Hidden Gems in Marrakesh: Unique Places to Explore

Marrakesh, Morocco, is a city full of vibrant culture, rich history, and breathtaking scenery. I recently had the pleasure of traveling to Marrakesh to photograph my friend’s 30th birthday celebration, and it was an unforgettable experience. I truly can not comprehend how lucky and grateful I was to share such a big week for such a wonderful human and her friends. If you’re looking for a perfectly curated trip to Marrakesh filled with stunning riads, delicious cuisine, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, this detailed itinerary (completely handmade by the one and only Corie Fay herself) is for you!

Where to Stay in Marrakesh, Morocco | Best Riads in Marrakesh

Marrakesh is home to stunning riads and luxurious accommodations. Here are some of the best options:

• Le Riad Yasmine – Boutique, cozy, and Instagram-famous, featuring a beautiful emerald-tiled pool in the courtyard. The team went above and beyond for us all week and we loved staying here. This place earned a spot on my top 8 favorite hotels around the world!
• El Fenn – A luxurious, artsy stay with a stunning rooftop and stylish decor.
• Petit Riad Yasmine – A more intimate and equally beautiful version of the famous Le Riad Yasmine right next door!
• Scarabeo Desert Camp – A unique desert glamping experience for those looking to escape the city’s hustle.
• La Sultana – A five-star luxury riad with a beautiful courtyard and opulent spa.
• Riad Azzar – An elegant and serene stay with stunning Moroccan architecture.
• Riad Nyla – A hidden gem offering modern comfort with traditional Moroccan charm.
• The Oberoi, Marrakech – A lavish resort with impeccable service and breathtaking gardens.

Where to Eat in Marrakesh, Morocco | Best Restaurants in Marrakesh

Marrakesh offers an incredible food scene filled with rich Moroccan flavors and international twists. Here are some must-visit spots:

• Nomad – Modern Moroccan cuisine with an incredible rooftop view. Try the spiced cauliflower and turmeric-roasted carrots.
• L’Mida – A vibrant ambiance with dishes like saffron chicken and pomegranate salad. Definitely the best food of the trip!! Do not miss out on this place.
• La Trattoria – A romantic blend of Moroccan and Italian flavors in a candlelit setting. We had the back room reserved for our group and spent almost 3 hours enjoying some of the best pasta I’ve ever had.
• Le Jardin Marrakesh – Nestled in a leafy courtyard, offering flavorful meat and vegetable tagines and fresh juices. It was the perfect lunch spot and not too busy!
• Dardar Rooftop – A chic spot for dinner with panoramic views and spiced kefta. A beautiful sunset too!
• Bacha Coffee – A must for coffee lovers, offering a vast selection of unique brews. It takes a while to get a table here, but it’s super cute and the coffee selection to bring home is chefs kiss. About $40 a bag just to plan!
• Rivayat at The Oberoi – A Michelin-starred Indian restaurant offering an elevated dining experience with exquisite flavors. We totally indulged here and took a stroll around the beautiful grounds.

Fun Activities in Marrakesh, Morocco | Best Things to do in Marrakesh, Morocco

There is no shortage of exciting things to do in Marrakesh, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration. Ethical Tourism: Avoid supporting street performances involving animals, as they often exploit them for profit.

Explore the Souks

Wander through the bustling markets of the Medina, where you can find handmade rugs, leather goods, brass lanterns, and Moroccan tea sets. Pro tip: Haggling is expected! Start at half the asking price and negotiate with a smile. Always remember that photography at souks can be a hit or miss and sometimes can be considered offensive. Always ask prior to photographing, especially if you’re planning to capture a local in your image. If shopkeepers are persistent, a polite way to refuse is by saying “La Shukran,” which means “No, thank you” in Arabic.

Visit Historic Palaces & Museums

• Le Jardin Secret – A peaceful oasis in the middle of the Medina with stunning Islamic architecture.
• Bahia Palace – A 19th-century palace with vibrant mosaics and stained glass windows.
• Badi Palace – Once adorned with gold and precious stones, now a beautiful ruin with undeniable charm.
• Le Jardin Majorelle – Once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, featuring exotic plants and striking cobalt blue walls.
• Saadian Tombs – A historic burial site dating back to the 16th century, known for its intricate tilework.
• YSL Museum – A tribute to the legendary designer, showcasing his work and influence in Morocco.
• Dar Si Said – A museum of Moroccan arts and crafts housed in a stunning palace.
• Museum of Perfume – An immersive experience into the world of Moroccan fragrances.

Experience a Hammam Spa

A traditional Moroccan spa experience is a must. Enjoy a full-body scrub, steam bath, and massage at a luxury hammam like
La Mamounia for ultimate relaxation, or save a few bucks and opt for a more affordable option at Maison Arabe.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Floating over the desert at sunrise is a magical experience, with stunning views as the landscape shifts from deep blue to golden orange. There are many companies that offer this tour, but we went with Adventure Balloon Marrakech.

Enjoy Rooftop Sunsets & Cocktails

• El Fenn Rooftop – Perfect for sunset cocktails with a panoramic view of the Koutoubia Mosque. The service for a big group here was a little slow but they really did the best they could and we loved the atmosphere! Drinks were unique and delicious – 10/10 espresso martini!
• Dardar Rooftop – Ideal for evening drinks and delicious Moroccan bites, it was one of our most loved restaurants of the week!

Go on a Desert Adventure

For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Agafay Desert:

• Scarabeo Desert Camp – A luxury glamping experience in the dunes.
• ATV Rides – Race across the desert and take in the stunning sunset views.

All Desert Adventure Images by Jimmie Lin

Final Thoughts

Marrakesh is a city of sensory overload in the best way possible. From wandering through the souks and admiring intricate architecture to sipping mint tea in a riad and exploring the vast desert, every moment felt like a dream. If you’re planning a Marrakesh, Morocco trip and need the perfect itinerary, get ready for an adventure that will stay with you forever!

Check out the INSANE vlog from Jimmie Lin of our week in this beautiful place!