🇲🇦 Your Authentic 3-Day Morocco Itinerary

To navigate the overwhelming yet wonderful chaos of the Medina for the first time, hiring a licensed local guide for a few hours is an excellent idea. A guide can help you get your bearings in the souks, steer you towards reputable artisans, teach you the basics of friendly bargaining, and share the history of the Medina’s hidden fondouks (historic inns) and mosques. This initial orientation can give you the confidence to explore more freely on your own later. It turns a potentially confusing experience into a fascinating and educational one.

For a more structured and hands-on experience, consider a food tour through the Medina. These tours go beyond the main square, taking you into the back alleys to taste authentic local specialties that you might not discover on your own. You could sample things like mechoui (slow-roasted lamb), tangia (a jug-stew unique to Marrakech), and various Moroccan pastries. It’s a delicious way to connect with the culture, understand the local palate, and safely explore the culinary hidden gems of the city.

For Young Travelers: Embrace the energy of Djemaa el-Fna. Try the street food, listen to the Gnaoua musicians, and get a henna tattoo. As evening approaches, find a rooftop bar like Café de France or Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier for an affordable drink with a classic view. The souks offer endless opportunities for unique and budget-friendly shopping. In the evening, the area around the spice market (Rahba Kedima) has a cool, youthful vibe.

For Seniors: The Medina is bustling and its paths can be uneven. It’s best to explore in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds and midday heat. Wear very comfortable, supportive shoes. Consider hiring a calèche (horse-drawn carriage) for a tour around the exterior of the Medina walls, which is a charming and less strenuous way to see the city’s scale. For dinner, choose a rooftop restaurant that is known to be easily accessible, avoiding those with very steep, narrow stairs.

For Families: Djemaa el-Fna is a wonderland for children, with its storytellers, musicians, and lively atmosphere. However, keep them close in the crowds. The snake charmers can be fascinating, but also intimidating for some. The souks are an adventure; turn it into a treasure hunt for specific items like colorful babouches (slippers) or a magic lamp. A fresh orange juice from one of the many stalls in the square is a delicious and refreshing treat for everyone.

For Travelers with Disabilities: The historic Medina of Marrakech presents significant accessibility challenges. The streets are often narrow, crowded, and uneven. Djemaa el-Fna square is a large, open space, but navigating through the crowds can be difficult. Some larger riads and modern restaurants may have accessible features, but it is essential to verify everything in advance. A guided tour with a company that specializes in accessible travel in Morocco is the best way to navigate the city’s challenges safely.

For Luxury Travel: Stay in a luxurious, fully-staffed riad within the Medina, offering a tranquil and opulent oasis. Arrange for a private shopping guide to take you to exclusive artisan workshops and high-end carpet dealers, away from the main tourist souks. For dinner, book a table at a gastronomic Moroccan restaurant like La Mamounia or a chic rooftop spot like Nomad, which offers modern Moroccan cuisine with spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains and the Medina.

For Adventure Travel: Get intentionally lost in the souks. The adventure is in the discovery—finding a hidden workshop, being invited for tea by a friendly shopkeeper, or stumbling upon a quiet, beautiful courtyard. In the evening, dive into the food stalls at Djemaa el-Fna. Be bold and try the more unusual local delicacies like snail soup or grilled sheep’s head. It’s a truly authentic and adventurous culinary experience.

For Nature Lovers: While the Medina is a very urban experience, you can find small pockets of nature and tranquility within it. Seek out the “secret gardens” of some of the larger riads, which are often open to the public for a fee or if you dine there. The true nature escape will come on Day 2, but for today, appreciate the natural materials used in the souks—the smell of cedarwood, the feel of soft leather, and the vibrant colors of the natural dyes and spices.

Staying in a riad within the Medina is the quintessential Marrakech experience. These traditional homes are built around a central courtyard, which provides a stunningly peaceful and cool oasis away from the bustling streets outside. Riads range from simple and charming guesthouses to opulent and luxurious boutique hotels. They offer a level of intimacy, personal service, and architectural beauty that larger hotels cannot match. The experience of having breakfast in a sun-dappled courtyard is unforgettable.

