How to Spend 24 Magical Hours in Marrakech
A calm Marrakech Medina early morning.
A relaxed guide for travellers who want to soak up the soul of the city, not just race through it.
Let’s be honest… Marrakech isn’t a city you can “do” in a day. But if that’s all you’ve got, you can still squeeze in a healthy dose of magic, colour, and culture with the right game plan (and a few rooftop tea / coffee breaks along the way).
This is the perfect itinerary for travellers who want to dip their toes into the vibrant chaos of the Red City, without feeling completely overwhelmed. It’s not about seeing everything; it’s about experiencing something real. Think medinas, mosaics, Moroccan rituals, and rooftop cocktails… with a few surprises thrown in. Let’s turn 24 hours into something unforgettable.
7:00am – Rise & Shine in a Riad
Start the day waking up in a riad… traditional Moroccan guesthouses tucked behind dusty pink walls and carved wooden doors. They’re usually small, peaceful, and beautifully decorated. You’ll feel like you’re a million miles from the madness of the medina, even though it’s right outside the door.
Have a leisurely breakfast on the rooftop or in the courtyard… Moroccan mint tea, msemen (crispy flatbread), jam, olives, and fresh orange juice. Soak it in. You’ve got a big day ahead.
Where to stay:
Riad Dar Bayane - Warm, quiet, and full of thoughtful touches
Palais Sebban - Riad with a bit of grandeur with authentic charm
Riad Eloise - Boho meets traditional in this colourful, cosy and friendly Riad
Photo tip: Start the day with a quiet courtyard shot bathed in morning light… bonus points for wearing something that pops against the mosaic tiles.
8:00am – Medina Wander + Koutoubia Mosque
Make your way to the Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakech’s tallest and most iconic minaret. Non-Muslims can’t go inside, but the exterior is beautiful, and a symbol of Marrakech. Ease into the buzz of Marrakech with an early morning wander through the streets of the Medina, while they’re still quiet and peaceful. You’ll see the city slowly coming alive.
Photo tip: Find the Instagrammable shot at Koutoubia Mosque of the archway with palm trees and the tower in the background. Be patient. If you wait 5 to 10 minutes you’ll capture that perfect shot without people in the background. Wander the alleyways just outside the Ben Youssef Madrasa… to capture beautiful archways, doors and authentic Marrakech moments. Wander past in both directions to ensure you don’t miss the stunning photo opportunities.
The Instagrammable Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech.
9:00am – Ben Youssef Madrasa
Next stop, the spectacular Ben Youssef Madrasa… an old Islamic college that’ll take your breath away. The architecture is jaw-dropping. Enter as soon as doors open to experience this beautiful location without the crowds.
Photo tip: Shoot straight-on symmetry in the main courtyard as soon as the doors open, for beautiful shots with no one in the background. Capture details in the archways.
Then, dive into the chaos of the souks! Let yourself get a little lost. It’s all part of the experience. Bartering is expected, and is all part of the fun.
Exploring Ben Youssef Madrasa early in the morning.
11:00am – A Quiet Moment at Le Jardin Secret
Need a breather from the buzz? Tucked inside the Medina, Le Jardin Secret is a peaceful hideaway full of exotic plants, fountains, and restored Islamic architecture. You’ll find two gardens (one exotic, one traditional), and even a small café where you can sip a juice or mint tea.
Photo tip: From the garden tower, you’ll get sweeping rooftop views… perfect for a midday skyline shot.
12:00pm – Rooftop Lunch in the Medina
By now, you’ve earned a delicious break. Head to one of the Medina’s rooftop restaurants for a long lunch above the hustle and bustle.
Top picks for flavour and views:
Nomad – Modern Moroccan, vegan-friendly, rooftop perfection
Atay Cafe - Colourful, laid-back, and sweeping views across the Medina rooftops
Kabana Food & Cocktails – Rooftop cocktails with an upbeat vibe
Photo tip: Snap a flat lay of your tagine or mint tea, or capture the moment with the Medina rooftops in the background.
1:30pm – Explore El Badi Palace
Once a 16th-century royal complex covered in gold and marble, El Badi Palace is now a beautiful ruin filled with reminders of its former grandeur. You’ll find stone, underground dungeons, and stork nests perched high on crumbling walls. This palace is larger than you might think, so allow yourself plenty of time.
Photo tip: Wide-angle shots of the open courtyards, or frame a portrait against the stone archways. There’s also a beautiful archway near the entrance.
Soaking up the history at El Badi Palace.
3:00pm – Reset at a Traditional Hammam
After a morning of exploring, treat yourself to a soothing Hammam. This traditional Moroccan spa ritual includes steam, black soap scrubs, and optional massages. You’ll leave relaxed, recharged, and baby-soft.
Best for a luxe-yet-authentic experience:
Tip: Book ahead for late afternoon… perfect timing between sightseeing and sunset.
5:00pm – Rooftop Cocktails at Golden Hour
Now for my favourite time of day: golden hour. Make your way to one of the city’s rooftop lounges for sunset views and a cheeky cocktail (or mocktail) or two.
Top rooftop bars:
El Fenn – Chic, artistic, and sunset-perfect
Kabana Marrakech – Cool and upbeat with a DJ some nights
La Terrasse des Épices – Relaxed, friendly, and full of charm
Photo tip: Snag a seat early, grab a cocktail, and get that glowing golden hour shot… just you, the skyline, and the moment.
Dinner & Night Stroll
Still got some energy? Head back into the Medina or unwind at your riad.
Dinner ideas:
Le Jardin – Hidden garden, with lanterns and romantic vibes
Dar Moha – Luxe setting, traditional flavours
Plus61 – Modern Mediterranean with vegan options
Night in Marrakech is something special… the Medina comes alive and the action continues after midnight.
Alternative Cultural Highlights
Prefer a different cultural fix? Mix and match with these equally unforgettable stops:
Bahia Palace – Grand, colourful, and gorgeously preserved
Saadian Tombs – Quiet and moving, with exquisite stonework
Marrakech Museum – Beautiful courtyard and intriguing collections
Batcha Coffee – Chic, photogenic, and a solid caffeine hit near the Madrasa
Add a Little Extra Magic
If you’ve got room to stretch your day or want to come back for more, here are some unforgettable experiences to take things up a notch:
Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride – Float over the desert as the sky turns pink. Unforgettable.
Agafay Desert Dinner Experience – Swap the city for a luxe desert camp, Berber music, and dinner under the stars
Moroccan Cooking Class – From spice souks to sizzling tagines, a hands-on foodie experience
You don’t need a week to feel Marrakech. Even one day can shift something in you. Taste the mint tea. Snap the alleyway photo. Say yes to that rooftop view. You’re not just ticking boxes… you’re shifting from tourist to traveller.
Planning your Moroccan adventure?
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