How to Spend 48 Hours in Marrakech : The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary
Have you ever dreamt of wandering through a city filled with pink-washed alleyways, sipping mint tea on a rooftop, and getting lost (in the best way possible) inside colorful souks?
Welcome to Marrakech! 🌙✨
Set at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is one of those places you’ve probably seen all over Pinterest and Instagram for years – the lantern-lit riads, the spices, the desert sunsets. When my husband and I found an incredible flight deal, we decided to make that dream a reality and spend 48 hours in Marrakech as part of our Morocco trip.
From the moment I arrived, Marrakech wrapped me into its rhythm – the soft jingling of carts rolling through the Medina, the aroma of fresh orange juice, the swirl of colors in Jemaa el-Fnaa, and that warm Moroccan hospitality that instantly makes you feel at home.
And yes… even with just 2 days in Marrakech, you can experience so much of what makes this city iconic. 48 hours in Marrakech is enough to see the city’s highlights, including the Medina, palaces, souks, a hammam experience, and Jemaa el-Fnaa without feeling rushed.
But here’s my little confession: Marrakech is bold, chaotic, charming, and very different from anywhere I’ve ever been, which also means it comes with its own quirks, surprises, and things you’ll want to know before you go. I learned a lot in 48 hours (including how to bargain without sweating 😅), and now I’m sharing everything with you!
Before we dive into the full 48-hour Marrakech itinerary, let’s quickly go through the basics like how to get here, how to get around, where to stay, and all the best tips for visiting Marrakech so your trip is as smooth and magical as ours, especially if it’s your first time in Marrakech, Morocco.
If you’re ready for mint tea, mosaic tiles, and beautiful culture, let’s start planning your perfect Marrakech, Morocco getaway! 🇲🇦💫
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Marrakesh travel guide
(for quick reference )
Best Time to Visit : Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November)
Airport & Getting Around: Fly into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK); walk inside the Medina; use taxis for longer distances (Uber does not operate)
Where to Stay Traditional Riads or Dar in the Medina
- Riad Beni Sidel (Best views of Medina)
- Hotel & Spa Dar Sara (Budget friendly)
- Riad Kasbah & Spa (Luxurious)
- Riad BE Marrakech (Beautiful courtyard)
Must-See Highlights:
- Visit Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace Saadian Tombs & Jardin Majorelle
- Explore the souks with a local guide
- See Madrasa Ben Youssef
- Watch sunset over Jemaa el-Fnaa
- Relax with a traditional hammam
Other helpful things :
Best Time to Visit Marrakech
The best time to visit Marrakech is during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is warm but comfortable, making it ideal for exploring the Medina, visiting palaces, and wandering through the souks without feeling exhausted. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, and evenings are perfect for rooftop dinners and sunset views.
Summer (June to August) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often soaring above 100°F (38°C). While Marrakech is still very much alive during summer, sightseeing can be challenging in the midday heat. If you visit during this time, plan activities early in the morning or later in the evening and take breaks during the hottest part of the day.
Winter (December to February) is another good option, especially if you prefer cooler weather. Days are generally mild and sunny, but mornings and evenings can get chilly. Winter is a popular time for tourists, so expect slightly higher prices and more crowds, especially around holidays.
If you’re visiting for a short trip like 2 days in Marrakech, I recommend aiming for spring or fall if possible. Comfortable weather will allow you to see more without rushing or needing constant breaks.
Getting to and Around Marrakech
Before I jump into the 2 days in Marrakech itinerary, let’s quickly cover how to get to the city and the best ways to get around once you arrive, because this part can feel confusing if it’s your first time visiting Marrakech.
Flying into Marrakech
Marrakech has its own international airport called Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), and it’s located only about 15–20 minutes from the city center.
If you’re flying from the U.S., there are now direct flights from New York City to Marrakech, which makes getting here easier than ever. United Airlines operates nonstop flights from Newark (EWR) to Marrakech, and this is one of the most popular non-stop options for U.S. travelers heading straight into Morocco.
While Delta Air Lines has recently added direct flights to Marrakech, those routes currently operate from Atlanta, not NYC. If you’re flexible with departure cities, that can be another good nonstop option.
You’ll also find plenty of one-stop flight options via Europe with airlines like Air France, as well as connections through Casablanca with Royal Air Maroc. These routes are still very common and often more affordable, depending on the season. If you’re coming from Europe, Marrakech is an easy and relatively short flight. Usually around 2 to 3 hours, which makes it a popular long weekend destination.
How I Book Cheap Flights (My Go-To Method)
I almost never book flights by randomly searching destinations. Instead, I let flight deals decide where I go. One of the reasons we booked this trip because I scored an incredible points and miles deal.
