6 Days in Morocco

General Information
Transportation
- Taxi
- Car Rental
Stay
Restaurants
Reservations
Highlights
Itinerary (3 Days in Marrakesh, 1 Day in Agafay, 2 Days in Essaouira)

General Information

Marrakesh is an explosion of color, culture, and sensory experiences. From the intricate zellige tiles to the earthy pink clay buildings, the city is full of craftsmanship and design details that make Morocco so visually iconic. Most traditional buildings in Marrakesh are constructed using rammed earth (pisé) or clay, which naturally keeps interiors cool in summer and warm in winter — one of the reasons the old city can feel surprisingly comfortable even on hot days.

Inside the Medina, many streets are partially covered with woven palm or reed mats that filter the sunlight and help keep the narrow alleys cooler. Riad courtyards are also built around central gardens or fountains, creating natural ventilation that makes them peaceful and significantly cooler than the bustling streets outside.

It’s easy to see why so many artists have been inspired by Morocco — the colors, patterns, textures, and the blend of Berber, Arab, and Andalusian influences make Marrakesh feel like a living design museum.

And yes — you’ll see cats everywhere. The cats in Marrakesh were friendly and well-behaved, but in Essaouira they were a little more persistent, especially around seafood restaurants. If you’re eating outdoors in Essaouira, maybe skip the seafood unless you want curious cats circling your table.

Souks

The Marrakesh souks are energetic, busy, and can get chaotic, especially when scooters zip past you in the narrow alleys — they’re fast, noisy, and yes, they add to the pollution. It reminded me of a mix of different places:

European-style winding alleys
Arab-influenced architectural rhythm and market layout
Indian-like chaos and bustle

I personally preferred the souks of Essaouira, which felt calmer because scooters aren’t allowed inside the Medina — making shopping much more pleasant.

When shopping in the souks, haggling is expected. A good rule of thumb is to start with half (or even less) of the price quoted. Prices usually drop as you move deeper into the market, away from the main tourist routes.

Language, Culture & Dress

Morocco is a predominantly Muslim country. The main languages spoken are Arabic and French (a remnant of the French protectorate era), but you can still get by with English.

In terms of dress, it’s best to be respectful of the local culture. While tourists are not required to follow a strict dress code, wearing clothing that covers shoulders and knees is more appropriate — especially when visiting religious or historical sites (or just carry a scarf along). I never felt stared at or uncomfortable, but dressing modestly is both respectful and appreciated.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Marrakesh is typically October to April, when temperatures are pleasant. November, in particular, is considered ideal — warm days, cooler mornings and evenings, and generally fewer crowds.

We visited in November (during Thanksgiving week), so Marrakesh was more crowded than expected. Mornings and nights were quite cool, and it was warm from around noon to 4 pm. A light jacket is definitely needed for early mornings and evenings. Many outdoor restaurants even offer blankets, which is a thoughtful touch.

Local Food

Pastilla
Tagine
Kefta
Harira soup served with Chebakia
Msemen
Moroccan Mint Tea
Almou
Baghrir

Transportation

Taxi

You will find taxis easily in Marrakesh. Make sure to agree on a price before getting into a cab so you aren’t overcharged. It usually costs around 50 MAD (about €5) to get anywhere within Marrakesh city. You can also download WeTaxi to verify estimated prices when in doubt — and be prepared to haggle everywhere.

Uber launched in Marrakesh just a few days ago (on the day we were leaving, to be exact), so that’s another option depending on availability.

Car Rental

We rented a car for our trip to the Agafay Desert and Essaouira through Hertz. But definitely check with your riad as well — our riad staff told us afterwards that they could have arranged a rental for us locally, with the car dropped off directly at the riad. Always compare prices, of course.

I wouldn’t recommend renting a car just for Marrakesh. Most riads are inside the Medina where cars aren’t allowed, and it’s a hassle finding parking nearby. We had a car on our last day in Marrakesh and parked at the lot near Safran by Koya for 70 MAD (about €7) for the full day. Just keep in mind this also means pulling your luggage from the parking lot to the riad through the Medina’s alleys.