When choosing a riad, consider its proximity to Djemaa el-Fna. Staying closer means you are right in the heart of the action, while a riad located deeper in the residential alleys of the Medina might offer a quieter, more “local” experience, but require more walking. For those who prefer the amenities of a large hotel with a big swimming pool, the modern neighborhoods of Gueliz or Hivernage, just outside the Medina walls, offer a range of international hotel chains and resorts, a short taxi ride away from the old city.

• Luxury: La Sultana Marrakech
• Mid-Range: Riad Yasmine
• Budget: Riad Omar

When you first enter the souks, the maze of alleyways can be disorienting. It’s a good idea to download an offline map of the area on your phone. Don’t be afraid to get a little lost, as that is part of the fun, but having a map can help you find your way back to a main landmark like Djemaa el-Fna. If you do need to ask for directions, it’s best to ask a shopkeeper rather than a random person on the street, as young men or boys may offer to “guide” you and then demand a high payment.

Bargaining is an integral part of the souk experience. It is a friendly and expected social interaction, not a confrontation. The first price you are quoted is just a starting point. A good rule of thumb is to counter with about half the asking price and then work your way to a mutually agreeable figure, always with a smile. If you are not happy with the final price, it is perfectly acceptable to politely walk away. Often, this will result in the shopkeeper offering you a better price.

Morocco is a Muslim country with conservative values, and it’s important to dress respectfully, especially when exploring the historic Medina. For both men and women, this means covering your shoulders and knees. For women, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing like maxi dresses, long skirts, or linen trousers paired with a t-shirt or a blouse is ideal. This is not only respectful but will also keep you cool in the heat.

A lightweight scarf or pashmina is an incredibly versatile and essential accessory. You can use it for extra modesty when needed, to cover your head if you visit a religious site, or to protect you from the sun. The ground in the Medina is uneven and can be dusty, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes like sneakers or walking sandals are a must. Avoid high heels. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

For your first day, experiencing the food stalls in Djemaa el-Fna at night is a must-do activity. Don’t be intimidated by the dozens of stalls; they are all numbered. Look for the busiest ones, as this is a good sign of quality and freshness. Here you can sample a variety of Moroccan specialties, from grilled meats and sausages to tagines and fried fish. It’s a vibrant, atmospheric, and budget-friendly dining experience.

For a more relaxed meal with a spectacular view, choose one of the many rooftop restaurants and cafes that overlook the square. Le Grand Balcon du Café Glacier offers a classic, front-row seat to the action, perfect for a sunset mint tea. For a more modern take on Moroccan cuisine with a chic ambiance, restaurants like Nomad or Café des Épices, located in the nearby spice market, are excellent choices. They offer a fantastic introduction to Moroccan flavors in a beautiful setting.

From Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK), the easiest way to get to your accommodation in the Medina is by a pre-booked airport transfer arranged through your riad. This is highly recommended because the driver will know the exact location of your riad and will often have someone meet you at the drop-off point to walk you through the maze of alleys to the door. Alternatively, you can take a “petit taxi” from the airport. Always agree on the fare before getting in.

Once you are in the Medina, the only way to explore its core is on foot. The narrow alleyways are inaccessible to cars. This is the beauty of the experience. For longer distances, for example, to the new city of Gueliz, you can hire a “petit taxi.” These are small cars, and you should insist that the driver uses the meter. For short trips within the Medina, walking is always the best and most interesting option.

To fully appreciate the historical and artistic significance of the palaces, consider a guided tour that focuses specifically on the architecture and history of Marrakech. An expert guide can explain the symbolism behind the intricate geometric patterns of the zellige tilework and the verses from the Quran carved into the stucco. At Jardin Majorelle, it is also worth visiting the adjacent Yves Saint Laurent Museum, which showcases the legendary fashion designer’s work and his deep connection to Marrakech. It’s best to book your tickets for the garden and museum online in advance to avoid the notoriously long queues.

For your afternoon relaxation, you can choose from a wide range of hammam experiences. For an authentic and no-frills local experience, you can visit a public hammam (bring your own black soap, or “savon beldi,” and scrubbing mitt, or “kess”). For a more private and luxurious experience, book a treatment at one of the many beautiful private spas in the Medina. A typical treatment involves being steamed, vigorously scrubbed from head to toe (a “gommage”), and then often followed by a relaxing argan oil massage. It’s an invigorating and unforgettable cultural experience.

For Young Travelers: After visiting Jardin Majorelle, explore the surrounding modern neighborhood of Gueliz. It’s the “new city” of Marrakech, with wide boulevards, trendy cafes, international shops, and contemporary art galleries. It offers a fascinating contrast to the ancient Medina. In the evening, Gueliz is also a great place to find modern restaurants and cocktail bars for a different kind of nightlife experience.

For Seniors: Pace yourself today, as visiting multiple sites can be tiring. The Bahia Palace is large but mostly flat. The Saadian Tombs are more compact. The paths in Jardin Majorelle are well-maintained and there are plenty of benches to rest and enjoy the beauty of the garden. A petit taxi is the best way to travel between the Medina and Jardin Majorelle. Choose a spa for your hammam experience that is known for its gentle and professional service.

For Families: Children will be impressed by the sheer size and beauty of the Bahia Palace, which has plenty of rooms and courtyards to explore. The vibrant colors of Jardin Majorelle, especially the fish in the ponds, are also very appealing to kids. A traditional hammam scrub might be too intense for young children, but many spas offer gentler treatments or access to a relaxing pool that the whole family can enjoy.

For Travelers with Disabilities: The Bahia Palace has a large, flat courtyard, and its ground-floor rooms are generally accessible. However, some areas have steps. The Saadian Tombs have a raised viewing area for the main mausoleum that is not wheelchair accessible. Jardin Majorelle has paved paths and is considered one of the more accessible attractions in Marrakech. Many upscale, modern spas in Gueliz or in luxury hotels will have accessible treatment rooms, which is a better option than traditional riad spas.

For Luxury Travel: Hire a private car and driver for the day to take you between the sites in air-conditioned comfort. After a private guided tour of the palaces, enjoy lunch at La Table du Palais at the luxurious Palais Rhoul. Book the most exclusive private hammam experience at a top-tier spa like the Royal Mansour or The Mamounia, where you will be treated to a truly opulent and restorative ritual. The experience is unparalleled in its luxury and service.

For Adventure Travel: Instead of taking a taxi, rent a bicycle to travel from the Medina to Gueliz and Jardin Majorelle. It allows you to see the city at your own pace and discover the streets that connect the old and new parts of town. For your hammam experience, opt for a local, public hammam. It’s a much more authentic (and intense) cultural immersion, where you’ll scrub and be scrubbed alongside local Moroccans. It’s not for the shy, but it’s a truly memorable adventure.

For Nature Lovers: Jardin Majorelle is the main event for you today. Take your time to explore the diverse collection of cacti and exotic plants from around the world. The bamboo forest is a particularly tranquil spot. After the garden, you could also visit a traditional Berber pharmacy in the Medina. Here, you can learn about natural remedies, spices, argan oil, and cosmetics that have been used for centuries, providing a fascinating insight into Morocco’s natural pharmacopeia.

A mid-range riad in the Medina continues to be an excellent choice, providing a perfect balance of authentic charm, comfort, and value. Many of these riads have their own small hammams and offer spa treatments, allowing you to enjoy this experience within the comfort of your own accommodation. Look for a riad with a plunge pool or a beautiful rooftop terrace where you can relax with a book and a mint tea after a day of sightseeing. The personalized service in these establishments is often a highlight of the trip.

For those seeking ultimate luxury and relaxation, consider one of the grand hotels or palace hotels located just outside the Medina walls, in the Hivernage neighborhood. These hotels, like the legendary La Mamounia, offer extensive grounds, large swimming pools, and world-class spas that are destinations in their own right. Staying here provides a resort-like experience, offering a peaceful and opulent retreat from the city’s energy, while still being just a short taxi ride from the main attractions.

• Luxury: Royal Mansour Marrakech
• Mid-Range: La Maison Arabe
• Budget: Riad & Spa Le Secret de Zoraida

The queue for Jardin Majorelle can be very long, sometimes over an hour in the sun. It is highly advisable to book your timed-entry ticket online from the official website several days or even weeks in advance. This will allow you to bypass the main ticket line and enter at your designated time. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum next door also requires a separate ticket, which can be bundled with your garden entry online. Arriving for the first slot in the morning is another good strategy to enjoy the garden before it gets too crowded.

When you go for a hammam, you will be given disposable underwear, but you may feel more comfortable bringing your own dark-colored bathing suit bottoms. The scrubbing process, or “gommage,” is very vigorous. Don’t be alarmed; the goal is to remove all your dead skin, and you will leave feeling incredibly soft and clean. It’s a good idea to drink plenty of water after your treatment to rehydrate. Tipping your hammam attendant is customary if you are happy with the service.

Continue to dress modestly and comfortably for your day of sightseeing. Loose-fitting linen trousers or a long skirt paired with a t-shirt or blouse is perfect for visiting the palaces. Comfortable walking shoes are still essential. Since Jardin Majorelle is in the new city of Gueliz, the dress code is slightly more relaxed, but respectful attire is always appreciated. The garden provides a lot of shade, but a hat and sunglasses are still recommended for walking to and from the site.

For your hammam visit, you will be undressing, so what you wear there doesn’t matter. You will be given disposable underwear or you can wear your own bikini bottoms or dark underwear. It’s a good idea to bring a change of comfortable, loose clothing to wear after your treatment, as you will be very relaxed and won’t want to put on anything tight. Your skin will be sensitive after the scrub, so soft fabrics will feel best.

After visiting the palaces in the southern part of the Medina, you can find several charming cafes and restaurants for lunch in the Kasbah area. Kosybar, with its rooftop terrace overlooking the Atlas Mountains and the stork nests on the walls of the El Badi Palace, is a popular choice for a drink or a light lunch. Zeitoun Café is another excellent option in the same area. For lunch after Jardin Majorelle, the neighborhood of Gueliz offers a wide range of modern and international options, from French bistros to trendy cafes.

For dinner, after your relaxing spa experience, treat yourself to a special meal. Many of the more upscale riads have fantastic restaurants that are open to non-residents (reservations are essential). Dining in the romantic courtyard of a beautifully restored riad, with candlelight and the gentle sound of a fountain, is a magical experience. La Maison Arabe and Le Foundouk are two classic choices that offer exquisite Moroccan cuisine in a stunning setting.

The Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs are located in the southern part of the Medina, and are best reached on foot from the Djemaa el-Fna area. The walk itself is interesting, taking you through different parts of the old city. However, Jardin Majorelle is located outside the Medina walls in the new city of Gueliz. The best way to get there is by petit taxi. The ride should take about 10-15 minutes from the Medina. You can hail a taxi from one of the main squares or gates, such as Djemaa el-Fna.

When taking a petit taxi, always agree on the price before you start the journey, or insist that the driver uses the meter (“compteur” in French). There will be plenty of taxis waiting outside Jardin Majorelle to take you back to the Medina or to your chosen spa. Walking between the garden and the Medina is also possible for those who are energetic, and it takes about 30-40 minutes, but a taxi is much more comfortable, especially in the heat.

Booking a cooking class is the main event today. There are many excellent options available, from classes held in the elegant kitchens of high-end riads to more rustic experiences in the countryside just outside the city. Look for a class with good reviews that offers a small group size for a more personal experience. Classes like those at La Maison Arabe or Riad Kniza are famous for their professionalism and beautiful settings, while others like Amal Center offer a chance to support a non-profit organization that empowers disadvantaged women through culinary training.

