7 things to do in Marrakech after your move

If you're planning your next move, there are 7 things to do in Marrakech that you should add to your list. Keep reading to get the scoop.

Marrakech, the fourth largest city in Morocco, is a city rich in colour, culture and life. With an eclectic array of remarkable architecture and fascinating traditions, it is no wonder that Marrakech has become a popular destination for Europeans and Americans to buy property.

Buying or renting property in Marrakech offers a myriad of opportunities to explore the city in ways that many visiting tourists simply cannot. But first you need to know where to look.

Here are seven things to do in Marrakech after you move.

1. Immerse yourself in the Jemaa El Fnaa square

Jemaa El Fnaa Square is a world unto itself. It is the city's main square, with a history dating back over 1,000 years. During the day, the square offers a bit of everything. Along the perimeter, you can find a collection of stalls ranging from food stalls to snake charmers to every merchandise vendor you can think of. As night falls, the square comes alive with musicians, performers, storytellers and other entertainment.

Jemaa El Fnaa is a bustling open-air market that can be quite intimidating for tourists and newcomers. Vendors are constantly vying for your attention and enticing you to buy their wares, not to mention the already cacophonous buzz of the market.

When visiting the square, be prepared to haggle and say a firm "no" to merchants who don't interest you. Although a sensory overload at first, Jemaa El Fnaa Square is undoubtedly a popular tourist destination.

Given its ever-changing nature, you can be sure that each visit will be a new and unique experience.

2. Getting lost in the souks

From Jemaa El Fnaa Square, continue north through the maze of alleys littered with shops of all kinds. The souks are the largest traditional market in Morocco.

You can find just about anything here: shoes, pots, scarves, and the list goes on. Most of these vendors offer unique handmade crafts. This makes the market an intriguing place for the intrepid shopper.

Just like at Jemaa el Fnaa, haggling is a must here. Merchants offer ridiculous starting prices to see how much they can get. If you don't know where to go first, try researching the popular shops in the souks before you go. Or until you get your bearings.

3. Relaxing in a hammam

If you decide to follow the first two suggestions, you will probably want to relax afterwards. A visit to a hammam, or public bath, is an ideal way to do this.

Many hammams are similar to spas. Guests are given dressing gowns to change into and are invited to relax and enjoy the hot saunas. Treatments include massages, skin exfoliation and body scrubbing. You can choose to scrub yourself in the bath or take the traditional route and ask the hammam staff to do it for you.

A high-end hammam is a much more private experience than the more ubiquitous neighbourhood baths. However, the real hammam experience is to leave your modesty at the door and immerse yourself in the traditional practice as it has been practiced for centuries.

4. Learn about the history of Morocco through the museums of Marrakech

Marrakech has an eclectic variety of museums to suit all tastes and preferences. With the city's history going back thousands of years, there is much to learn in the many museums.

Among the most popular museums are the House of Photography, the Dar Si Said Museum and the Douiria Moussine. The former houses historical photographs dating back to the early 1800s. The other two display handicrafts, art and ancient objects.

Museums are often overlooked by visiting tourists as they take a long time to explore in depth. However, anyone who owns or rents a property in Marrakech can indulge in the splendour of these museums without being pressed for time.

5. Take your time to visit the many historical sites and points of interest.

In terms of things to do in Marrakech, the city is home to many historical sites and landmarks. Many palaces and gardens are perfect for discovering traditional Moroccan culture and history.

The three main palaces are the Badi, the Bahia and the Royal Palace. Other points of interest are the Saadian tombs, the Koutoubia Mosque and the Majorelle Garden. There are also hundreds of other ancient sites. Choosing where to start is the hardest part!

Many of these places are constantly visited by tourists. However, living in Marrakech offers more options for visiting times when the tourist rush is low. Try to visit some of these places mid-week rather than on busy weekends.

6. Make friends with the local population

When it comes to finding the best things to do in Marrakech, your best bet is to ask a local. There is no shortage of fantastic food and hidden treasures in a city as culturally rich as Marrakech.

You can meet locals just about anywhere - in markets, souks, neighbourhoods, etc. Moroccans are known for their hospitality. They often invite newcomers to their homes for a cup of tea.

So when you're walking around the city, keep an open mind. Sports clubs, meet-up groups and, of course, sharing food are other great ways to meet Moroccans.

7. Getting out of the city

It is quite difficult to exhaust Marrakech of all its attractions and offerings. However, the city encompasses only a small part of what makes life in Morocco.

Choose to spend some time exploring the dunes and deserts surrounding the city. In addition, take time to explore the small Moroccan towns in the surrounding area. The contrast between the bustling city life and the peace and quiet of the desert and Berber villages is sure to captivate any traveller.

Camels and quad bikes are popular ways to explore outside the city walls.

Things to do in Marrakech once you've moved

There are thousands of things to do in Marrakech - many of which are worth more time than visiting travellers can offer. Renting or owning a property in the city allows you to explore the full breadth of Moroccan life and culture.

Haven't chosen your rental or property yet? Contact us and get a little closer to the Moroccan villa of your dreams today!