Morocco has right-side driving, and we didn’t have any issues since we’re used to it from living in the US. The drives to Agafay and Essaouira are easy and straightforward, but city driving in Marrakesh can get chaotic with scooters and narrow streets. Make sure to remain under speed limit if you decide to rent a car. We didn’t face any troubles personally but I heard about many travelers getting caught and fined for going even a little above the speed limit.

Stay

Where to stay in Marrakesh

Marrakesh is full of charm, color, and character — where you stay can completely shape your experience. The best way to feel the city’s magic is by staying in a riad — traditional Moroccan homes built around serene courtyards, often hidden behind unassuming doors in the bustling Medina.

Riad Be – one of the most Instagram-famous riads in Marrakesh, known for its colorful zellige tiles, lush courtyard, and bohemian aesthetic. It’s located down a quiet alley that can feel a bit secluded at night, but once inside, the hospitality is wonderful.

We got one of the last available rooms — the Melha — which was definitely tiny for the price, but the property itself and the staff completely made up for it. Riad Be actually consists of two connected riads, which means you get access to two courtyards and two pools, and they’re currently working on adding a third riad. The common areas are absolutely beautiful and worth the stay if aesthetics and atmosphere are important to you.
Riad Palais Lamrani – Riad Palais Lamrani feels elegant, tranquil, and spacious — a perfect retreat after a day exploring the souks. The riad is located right in the middle of the Medina, so the entrance is lively and busy, and getting your bags in and out can be a bit chaotic. But once inside, it’s incredibly peaceful.

We stayed in the Pasha Suite, which had a lovely balcony overlooking the pool. I hadn’t heard much about this riad before booking, but it turned out to be one of our favorite stays. The property is larger than many typical riads — likely because it was originally a palais — and there are plenty of beautifully decorated lounge areas, a lush courtyard filled with different plants, and so many birds. Waking up to birdsong here was honestly magical.

The rooftop is also stunning, with 360-degree views of the city, including the Koutoubia Mosque. If you’re unsure whether to book this riad: 10/10 recommend. We absolutely loved our stay.

Other options:

Riad Yasmine – Famous for its emerald-tiled pool and tropical courtyard. A Marrakesh classic.
Riad El Fenn – Trendy, artsy, and luxurious. Expect bold colors, rooftop views, and modern Moroccan flair.
Riad Botanica – A newer, nature-inspired riad blending minimalist design with Moroccan charm.
Riad Sadaka – A cozy, stylish riad with bright interiors and warm hospitality. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for something authentic yet comfortable without breaking the bank.
Royal Mansour Marrakech – Ultra-luxury, designed by the King of Morocco himself. Each guest stays in a private riad — the ultimate indulgence.

Where to stay in the Agafay Desert

For a desert experience close to Marrakesh (about 45 minutes away), the Agafay Desert offers a serene, rocky landscape perfect for glamping and stargazing — no need to travel all the way to the Sahara.

White Camel – A luxurious desert camp with stylish tents, infinity pools, and candlelit dinners under the stars. The perfect mix of comfort and adventure.

We booked the Pool Lodge, and this ended up being one of our favorite stays of the entire trip. I was a bit hesitant at first because of the mixed reviews online, but our experience was genuinely amazing. The yurt was incredibly spacious and beautifully designed, with everything you need to feel comfortable in the middle of the desert.. The private pool and outdoor seating area were perfect for warm, sunny afternoons — think lounging with a drink or hookah while looking out over the desert. At night, it becomes even more magical. We spent the night stargazing from our terrace, and you could even see the stars from inside the yurt. It felt peaceful, romantic, and truly unique.

Other options:

Scarabeo Camp – Chic yet rustic, offering panoramic desert views and cozy campfires.
Inara Camp – Known for its blend of luxury and sustainability, offering beautiful tents and a calm, romantic vibe.

Where to stay in Essaouira

If you have time for a coastal escape, Essaouira is a breezy seaside town just a few hours from Marrakesh — relaxed, artsy, and full of charm.

Le Medina Essaouira Thalassa Sea & Spa – A beautiful beachfront hotel that blends traditional Moroccan touches with resort-style comfort. It’s located right across the beach, with its own private stretch and a beachside restaurant. This was our only “proper hotel” stay in Morocco, and we were looking forward to hotel-level amenities. We did run into a couple of inconveniences — our sink started collecting water from the very first use and continued throughout our stay — and it was surprisingly hard to reach anyone for help. But aside from that, it’s a pretty resort and worked well for a one-night stay.