We booked our round-trip flights for just 30,000 miles, which is an absolute steal for a nonstop international route.
Here’s exactly how I booked my Marrakech flight for 30,000 miles round trip –
I use Thrifty Traveler, a flight deal alert service that tracks both cash deals and points & miles deals from major U.S. airports. When a great deal pops up, they send an email with all the details — routes, dates, points required, and whether it’s worth booking (applies only for US resident).
That’s how this trip happened. I got an alert for a rare points deal to Marrakech, checked my miles balance, and booked it immediately. (Hurray – Country no 33 ✅ )
Once you land, you’ll find currency exchange counters and ATMs inside the airport, which is helpful if you haven’t picked up Moroccan dirhams yet. I suggest withdrawing cash here so you’re prepared for taxis, tips, and small purchases right away.
Getting from the Airport to the City
After exiting the terminal, official taxis are readily available outside. Taxis are the easiest way to get into the city, but make sure to agree on a price before getting in, as taxis here do not use meters. If you’re staying inside the Medina, I highly recommend arranging a private transfer through your riad. The Medina can be confusing to navigate, and having someone walk you directly to your accommodation makes arrival day much smoother.
If you’re staying in or near the Medina, you honestly won’t need transportation very often. Many of the main sights included in this 48 hours in Marrakech guide are within walking distance of each other.
Now that you know how to get to Marrakech and move around the city with confidence, let’s talk about one of my favorite parts of planning this trip…
Where to Stay in Marrakech
Choosing the right place to stay can completely shape your experience, especially when you’re only spending 48 hours in Marrakech. Marrakech has a wide range of accommodations, from international hotels to traditional riads or dar, but where you stay really matters here.
If it’s your first time visiting Marrakech, I highly recommend staying inside the Medina. This is the heart of the city, where you’ll find the souks, palaces, historic sites, and endless little alleyways full of life. Staying here means you can walk almost everywhere, which is ideal when following a 2 days in Marrakech itinerary.
Within the Medina, try to stay near popular areas like Jemaa el-Fnaa or close to one of the main gates. This makes getting in and out easier and cuts down on walking through confusing alleyways, especially at night. Many riads & dar will also send someone to meet you and guide you to the property, which is incredibly helpful the first time you arrive.
If you prefer something quieter or more modern, neighborhoods just outside the Medina, like Gueliz or Hivernage, are also good options. These areas have wider streets, more restaurants, and larger hotels, but you’ll likely need taxis to reach most attractions. For a short stay like 48 hours in Marrakech, I personally think staying in the Medina saves time and keeps you closer to the action.
If you’re researching where to stay in Marrakech, you’ll probably see the words riad and dar everywhere — and at first, they can be confusing because they’re very similar.
A riad is a traditional Moroccan home built around a central courtyard, often with a fountain, plants, or a small pool. Most riads in Marrakech operate as boutique hotels and offer amenities like breakfast, rooftop terraces, and help with transfers and tours. They’re ideal for first-time visitors. Whereas, a dar is also a traditional Moroccan house, but it’s typically smaller and more intimate than a riad. It feels more like staying in a private home or guesthouse.
I stayed in a traditional riad, and honestly, I wouldn’t do it any other way. After a busy day exploring, coming back to a peaceful riad with mint tea, soft lighting, and a rooftop terrace feels like a reset button.
If you’re deciding between a riad, a dar and a hotel, here’s my honest take: hotels are comfortable and predictable, but riads & dar offer an experience. When time is limited, staying somewhere that feels uniquely Moroccan adds so much depth to your trip without needing to do more sightseeing.
Here are some of my recommendations for the stay in Marrakesh :
- Riad Beni Sidel (Best views of Medina)
- Hotel & Spa Dar Sara (Budget friendly)
- Riad Kasbah & Spa (Luxurious)
- Riad BE Marrakech (Beautiful courtyard)
No matter where you stay, look for a place that offers breakfast. Moroccan breakfasts are simple but delicious, and starting your day on a rooftop with fresh bread, juice, and coffee is such a special way to ease into the city.
Now that you’ve got accommodation sorted, it’s time for the fun part.
2 Days in Marrakech Itinerary (The Perfect Way to Spend 48 Hours)
This 2 days in Marrakech itinerary reflects exactly how my husband and I spent our time in the city. It felt well-paced, immersive, and realistic for a short stay. Perfect, if you’re visiting Marrakech, Morocco for the first time and want to see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. You can modify the itinerary based on how you like to explore the city.
Day 1 : We arrived in Marrakech early in the morning after our flight from Newark to Atlanta and then onward to Marrakech. Ideally, you’ll want to arrive before noon so you can make the most of your first day without feeling rushed.
