Bahia Palace

Av⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5 (147 Reviews) Price: $20 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: In front of the Hôtel Restaurant Café de France Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Baldi Palace is closer and if you’re running out of time definitely visit this spot instead since both palaces close at 5:00 pm. 

Baldi is a bit smaller and will take you less time to explore. Plus, it’s closer and a better option if you’re running out of time. 

However, if you have time and energy then walk 15 minutes to Bahia Palace and grab tickets for 70 Moroccan Dirham each ($7.00).

“The tour was really exceptional. Medhi the guide took us through the Medina in the tiny streets. He explained us the history of the places and the origins of the events. You feel like hearing a story told by a special character! At the end he proposed ti take a mint tea at the Jewish area renown the fine spices. This generosity is very rare! Many thanks Medhi. Jocelyne and Mario”

Jocelyne (read more reviews now!)

I would arrive no later than 4:00 pm so that you have enough time to explore the complex during your one day in Marrakech itinerary. 

Again, it’s all about the architecture here and the stunning mosaics. I know it looks rather lame from the outside but the magic happens once you step inside and see the exquisite architecture and the incredible gardens. 

This spot was constructed during the 19th century with the sole goal of the being the best palace ever since the name actually means “Brillance” in English. 

Just wander through the complex and enjoy your time here. Be sure to sit down because we’re gonna head back through the Medina towards the main square. 

Visit Koutoubia Mosque And The Surrounding Gardens

Walk for around seventeen minutes to this massive, 253 foot tall (77 meters) mosque. It is the largest mosque in the city and was founded in 1147. 

Like with Moulay el Yazid Mosque, you can only go inside if you are Muslin. However, this mosque is an iconic landmark and is well worth visiting and adding to your one day in Marrakech itinerary.

I also love that there are a series of gardens that surround the mosque. So, be sure to check those out and relax a bit before heading to Jemaa el-Fna Square right across the state. 

Jemaa el-Fna Square

I intentionally saved this square for the end of the day of this one day in Marrakech itinerary. This is since it really comes alive at night.

You’ll see a wide variety of vendors selling juice, a huge array of plants (that’s where the toilet is), and men standing with cobras waiting to take a photo with you (for a fee). 

Because Marrakech is so hot (45°C + in the summer) people come out at night when its cooler. 

They play music, do a bit of shopping, and grab a coffee at one of the restaurants along the perimeter of the square. 

One of my favorite things to do at night is to head to the roof of one of the surrounding restaurants and watch all the people walk through the square below me. 

It’s great at night since the area lights up and you can see the entire square beneath you. 

I go to L’Adresse Cafe and Restaurant since you can grab a seat on the outdoor terrace that looks right out into the square. 

You might have to wait for a seat at one of these coveted tables since a lot of people have the same idea. 

Dinner At Le Jardin Marrakech

Treat yourself to a lovely dinner (or lunch in Marrakech) at Le Jardin Marrkech. Not only is the food delish, but the tables in this restaurant are surrounding by plants. 

So, you feel like you are eating in this exquisite oasis that sits right in the center of the medina. The floor is also filled with stunning green tiles and light streams in through the open ceiling. 

The service is also great and the prices are about 100 Moroccan Dirham ($10.00) for an entree. 

I ordered the tagine chakchouka with eggs which was great. It was kind of like a Berber Omlet but you can’t go wrong with anything listed on the menu. 

Definitely try one of their Moroccan specialties like the couscous or other tajines. Something that I highly recommend doing during your one day in Marrakech. It’s also a great place to eat in Marrakech for vegetarians.

Relax At The Hammam (Optional)

No trip to Morocco would be complete without a stop at an authentic Moroccan hammam in Marrakech. I saved this experience for last since Hammams can be open until semi-late in the day. . 

Now, if you had an early dinner at Le Jardin Marrakech, then you can do a quick walk to Les Bains de Marrakech Morocco. 

It’s a high-end spa/hammam where you can enjoy a private experience until 8:00 pm in the evening. If this is something you want to do then make a reservation and plan your day around this experience. 

Basically, you’ll take your clothes off, sit on a tile table naked, and have water water poured on top of you. 

You’ll then be bathed and scrubbed from head to toe so that all the dead skin on your body can be removed. Depending on the service you opt for, you can also enjoy a massage, a facial, and more. They have a large menu so just choose what you want. 

