Solo Traveller’s Guide to Marrakech: Morocco’s “Red City”
Travelling solo to Marrakech? Discover the best things to do, where to stay and essential tips in this Solo Traveller’s Guide to Marrakech.
Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most colourful cities – a place where ancient traditions, buzzing souks and cosmopolitan rooftop restaurants collide. For solo travellers, it’s exciting, slightly chaotic and endlessly rewarding.
Whether you’re wandering the medina, relaxing in a heritage riad or escaping on a day trip to the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech offers culture and adventure in equal parts.
In this guide to solo travel in Marrakech, I’ll explain everything you need to know about exploring this iconic Moroccan city, from transport to sightseeing and amazing places to stay.
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Getting to Marrakech
By Air:
- Fly into Marrakech Menara International Airport — a 15-minute drive from the edge of the Medina.
- Taxis cost around 150–200 MAD (night rates are slightly higher).
- Shuttle buses are available from the airport to Djemaa el-Fnaa and Bab Doukkala (30 MAD).
By Bus:
- Marrakech is well-connected by bus to destinations across Morocco.
- CTM and Supratours are the two main companies used by tourists.
- Bus tickets can be purchased online, either directly with the companies or at 12Go.
Discover everything you need to know about travelling Morocco by bus here.
By Train:
- Marrakech is connected to Casablanca, Rabat, Fes and Tangier by train.
- Tickets can be purchased via the ONCF website or at 12Go.
Discover everything you need to know about travelling Morocco by train here.
Getting around Marrakech
- Walking: The medina is car-free (but not motorbike-free) and relatively easy to navigate on foot.
- Petit taxis: Short rides within the city cost 10–50 MAD. Taxis should be metered, but if not, agree on the fare before riding.
- Car rental: Ideal if you’re planning day trips to the Atlas Mountains or Agafay. Discover everything you need to know about renting a car in Marrakech here.
Safety note:
Marrakech is generally a safe city to visit – petty theft is rare and locals are used to solo tourists. That being said, I recommend keeping valuables stashed safely away (particularly in Djemaa el-Fnaa and avoid walking in unlit areas at night.
Where to stay in Marrakech for solo travellers
Marrakech boasts an incredible choice of accommodation for solo travellers, including some of Morocco’s best riads. You’ll find inspiring options with swimming pools and hammams, as well as adults-only retreats for a kid-free stay.
Additionally, Marrakech is home to some stunning luxury hotels, many located in the palmeraie or adjacent to golf courses. There are also all-inclusive resorts – perfect for solo travellers who want a completely hassle-free stay!
Budget beauty – The Central House
Mid-range magic – Riad Livia
High-end splurge – Riad 72
Top things to do in Marrakech for solo travellers
1. Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa
Dating from the 16th century, this magnificent theological college illustrates the artistic heritage of the Saadian dynasty. It’s one of Marrakech’s most popular photography destinations – trust me when I say the backdrops are sublime!
At the centre is a beautiful courtyard with a long pool and gorgeous zellige tiles arranged in geometric designs. The walls that encircle it showcase intricate plasterwork and carved cedar wood, along with Kufic calligraphy.
A maze of small rooms surrounds the courtyard above. You can also wander through these and peek out the windows into the courtyard below.
Solo tip:
Exploring Ben Youssef Madrasa can be both inspiring and exasperating, depending on the number of tourists there. I recommend arriving early in the morning right after it opens or about thirty minutes before closing time when the crowds begin to lessen.
Opening hours of Ben Youssef Madrasa: 9 am to 7 pm (or 6 pm during Ramadan)
Entrance fee for Madrasa Ben Youssef: 50 DH adults/10 DH for children under 12
2. Admire Koutoubia Mosque from Park Lalla Hasana
Soaring to 70 metres, the impressive minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque dominates the Marrakech skyline. You can see it from many rooftop restaurants around Djemaa el-Fnaa.
While non-Muslims aren’t permitted to enter Koutoubia Mosque, it’s equally impressive from the outside. I particularly love sitting in Parc Lalla Hasana at its base – there are orange trees and shaded benches where you can gaze up at the minaret.
On the northwest side of the mosque, archaeological digs have uncovered foundations from an even older structure – make sure to explore this area as well!
Want to venture beyond Marrakech? Discover some of Morocco’s hidden gems here.
3. Explore Marrakech’s museums
Marrakech is home to some really good museums, exploring everything from Morocco’s culinary heritage to Amazigh traditions and the “Red City’s” links to Yves Saint Laurent. You could spend a week in the city museum-hopping alone!
I’ve detailed some of the best museums in Marrakech in my detailed article here and highlighted 3 of my favourites below.
Museums not to miss in Marrakech:
- Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum: Engaging displays about traditional dishes and cooking techniques, plus a rooftop restaurant and atmospheric tea salon.
- Le MAP Marrakech: An impressive collection of clothing, jewellery and textiles from Indigenous communities around the world.
- Maison de la Photographie: A “must” for photography enthusiasts, with both vintage and contemporary images on display.
4. Stroll around Bahia Palace
Next to the Moroccan Culinary Arts Museum lies Bahia Palace, a stunning architectural gem from the 19th century. Its leafy courtyards, zellige tilework and beautifully painted ceilings showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of Morocco.
Originally built as the home of Grand Vizier Bou Ahmed during Sultan Moulay al-Hassan I’s reign, the palace provides a fascinating insight into the luxurious lifestyles of the sultan’s close associates.
Among Bahia Palace’s highlights are the lavish salons of the haram complex and the fruit tree-filled courtyard of the grand riad.