After clearing immigration and picking up our bags, we met our pre-arranged driver outside the airport. We booked this directly through our riad, and I highly recommend doing the same — it makes arrival completely stress-free, especially if it’s your first time in Marrakech.
Our host was incredibly kind and even allowed us to check in early. After dropping off our luggage and freshening up, we wasted no time heading out to explore the city.
Our first stop was Bahia Palace, which is one of the best places to start when visiting Marrakech for the first time. The intricate tilework, carved ceilings, and peaceful courtyards give you an immediate appreciation for Moroccan craftsmanship without being overwhelming.
From there, we walked to El Badi Palace. While it’s mostly ruins today, the sheer scale of the palace is impressive, and it’s easy to imagine how grand it once was. We loved walking through the open courtyards and spotting storks perched along the walls.
Next, we visited the Saadian Tombs, one of Marrakech’s most important historical sites. It can get crowded, but the detailed decorations and historical significance make it worth the stop.
By the afternoon, we joined a guided food tour, which ended up being one of the highlights of our 48 hours in Marrakech. Not only did we get to taste local Moroccan dishes, but the tour also took us through the souks. Exploring the souks with a guide made the experience much more enjoyable. We learned how to navigate the maze-like alleys, understood what we were seeing, and didn’t feel overwhelmed at all.
After a full day of sightseeing, food, and wandering, we headed back to our riad to rest and recharge.
Day 2 : We started our second day with a relaxed breakfast at our riad. One of those slow, peaceful mornings before the city fully wakes up.
Our first stop was Madrasa Ben Youssef, a former Islamic school and one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. The symmetry, detailed tilework, and quiet atmosphere make it a must-visit during 2 days in Marrakech, especially if you enjoy history and architecture.
After that, we planned to grab coffee at Bacha Coffee, but the line was extremely long, so we decided to skip it. If visiting Bacha Coffee is high on your list, I recommend going early in the morning or being prepared to wait.
Instead, this is a great time to slow things down. You can visit the Secret Garden or Jardin Majorelle, both of which offer a calm escape from the busy Medina.
If you’re interested in learning more about the city’s history and culture, I highly recommend joining a walking tour. It takes the stress out of navigating the Medina and adds so much context to everything you see.
In the afternoon, I highly recommend booking a traditional hammam experience. After lots of walking, sightseeing, and sensory overload, the hammam was exactly what we needed. The combination of steam, exfoliation, and relaxation felt incredibly refreshing and gave us a deeper appreciation for this important part of Moroccan culture.
A traditional hammam can feel intimidating if you’ve never done one before, but it’s absolutely worth it. Expect steam, exfoliation, and a very hands-on experience. If you prefer something more spa-like, opt for a tourist-friendly hammam. Either way, it’s a great way to relax and recharge.
On our last evening, we watched the sunset over Jemaa el-Fnaa from one of the rooftop cafés overlooking the square. As the sun went down, the entire atmosphere changed — food stalls lit up, musicians filled the air, and the square came alive. It was the perfect way to wrap up our 48 hours in Marrakech.
After sunset, we kept things simple with dinner at a cozy local Moroccan restaurant, followed by one final walk through the Medina — a calm and memorable way to say goodbye to the city.
My other recommendation to spend the evening is at DarDar (Restaurant & Bar). The views are beautiful, the atmosphere is lively, and the food is excellent (not traditional though) . Make sure to reserve in advance, especially if you want a sunset table.
Things to Know Before You Visit Marrakech
Marrakech is an incredible destination, but it can feel intense if it’s your first time in Marrakech. These practical tips will help you feel more prepared and make your 48 hours in Marrakech smoother and more enjoyable.
🌆 Marrakech is loud, busy, colorful, and full of life. The Medina is a maze of narrow alleyways shared by pedestrians, motorbikes, and carts. At first, it can feel overwhelming, but once you accept the chaos instead of fighting it, the city becomes much more enjoyable.
🗺️ The Medina is made up of winding, narrow streets, so feeling a little lost at times is totally normal. Surprisingly, Google Maps worked absolutely fine for us, even though I’d read mixed reviews before our trip. I relied on it several times and never ran into any problems.
I still recommend downloading offline maps before you go, just in case your signal drops. If someone offers directions along the way, they may expect a tip afterward. A guided walking tour on your first or second day can really help you understand the layout and feel more confident navigating on your own.
💵 Many places in Marrakech still operate on cash, especially in the souks, small restaurants, and taxis. ATMs are widely available, but it’s a good idea to carry small bills. Having cash on hand makes everything easier and avoids awkward situations.
🚕 Taxis are affordable and easy to find, but they don’t always use meters, especially around tourist areas. Always agree on a price before getting in. Also, Uber does not work in Marrakech, so taxis or pre-arranged transfers are your main option for getting around longer distances.
