Helpful Tips When Planning a Trip and What to Avoid in Marrakech

First an Introduction to Marrakech

Marrakech – also known as the “Red City,” “Ochre City,” or “Daughter of the Desert” – is ideal for those who love palaces, gardens, mosques, and all things truly Moorish. Before visiting, be sure to research what to avoid in Marrakech. The word “souk” hardly describes the souks here. Picture your most extravagant shopping experience ever. Then translate that into an indescribable riot of colour and commerce, governed only by the laws of commerce. This will give you a partial understanding of this chaotic labyrinth of commercial enterprise (in the very best sense of that term). But it’s a labyrinth that does tend to dampen the spirits of the tenderfoot visitor.

Every year over 3 million visitors come to Morocco’s most visited city. Once a peaceful centre of trade in the Berber sub-Sahara, it now finds itself drowning in tourists. Changing it into a place where money and tourism are the very things that keep it alive.
This is our list of what to avoid in Marrakech to ensure your trip goes smoothly. From where to go to what not to eat, how to dress, and how not to get scammed. Let’s dive in.

What to Do in Marrakech: 13 Essential Tips

1. Respect the Culture

Not acknowledging Islamic traditions could seriously offend locals. And while Marrakech is a touristy place, you gotta remember you’re their guest. So respecting their customs is key.

Morocco is more liberal than some Arab countries, but there’s still etiquette to follow. No guest should upset their host. Shoes come off before entering mosques/homes. Religious conversations should stick to facts over opinions, especially if your thoughts could ruffle feathers.

2. Dress Modestly

Conservatism is an anticipated inherent part of any monotheistic religion. Islam is definitely no exception when it comes to that. That being said, today’s Muslims have all the liberty in the world to wear what they want to wear. Modesty is preached, but if you don’t want to stick out, only needed in religious areas really. Just don’t start the southern Baptist sermon on necklines for virtually any above ground church, beach none the same.

Women should cover shoulders, legs and cleavage in Marrakech. Unless chilling at their hotel or doing an activity requiring certain gear. Loose pants, long skirts, and high-neck tops are perfect and can also protect you from the sun. Men can get away with shorts and tees but should cover knees when entering places of worship.

Showing more skin likely won’t get you in trouble in Marrakech, but expect unwanted stares, attention and even some shade. Even if you disagree with censoring yourself, covering up will save you drama.

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3. Don’t Bash the Royals

Like religious convos, political talks are kinda outta place in Moroccan culture. So much so that mocking, criticizing, or talking trash about Morocco’s king is actually illegal. Saying the wrong thing will at least offend, but taking it too far could land you in jail. And trust me, trouble with Moroccan police is the last thing you want.

4. Don’t Eat With Your Left Hand

One old-school dining etiquette rule Moroccans still follow is eating with their hands. This is mad common in African and Arab countries, so looking down on it makes you the fool.
Eating with your hands is seen as very sanitary in Marrakech. Only because locals have strict rules around it. Use your thumb and first two fingers —using your whole hand looks greedy. And if you score an invite to a Moroccan meal or someone’s home, only eat/pass food/pick things up with your right hand.

The left hand is seen as unclean because it’s the toilet hand, even though you wash both hands before eating. Even shaking hands with your left is deemed nasty. You won’t cause real drama eating wrong in Marrakech, but expect strange looks or laughs.

5. Avoid Cookie Carts in Djema Al Fnaa

Street eats are part of Marrakech’s culture and the markets are a must-see. But not all street food is created equal.
Use your eyes to decide what’s clean. A solid queue at a stall often means good food. Djema al Fnaa stalls are hit or miss — only a few have Moroccans eating there, so choose those.
But skip the cookie carts in Djema al Fnaa. While often sanitary, they don’t offer the best tastes. Hit up patisseries instead for quality ingredients and treats. Plus, sitting to enjoy pretty interiors is clutch when navigating sticky streets.

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6. What to Avoid in Marrakech: Restaurants on the Square

Like with many touristy spots, the restaurants right on Marrakech’s main square, Djema al Fnaa, don’t offer authentic eats. Or even reasonably priced ones at that.

The square and marketplace in the medina quarter is the hub for tourism and still a trading spot for locals too. It’s definitely worth peeping but there’s always tourist crowds, which brings jacked up prices and inauthentic vibes.

Restaurants with pushy waiters trying to lure you in with lame picture menus and English names usually suck. If a spot is truly fire, queues and packed tables should speak for themselves. Hole-in-the-wall joints or word-of-mouth recommendations typically deliver the most authentic dining in Marrakech.

7. What to Avoid in Marrakech: High Crime Areas

When rolling through spots like Djema al Fnaa, the souks/markets or narrow alleyways, take extra precautions with your stuff. It’s easy to get hypnotized browsing stalls, but don’t relax too hard. Like any city, tourist zones draw petty crime. Especially with big crowds making it easier for pickpockets and scammers to strike.

