
Royal Palace of Marrakesh (Dar el-Makhzen) Marrakesh
Discover the historical grandeur of the Royal Palace of Marrakesh, a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and royal heritage.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Royal Palace of Marrakesh (Dar el-Makhzen) Marrakesh
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the historical grandeur of the Royal Palace of Marrakesh, a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and royal heritage.
"A beautiful glimpse into Moroccan history and artistry."

✈️ Print Return Flights
Low-cost airlines often require printed return boarding passes. Print them before you arrive or ask your Riad.
🗣️ Learn Basic Arabic Phrases
A simple 'La shukran' (no thank you) can be more effective than English when declining offers.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bahia Palace
Marrakesh
A stunning example of Moroccan architecture with intricate tilework, carved stucco, and peaceful courtyards.
Jardin Majorelle
Marrakesh
An enchanting botanical garden with vibrant cobalt blue accents, exotic plants, and a serene atmosphere.

Jemaa el-Fna Square
Marrakesh
The vibrant heart of the Medina, alive with storytellers, musicians, food stalls, and snake charmers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Medina
Currency and Payments
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✈️ Print Return Flights
Low-cost airlines often require printed return boarding passes. Print them before you arrive or ask your Riad.
🗣️ Learn Basic Arabic Phrases
A simple 'La shukran' (no thank you) can be more effective than English when declining offers.
📱 Get a Local SIM
Purchase a SIM card at the airport for better data rates than international roaming.
💰 Cash is King
Carry cash for souks and taxis. Avoid exchanging currency at the airport; use ATMs or local exchange offices.
Tips
from all over the internet
✈️ Print Return Flights
Low-cost airlines often require printed return boarding passes. Print them before you arrive or ask your Riad.
🗣️ Learn Basic Arabic Phrases
A simple 'La shukran' (no thank you) can be more effective than English when declining offers.
📱 Get a Local SIM
Purchase a SIM card at the airport for better data rates than international roaming.
💰 Cash is King
Carry cash for souks and taxis. Avoid exchanging currency at the airport; use ATMs or local exchange offices.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The Medina is best explored by walking. Taxis are available, but many areas are pedestrian-only.
🤝 Avoid Unsolicited Help
Be wary of locals offering unsolicited guidance; they may lead you to scams or expect payment.
🚗 Use InDrive App
Morocco's version of Uber, allowing you to set prices. Useful for getting around the city.
🛍️ Haggle in Souks
Bargaining is expected in the souks. Start at about half the asking price and negotiate politely.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the Royal Palace of Marrakesh for its rich history and beautiful architecture, noting its intricate details and serene courtyards. However, some find the palace experience can be brief, and it may not offer the same immersive historical depth as other Marrakesh attractions.
"Lovely history attached to the palace"
THIRU Mohan
"Beautiful"
lizeth nuñez
""
Abelardo Lopez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You have several options: take a taxi from the official booth at the airport (recommended for fair pricing),
use the airport bus (cheaper, around 30 Dirhams), or pre-book a private driver. If you're wary of taxis, walk about 100 meters to the bus stop.Taxis can be a hassle. It's best to use apps like InDrive
or ensure the meter is used. If not, agree on a price beforehand. Some Redditors recommend private drivers booked via Viator for a smoother experience.Yes, the Medina is largely car-free and best explored on foot. For longer distances, InDrive or tuk-tuks are good options.
For day trips or longer journeys, consider booking with companies like GetYourGuide or Viator for organized tours and private drivers. Essaouira is a popular day trip destination.
Yes, especially if flying with low-cost airlines. You may be denied boarding without a printed return ticket. Print it in advance or ask your accommodation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For popular spots like Jardin Majorelle, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
The Royal Palace of Marrakesh (Dar el-Makhzen) is generally open daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, but it's always best to check current hours before your visit as they can change.
No, Jemaa el-Fna square is a public space and is free to enter. However, be mindful of performers and vendors who may expect payment for their services or goods.
While some larger establishments in Marrakesh accept cards, it's advisable to have cash on hand for smaller purchases or if card facilities are unavailable at the palace.