For your final souvenir shopping, move beyond the main souks and seek out the “Ensemble Artisanal.” This is a government-sponsored complex where you can watch artisans at work and buy high-quality crafts at fixed, fair-trade prices. It’s a much more relaxed shopping experience than the souks, with no pressure to bargain, and you can be sure you are buying authentic, well-made items. It’s an excellent place to find high-quality leather goods, carpets, and ceramics, and to appreciate the skill that goes into making them.

For Young Travelers: A cooking class is a great social activity. After the class, use your last hours to find unique souvenirs in the less-traveled parts of the souk. Look for vintage Berber jewelry or handmade leather bags. For a final, cheap, and delicious meal, grab a “mechoui” (slow-roasted lamb) sandwich from one of the specialist stalls in the alleys near Djemaa el-Fna. It’s an authentic and unforgettable taste of Marrakech.

For Seniors: A cooking class in a calm and comfortable setting, such as in a riad, is a wonderful and relaxing activity. The market visit can be tailored to be less strenuous. For final shopping, the fixed-price Ensemble Artisanal is a perfect, hassle-free alternative to the bustling souks. Enjoy a final, leisurely mint tea at a quiet cafe before arranging a comfortable and reliable transfer to the airport well in advance of your flight.

For Families: A cooking class is a fantastic activity for families with older children or teens. It’s a fun, hands-on way to engage with the culture together. Many schools can adapt the tasks for younger participants. After lunch, a final calèche (horse-drawn carriage) ride could be a fun way to say goodbye to the city, or a last visit to Djemaa el-Fna to see the daytime entertainers one more time before leaving.

For Travelers with Disabilities: Many cooking schools, especially those in larger riads or dedicated facilities, can be made accessible if you contact them in advance to discuss your specific needs. The market part of the tour may be challenging, but the cooking station can be adapted. The Ensemble Artisanal is generally more spacious and easier to navigate than the souks, making it a better option for accessible souvenir shopping. Pre-booking an accessible airport transfer is essential.

For Luxury Travel: Book a private cooking class with a renowned Moroccan chef in the exquisite setting of a palace hotel or a luxury riad. The experience will be completely personalized, using the highest quality ingredients. For your final shopping, arrange for a private viewing at a high-end carpet gallery or a designer kaftan boutique. Ensure a seamless departure with a luxury airport transfer service, complete with VIP lounge access at the airport.

For Adventure Travel: Find a cooking class that is hosted in a Berber village in the countryside outside Marrakech. This often involves a trip to a rural market and provides a fascinating insight into rural Moroccan life and traditional cooking methods. It’s a much more rustic and adventurous experience than a city-based class. For your last meal, seek out a truly local eatery in one of the residential neighborhoods outside the Medina for a final, authentic taste of Morocco.

For Nature Lovers: Choose a cooking class that takes place in a beautiful garden setting. Many riads and countryside locations offer classes amidst olive groves or fragrant citrus trees. For your final souvenir, focus on natural products. Visit a cooperative that sells pure argan oil, natural soaps, and spices. It’s a wonderful way to bring the natural scents and flavors of Morocco home with you. A final visit to a quiet garden like Le Jardin Secret within the Medina could be a perfect, peaceful farewell.

On your final day, the convenience of your riad or hotel is paramount. Most establishments will offer luggage storage after you check out, which is an invaluable service. This allows you to participate in your cooking class and do your final shopping without being burdened by your bags. You can then return to collect your luggage and perhaps enjoy a final mint tea in the courtyard before you leave for the airport.

A riad that can arrange a reliable and timely airport transfer for you provides great peace of mind. Given that you will be enjoying a large lunch at your cooking class, you may not need a full dinner, so a hotel with a comfortable lounge or cafe for a light snack before you depart is a plus. The personal service of a riad truly shines on the departure day, as the staff will often go out of their way to ensure your final hours in Marrakech are as smooth and pleasant as possible.

