Best 2 Days in Marrakech Itinerary: What to Do in 48 Hours
Visiting the beautiful city of Marrakech and need to start coordinating your trip? This post has everything you need to plan the perfect 2-day Marrakech itinerary.
Marrakech is a magical city. Bursting with color and energy, the Morrocan city is incredibly captivating. Full of beautiful architecture, bustling markets, and delicious smells, Marrakech will be sure to ignite every one of your senses.
Its vitality has always enticed me, so when I pulled up Google flights and the ticket from Madrid to Marrakech was a steal for only $80, I knew I had to go.
With only two days in Marrakech, we knew we had to make the most of it. So get ready for a jam-packed itinerary filled with adventure!
This post is all about planning the best 2-day Marrakech itinerary.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE GOING
Before embarking on your trip, it’s helpful to familiarize yourself with some essential information about the city. These notes will help you prepare and know what to expect! Here are a few things to know before you go.
#1. The primary languages spoken are Arabic and Berber, but many locals speak English.
We found it quite easy to navigate the city, but had Google Translate downloaded just in case!
#2. Make sure to have cash – the local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
While some hotels and larger establishments accept cards, cash is still most commonly used around Marrakech – especially for the souks and local markets.
#3. Pickpocketing can be common so keep your valuables close.
Be vigilant about your belongings in crowded areas like souks or tourist attractions. Only bring what you need – I brought enough cash for the day and left the rest in our hostel.
#4. Dress conservatively and cover your shoulders/knees.
Morocco has a predominantly Muslim population, so its culture and customs are heavily influenced by Islam. As a visitor, make sure to dress modestly out of respect for the locals. If you plan on visiting any religious sites, do research on the dress code prior to your trip.
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#5. Catcalling can be common for female tourists.
As two girls that looked nothing like the local population, we stuck out like a sore thumb. While we did experience quite a bit of catcalling, we never felt unsafe or threatened. You’ll quickly learn to ignore it and move on. Dressing modestly to blend in and traveling with others can help minimize unwanted attention.
STAYING IN MARRAKECH
Being the budget-savvy college students we were, my friend and I opted to book a double room at the Earth Hostel for around $15 a night per person. For the price and its location in the city center, it was well worth it! Our room was super comfy and the shared bathrooms were clean.
In addition, the staff was stellar. When we arrived, we were warmly welcomed with fresh orange juice and Morrocan mint tea. They also helped arrange a taxi for us to take to the airport the morning we were leaving. Highly recommend this stay if you’re looking for something affordable and don’t mind going without your own bathroom! Hostels are also a great way to meet new travelers if you’re going alone.
GETTING AROUND MARRAKECH
Marrakech is a super compact and walkable city, with many things to see and do on foot! The city center is a maze of narrow alleys that can get crowded, so bring a pair of comfortable, closed-toed walking shoes. Your feet will thank you (mine definitely did not, since I chose to wear sandals our first day).
However, if you need to travel a bit further, calling a taxi is your best bet. Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft aren’t available in Marrakech. Taxis in Marrakech are also known to upcharge travelers with various tactics (read about the classic taxi scams here), so just make sure to keep your wits about you! To avoid the fuss of hailing one and potentially getting ripped off, we only took taxis to and from the airport.
DAY 1 MARRAKECH ITINERARY
Plan to explore the city and familiarize yourself with Morroco for the first day of your Marrakech itinerary. Get acquainted with the lively Morrocan culture! Here are some of the best things to do on your first day exploring Marrakech.
#1. Experience incredible shopping in the labyrinth of the Medina Souks.
The Medina Souks are lively traditional markets at the heart of Marrakech that capture the bustling, vibrant culture of the city. As you wander these markets, you’ll stumble upon an incredible assortment of local crafts, colorful spices, artisanal goods, and so much more. Truly a treasure trove of authentic Moroccan products, the enchanting Medina Souks are a must-visit on any trip to Marrakech.
#2. Wander the stalls and vendors of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square.
Snake charmers, monkey handlers, street performers, horse-drawn carriages, delicious food vendors… what more can you ask for? Jemaa el-Fnna Square is a buzzing hub in the middle of Marrakech’s medina that is bursting with sights and smells. Prepare yourself for absolute sensory overload – in a good way 🙂
#3. Retreat into the green oasis of Le Jardin Secret.
If you’re looking to get away from the chaos for a little bit, put this spot on your Marrkesh itinerary. Le Jardin Secret is the perfect escape in the middle of the city. Find tranquility among the lush greenery and fountains, while awing at the stunning Islamic and Moroccan architecture.
#4. Venture to the Jardin Majorelle & Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
A bit further out from the city center (~30min+ walk) sits Jardin Majorelle & the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Jardin Majorelle is a beautiful botanical garden filled with exotic plants and fountains, surrounded by striking cobalt-blue buildings. Next door is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, where you can find the designer’s most iconic creations inspired by Moroccan textiles.
DAY 2 MARRAKECH ITINERARY
Spend your second day immersed in Morrocan tradition and culture! After spending your first day exploring the heart of Marrakech, opt to book an excursion to go beyond the city.
We booked this particular Airbnb Experience: Day Trip at the Atlas Mountains with Camels, which was an all-inclusive 8-hour trip. I seriously can’t recommend this tour enough (and no, I’m not getting sponsored or paid to say this).
Our day started with an exciting camel ride, a quintessential Moroccan experience that allowed us to appreciate the desert landscape on a traditional mode of transportation. It set the perfect tone for the day ahead of us, and the camels were so cute!
After saying farewell to the camels, we embarked on a journey to our tour guide’s Beber village, a community of indigenous people nestled in the surrounding mountains. During our drive, we made a stop at a local oil shop that invited us to taste a variety of handmade butter made from nuts and seeds native to Marrakech. We also stopped by a waterfall and enjoyed the beauty of the Atlas Mountains. Upon arriving at his village, we hiked up to his family’s home and enjoyed a delicious traditional Beber meal they had prepared for us.
This day trip is truly an incredible way to immerse yourself in Morrocan culture. Throughout this experience, you’ll get a glimpse into a different way of life and learn so much!
This post was all about the perfect 2-day Marrakesh itinerary.