7 Free Things to Do in Marrakech

Marrakech, a city that blends the traditional with the contemporary, offers a unique experience for digital nomads looking to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture without breaking the bank. With its vibrant souks, historic palaces, and tranquil gardens, there's a wealth of free activities to enjoy. Whether you're seeking popular tourist spots or hidden gems, Marrakech has something to offer for every taste and budget.

Jardin Majorelle

The Jardin Majorelle is one of the most visited sites in Marrakech. Originally designed by the French painter Jacques Majorelle, the garden was later owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. It's a peaceful oasis in the city, with exotic plants and vibrant blue accents. While there is a fee to enter the garden itself, you can explore the surrounding streets and take in the stunning exterior of the villa and the garden walls for free.

Location: Rue Yves Saint Laurent, Marrakech. The garden is located in the trendy Gueliz district, known for its modern cafes and boutiques.

Travel Tip: The area around Jardin Majorelle is perfect for window-shopping and offers many photo opportunities with its unique architecture and design shops.

Nearby: Café Majorelle is just across the street and offers a great spot to grab a coffee or a light lunch amidst a stylish setting.

Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is Marrakech's most famous landmark. Its minaret towers over the city and is a classic example of Almohad architecture. Non-Muslim visitors cannot enter the mosque, but you can admire its impressive exterior and the surrounding gardens for free. It's particularly beautiful at sunset when the golden light illuminates the stone.

Location: Avenue Mohammed V, Marrakech. The mosque is situated near Jemaa el-Fnaa, making it a central point for exploration.

Travel Tip: The gardens around the mosque are a popular meeting spot for locals, especially in the late afternoon, and offer a glimpse into daily life in Marrakech.

Nearby: The terrace of Café de France offers a panoramic view of the mosque and is a perfect spot to enjoy traditional mint tea.

Mellah Market

The Mellah Market in the Jewish quarter of Marrakech is a bustling hub of activity. This lesser-known market offers an authentic glimpse into local life, with vendors selling everything from spices to textiles. It's a great place to practice your haggling skills, even if you're just browsing. The vibrant atmosphere and the array of colors and scents make it a memorable experience.

Location: Mellah, Marrakech. The market is nestled within the historic Jewish quarter, full of character and history.

Travel Tip: Visit the market in the morning when it's less crowded, and you can take your time exploring without the rush.

Nearby: The Spice Square Café is a cozy spot to unwind after market shopping, known for its selection of Moroccan teas and pastries.

Le Jardin Secret

While Le Jardin Secret is typically a paid attraction, it's possible to admire its stunning architecture and the exterior for free. This historic palace and garden complex in the heart of the medina has been beautifully restored, showcasing Islamic art and gardening traditions. The surrounding area is also full of interesting shops and eateries to explore.

Location: 121 Rue Mouassine, Marrakech. It's situated in the bustling medina, surrounded by traditional Moroccan craftsmanship.

Travel Tip: The rooftop terraces of nearby cafes offer a great view of the garden's layout and the medina's rooftops.

Nearby: Nomad restaurant offers modern Moroccan cuisine and has a rooftop terrace with views of the medina and the Atlas Mountains.

Menara Gardens

The Menara Gardens are a vast green space with olive groves and a large reflecting pool with the Atlas Mountains as a backdrop. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals, ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying the tranquility away from the city bustle. The pavilion and basin are iconic images of Marrakech and provide a serene setting for relaxation.

Location: Avenue de la Menara, Marrakech. The gardens are situated to the west of the city center, providing a peaceful escape.

Travel Tip: Bring a book or a sketchpad and enjoy the serene environment for a peaceful afternoon.

Nearby: The Pavilion restaurant, located within the gardens, offers traditional Moroccan dishes with a view of the pool and gardens.

Bahia Palace

Although there's a nominal entry fee for Bahia Palace, wandering the surrounding district is free and offers a glimpse into the palace's grandeur and the area's architectural beauty. The palace is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture and craftsmanship, with intricate mosaics and carved wooden details. The surrounding area is also rich in history and culture, with many small galleries and artisan shops.

Location: Avenue Imam El Ghazali, Marrakech. The palace is located in the Mellah, or Jewish quarter, of the city.

Travel Tip: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to explore the area to avoid the heat and the crowds.

Nearby: Dar Tazi, a traditional guesthouse, has a lovely garden café that serves up delicious Moroccan cuisine in a peaceful setting.

El Badi Palace

El Badi Palace, once a magnificent palace, now stands as a majestic ruin. Entrance to the palace requires a ticket, but the surrounding area is free to explore and offers a sense of the palace's past splendor. The ruins give a peek into the grandeur of Saadian architecture and the history of Marrakech's royal past. The nearby streets are also full of life, with local artisans and street performers.

Location: Ksibat Nhass, Marrakech. This historical site is located in the Kasbah area, close to the Saadian Tombs.

Travel Tip: The palace is often used for cultural events and festivals, so check the local listings for any free happenings during your visit.

Nearby: The Kasbah Café is a great spot to enjoy a refreshing drink or a meal with a view of the palace ruins.

Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs are a significant historical site, with the entrance fee being quite minimal. However, the area around the tombs is free to explore and offers a sense of the site's importance. The tombs date back to the time of the sultan Ahmad al-Mansur and are a fine example of Islamic architecture. The surrounding Kasbah neighborhood is also worth exploring for its vibrant market and traditional Moroccan life.

Location: Rue de La Kasbah, Marrakech. The tombs are located in the southern part of the medina, near the Kasbah Mosque.

Travel Tip: Visit the Kasbah area during the late afternoon to enjoy the cooler temperatures and the soft light for photography.

Nearby: Café Clock is a cultural hub that offers a fusion of traditional and modern Moroccan cuisine, as well as cultural events and workshops.

Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdeslam

Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdeslam is a unique blend of historical gardens and modern technology. This public park offers free Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot for digital nomads to work outdoors surrounded by lush greenery and fountains. The park is also a historical site, with pathways leading through gardens that date back to the 18th century. It's a perfect place to take a break from work, enjoy a leisurely walk, or simply people-watch.

Location: Avenue Mohammed V, Marrakech. The park is centrally located, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Travel Tip: Look out for the informational panels throughout the park that provide insights into the history of the gardens and the city.

Nearby: Katsura, a Japanese restaurant located just outside the park, offers a tranquil dining experience with a menu that includes sushi and other Japanese specialties.