• Luxury (with Cooking School): La Maison Arabe
• Mid-Range: Riad Kniza
• Budget (with great service): Riad Dar Zaman

When you take your cooking class, don’t be afraid to ask questions. The chefs are usually passionate about their culinary heritage and happy to share tips and stories. Take notes on the techniques, especially on how to balance the complex spices that are the hallmark of Moroccan cuisine. This will help you recreate the dishes authentically when you get back home. The market tour part of the class is also a great, safe environment to learn about different ingredients without any pressure to buy.

For your final souvenir shopping, it’s a good idea to have a clear idea of what you want to buy. This helps you to be more focused in the souks. Remember the bargaining skills from Day 1. It’s often better to buy several items from the same shop to get a better overall price. When buying spices, make sure they are well-sealed for travel. If you buy a larger item like a carpet or a lamp, most reputable dealers can arrange for international shipping.

For your cooking class, wear something comfortable that you don’t mind getting a little messy. An apron will usually be provided. As the class may involve a market visit, wear your comfortable closed-toe shoes and respectful, layered clothing as on previous days. If you have long hair, you may want to tie it back. Your outfit should be practical for a hands-on activity but still suitable for walking around the Medina afterward.

For your flight home, comfort is the top priority. A loose-fitting pair of trousers or a maxi skirt and a soft top is a great choice. The temperature can fluctuate on planes, so having a sweater or a pashmina scarf handy is always a good idea. It’s best to wear your heaviest shoes on the plane to save weight and space in your luggage. Ensure your travel documents are in an easily accessible part of your hand luggage.

Today, lunch is the star of the show, as you will be eating the delicious multi-course meal that you prepared yourself during your cooking class. This is often a highlight of the trip, as you get to savor the fruits of your own labor in a beautiful setting, whether it’s the courtyard of a riad or a garden terrace. The meal typically includes a variety of Moroccan salads, a main course like a chicken and preserved lemon tagine, and a simple dessert.

Since you will have had a large and late lunch, you probably won’t need a full dinner before your flight. You can grab a light snack at one of the many cafes in the Medina or Gueliz. Alternatively, the cafes at Marrakech-Menara Airport offer a decent selection of sandwiches, pastries, and drinks. It’s a good opportunity to spend your last few Moroccan Dirhams on some final treats before you board your plane.

Most cooking schools will either be located within walking distance in the Medina or will arrange for a meeting point and transportation if they are located in the countryside. Be sure to confirm the logistics when you book. Your final afternoon of shopping will be on foot within the Medina or the Ensemble Artisanal.

For your departure, a pre-booked transfer to Marrakech-Menara Airport (RAK) is the most stress-free option. Arrange this through your riad or a reputable transfer company. Allow plenty of time to get to the airport, especially if you are traveling during peak traffic hours. It’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 to 3 hours before your international flight, as check-in and security procedures can sometimes be slow.

The hammam, or public bathhouse, is a cornerstone of Moroccan culture and a must-do wellness experience. More than just a place to get clean, it is a social ritual and a deeply restorative treatment. The traditional hammam experience involves a series of steam rooms, followed by a full-body exfoliation with “savon beldi” (a black soap made from olives) using a “kess” (a rough exfoliating mitt). This “gommage” scrub removes dead skin, leaving you feeling incredibly soft and revitalized. You can experience this in a local public hammam for an authentic, no-frills cultural immersion, or in a private spa for a more luxurious and relaxing treatment.

Beyond the hammam, Morocco is rich in natural beauty products that form the basis of its wellness traditions. Argan oil, famously produced in the south of the country, is a key ingredient in many skin and hair treatments. Rhassoul clay is used for purifying masks, and rose water from the Dadès Valley is used as a fragrant toner. Many spas and riads offer a range of treatments incorporating these natural ingredients, from massages with scented oils to facials and body wraps, providing a perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate after exploring the bustling cities.

