Travelling through Marrakech as a woman
Marrakech is a vibrant, fast-paced city, full of rich history, stunning architecture, and lively markets that will transport you to another world. Just beyond the city, the desert landscape stretches for miles, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures. My time in Marrakech was truly one to write home about, and I want to share the experiences that made it so special—along with the things I wish I had known beforehand.
Where to Stay: Riads & the Medina Experience
One of the first things you’ll need to have sorted before you land in Marrakech is your accommodation. Unlike other cities where you can book a place on arrival, here, they’ll ask for your accommodation details at the airport.
Marrakech is filled with riads, traditional Moroccan-style villas that often feature open courtyards, small pools, and cozy sitting areas. Many riads serve fresh bread and juice for breakfast, adding to the authentic experience. Unlike a standard hotel, riads are more open-concept, creating a warm and social atmosphere.
I stayed in a riad located in the medina, or "old city," about a 10-minute walk south of Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s main market square. This location was perfect—close enough to the action but far enough to enjoy some peace at night. Jemaa el-Fnaa, especially after dark, was unlike anything I’d ever seen before. The energy, the lights, and the sheer number of people reminded me of an Arabic version of Times Square, except filled with the scent of spices and the sounds of street performers.
What to Wear: Blending Respect & Comfort
As a white woman in Marrakech, I saw a few other women who looked like me, though usually, they were traveling with partners or friends. While foreigners can technically wear anything, dressing conservatively is the best way to respect local culture and avoid unwanted attention.
I personally chose to wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved tops and flowy pants while walking through the city. Not only did this help me feel more comfortable, but it also minimized catcalls, which, unfortunately, do happen. I did see some women wearing shorts and crop tops, and while it’s allowed, you’ll stand out a lot more. Dressing modestly made my experience more enjoyable and allowed me to explore with greater ease.
Exploring Marrakech: Must-Do Activities
ATV Ride Through the Agafay desert
This was, hands down, the most fun I had in Marrakech. After booking a tour through Airbnb, my friend and I were picked up and driven out to the Agafay Desert, just outside the city. I have no idea where we ended up, but the vast, golden landscape was unlike anything I had ever seen before.
At one point, we stopped at an open shelter in the middle of nowhere, where we were served fresh bread and hot tea. I had never considered that drinking hot tea in 40°C (104°F) heat would actually help regulate my body temperature, but it did. It’s one of those small cultural details that made the experience even more fascinating. After the break, we hopped back on our ATVs, took some photos, and by the time the tour ended, we were dropped off right at our riad—all included in the price.
The Yves Saint Laurent Museum
If you've ever scrolled past a photo of a striking blue building in Marrakech, it was probably taken at the Yves Saint Laurent Museum and Majorelle Gardens. The bright blue walls, lush greenery, and towering cacti make this place an absolute dream for any photography lover.
Beyond its beauty, the museum gives insight into Yves Saint Laurent’s connection to Morocco. He was deeply inspired by the bold colors and patterns he saw during his travels here, and the museum showcases his designs alongside Moroccan influences. Walking through the gardens, it was easy to see why this place had such a lasting impact on him.
Bahia Palace: A Glimpse into Royal History
Another unforgettable stop was Bahia Palace, a former royal residence showcasing intricate Moroccan architecture, carved ceilings, and stunning marble courtyards. The palace is open to the public, and you can wander through at your own pace, soaking in the beauty and imagining what life was like here centuries ago.
It’s one of those places where every corner feels like a work of art, making it a dream for history lovers and photographers alike.
Other Travel Tips for Marrakech
One thing I learned quickly was that currency exchange is best done at ATMs in the city rather than before arriving. The rates were much better than what I found at home, and while many places accepted credit and debit cards, smaller shops and taxis often required cash.
One of the hardest things for me to see was the treatment of animals in Marrakech. Thin horses pulling carriages, donkeys overworked in the markets, and monkeys on chains for tourist photos were common sights. While I personally avoided engaging with these attractions, they are unfortunately a big part of tourism in Jemaa el-Fnaa. If you want to avoid seeing it, visiting the market at night is a good option, as fewer animals are out during that time.
Final Thoughts: Is Marrakech Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Marrakech is a city unlike any other I’ve visited, filled with vibrant culture, breathtaking architecture, and a mix of chaos and beauty that’s hard to put into words. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave.
However, going in with realistic expectations is key. The fast-paced nature, intense markets, and cultural differences can be overwhelming at first, but with the right mindset, Marrakech offers an unforgettable adventure.