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Top 18 Things to Do in Marrakech, Morocco

Ishaan Govardhan
The imperial city of Marrakech is a cultural gem and a trading hub, which is integral to not just the Kingdom of Morocco, but to the entire African continent. Keep an open mind and it'll make for a fun getaway, as long as you know what to do once you get there.

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Begin your tour at the ruins of an ancient palace from the late 1500s: El Badii. This sprawling site once had 360 rooms - it's an architectural gem of the Saadian Dynasty.
El Badii
Get in touch with the city's spiritual side at Marrakech's largest mosque: Koutoubia Mosque (77m). Its iconic Almohad-style minaret has stood tall since the 12th century.
Koutoubia Mosque
The deeper you delve into Marrakech's history, the more you'll want to learn. Check out the Tombs of the 7 Patron Saints of Morocco or the lavish resting place of the sultans: the Saadian Tombs.
Tombs of the 7 Patron Saints

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Majorelle Garden
Escape the heat at Majorelle Garden: a botanical paradise designed by French artist Jacque Majorelle. The lush greenery sprawls around a Cubist villa, which houses the Berber Museum and the Islamic Art Museum.
For an authentically Moroccan experience, crash at a riad (traditional Moroccan manor) for the duration of your Marrakech visit. Royal treatment is a perk of such villas!
Riad (traditional Moroccan manor)
You should sip some deliciously healthy Moroccan mint tea, known for its uniquely flavorsome blend.

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You can even experience Marrakech by air: Rise above the dusty streets of the city's labyrinthine medina, and set off on a private hot air balloon tour of the city and its surroundings.
Check out the House of Photography and marvel at its stunning collection of still imagery that captures the essence and evolution of the Moroccan lifestyle.

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Shoppers will find themselves drawn to the commotion of one of the busiest markets in Africa: the Jemaa el-Fnaa. Visit during the day for a look at snake-charmers and other street performers. At night, check out the food stalls.
While wandering the city's medina (old town), you'll come across souks. These are traditional Middle Eastern bazaars squeezed into alleys. The whole setup may remind you of the fictional Agrabah city from the Aladdin movie.
Local traders set up shops at such souks. You'll get just about anything you need, as long as you can haggle with the merchants and settle on a fair price. Buy one of Morocco's highest quality imports: exotic woollen rugs, with gorgeous patterns.
Locally crafted decorative lamps, Moroccan leather, quaint pottery, and intricately-designed pillow covers are just a few of the souvenirs you'll be enticed to buy.

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If you need to stop your Marrakech shopping spree, just distract yourself with a day at a local water park like Oasiria or Atlantis. It's the perfect way to cool off in Marrakech's arid Mediterranean climate.
A spa day in Marrakech is like none other. You should spend some time relaxing at a local Hammam (popular Turkish steam baths). And don't forget to get an invigorating Argan oil massage afterwards.
With a smorgasbord of Maghrebi cuisine on your plate, your time in Marrakech is sure to introduce you to exotic new flavors. Start with a plateful of sumptuous Tajine—a slow-cooked stew.

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Amid the arid outskirts of Marrakech, you can rent and ride a quad bike, zipping through dust at top speed!

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Bumpy camel rides are a quintessential part of the Moroccan experience. On camelback, you can explore the beautiful Palmeraie oasis, just outside city limits.

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The Sahara is too far for a day trip, but the Agafay Desert is just a car ride away. Explore it, delve into the local Berber tribe culture, or relax at luxurious glampsites within its barren wilderness.