Solo tip:
Bahia Palace can get incredibly busy and if you focus on the crowds, it can be overwhelming. I’d recommend focusing on the architectural details as they really are impressive. Be sure to look up at the ceilings too!
Opening hours of Bahia Palace: 9 am to 5 pm
Entrance fee for Bahia Palace: 100 DH
5. Visit Jardin Majorelle & the Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Created by artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, Jardin Majorelle is one of Marrakech’s most photogenic spots. The cobalt-blue villa and botanical gardens offer calm and beauty in equal measure.
Adjacent to Jardin Majorelle is the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, which showcases the designer’s legacy and connection to Marrakech. Also on site is the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts. Its 600-piece collection includes objects from the High Atlas and the Sahara Desert.
Occupying the former servants’ quarters is Café Majorelle, which serves seasonal fruit juices, warm dishes and salads in an atmospheric setting.
Solo tip:
Visit Jardin Majorelle early in the morning to beat the worst of the crowds and capture people-free photos.
Tickets to Jardin Majorelle can be booked online. Combined tickets are the
6. Shop ’til you drop in Marrakech’s souks
Wandering the souks is an essential Marrakech experience, even if you don’t plan on shopping. The craftsmanship in Morocco is renowned and the displays of brass hanging lanterns, colourful Amazigh rugs and spices piled high is a sight to see.
Souq Cherratine and Souq el-Kebir are famed for their leather items, while Souq Haddadine is recognised as the metalworkers’ area.
Place Rahba Kedima is a fantastic spot to find aromatic spice blends and Souq des Teinturiers still has a few vendors selling hand-dyed wool. Souq Smata focuses on footwear – you can find Moroccan babouches here.
If you do plan on shopping, bargaining is a key part of the souk experience in Morocco. Discover everything you need to know about haggling in my souk guide here.
Alternatively, you can join a guided shopping tour in Marrakech. This is a great way to get an overview of what’s available, suss out prices and learn some tips for finding authentic products.
7. Experience Djemaa el-Fnaa at night
At the heart of Marrakech is Djemaa el-Fnaa, which springs to life every evening. As the sun sets, this expansive public square becomes a stage for musicians, dancers and fortune-tellers.
In Djemaa el-Fnaa, you can encounter everything from snake charmers to henna artists and performance artists, along with musicians playing Gnaoua music.
Additionally, there’s a collection of juice stands and food stalls offering freshly grilled meats, fried fish and snails.
Top tip:
Generally speaking, Djemaa el-Fnaa is safe for solo travellers. But it can get crowded – perfect conditions for pickpockets! Always keep your valuables close to your body and out of reach. If you do encounter any issues, there is usually a police presence in the square.
Only have one day to explore Marrakech? Check out my recommended itinerary here.
8. Relax in a traditional hammam
After a few days discovering the city, relax in Moroccan fashion with a hammam (steam bath and scrub). It’s a wonderful opportunity to treat yourself while also experiencing a unique aspect of the local culture.
What’s great about Marrakech is that there are hammams available for every type of traveller, whether you’re looking for an authentic local experience or a luxurious spa. Personally, I think it’s the ideal solo activity to help you unwind after a day of exploring.
Recommended hammams in Marrakech:
- LUXURY: Heritage Spa or Les Bains de Marrakech – both also offer massages and other spa treatments
- LOCAL: Hammam Mouassine (women only)
Not sure what to expect at a hammam? I explain everything you need to know in my detailed article here.
Solo tip:
Hammams are segregated by gender (unless you’re booking a private hammam at a day spa or hotel). Attendants will guide you through the process, so there’s no need to feel awkward if it’s your first time.
9. Take a day trip
If you have time, I’d recommend exploring beyond the medina – there are some wonderful destinations just outside Marrakech. You can venture into the Atlas Mountains and go hiking around Imlil or spend a night at a luxury desert camp in Agafay.
For more Marrakech day trip inspiration, check out my detailed article here or these memorable options below.
Best day trips from Marrakech for solo travellers:
- Atlas Mountains: Explore picturesque valleys and Amazigh towns with sweeping views of the peaks.
- Agafay Desert: Quad biking, camel riding and a night under the stars at a luxury camp.
- Ouzoud Waterfalls: 110-metre-high cascades with lookouts and a boat trip to the base.
Marrakech – An enchanting introduction to Morocco
Marrakech is many people’s first impression of Morocco….and solo travellers are no exception. It’s cosmopolitan and tourist-friendly, with lots of locals speaking English, French and other European languages.
In Marrakech, you can enjoy a quintessential Moroccan getaway – dinners at rooftop restaurants, strolls through architectural gems and listening to the call to prayer ring out at sunset. And if you do need to escape the chaos of the medina, the desert and mountains are within easy reach!
PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH MY FAVOURITE RESOURCES:
Find hotels via Booking
Book tours and attractions via Viator or GetYourGuide
Find a rental car via Discover Cars
Book flights via Kiwi or Booking
Search for buses and trains via 12Go or Omio
Get travel insurance via SafetyWing
Buy a digital eSIM with Airalo
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About Me
I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home. Since that time, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and on my own.
Morocco is an incredible destination and one that I think everyone who has the “travel bug” should experience. The scenery is spectacular, the medinas are enchanting and the locals are among the friendliest (and funniest) people I’ve ever met.
It’s no secret, however, that there a lot of questions and concerns voiced online about solo travel to Morocco, particularly from female travellers. So I wanted to create this resource filled with honest and up-to-date information. It’s designed to help solo travellers explore the country safely and have an amazing time along the way.
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I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home.
Over the last 10 years, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and solo.
