Marrakesh is one of those cities that will draw you in almost immediately. It has an intriguing culture, delectable food, and stunning architecture that’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

But, there are a few things to know before visiting Marrakesh to ensure you enjoy your time.

1. Dress Respectfully

While Instagram may lead you to believe belly shirts and summer dresses are the norm in Marrakesh, reality couldn’t be further from the truth. Like other conservative Muslim countries, acceptable attire is modest in nature.

What does that look like?

Knees, midriff, and shoulders should be covered at all times and swimsuits should be reserved for pool areas only. And ladies, keep the cleavage to yourself to avoid unwanted (even somewhat aggressive) attention. In addition, you may also need to cover your hair in certain situations, like when entering a place of worship. So, having a lightweight scarf with you is always a good idea.

Just remember to respect the local culture and keep fashion statements to yourself.

Learn more about dressing for a conservative country here.

2. Stay At A Riad

One of the best parts of visiting Marrakesh is the multitude of riads scattered throughout the city. Unlike larger hotels, these charming classic Moroccan houses are run like bed and breakfasts. They feature a central courtyard, often with a small pool, and several private guest rooms. Plus, most will have a rooftop terrace that’s ideal for watching the sunset as the call to prayer echoes in the background.

Meals are made by an on-site chef who often offers cooking classes to teach you how Moroccan cuisine is made. And, the on-site manager can conveniently arrange transports, guides, and activities during your stay.

While most aren’t much to write home about from the outside, the insides are like a little slice of paradise! Each with its own characteristic style and charm.

3. You’ll Get Lost… A Lot

One of the most important things to know before visiting Marrakesh is that you’re going to get turned around and hopelessly lost.

That’s because Marrakesh’s medina is extremely confusing. And, for good reason! When it was originally constructed, the city was designed as a maze of twists and turns to confuse invaders who made their way past the outer wall.

Today, however, those winding streets are a nightmare for visitors to navigate.

So, to familiarize yourself with the city, it’s best to book a walking tour on your first day. And, never trust men standing along the roads offering advice. Their “that road is closed” and “the square is this way” are scams to demand payment from unsuspecting tourists. My friend and I experienced this a lot during our stay. Trust me, the roads were always open.

EXPERT TIP: If you do get lost, ask a shop owner for directions. Others will walk you around in circles before demanding a high price for their “assistance”. But, because shop owners need to stay with their stores, they’re more likely to point you in the right direction.

4. Don’t Wander Around Alone At Night

The lively hustle and bustle of the medina during the day becomes a little seedier at night. Alleyways are ill-lit, shops board up their doors, and you’re almost guaranteed to be harassed by the men that line the streets.

Even walking around with someone else, I felt a little uneasy. It’s certainly not something I’d recommend doing by yourself, especially as a woman.

So, in order to stay safe, one of the most important things to know before visiting Marrakesh is to avoid walking around unescorted at night. And, if you do find yourself out past dark, try to walk closely behind other tourists (especially men). That way you appear to be part of their group and are less likely to be harassed.

5. Carry Cash

Morocco operates mostly as a cash society, and the local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD or Dh). Money exchange is available at the airport, and much easier to find than in the medina (where ATMs are few and far between).

20 USD is roughly 200 MAD, so the conversion is fairly easy. Euros are also widely accepted, although the exchange rate isn’t as good.

NOTE: It’s illegal to take Moroccan Dirham out of the country, so spend it before you leave!

6. Watch for Pick Pocketers

Carrying cash also carries with it the danger of being pick-pocketed. And, in Marrakesh, pick-pocketers are plentiful. So, another one of the most important things to know before visiting Marrakesh is to exercise caution as you explore the medina.

Wear your purse or bag in front, keep valuables close, and be aware of your surroundings. Also, avoid wearing flashy jewelry that may make you a target for thieves.

And finally, avoid looking like a tourist. Walk with purpose and don’t appear to be an easy mark.

7. Learn the Art of Haggling

The souks in the medina are filled with every type of souvenir you could possibly imagine. Lamps, leather, carpets, ceramics, tassels, trinkets, and prismatic spices line tables in every direction.