Other options:

Riad Emotion – A charming boutique riad with elegant interiors, warm hosts, and a lovely terrace. Central yet quiet, it’s a wonderful mix of comfort and authenticity.
Mumtaz Mahal – A beautifully decorated riad located right in the Medina, known for its richly detailed interiors, arched doorways, and a warm, old-world Moroccan feel.
Atlas Essaouira & Spa – Modern resort-style hotel with ocean views and a great pool.
Salut Maroc – A colorful, design-forward riad right on the seafront. Each room is themed, and the rooftop terrace has stunning views of the Atlantic.

Restaurants

Le Jardin Restaurant – must try the sea food pastilla (Marrakesh)
El Fenn Rooftop for cocktails & bites (Marrakesh)
Les Jardins Du Lotus – must try the lobster benedict (Marrakesh)
Shawarma El Fna – hidden gem – must try their shawarma (Marrakesh)
Safran by Koya – must try their Chicken Tagine (Marrakesh)
La Terrasse des Épices – must try their Kefta (Marrakesh)
Bacha Cafe – don’t miss the churros (Marrakesh)
Atay Cafe – for the views (Marrakesh)
DarDar – popular rooftop for sunset views (Marrakesh)
Mbeach – right at the beach for drinks and ocean sunset views (Essaouira)
Ksou -breakfast rooftop spot with oceans views (Essaouira)

Alcohol

Not all places in Morocco serve alcohol. These are some of the spots that did-

El Fenn Rooftop (Marrakesh)
Les Jardins Du Lotus (Marrakesh)
Safran by Koya (Marrakesh)
DarDar (Marrakesh)
Mbeach (Essaouira)

Reservations

YSL Museum
Jardin Majorelle
Popular restaurant reservations (we made dinner show reservations for Safran by Koya)

Highlights

YSL Museum and Jardin Majorelle – YSL Museum isn’t a highlight for many, but it was for us. We loved seeing the clothes collection, and learning about how Morocco inspired Yves Saint Laurent and Piere Berge in the 1960s and how the city’s colors transformed his work.
Staying in a riad and experiencing moroccan hospitality especially the generous breakfast spreads.
The White Camel Agafay Desert Camp – desert nights, candlelight dinner with fire show, stargazing under the desert sky in the comfort of a luxurious yurt.
Essaouira sunsets, beach vibes, GOT spots and the slower pace compared to the buzzing Marrakesh city.
Bacha Cafe experience – Long wait times, but absolutely worth doing at least once if you’re a coffee lover. Beyond the coffee itself, learning about the history of Bacha Coffee and Bahia Palace made the experience even more special.

Itinerary (3 Days in Marrakesh, 1 Day in Agafay, 2 Days in Essaouira)

Day 1 (Arrival in Marrakesh, Souks, Jemaa El Fna, Koutobia Mosque)

Check-in & Slow Start
Late Lunch at Le Jardin
Evening in the Souks
Jemaa el-Fna After Dark [Some stalls to try based off research – Stall 3 + 44 • Sandwich • Snail • Lamb • Harissa • Harira soup • Orange juice – not tested]
Koutoubia Mosque
Drinks at El Fenn Rooftop
Dinner at Shawarma El Fna

We landed in Marrakech in the afternoon, and there was a huge line for immigration which thankfully moved pretty fast. To get to the riad we used the service right outside the airport, which is also when we discovered about WeTaxi. We reached our riad for the first 2 days- Riad Be – the most popular Riad and were guided to wait in the courtyard as they prepared everything to check us in. We were brought some moroccan mint tea with some dates, nuts and biscuits – which we soon realized is the moroccan hospitality trend which we grew to love. Riads are peaceful oasis hidden behind unassuming doors, and after a flight, the calm courtyard was exactly what we needed.

Check-in & Slow Start

We spent some time settling in, freshening up, and soaking in the atmosphere. If your riad has a pool or rooftop, this is a great moment to relax before heading out.

Late Lunch at Le Jardin

If you’re hungry after the flight, Le Jardin Restaurant is a perfect first stop. Tucked away inside the Medina, it’s a lush, leafy courtyard restaurant that feels calm and welcoming. The seafood pastilla is a must try here!