🛍️ Bargaining is expected in the souks, and it’s part of the culture. Start lower than the asking price and meet somewhere in the middle. If you’re not interested, a polite but firm “no thank you” usually works. Don’t feel pressured to buy something just because someone is persistent.
📆 Places like Jardin Majorelle, hammams, rooftop restaurants, and guided tours can sell out, especially during peak season. Booking ahead will save you time and stress, which is crucial when you only have 2 days in Marrakech.
🗣️ Most people in Marrakech speak some combination of Arabic, French, and English, but learning a few basic phrases goes a long way. Even a simple “hello” or “thank you” is appreciated and often leads to warmer interactions.
FAQs: Visiting Marrakech for the First Time
Here are some of the most common questions people ask when planning 48 hours in Marrakech. These are all based on my personal experience traveling with my husband and navigating Marrakech, Morocco for the first time.
Is 48 hours in Marrakech enough?
Yes — 48 hours in Marrakech is enough to see the highlights, especially if it’s your first visit. Two full days allow you to explore the Medina, visit major sights, experience the souks, enjoy a hammam, and soak in the atmosphere without feeling completely rushed. While you won’t see everything, 2 days in Marrakech is the perfect introduction to the city.
Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
Marrakech is generally safe for tourists, including couples and first-time visitors. I personally had no safety issues at allduring our trip and felt comfortable exploring the city, even in the evenings.
That said, like any busy tourist destination, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings. One common thing I had read about (and also noticed while walking around) is that if you look lost, some people may offer to “help” you with directions and then ask for money at the end. If you don’t want assistance, a polite but firm “no, thank you” usually works.
Another thing to watch out for is overpriced taxi rides, especially near tourist areas or the airport. Always agree on a price before getting in, since meters aren’t always used.
The Medina itself is lively and busy well into the evening, which actually adds to the feeling of safety. As long as you use common sense, avoid quiet alleyways late at night, and trust your instincts, Marrakech is a very manageable.
What is the best time to visit Marrakech?
The best time to visit Marrakech is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). During these months, the weather is warm but comfortable, making it ideal for walking and sightseeing. Summers can be extremely hot, while winters are mild but can get chilly in the evenings.
How many hours does it take to get to Morocco?
If you’re flying nonstop from New York to Marrakech, the flight takes about 8 hours. One-stop flights via Europe usually take between 12 and 15 hours, depending on your layover. Travel time will vary based on your departure city and route, but Morocco is more accessible than many people expect.
Do I need a visa to visit Morocco?
Visa requirements depend on your passport. As an Indian passport holder, I applied for the Moroccan e-visa online and received approval within just 2 days, which was surprisingly quick and easy. I carried a printed copy of the e-visa with me and presented it at immigration upon arrival.
If you’re traveling on a different passport, make sure to check the latest visa requirements before your trip, as rules can vary by nationality.
Should I book tours in Marrakech?
Tours aren’t required, but they can greatly enhance your experience. A guided walking tour helps you understand the history and layout of the Medina, while food tours and hammam experiences add cultural depth. For a short stay like 48 hours in Marrakech, tours can save time and reduce stress.
Can I drink tap water in Marrakech?
It’s best to avoid drinking tap water in Marrakech. Stick to bottled water, even for brushing your teeth if you have a sensitive stomach. Bottled water is cheap and widely available throughout the city.
Is Marrakech expensive?
Marrakech can be very affordable, especially compared to many European cities. Food, taxis, and attractions are reasonably priced, but costs can add up if you stay in luxury riads or book private tours. Overall, Marrakech works well for both budget and luxury travelers.
Final Thoughts: Is 48 Hours in Marrakech Worth It?
Spending 48 hours in Marrakech is absolutely worth it, especially if it’s your first time visiting Marrakech, Morocco. While the city can feel intense at first, two well-planned days give you the perfect balance of sightseeing, culture, food, and downtime.
This 2 days in Marrakech itinerary allowed us to experience the city without rushing from place to place. We saw iconic landmarks, tasted local cuisine, and still had moments to slow down and simply take it all in. And honestly, that’s the best way to experience Marrakech.
If you’re short on time or adding Morocco to a longer trip, Marrakech is the perfect introduction. It’s vibrant, chaotic, beautiful, and deeply cultural – all wrapped into one unforgettable destination. Even after just two days, I left feeling more confident, inspired, and already thinking about when I’d come back.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering whether 48 hours in Marrakech is enough, I hope this guide helps you feel prepared and excited. Marrakech might surprise you — in the best way possible.
✨ If you have any questions or want help planning your Morocco itinerary, feel free to reach out or leave a comment.
