The ancient city of Marrakech captivates and delights visitors with its rich blend of Arab and Berber traditions, its striking geometric architecture and the winding mazes of its Medina. Once the capital of the Almoravid Empire, this city is a rich oasis on the edge of the Sahara Desert, where the streets are alive with the scents of exotic spices. This vibrant modern city still has a real sense of history and tradition.
The heart of Marrakech is the Medina, a medieval walled city with maze-like passages and bustling souks. Venture into its streets and find new and exciting things at every turn. This is a shopper’s paradise, with the open-air souks selling everything you could imagine for a memento of your trip, from clothes and accessories to spices, ceramics and carpets.
Hammams are a major part of Moroccan culture, with locals visiting at least once a week. These public steam baths are ideal for a weary traveller who wants the chance to relax. Lie back and soak in the steamy water or treat yourself to a traditional scrub for an authentic taste of the local lifestyle. You’ll find Westernised luxury spa-style hammams as well as simpler traditional ones here, divided into separate sections for men and women. Traditional treatments can be invigorating!
No visitor to Marrakech will leave hungry! From street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, there’s something to satisfy every budget. Tagines and couscous are some of the most famous treats on offer, while the truly adventurous traveller might dare to try snail soup or roast sheep’s head. Don’t worry if you’re not up to such exotic dishes. The local cuisine also includes a wide range of sweet pastries to satisfy any traveller.
Best time to travel
As a desert city, Marrakech has extremely different temperatures throughout the year. The most popular seasons to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is at its most pleasant. Be aware that most local holidays are based on the Islamic calendar, so the dates can change significantly. Shops often vary their opening hours during Ramadan, which starts in a different month each year, so it should be a consideration before your visit.
March – June
Spring is one of the most popular times to visit Marrakech. It is a particularly good time if you would like to explore the Sahara Desert or the Atlas Mountains, where wildflowers bloom in the springtime.
Weather
Rain is common in March and April. By the time May rolls around, the April showers dry up, and the days start to get warmer but still enjoyable. In April, temperatures see an average high of 25°C (77°F), which rises to 28°C (82°F) in May.
Events & parties
The spectacular Marrakech Biennial art festival takes place in the springtime every two years. This enormous celebration of art sees events and shows all around the city over several weeks from February to May.
Price evolution
Prices in early spring are still low, but they will slightly rise during April and May when the city’s weather is at its best. They could be significantly higher over the Easter holidays, as Marrakech is a popular springtime destination for families across Europe.
June – September
Summer in Marrakech is very hot, but for this reason the prices are lower. If you decide to go in summer, you will need to adjust your excursion schedule to the cooler hours. You will be able to explore the city in the evening, when temperatures are milder.
Weather
The weather is dry and hot in summer, with average highs of 37°C (98°F) in July and August. Even the daily minimum temperature is 20°C (68°F). Rain is very rare.
Events & parties
In June, takes place The Essaouira Gnaoua Festival a celebration of the music of Morocco and the rest of Africa. The streets fill up with brightly-dressed musicians performing traditional music in front of crowds of enthusiastic locals. Also in late June or early July, the National Festival of Popular Arts in Marrakech, a celebration of traditions that brings music and folklore to the streets of the city.
Price evolution
July is usually the cheapest time of year to visit Marrakech. This is the low season for tourists, making it a good choice if you’re on a tight budget. You’ll be able to find bargain prices for your accommodation, and you will find a much quieter city than usual. Many locals also try to escape the heat of the summer, heading for the coast instead. In August, prices increase slightly to coincide with the European holiday season.
September – December
As autumn begins, temperatures drop, and tourists return to Marrakech. This is a popular time to come to the city, particularly for visitors who want to explore the Sahara Desert. If you want to visit Marrakech in autumn, don’t miss out on the delicious fresh dates that are now in season.
Weather
Temperatures drop sharply between September, with a daily average high of 31°C (87°F), and November, at 22°C (71°F). Autumn nights can be chilly, so be sure to bring some warm clothes. In October and November, rainfall is common.
Events & parties
18 November, Moroccan Independence Day, is a grand celebration that sees street parades and a carnival atmosphere. There are an increasing number of music festivals held in the autumn, the most famous of which is September’s Oasis Fest.
Marrakech International Film Festival, in late November, is another large event. In addition to enjoying the cinematic atmosphere and the award ceremony, the Jemaa el-Fnaa square is also the venue for open-air screenings of a number of new films.
Price evolution
Autumn is second only to spring in terms of prices. Expect prices to be particularly higher during European holidays, which are common in the last two weeks of October. Visiting in November will give you lower prices but an increased chance of rain.
December – March
Many visitors come to Marrakech in search of winter sunshine, as winter here is milder than in Europe. Although Christmas is not a big event in this Muslim country, tourism still tends to rise over the festive season.
Weather
Cold nights characterise winter in Marrakech. January is the coldest month, with temperatures dropping to a daily average of 19°C (66°F). The sun is still shining brightly on most days, but nights are very chilly, so it’s best to take some warm clothing. Prepare for sporadic rain, but you will probably not see it every day.
Events & parties
The Marrakech Marathon in January is more than just a race, it’s a festival of sport and culture. The whole city gets involved in this huge event, which marks the highlight of the winter calendar.
Price evolution
Prices tend to jump sharply during the winter holidays as many visitors come to Marrakech to spend Christmas or New Year. Otherwise, you can often find a bargain if you’d like to visit Marrakech in winter, with prices generally low during January and February.
How to get from the airport
Just 9 kilometres (5.6 miles) from downtown Marrakech, Menara Airport is well-connected. Be sure to pick up some dirham, the local currency, at the airport if you haven’t done so already. Many businesses in Marrakech will only accept cash.