Just be aware that this is not an authentic, local hamman. Most locals go to public hammams where they bathe and scrub down with lots of other people. These are also much cheaper since you are bathing with a lot of other people. 

If you want a more authentic local experience then ask your hotel about where to go since I only visited the private hammam. 

Local Tip: If you plan to go to other cities in Morocco then maybe save the hamman for later. I know the hammams were much cheaper in Essaouira and I enjoyed the experience more. 

Additionally, if you plan to go to Fes then I would wait to visit the Hamman until then. If you start in Marrakech by the time you get to Fes you’ll definitely want to relax.

Best Time To Visit Marrakech

The best time to visit Marrakech is from March to May or October in Marrakech to November in Marrakech. This is when the crowds are minimal and when the weather is warm but not next-level hot. 

Yeah, Marrakech is an absolute nightmare in the summer, even in September in Marrakech. It’s hot AF (45°C+) and packed with people. If you do visit in the summer, try and book a riad with a pool. 

I prefer visiting in the winter, like December in Marrakech, when it is cooler. Just check to make sure your hotel has heat since it is not standard in Morocco. 

However, a visit during the winter means it will be cold. In fact, most of the people I traveled with grossly underestimated how cold Marrakech is in the winter, especially at night. 

So, bundle up and packs lots of layers/warm clothes, especially since the climate varies A LOT throughout the country. Make sure you pay particular attention to this when planning your one day in Marrakech itinerary.

Best Way To Get Around Marrakech

The best way to navigate the city is to walk. It’s very walkable and most of the top attractions in Marrakech are well-located near one another. 

Plus, walking allows you to explore the souks and enjoy the vibe of the city. 

However, if you can’t walk then I would skip the taxi. They charge an insane amount and are always trying to scam tourists. 

If you do take a taxi, check with your hotel first to see how much the ride should cost. 

Otherwise, take the bus. Most buses have a stop near Jemaa el-Fna Square which will be close to you if you stay in the medina. Just ask someone about the bus you need and they’ll help you. 

If they don’t speak English use Google translate and have cash handy since you’ll need it to buy a ticket onboard. 

Moroccans are super nice and helpful and will be happy to point you in the right direction. 

Arriving In Marrakech

If you are visiting Marrakech then most people will arrive by bus, train, or plane. I don’t think you need a car since the buses are cheap and well outfitted in Morocco. 

I usually take them any time I have to go somewhere and have had zero problems. They are also safe and comfy and you can reserve tickets online.  

• If you arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) then it is easy to get to the medina. Just head to the taxi stand on your right as you’re exiting the airport and you will pay around 70 Dirham ($7.00) for a taxi. I would only use the stand since taxi drivers will charge you more if you go directly to them. You can also take the bus ($3.00 and around 30 minutes). However, the taxi will be easier and faster. Many taxis will also not be able to drop you off right at your hotel since many hotels in the medina are only accessible on foot. You can also take bus number 19 to the Medina. Tickets are 30 Dirham ($3.00) round trip and the is to the right just outside airport arrivals.

• If you arrive by train or via a Supratours bus then you can take a taxi or bus to the medina. The two stations are next to each other and a taxi should cost 20 to 30 Dirham ($2.00 to $3.00). But, taxis will try to scam you so you can walk across the street and catch a bus into the city for 5 Dirham ($0.50). Honestly, the bus is just easier than dealing with a taxi. 

Local Tip: There are many bus companies in Morocco but my two faves are CTM and Supratours. The Supratours station is well-located near the train station. So, I would try and take a Supratours bus into the city. 

CTM is also another great bus company. They have a station in Marrakech but I honestly forget where it is exactly since it’s not near any big landmarks. Buses are a cheap, safe, and comfy way to get around Morocco if the train is not available. 

Where To Stay In Marrakech

The Central House (budget)

⭐️ Rating: 9/10 (1,084 Reviews) Price: $25 per night 📍Location: Amssafah 32, Quartier Assouel. 40000. Medina. Marrakech. , Medina, Marrakesh Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This hostel in Marrakech feels more like a boutique hotel and has dorm rooms as well as private rooms. All dorm beds come with cushy blankets/pillows, private curtains, lights, lockers, and outlets. 