Packing for Morocco requires a balance of modesty, comfort, and preparedness for the sun. The key is lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. This is not only culturally respectful but also practical for staying cool. Items like linen trousers, long skirts, maxi dresses, and light cotton shirts are perfect. A large, lightweight scarf or pashmina is the most versatile item you can pack; use it for sun protection, extra modesty, or warmth in the cool evenings. Bring a comfortable pair of closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven surfaces in the Medinas.

Essentials include high-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses, as the sun is strong year-round. A small first-aid kit with basics like pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and medication for stomach upsets is a good idea. Bring a European two-pin power adapter (Type C/E). It’s also useful to have a small amount of cash (Moroccan Dirhams) on hand for small purchases, as not all vendors accept cards. A reusable water bottle is also a great way to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.

Shopping in the souks of Morocco is a vibrant and interactive cultural experience. The labyrinthine markets are a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, including leather bags and slippers (babouches), colorful ceramic tagines and plates, intricate metal lanterns, fragrant spices, and beautiful hand-woven Berber carpets. The quality can vary, so take your time to inspect items carefully. Don’t be afraid to venture deep into the souks, where you might find artisan workshops and more specialized areas.

Bargaining (or haggling) is an essential and expected part of the process. It should be approached as a friendly, lighthearted negotiation, not an argument. The initial price quoted is always just a starting point. A good tactic is to offer about half the asking price and then meet somewhere in the middle. Having a clear idea of what you are willing to pay helps. If you can’t agree on a price, it’s perfectly fine to smile, say “shukran” (thank you), and walk away. Often, the shopkeeper will call you back with a better offer. For a no-hassle experience, visit a government-run “Ensemble Artisanal,” where prices are fixed and quality is guaranteed.

The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). It is a closed currency, meaning you cannot obtain it outside of Morocco. You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or official exchange bureaus. ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. While some tourist establishments may accept Euros or US Dollars, you will always get a better rate by paying in the local currency.

Citizens of many countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and all EU member states, do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days. You will just need a passport that is valid for at least six months from your entry date. Always check the most current visa requirements for your specific nationality before you travel.

Yes, Morocco is generally a safe country for tourists, and the tourism industry is a vital part of its economy. However, like any travel destination, it’s important to be cautious. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded souks. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in deserted alleys late at night, and be firm but polite in declining unwanted offers from unofficial “guides.”

The official languages are Arabic and Tamazight (Berber). Moroccan Arabic (Darija) is the most commonly spoken dialect. French is also widely spoken, especially in business and among the older generation, and serves as the unofficial second language. In major tourist areas, you will find many people who speak English, Spanish, and other languages.

As a predominantly Muslim country, it is best to dress modestly to show respect for the local culture. This means keeping your shoulders and knees covered. Loose-fitting, lightweight clothing is ideal for the climate. Women are not required to wear a headscarf, but carrying a scarf is useful for extra modesty or for visiting religious sites.

While Morocco is a Muslim country, alcohol is available. You can find it in licensed hotels, riads, bars, and some restaurants that cater to tourists. You can also buy it in larger supermarkets in the new cities (like Carrefour). It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces, so consume it only on licensed premises.

It is generally not recommended for tourists to drink tap water in Morocco. While locals may drink it, it can contain minerals and bacteria that your stomach isn’t used to. To be safe, stick to bottled or filtered water, which is cheap and widely available everywhere.

Moroccan cuisine is famous and delicious. Key dishes include tagine (a slow-cooked stew), couscous, pastilla (a sweet and savory pie), and a variety of grilled meats (brochettes). Street food is also popular, but stick to busy stalls where the food is cooked fresh. Don’t miss trying mint tea, a symbol of Moroccan hospitality.

Morocco uses the Type C and Type E power outlets, which are the standard two-pin plugs used in most of Europe. The standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you are traveling from North America or the UK, you will need a travel adapter.

Always ask for permission before taking a close-up picture of a person. Many people, especially in rural areas or older generations, do not like to be photographed for personal or religious reasons. In tourist areas like Djemaa el-Fna, performers like snake charmers or musicians will expect a small payment if you take their picture.