Exploring Marrakech means immersing yourself in vibrant colors, flavors, and sounds and you can do it in just 3 days.
As a Moroccan who knows these streets well, I’ve created a guide to help you experience the city’s magic in a short time.
This itinerary covers the beauty, heritage, and hidden gems while allowing for spontaneous adventures.
How to spend 3 days in Marrakech
Before diving into Marrakech’s top sights, let’s talk about where to stay. I highly recommend booking a Riad within the Old Medina walls.
This will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Staying outside means wasting time getting to the sights instead of enjoying more time at each destination.
Day 1
Ben Youssef Madrasa
Ben Youssef Madrasa, once the largest Islamic school in North Africa, is famous for its stunning architecture and intricate tile work.
I recommend visiting first thing in the morning, as it can get really busy. Ideally, try to get there around 9 am to avoid the crowds. The Madrassa opens at 9:30 am.

The Madrassa is one of the most Instagrammable sights in Marrakech, attracting a lot of attention.
One of my favorite highlights is the carved cedarwood ceiling, and the Moroccan Zellij in the main prayer hall is stunning.
Marrakech Museum
Right next to Madrassa Ben Youssef, you’ll find the Marrakech Museum, a small yet fascinating spot showcasing artifacts related to Moroccan culture and daily life.
While it’s not a large museum, you can explore it in about 30 minutes. The building’s stunning architecture alone makes it worth a visit.
You’ll likely pass by the Marrakech Museum first when heading to Ben Youssef Madrassa, but I recommend visiting the madrassa first.
You can then explore the museum afterward at a more relaxed pace.
Marrakech Souks
We can visit so many historical sites in a day, right? To take a break, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Marrakech’s markets.
The best part is that you don’t have to go far to experience them, once you step outside the Madrassa or the museum, you’re right in the heart of it all.
Most historical sites are located in the narrow alleys of the old Medina which is also the souks of Marrakech.

These alleyways are like a maze, so Google Maps will be your best friend.
I recommend getting lost among the shops and artisans, and when you’re ready to head back, just enter the location of your Riad or desired destination into Google Maps, and it’ll guide you right there.

In the Souks, you can find pretty much anything and everything. From spices and Moroccan teas and herbs to handcrafted lanterns and beautiful Moroccan rugs.
Here is an idea of what beautiful Moroccan souvenirs, you can buy from Morocco.
Also, here are some local tips and secrets about haggling in Marrakech Markets.
Jardin Secret (Secret Garden)
Marrakech is known for its lush gardens, but this one is by far my favorite. Worth an entire evening.
After you’ve done some shopping and had lunch, head to Jardin Secret before it closes at 6 pm and spend the rest of the afternoon there.

Its peaceful vibes and the soothing sound of water rushing from the fountains will make you fall even more in love with Marrakech.
Beyond its natural beauty, this garden is rich in history, dating back to the Saadian Dynasty over four hundred years ago.
In the garden, there are two cafes, one in the main courtyard and another on the rooftop with a beautiful view of the garden.

It won’t take long to explore the main areas, but you can always pick a comfortable spot to sit and relax or order a tea at one of the cafes.
Night in Jamaa El Fnaa Square
So the truth is, I’m not a fan of busy and crowded places but there is something about Jamaa El Fena that I just love.
Maybe it’s the atmosphere, the people, the smells, or the fact that this place is just a real representation of Morocco.

But whatever it is, I always make sure to visit Jamaa El Fena when I’m in Marrakech.
It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat, or just take in the atmosphere of Marrakech while sipping tea in one of the many cafes that surround the square.
Day 2
Bahia Palace
Start your second day by visiting Bahia Palace. It can get quite busy around midday, so it’s a good idea to head there early to avoid the crowds.

The palace was built in the late 19th century and was the official residence of the Grand Vizier of Marrakech.
It’s also the most preserved example of Moorish architecture in Morocco.
At the palace, you can easily spend a few hours just taking in the beautiful architecture, intricate details, and vibrant colors.

Another highlight of the Bahia Palace is the stunning garden courtyard which is a great place to take a break from all the walking and just relax for a bit.
El Badi Palace
El Badi Palace is just a short walk from Bahia Palace. Built in the 16th century by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty, the palace has a rich history.

Sadly, not much of the palace remains today due to earthquakes and time, but it still holds a lot of beauty and history beneath its rubble. The shell of the palace is impressive to see.

One of my favorite things about El Badi Palace is how some of the original Moroccan Zellij tiles have been so well-preserved over the years and I think it’s truly incredible.
Saadian Tombs
To wrap up day two of your historical tour, take a short 10-minute walk from Badi Palace to the Saadian Tombs.

These tombs were only rediscovered in 1917, but they date back to the 1500s during the rule of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur.
Once you step inside, you’ll notice two main burial chambers with detailed carvings, colorful tiles, and white marble.

The most important one is the Hall of the Twelve Columns, where the sultan himself is buried. Famous for its white marble columns, high ceilings, and intricate designs.
The tombs are surrounded by quiet gardens, making it a nice, calming way to end your historical tour of the day.
Koutoubia Mosque
When are rested after lunch, head for the Koutoubia mosque, the city’s landmark, known for its impressive minaret.
While entry is restricted to non-Muslims, its beauty can be appreciated from the gardens surrounding it.

The minaret of the mosque is visible from almost anywhere in Marrakech and is a great way to orient yourself in the city.
Located just a few steps from Jamaa El Fena, I always like to stop by whenever I’m in the area to marvel at this stunning monument.
Evening food tour
You can also wrap up the second day with a Souk food tour.
Evening food tours usually kick off at sunset and include a mix of tastings and a fantastic dinner at Jamaa El Fena.

The tour includes exploring shops for olives and nuts, learning about spices, watching traditional bread baking, tasting Moroccan pastries, and enjoying a delicious dinner in Jamaa El Fna food stalls.
Day 3
Jardin Majorelle
Begin the morning of your last day at Jardin Majorelle, a stunning garden that took the French painter Jacques Majorelle over 40 years to create.
You will fall in love with its striking blue accents and exotic plant species.

The gardens feature beautiful cacti, palms, bamboo, and flowers. There is also a stunning blue villa in the gardens that was once the home of Yves Saint Laurent.
The only way to visit the Jardin Majorelle now is to book the ticket online in advance. There is no ticketing office on site.

When booking, choose early morning slots as they’re less busy, but be sure to book your ticket a few days in advance since they sell out quickly.
If you go late mornings or afternoons, expect a long queue to enter.
You can also visit the Berber Museum and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, but they require separate tickets, which you can purchase from the same website.
Jardin Majorelle’s booking website
Moroccan Hammam
On your last night in Marrakech, I recommend treating yourself to a traditional Hammam experience.
It’s a perfect way to rejuvenate and detox after all the touring and delicious food.
The Hammam will begin in a steam room to help you relax and open up your pores. Then, you’ll be scrubbed with black soap made from olives and eucalyptus, followed by a traditional Moroccan massage with Argan oil.
I suggest booking the Hammam experience through your hotel, but if it’s not available, there are plenty of great Hammam options you can book on your own.
If you are not sure where to look check out this spa massage and steam hammam with pickup which seems like a great deal to me.