Falling in Love with Marrakesh: A 12-Day Journey Through Colour, Culture & Connection

Marrakesh - a city that hums with life, colour, and centuries of history. The moment we stepped into its maze-like Medina, we knew twelve days wouldn’t be nearly enough. From fragrant tagines and rooftop sunsets to ancient palaces and desert escapes, this trip reminded us why travel is about connection - to people, to culture, and to each other.

This is our 12-day Marrakesh itinerary - a story of slow exploration, hidden gems, and unforgettable moments that will help you plan your own Moroccan adventure.

Good Things to Know Before You Go

Internet: Get an e-SIM before your flight - we recommend GOMO World for reliable data across Morocco, even in remote areas. Get 10% off your first order using code - SANDE10.

Safety: Marrakesh is generally safe, but stay alert in crowded areas and avoid unsolicited help from strangers. We felt secure throughout our stay.

Currency: The local currency is Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Exchange at official bureaus or withdraw directly from ATMs for the best rate.

Tap Water: Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach upsets.

Getting Around: We rented a car from Sovoy Cars (booked easily via WhatsApp). Pick-up at the airport was seamless - fast, affordable, and convenient. Not sponsored - just genuinely great service.

Day 1 – Arrival & First Impressions: A Rooftop Welcome

We landed in Marrakesh in the late afternoon, exchanged some cash at the airport, and headed straight to our first accommodation - Riad BE Marrakesh.

Stepping through its doors felt like entering a storybook - walls washed in warm tones, the scent of orange blossom in the air, and a quiet courtyard that instantly calmed our travel-weary minds.

That evening, we enjoyed our first dinner on a rooftop terrace, watching the sun melt into the pink city skyline. Rooftop dining in Marrakesh is a must - every sunset here feels like the city’s way of saying “welcome.”

Days 2-4 – The Soul of the City: History, Family & Adventure

A Morning of History

After a slow breakfast on the rooftop and some lounging by the pool, we set off to visit Almoravid Koubba - Marrakesh’s oldest surviving monument. Built in 1117, its delicate arches and domes tell stories of the Almoravid dynasty’s artistry.

💡 Entry: 100 MAD | Hours: 9AM - 6PM.

Family, Riads & Relaxation

Later, we spent time with family just outside the city - a peaceful villa retreat that is sure to leave you in awe.

The next day, back at our riad, we took it slow - wandering through the tiled courtyards and soaking in the intricate details that make Moroccan design so enchanting.

Desert Thrills & Medina Magic

Our fourth day began early with a thrilling morning of quad biking and camel riding in the Agafay Desert. The golden dunes, quiet wind, and endless horizon were unforgettable. 

We returned to the city to explore the souks of Jemaa el-Fnaa, a vibrant maze of colour and life. Every corner was filled with treasures - handwoven rugs, spices, lanterns, and laughter echoing through the narrow lanes.

Days 5-8 – The Luxury Chapter: Where Time Stands Still

The Oberoi, Marrakesh

Our next stop was The Oberoi Marrakesh - a breathtaking blend of traditional Moroccan design and modern luxury. Upon arrival, we were upgraded to a Deluxe Villa with a private pool, and from that moment, it felt like a dream.

From breakfast by the water to golden-hour reflections on the marble arches, The Oberoi was a sanctuary. Every detail was curated with intention.

Afternoon Tea at Royal Mansour

We couldn’t resist visiting the Royal Mansour Marrakesh for afternoon tea - a royal experience in every sense. The delicate pastries, mint tea, and timeless ambience made us feel like we’d stepped into a Moroccan fairytale.

Sidecar Adventures

We booked Marrakesh Insiders for a vintage sidecar tour, zig-zagging through alleyways and neighbourhoods less frequented by tourists. Our guide, Illias, showed us the Marrakesh beyond postcards - dusty roads, local markets, and children waving as we passed. 📸 Watch Our Sidecar Adventure

Private Barbecue Dinner

One evening, we booked a private barbecue dinner at The Oberoi - an experience we’ll never forget. Imagine 22 dishes prepared by a private chef beside your villa pool: our favourites were the rosemary rack of lamb, king prawn skewers, truffle mac and cheese, and four exquisite desserts. It was more than a meal - it was art.

Day 9 – Gardens, History & Flavours of Marrakesh

We dedicated this day to two of Marrakesh’s must-sees:

·       Ben Youssef Madrasa - a masterpiece of Islamic architecture with intricate carvings and quiet courtyards.💡 Entry: 50 MAD | Hours: 9AM - 7PM.

·       Jardin Majorelle - the famed blue oasis once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. The vibrant blues, exotic plants, and serenity of this garden are pure magic.💡 Entry: 170 MAD | Hours: 8AM - 6:30PM.

Afterward, we headed to L’Mida Marrakesh for lunch - one of our favourite finds in the Medina. The rooftop views, apricot and thyme chicken teriyaki, L’Mida tacos, and citrus coleslaw were beyond delicious. Our taste buds were totally blown away. Reservation is definitely recommended in peak season. On our walk back, we stopped for a fresh sugarcane juice from a local stand – it was so delicious!

Days 10-12 – Serenity, Sky & Sweet Goodbyes

Palais Namaskar: The Art of Stillness

For our final chapter, we checked into Palais Namaskar - a sanctuary of palatial design, fragrant gardens, and reflection pools that mirror the sky. This hotel radiates peace; every space feels designed for stillness. We spent our afternoons drifting between the gardens and the pool, letting Marrakesh slow us down one last time.

Dinner at Folk Marrakesh

That evening, we dined at Folk Marrakesh. The ambience was intimate, the food rich in flavour, though note: smoking is permitted indoors here. Still, it’s a lovely dinner option for those seeking a laid-back night out.

A Sunrise Above the City

The next morning began before dawn as we were whisked away for a hot air balloon ride. Floating above Marrakesh as the sun rose was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The desert stretched endlessly below us, bathed in golden light. 📸 Watch Our Hot Air Balloon Reel

The Final Stroll

We ended our journey with a rooftop lunch at Black Chic Marrakesh - an Afro-fusion restaurant that stole our hearts with its crispy chicken salad, empanadas, and homemade pineapple ginger drinks.

Our final evening was spent browsing Menara Mall for Moroccan spices and black soap - small treasures to take a piece of Marrakesh home with us.

A Love Letter to Marrakesh

As our plane lifted off the next morning, we looked down at the city that had captured our hearts. Marrakesh is not a place you simply visit - it’s a rhythm, a scent, a swirl of colours that lingers long after you leave.

Twelve days here taught us that beauty lives in the in-between: in early morning tea, the hum of the Medina, and the stillness of desert sunsets.

Until next time, Marrakesh.

With love,

Samuel & Eunice

📸 Follow our journey on Instagram @adventuresofsande_ and YouTube @adventuresofsande