Evening in the Souks

After a late lunch, we began wandering through the souks, and very quickly found ourselves lost in a maze of different markets — spice souks, leather stalls, lanterns, textiles, and jewellery. Getting lost here is part of the experience and honestly the best way to explore, soak in the atmosphere, and understand what’s being sold.

This is also the perfect time to observe and compare prices. We quickly learned that prices tend to get better the deeper you go into the souk, away from the main entrances. We made the mistake of overpaying for a bracelet early on (even after haggling!), which taught us an important lesson — it’s worth walking around, asking prices, and gauging the range before committing to a purchase. Haggling is expected and is part of the experience, so don’t afraid to bargain!

Jemaa el-Fna After Dark

We had heard a lot about Jemaa el-Fna — how the main square completely transforms at night with food stalls, performers, and nonstop energy — so naturally, we headed there after sunset. The plaza was packed, and buzzing, with energy. We noticed various animals being displayed (including peacocks and hedgehogs), and almost immediately, a henna artist approached me and forcefully started applying henna before asking for money. The interaction felt sudden and uncomfortable and did take us by surprise, so we stepped into a nearby restaurant to remove it before continuing.

Once back in the square, we walked through the food stall area and found ourselves being continuously approached by vendors trying to pull us into their stalls. I had heard that selling here can be aggressive, but experiencing it firsthand — especially as obvious tourists — felt quite overwhelming. Having grown up in India, I was somewhat familiar with this style of selling, but the intensity felt different when you’re traveling and navigating an unfamiliar environment.

Between the crowds, the constant interactions, and not wanting to risk an upset stomach so early in the trip, we felt ready to move on after a short walk through the square and decided to skip the street food we had bookmarked.

Looking back, I would approach Jemaa el-Fna differently next time — either by booking a guided food tour, which provides structure and context, or by walking around the outer edges of the square rather than directly through the main food stall lanes. Despite the overwhelm, it’s still worth seeing Jemaa el-Fna at night at least once — just go in prepared.

Koutoubia Mosque

After leaving Jemaa el-Fna, we didn’t let the earlier experience get to us and instead took a quiet walk towards the Koutoubia Mosque away from all the chaos and watched the mosque softly glow.

Drinks at El Fenn Rooftop

From the Koutoubia Mosque, we made our way to El Fenn Rooftop to escape the chaos below and enjoy the city from above. The contrast was instant — calm, candle-lit, and with beautiful views over the Medina at night. We ordered a couple of drinks and light snack and stayed long enough to unwind and take it all in.

You’ll need a reservation if you’re dining, but it’s usually possible to walk in for drinks and snacks, which makes it a great option for a relaxed nightcap after exploring the city.

Dinner at Shawarma El Fna

For dinner, we kept things simple and ended up at Shawarma el-Fna — and it turned out to be one of our favourite food stops of the trip. The shawarma was so good that we came back again later before leaving Marrakech. Still dreaming about it.

Day 2 (YSL Museum, Jardin Majorelle, Les Jardin De Lotus, Ben Youssef Madrasa, Souks, Safran by Koya)

Breakfast at riad
Jardin Majorelle + YSL Museum (Book ticket)
Lunch & Drinks (Le Jardin Lotus)
Souks + Spice Market walk
Ben Youssef Madrasa
Chill in riad / pool time
Evening dinner at Safran by Koya (9 PM reservation, show starts at 9 pm)

Breakfast at the Riad

Day 2 began with an amazing breakfast spread on the rooftop of our riad — It was the perfect slow start before heading out for a full day of exploring.

Jardin Majorelle & YSL Museum

We had pre-booked tickets for the YSL Museum and Jardin Majorelle, which I’d highly recommend. Make sure to arrive no later than 15 minutes before your slot, as they’re quite strict with entry times.

We started at the YSL Museum, spending about an hour exploring the beautifully designed space, exhibits, and architecture. From there, we headed straight next door to Jardin Majorelle. Walking through the vivid blues, exotic plants, and shaded pathways felt like a calm escape from the city — definitely one of the highlights of Marrakech.