Information on specific discounts for the Royal Palace of Marrakesh is not widely available. It's recommended to inquire directly at the ticket counter upon arrival for any potential concessions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Medina is a labyrinth. Use offline maps like Maps.me or Google Maps with downloaded offline areas. Having your Riad write down the address is also a lifesaver.
A polite but firm 'La shukran' (no thank you) in Arabic is often effective. Avoid eye contact if you're not interested, and don't accept unsolicited help.
Stick to well-lit main streets, especially in the Medina. While many find it safe, some solo female travelers have reported feeling uncomfortable.
Dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. Cover shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites or the Medina.
While official guided tours might not be readily advertised, local guides can be hired in the Medina. However, for the Royal Palace itself, exploring at your own pace is often preferred.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss tagine and couscous, but also explore street food in Jemaa el-Fna. For variety, try Lebanese at Naranj or Mechoui roasted lamb.
Dar El Bacha offers a fantastic coffee experience with a museum and great pastries. It's a welcome respite from the Medina's hustle.
Yes, many Moroccan dishes can be made vegetarian, including vegetable tagines and couscous. Look for restaurants offering diverse menus.
Eating street food is part of the experience. Choose busy stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness. Many travelers enjoy it without issue.
Breakfast often includes eggs, typically Shakshouka, or fried eggs. Many Riads offer delicious breakfasts with local pastries and fresh juices.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant souks, Jardin Majorelle's blue architecture, the intricate details of Bahia Palace, and the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square at night are all incredibly photogenic.
Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially in the Medina. Some locals may expect payment for photos.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of the souks are always striking.
Generally, photography is allowed within the public areas of the Royal Palace. However, it's always wise to be discreet and respectful of any posted signs or staff instructions.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for street scenes and architecture. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive courtyards, and a prime lens is good for low-light shots in the souks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When navigating the Medina, keep a close eye on children, as it can be disorienting. Consider hiring a local guide for a few hours to help manage the crowds and ensure everyone stays safe and on track. For accommodation, a Riad can offer a unique and memorable experience, often with courtyards where children can play safely.
💰 Budget Travelers
When shopping in the souks, be prepared to haggle assertively but politely. Prices are rarely fixed, and starting at half the asking price is a common strategy. Eating at local eateries and street food stalls in Jemaa el-Fna will be significantly cheaper than tourist-oriented restaurants.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like the Medina and Jemaa el-Fna. Learning a few basic Arabic phrases like 'La shukran' can be very helpful when declining unwanted attention. Some solo female travelers have reported feeling harassed, so sticking to well-lit main streets at night and dressing modestly is advised. Consider a guided walking tour on your first day to get acquainted with the Medina's layout and avoid getting lost.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Medina and Souks
The souks are divided into different sections, each specializing in particular crafts: leather goods, textiles, metalwork, spices, and more. Haggling is an essential part of the shopping experience. Start by offering about half of the initial price and negotiate politely. Don't be afraid to walk away if you can't reach an agreement; you'll likely find similar items elsewhere.
Pro-tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Also, consider wearing sunglasses and perhaps earbuds to help deter persistent touts who offer unsolicited guidance or try to lead you to their shops.
Transportation in Marrakesh
When you need to travel further, taxis are readily available. However, it's crucial to agree on a fare before starting your journey, as meters are not always used. The app InDrive is a popular alternative, functioning similarly to Uber where you can negotiate prices. For shorter distances within or just outside the Medina, tuk-tuks can be a fun and cost-effective option.
For airport transfers, the official taxi booth at Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) offers fixed prices. Alternatively, the airport bus provides a more budget-friendly option to reach the city center, like Jemaa el-Fna.
Cultural Etiquette and Safety
While Marrakesh is generally safe, like any major tourist destination, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Unsolicited offers of help from strangers can sometimes lead to scams or requests for money. A polite but firm 'La shukran' (no thank you) is your best defense. If you feel unsafe or encounter issues, don't hesitate to seek assistance from the tourist police or your accommodation.
Scams can occur, particularly around Jemaa el-Fna. Be cautious of individuals who try to divert you from your intended path, claiming streets are closed. Always trust your navigation apps or confirmed directions from your Riad.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit