How to spend 3 days in Marrakech

Spend your first day exploring the medina and souks, your second day on gardens and palaces, and your third day taking a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. You will need to rely on walking within the old city and hire a private driver for excursions.

  1. Secure a Riad inside the Medina. Book a traditional Riad instead of a hotel. Being inside the medina walls means you can walk to most major sights, but ensure your Riad provides a map, as GPS often fails in the narrow alleyways.
  2. Master the navigation. Download an offline map (Google Maps or Maps.me). Don't trust strangers offering directions; they will often lead you to shops for a commission. If you get lost, ask a shopkeeper, not someone walking on the street.
  3. Hire a licensed guide. For your first day, hire an official guide from the Tourism Office. They wear a badge and will save you hours of getting lost in the souks and help you navigate the aggressive bargaining culture.
Is it safe to drink the tap water?
No, stick to bottled or filtered water throughout your stay to avoid stomach issues.
How do I handle the haggling in the markets?
Always start at 50% of the initial asking price and settle somewhere in the middle. If the price isn't right, be prepared to walk away; they will often call you back.