our first time entering Marrakech The medina, or the old town, as anyone who has seen many movies set in the medina Morocco would expect. Motorcycles whizzed by in narrow, crowded alleys, we got lost multiple times, and every corner of the lively neighborhood was packed with people—at 11 p.m.
But as dawn broke and we walked out of the riad and back onto the street, the sight and feel was completely different. Shopkeepers are cleaning and preparing to open their stalls, the air is filled with spices from the market, everything is quiet, and the city is starting to wake up to a new day. We also quickly learned that Marrakech is more than just its medina. Outside the ancient walls lies a beautiful city with palm-lined streets filled with spacious resorts and friendly residents. It's a lot like the rest of Morocco: welcoming, a little chaotic, but charming in every way.
You can visit most of Marrakech in three days. In fact, many Morocco itineraries only include brief stops in specific cities, whether travelers arrive via a cruise port or a tour of the country with stops in Fes, Chefchaouen, Rabat, Tangier and Casablanca. However you're looking to visit Marrakech with kids, here's how to make your trip the most magical.
Best things to do in Marrakech with kids
Day 1: Explore the medina and Jemma Square
Like many visitors to the “Red City,” your first stop is the medina. The “Red City” is named for the unique red clay used in its walls and buildings. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the historic center of Marrakech and you can easily spend a whole day here.
This labyrinthine area dates back to nearly two centuries of Berber dynasty, and its architecture has remained largely intact since the Middle Ages. In the medina, traditional markets called souks are dotted throughout the area, selling spices, textiles, pottery, jewelry, and even toys for children, who will feel as if they have stepped into a souk. Aladdin. The colorful displays, the scent of spices and the squabbling barter all around can be a sensory overload, but it’s part of what visitors love about the city.
The famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square in the heart of the medina is packed with musicians, snake charmers, food vendors and storytellers, especially at night, where you can get a glimpse of Moroccan traditional culture . Stretching from this area into the medina are historical landmarks such as Koutoubia Mosquethis Saadian tombs and gorgeous bahia palace.
Due to its complex layout, visiting the medina can be a confusing experience, so hire a guide to show you the highlights and help you find your way. our CB Travel Consultant You can be paired with a personal tour guide that is ideally suited to your child's age. When it’s time to eat, skip the street vendors and restaurants and head to the rooftops.
The medina's rooftop restaurant is a peaceful retreat, decorated with traditional tiles, lanterns and textiles, offering cool breezes and sweeping views of the Atlas Mountains in the distance. Despite rumors that alcohol is banned in Marrakech, you can still enjoy a glass of wine at rooftop venues such as nomad and salama. For an out-of-this-world dinner, try Dana Trading Company Just outside the walls of the medina, the walls are decorated with red velvet, lanterns and lavish decorations. As you enjoy traditional dishes, belly dancers and pallet dancers in gorgeous costumes move gracefully through the dining area, adding color to the evening.
If you want a truly authentic stay, book a stay at a Riad. Built around interior gardens and courtyards, these traditional Moroccan homes and palaces are very private as they have no windows to the outside. While some are certainly lackluster, some are outstanding. However, after spending two weeks in Morocco, we found that we preferred more traditional hotels and riad-style hotels that combined authenticity with luxury levels of service and facilities. Our consultants work on a vetted list of such accommodations; Reach out your hand Learn more or book.
If you are determined to stay in the medina, consider Sultanaconsisting of five adjoining riads clustered around a heated swimming pool, or Donab PalaceThis 18th-century palace combines Moorish architecture with modern comforts. Both places are easily accessible on foot from Jemaa el-Fna.
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Day 2: Explore the culture and history of Marrakech
After the hustle and bustle of the medina, start your day in a charming hotel Majorelle GardenKnown for its intense blue hue and exotic flora. The two-acre garden was created by French painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and restored by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. Berber MuseumThere are more than 600 artifacts spanning centuries that tell the story of North Africa's indigenous people.
You can also explore Menara GardensIt is famous for its tranquil olive groves and large reflecting pool that dates back to the 12th century. The gardens feature a pavilion and open space for picnics and walks, and are just steps away from some of the city's most exquisite resorts, including Four Seasons Resort Marrakech and Sofitel Marrakech.
After your visit, head to the outskirts of the city and its palm-fringed palm groves to enjoy a camel ride in the peaceful countryside.
End your day with a family-friendly Moroccan cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional dishes like tagine and couscous. this Royal Mansour Marrakech Offering classes for beginners and foodies alike, it’s also a great base camp, with one to four-bedroom riad accommodation within a sprawling resort. The Royal Mansour also has four restaurants and a large central swimming pool.
Day 3: Head to the mountains
On day three, set out for the majestic Atlas Mountains, which begin just 25 miles from Marrakech. You'll drive through the stunning landscape of the Tizi n'Tichka Pass, reaching an altitude of over 7,000 feet. The pass can be quite challenging as the road is winding and has sharp turns, meaning it's not great for those prone to motion sickness, but the views on a sunny day are stunning.
Starting from Setti Fatma, a village famous for its seven waterfalls, the hike is shorter and suitable for children. Or take an alternative route to Imlil, where you can find marked hiking trails to Mount Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak at 13,671 feet. En route, the town of Asni hosts a market every Saturday, where you can find Berber crafts and textiles.
If you want to spend the night in the Atlas Mountains, Sir Richard Branson has fort tamadot Close to Asni with views of Mount Toubkal. This 5-star resort features 29 rooms, suites, riads and even glamping-style Berber tents with private decks. There is a spa and a gourmet restaurant serving Moroccan and international cuisine, and local Berber culture is reflected in the décor and products throughout the resort.
family should know
Unlike other Arab countries, Morocco, especially Marrakesh, has strong Berber influence. The indigenous peoples of North Africa, while adhering to many of the Islamic values introduced into the region, were more flexible in their social practices, including the role of women—women were more visible and involved in their communities and families. Although Arabic is the official language, many Moroccans still speak Berber dialects and French.
Marrakech's proximity to Europe and French colonial influence can be felt in its atmosphere, cuisine and architecture. Still, modest clothing that covers shoulders, chest, and knees is recommended.
When visiting a souk or market, haggling is expected and encouraged. Start by offering half of what the seller asks for and work your way up, staying polite but firm. Be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right. When you leave, the seller will usually call you back with a better offer.
Related links:
Browse all accommodation and activities in Morocco on Ciao Bambino
Why we love traveling to Morocco with kids
5 Shocking Things to Do with Teens in Morocco
Sultana Marrakech: Sleeping in a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tangier, Morocco: Easy Day Trip to Africa from Spain
Editor's note: This article is accurate at the time of publication. We recommend checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information provided, or for any actions taken as a result of the information provided.
