Marrakech is one of the most exciting cities in Morocco. It’s full of color, energy, and charm. Even if you only have two days, you can experience the best of what this magical city has to offer. From the sound of the call to prayer echoing through the old medina to the smell of spices in the markets, Marrakech will capture your heart from the moment you arrive.
If you are planning tours of Marrakech or short trips to Morocco, this simple 48-hour guide will help you make the most of your stay.
Day 1: Explore the Heart of the Medina
Start your morning with a traditional Moroccan breakfast — fresh orange juice, mint tea, and msemen (Moroccan pancakes). Then, head straight into the Medina, the old walled city and the heart of Marrakech.
Walk through the narrow streets filled with shops selling carpets, lamps, spices, and leather goods. The souks are like a maze, but getting lost is part of the adventure! Every corner has something new to discover.
Don’t miss the Jemaa el-Fna Square, the city’s famous main square. During the day, it’s full of juice stands, street performers, and locals selling handmade crafts. In the evening, the square comes alive with food stalls serving delicious Moroccan dishes — from tagine and couscous to grilled meats and sweets.
After exploring the market, visit the Koutoubia Mosque, one of the most important landmarks in Marrakech. You can’t go inside if you’re not Muslim, but you can admire its beautiful architecture and gardens.
In the afternoon, relax in a traditional hammam, a Moroccan steam bath where you can enjoy a good scrub and unwind after walking around all morning. It’s a wonderful way to feel refreshed and experience a piece of Moroccan culture.
For dinner, head to a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Medina. Watch the sunset turn the city golden while enjoying dishes like pastilla (sweet and savory pie) or tagine with prunes.
Day 2: Discover Palaces and Gardens
Begin your second day with a visit to the Bahia Palace, a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. The palace is filled with beautiful tiles, carved ceilings, and peaceful courtyards. It shows the elegance of old Moroccan design.
Next, walk to the El Badi Palace, now a historical ruin but still impressive with its large walls and open courtyards. You can imagine how grand it once was when it hosted royal events centuries ago.
After exploring the palaces, take a break in one of Marrakech’s green spaces. The Majorelle Garden is a must-see — created by the French artist Jacques Majorelle and later owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The bright blue buildings, cactus gardens, and fountains make it a peaceful place to relax and take photos.
If you have time, visit the Menara Gardens, where locals come to walk and enjoy the view of the Atlas Mountains in the distance.
For lunch, try a local café and order a traditional Moroccan tajine or harira soup. You’ll find that Moroccan food is full of flavor and made with love.
In the afternoon, you can explore the modern part of the city — Gueliz. It’s full of stylish boutiques, art galleries, and modern restaurants. It shows another side of Marrakech, more relaxed but still full of character.
As your 48 hours come to an end, go back to Jemaa el-Fna Square one last time. Watch the night unfold — musicians playing, storytellers gathering crowds, and the smell of grilled food filling the air. It’s a moment that captures the real magic of Marrakech.
A Short Trip, a Lasting Memory
Two days in Marrakech may go by quickly, but the memories will stay with you forever. The city’s mix of history, art, food, and warm hospitality makes every moment special.
Whether you come for a weekend escape, cultural tours of Marrakech, or longer trips to Morocco, this city will welcome you with open arms and endless charm. From ancient palaces to busy markets and peaceful gardens, Marrakech is a place where tradition and magic come together — a destination that truly touches your heart.