Tourists are always the first targets for thieves. Keep valuables close and wear bags/packs on your front or hidden under clothing. Don’t rock your camera around your neck — makes you an instant bullseye. And don’t fall for decoys. Crimes often use beggar/commotion/kid distractions so someone can swipe your pockets when you’re distracted.

Marrakech is generally safe with millions visiting annually sans issues. But it has been hit by terror attacks targeting crowded tourist/religious sites and protests. Always be alert.

8. Don’t Forget to Haggle

Marrakech’s colourful souks are known for traditional clothes, footwear, spices, shisha, tea sets, lamps, jewellery and more. Hard not to snag souvenirs, especially at good prices. But don’t play yourself because you’re a tourist.

Haggling is huge in Marrakech and Morocco overall. Taking it too far can offend, but vendors always start with inflated prices assuming you’ll negotiate. Never accept the first price — haggle as much as possible, it’s part of the fun.

Also, take negotiating tactics with a grain of salt. Trying walking away if they won’t budge on price, it can score you the lowest offer.

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9. Don’t Get Confused by the Cash

Haggling tips go hand-in-hand with money advice. Paying cash is best to avoid big fees. Don’t let Moroccan Dirham confuse you and lose a solid negotiating deal.

Do your maths before forking over cash. It’s easy for vendors to short change tourists using currency ignorance as an excuse. Get hip to exchange rates before visiting. Brush up on your maths skills before hitting souks so vendors know you’ve got it on lock.

10. What to Avoid in Marrakech: Overindulging

When it comes to manners, eating wrong can look gluttonous. But Marrakech has other overindulgence landmines that could offend too. Many Islamic countries have liquor laws and most Muslims completely avoid alcohol regardless of age.

Booze is forbidden in parts of Morocco but Marrakech isn’t one. This makes it easier to access thanks to tourism. It can only be sold/consumed in licensed hotels, bars and restaurants. Some supermarkets/liquor stores sell it too but public drunkenness and drinking are illegal and punished.

It’s a privilege for tourists to legally buy alcohol here. So keep that perspective when partaking. Stick to your limits to avoid disrespect. Throwing back endless cocktails, shots and wine bottles will catch shade. But with self-control you can drink freely without issues.

11. Don’t Leave Without Trying the Mint Tea

If couscous is Marrakech’s staple food, then mint tea is the staple drink. Overflowing with fresh mint and sweetened with sugar, mint tea is indispensable to local culture. It offers sweet relief from the blistering climate.

You can get mint tea at any cafe, restaurant, or hotel in the city. Take a load off and watch the world go by while you drink it — one of the best Marrakech experiences.

Since most locals don’t drink, caffeine is a big vice through coffee and herbal teas. But tea in Morocco is as much about socializing as the buzz, like how alcohol functions in Western culture. Mint tea lets you savour moments with friends and family.

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12. Avoid Certain Neighbourhoods, Especially at Night

Some locals say Marrakech’s old Jewish quarter, Essalam, isn’t safe for visitors. South of Djemaa el Fna square, it has higher crime rates. These stem from poverty and conflict after traditional Jewish homes were given to poorer Muslim families. Despite recent revival attempts, issues persist. But don’t twist this. Marrakech welcomes Jewish and Israeli guests.

Al-Azzouzia to the North West also isn’t for tourists, suffering from poverty and deprivation. While the central Medina sees tons of visitors, its narrow dark interior streets feel sketchy at night. Women shouldn’t roll solo here.

13. What to Avoid in Marrakech: Only Limiting Yourself to the City

Marrakech tops most Morocco visitor lists for good reason. The electric energy, attractions and culture are one-of-a-kind. You’ll even find swanky bars and restaurants around Gueliz and stunning gardens/galleries all over. But don’t neglect the beaches, mountains, deserts and charming towns the rest of Morocco has to offer.

Even with limited time, consider day trips from Marrakech. Squeeze in Essaouira, Ouarzazate, Ouzoud Waterfalls, or Ourika Valley to see spectacular nature and other local flavours.

Additional Information on Marrakech

Is Marrakech Safe?

Morocco has dealt with internal conflict and crime/terrorism damaging Marrakech’s rep in the past. Its been stable for years now and is as safe as most European cities for visitors. Take normal big city precautions. Women be extra vigilant and avoid solo jaunts, but Marrakech itself isn’t off limits by any means.

Can You Go Clubbing There?

Despite no drinking rules in Islam, Marrakech has solid nightlife for tourists. There are western bars and clubs featuring live music/DJs. Locals also let loose with karaoke and dancing even sans drinking. Visitors can freely buy/consume alcohol from licensed spots as they want.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Marrakech?

March-May and September-November are perfect to visit. The shoulder seasons deliver ideal 75-95°F weather. You’ll also find cheaper hotel rates vs the summer/winter months.

How Many Days Do You Need in Marrakech?

You could easily spend weeks in Marrakech without seeing everything this exciting city offers. But a solid 2-3 days lets you sample the culture and hit most major sights. You can still enjoy it with less time, but 4-5 days give the flexibility to venture out and see more of Morocco too