And, half the fun in shopping the souks comes when you haggle for the best deal. Prices are merely a suggestion, which allows visitors a chance to dust off their negotiation skills before a purchase. However, the average Moroccan monthly salary is only about $541.00, which is why many rely on tourists as a way to make ends meet. So, when compromising on a price, try not to be too greedy.

Lastly, because prices are fluid, it’s wise to settle on the cost of things like rides, guides, etc before the service is performed. Otherwise, you’re sure to suffer sticker shock when they try to charge you an unreasonable amount.

8. Get Used To Saying “No”

Along with learning to haggle, you’ll need to get used to saying “no.”

A lot.

That’s because you’ll frequently be approached by locals to purchase goods or services. And, oftentimes, a single “no” isn’t enough for them to lose interest. So, even though it feels rude, you should be emphatic in your objection and then simply walk away. Otherwise, they’ll keep badgering you.

EXPERT TIP: You’ll also want to say “no” to the tap water. Instead, you should always drink bottled water or use a LifeStraw to avoid getting sick.

9. Everything Comes At A Price

Shopkeepers and street performers will request payment for just about anything. In fact, my friend and I even had one ask us for money when I took a photo of light filtering through the souks. He wasn’t even in the picture and the photo wasn’t of his shop. But, he figured the light was in his general area so he should be able to charge for it.

True story.

It’s also not uncommon to have animals (like snakes) draped over you as you walk by before their handlers demand payment. Did you ask for some poor, drugged creature to be thrown on you for a photo? Nope. But that doesn’t matter, you’ll still be asked to pay for it. Just hand it back and walk away. Never feel obligated to pay for things you don’t request.

10. Learn A Few Phrases

English is widely spoken throughout Morocco, so you shouldn’t have any issues communicating. And, you can also speak French (which is the country’s unofficial second language).

However, if you want to speak the local language, then learning a few Arabic phrases may be helpful. Some common ones include:

Min faDlik – Please
Shukran – Thank You
Naäam – Yes
Laa – No
Marhaba – Hello
As Salam u Alaikum – Peace Be With You (another customary greeting)
Mafi Fulus – No Money (great to use if you’re being hounded)

If you’re a woman and find yourself being harassed by men, loudly use the phrase “Ha-shooo-ma!” Then use your right hand to lightly pull the bottom of your right eyelid. This essentially means “You are shameful and Allah sees it.” The disgrace behind such an expression will make the men stop their catcalls. And, if you ever feel unsafe, simply go into a shop and ask for help.

11. Prepare For Sensory Overload

The city’s hustle and bustle can be quite the assault on your senses. Chaotic roadways, crowded corridors, the scent of spices, and the hum of chatter are so thick that it can be extremely overwhelming.

After a day of shopping and sightseeing, you’ll undoubtedly be exhausted.

So, one of the essential things to know before visiting Marrakesh is to carve out time in your day to unwind. Grab a cup of mint tea on your riad’s rooftop terrace, or book a spa treatment to soothe sore muscles. And, if you’re feeling bold, get a hammam for a relaxing (albeit somewhat uncomfortable) cultural experience. You won’t regret it!

Read about my first hammam experience here!

12. Take A Day Trip

Marrakesh is conveniently located near many incredible sights that are perfect for a day trip. So, make sure to venture outside the city during your stay!

My friend and I had a guide take us into the Atlas Mountains and it was one of the most memorable experiences of the trip. He introduced us to a traditional Berber family who showed us around their home. Then, they treated us to homemade bread and mint tea (yum!) We also met the owners of a female-owned and operated argon oil business. And, we saw little towns and roadside eateries that looked like a scene straight out of a postcard.

The Sahara is another incredible day trip you can take from Marrakesh (and one I highly recommend!) Especially for an overnight glamping excursion. The stars are so bright you feel like you can reach out and touch them. It’s a bucket list experience for sure!

And, if you need a break from the chaos of the city, then a day trip to Essaouira is essential! The picturesque seaside town offers visitors the chance to relax on the sprawling beach. Because who doesn’t enjoy a little sun and surf?

Those are the main things to know before visiting Marrakesh in order to make the most of your stay. They’ll help you avoid pitfalls, stay safe, and soak up the experience in the best possible way.

Have you been to Marrakesh? What are some of your tips? Comment below, I’d love to hear them!

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