Lunch & Drinks at Le Jardin Lotus

After Majorelle, we made our way to Le Jardin Lotus to relax and cool down. This is easily one of the prettiest restaurants in Marrakech — elegant interiors, lush greenery, and a relaxed yet upscale vibe.

We loved the cocktails, and the lobster benedict was a standout. Originally, I had planned to go to Bacha Coffee afterward, but they weren’t accepting walk-ins in the afternoon as it was already packed. They suggested coming early in the morning right when they open, which is good to keep in mind if it’s on your list.

Souks & Spice Market Walk

One of the best things about exploring Marrakesh is that walking anywhere often takes you through the bustling souks. I had planned the souks and spice market walk after visiting the Madrasa, but we ended up passing through the souks on our way to the mosque itself and back to the riad, which worked out perfectly.

Ben Youssef Madrasa

Next, we visited Ben Youssef Madrasa, one of Marrakech’s most beautiful historic sites. The intricate tilework, carved wood, and serene courtyard are truly stunning. Try to visit early in the day if you want to avoid the crowds. Tickets can be purchased on arrival.

Evening Break at the Riad

We spent the evening relaxing at the riad, resting and recharging before the night ahead. Scheduling downtime like this really helps balance the energy of Marrakech.

Dinner & Nightlife

We headed out again for our 9 PM dinner reservation, which is when the live performances really start. The atmosphere was incredibly lively — music, dancing, and interactive performances that pull you right in.

The food was excellent, especially the tagine, and it turned out to be the perfect place to celebrate a birthday. High energy, great food, and a memorable night — the ideal way to end Day 2.

Day 3 (Atay Cafe, Car Rental, White Camel at Agafay Desert)

Breakfast at the riad (special rooftop surprise for husband’s birthday!)
Pick up car rental from Hertz
Drive to Agafay Desert (~2 PM)
Camp stay: pool tent, spa, activities, sunset & stargazing dinner (dinner and breakfast included)

Morning: Breakfast & Birthday Surprise

We started the day with breakfast at our riad, where the staff had arranged a special rooftop surprise for my husband’s birthday on my request. It was such a thoughtful touch and made for a truly memorable start to the day.

Late Morning: Coffee & Relaxation

We had originally planned to pick up our car first thing, but due to a mix-up with timing—and since Hertz was closing for lunch—we decided to stop at a cafe. We had thought of Bacha Coffee, but it was closed on Monday. Instead, we went to Atay Cafe, where we enjoyed hot drinks and a lovely view, soaking in the relaxed morning atmosphere.

Lunch

We grabbed lunch from Shawarma El Fna, one of our favorite spots, before heading out for the desert adventure.

Early Afternoon: Car Rental & Drive to Agafay Desert

We picked up our car from Hertz after the timing mix-up and drove straight to the Agafay Desert.

Afternoon: White Camel Camp & Pool Relaxation

The White Camel Camp was breathtaking! Our pool-side tent was spacious and well-equipped, and the staff were incredibly hospitable—welcoming us with tea and biscuits and giving us a full tour of the property. We spent the afternoon relaxing by the pool, sipping drinks, and enjoying a hookah while watching the sunset over the desert sands.

Evening: Romantic Dinner & Stargazing

Dinner at the camp was truly magical: candlelight, soft music, a 3-course meal, and a fire performance. We ended the night stargazing, both outside and from inside our tent, enjoying the clear desert sky. It was the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and celebration.

Day 4 (Spa, Drive to Essaouira, Beach sunset, Essaouira Port, Essaouira Souk)

Breakfast at the camp
Morning spa (hammam optional)
Drive to Essaouira
Check-in at Le Médina
Beach sunset at MBeach (Option B: Salut Maroc)
Walk along the port & city walls
Explore Essaouira Medina & souks
Dinner in the medina

Morning: Breakfast & Spa at the Camp

We started the morning with breakfast at the camp, followed by a visit to the spa. A hammam experience is something you should definitely try while in Morocco, though I skipped it this time as I wasn’t feeling my best. Even without the hammam, it was a relaxing and slow start to the day—perfect before our long drive to Essaouira.