They also have a pool, breakfast (for an additional fee), and an amazing rooftop terrace that is a great place to hang out. 

 “Central House is really beautiful and so close to the suk and to many restaurants. The staff always nice and helpful, Mrs Ilham was brilliant and so kind, I wish I could find others like her! 👏👏👏”

Monia (read more reviews now!)

The pool is tiny but the staff are great and the hostel is well-located in the medina, making it a great home base for your one day in Marrakech itinerary. I’ve stayed here twice and would come back again. 

Riad Palais Sebban (Mid-range)

⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10 (1,736 Reviews) Price: $163 per night 📍Location: 43, Derb Moulay Abdellah Ben Hssein Laksour, Medina, Marrakesh Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Located inside a former palace from the 18th-century, this riad features a stunning tile filed courtyard and is well-located near the main square. 

“Absolutely outstanding! My wife and I stayed at Palais Sebban for a week and were completely taken aback not only by the sheer beauty (well documented in the reviews) of the Riad itself but also the friendliness and kindness of every staff member working here. We’ve travelled around the world and have never experienced the kind of hospitality shown to us by Palais Sebban. From the first minute you enter the Riad, you know that you are somewhere special.”

Stephen (read more reviews now!)

There’s also a spa/hammam on-site as well as a cozy restaurant and colorful rooms with private balconies. It’s plush but you won’t blow your entire budget on a room at one of the most affordable riads in Marrakech.

La Sultana (Luxury)

⭐️ Rating: 9.4/10 ( Reviews) Price: $591 per night 📍Location: 403 Rue de La Kasbah, Kasbah, Marrakech Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This five-star hotel is a great place to stay if you want to relax in an authentic Moroccan riad but love the modern amenities of a high-end resort. If you have just one day in Marrakech it is well worth the splurge.

““Absolutely beautiful hotel , great location, our stay was truly memorable. Walking within the Riads of the hotel offered a true holistic sense of Moroccan culture. Breakfast setting is quite traditional, exceptional service from the entire team, a special thanks to Isa and the team at the restaurant, and Admin our bellman who gave us a warm smile upon our arrival and every following day that we came in quite tired from our excursions welcomed and assisted us. Excellent, many thanks to all the staff!!”

Gina (read more reviews now!)

Highlights include a spacious sundeck and a heated outdoor pool, as well as a lovely on-site restaurant. The property is also ae located near the Saadian Tombs, so you’ll have to walk about 15 minutes to get to the main square.

Therefore, it’s a real contender for one of the best riads in Marrakech with a pool and one of the most luxurious riads in Marrakech.

One Day in Marrakech Itinerary FAQs

Is One Day Enough For Marrakech?

No, one day is not enough in Marrakech since there are so many amazing things to do in the city. 

However, 24 hours in Marrakech is enough to get a feel for the city and see many of the major highlights. 

One day in Marrakech is also doable since the medina is small, the city is walkable, and many attractions are located near one another. But ideally I would spend 2 or 3 days in Marrakech.

Is Marrakech Very Touristy?

Yes, Marrakech is very touristy. Stop by during the summer and there will be hordes of tourists everywhere since anyone who visits Morocco usually stops by Marrakech. 

However, some amazing hidden gems in Marrakech will get you away from the tourists and that will allow you to experience the city like a local. 

Just be sure you know how to dress in Marrakech and what to pack for Morocco before you visit.

Is Marrakech New Town Worth Visiting?

If you’re short on time then I would skip the New Town area since it looks like any other modern city. Yes, there are cool things to do there but most people come to Marrakech to experience the old-world charm and Moroccan vibes of the Medina. 

However, if you have been in Morocco awhile and have seen like 20 medinas then head to New Town.

It has great coffee shops, lovely parks, and a variety of global restaurants where you can eat if you need a break from Moroccan food. Its something a tad different to consider during your one day in Marrakech.

Why Is Marrakech So Popular?

Marrakech is popular because the medina oozes old-school Moroccan vibes that are new and exciting to most visitors. 

The city is also rich in history and culture since it dates all the way back to the 11th century. You can experience this history at Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the Saadian Tombs.

Just understand what you shouldn’t wear in Marrakech before you visit.

That wraps up this guide to a fun-filled one day in Marrakech. 

Did your picks for the best things to do in Marrakech make the list? If not then let me know. 

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