Afternoon: Check-in & Beach Sunset

We arrived in Essaouira and checked into Le Médina Hotel. After freshening up, we headed straight to MBeach, the hotel’s private beachside restaurant. We enjoyed drinks and some food while watching a stunning sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Pro tip: Avoid ordering seafood here—there are lots of cats roaming around, and it can get a bit much.

Evening: Port Walk, Medina, Souks and Dinner

After sunset, we walked along the pier toward the Essaouira Port, soaking in the coastal vibes and watching the sunset colors get darker. From there, we made our way into the medina, wandering through the lively souks. I heard the crepes here are really good so we tried the Nutella Speculoos at Jooba Crepes – and its a must try!

We picked up some Argan oil and freshly made Amlou—the shopkeeper had me try it with honey and it was impossible to resist!

We ended the night with a comforting couscous dinner in the medina.

Day 5 (GOT Locations, Essaouira Port, Squala du Port, City walls & Ramparts, Souk, Dinner in Marrakesh)

Breakfast at KSOU (coastal views)
Game of Thrones filming locations: Essaouira Port, Squala du Port, city walls & ramparts
Last-minute shopping in the medina / souk
Drive back to Marrakesh
Check-in at Palais Riad Lamrani
Dinner at Terrasse des Épices

Morning: Breakfast with Coastal Views

We started the day with breakfast at KSOU, which offers stunning coastal views. I ordered the Berber omelette, and it was the perfect way to fuel up before a full day of exploring.

Late Morning: Game of Thrones Locations & Historic Landmarks

Next, we set out on our Game of Thrones location quest, visiting iconic spots such as Essaouira Port, Squala du Port, the city walls, and the ramparts.
These locations were used as filming sites for Astapor in Game of Thrones, and it was fascinating to see how the historic architecture and coastal setting were transformed on screen.

Walking along the city walls and ramparts, it was incredible to take in the layers of history—structures that once protected the city and now stand as some of Essaouira’s most striking landmarks.

Early Afternoon: Medina & Souk Shopping

After wrapping up sightseeing, we headed back into the medina for some last-minute shopping. We picked up some coffee’s to go for our drive back to Marrakesh.

Evening: Riad Check-in & Dinner

Once in Marrakesh, we parked near Safran by Koya and walked to our riad, Palais Riad Lamrani. The riad was absolutely beautiful, with a lush green central courtyard that attracts birdsong throughout the day. We were welcomed with Moroccan tea and biscuits, took some time to rest, and then headed out for dinner.

We ended the night at Terrasse des Épices, a stunning rooftop restaurant. Must-try: the kefta—best Kefta we had in Morocco.

Day 6 (Bacha Cafe & last minute Souks)

Breakfast at Riad
Bacha Coffee
Last-minute souk shopping or Bahia Palace (if shopping already done)
Depart for airport (~2:30 PM)

Morning: Breakfast & Slow Star

On our last day, we enjoyed our breakfast at the riad, soaking in the final moments of our stay before heading out for one last adventure in the city.

Late Morning: Bacha Coffee Experience

I was determined to finally visit Bacha Coffee, since we hadn’t been able to earlier in the trip. When we arrived, we found out the wait time was nearly three hours, and an entry ticket was required. We hesitated, as we also needed to check out of the riad.

We asked if we could put our name down and return after checking out, but that wasn’t allowed. I then asked if I could stay while my husband checked out and joined me later—and thankfully, they were very understanding. They allowed us to purchase the tickets, add our names to the list, and return together later.

We came back after about an hour and were seated within 30 minutes, after spending time browsing the shop and exploring the non-ticketed areas of Bahia Palace nearby. Overall, we waited much less than the original three hours.

Inside, we had already picked our coffee while browsing the shop, and each of us was served a full pot at the table. Do not miss the churros—they reminded me of porras in Spain and were easily some of the best churros we’ve ever had.

Early Afternoon: Last-Minute Shopping & Departure

After Bacha Coffee, we did some last-minute shopping in the souks, then headed back to collect our bags and made our way to the airport around 2:30 PM, wrapping up an unforgettable trip to Morocco.

Bonus

If you find yourself with extra time in Marrakesh or want to swap out a slower activity, these experiences make excellent additions to your itinerary:

Bahia Palace
Saadian Tombs
Le Jardin Secret
Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class
Traditional Hammam Experience
Atlas Mountains Day Trip