3 Days in Marrakech: An Artist’s Guide to Morocco’s Most Beautiful City

Planning 3 days in Marrakech? If you love art, architecture, design and discovering handmade treasures, this vibrant city is full of inspiration. Beyond the famous landmarks, it’s the colours, textures and craftsmanship that make Marrakech so memorable.

Every street seems to offer another beautiful composition. Weathered terracotta walls with darting swifts, intricately carved doorways, tiled courtyards and vibrant textiles create endless photo opportunities. Whether you’re travelling with a camera, a sketchbook or simply an appreciation for beautiful places, Marrakech rewards those who take time to look.

Stay in a Traditional Riad

For an authentic stay, choose a riad in the Medina with a pool. Traditionally these peaceful courtyards helped cool the building and provide a welcome escape from the city’s summer heat.

We stayed at Riad Lalla Khadija Moulaty, around a 15-minute walk from Jemaa el Fnaa. It was simple, beautifully decorated and excellent value, with a rooftop breakfast and plunge pool.

Although the riad offered a hammam, we’d recommend booking one elsewhere. Marrakech has many outstanding traditional hammams and luxury spas that offer a far more authentic and relaxing experience.

Explore the Souks

Some of the best things to do in Marrakech don’t require a plan. Simply wander.

The side streets around Rue Derb Dabachi were among our favourites, with independent makers selling ceramics, basketry, brassware, woven textiles and natural argan oil products. Rather than filling our suitcase with souvenirs, we chose a few carefully made pieces that reflected Marrakech’s contemporary craft scene: two elegant espresso cups, a pair of handcrafted brass bangles and a painted metal sign featuring a wonderfully characterful cat.

For anyone who appreciates craftsmanship, the souks are a constant source of inspiration.

A Small Cultural Tip

Greeting shopkeepers with “Salam Alaikum” (“Peace be upon you”) is a simple way to show respect and often leads to warmer, more enjoyable conversations. It’s a small gesture that makes shopping feel much more personal.

Visit Majorelle Garden

No Marrakech itinerary is complete without visiting Majorelle Garden. Its iconic blue buildings, sculptural planting and tranquil pools make it one of the city’s most photogenic places.

Book tickets online in advance, as entry is timed. During our visit in July 2026, the Berber Museum and café were closed for maintenance, so it’s worth eating beforehand.

Escape to the Atlas Mountains

One of the highlights of our trip was a day in the Atlas Mountains. After the energy of the Medina, the cooler air of the Ourika Valley was a welcome change.

We visited a women’s Berber argan oil cooperative before enjoying a traditional Moroccan dinner beside the river, accompanied by live Berber music. It was a wonderful opportunity to experience another side of Morocco and appreciate the country’s landscape as well as its culture.

Three Days of Inspiration

Three days is enough to experience the highlights of Marrakech while leaving plenty of reasons to return. From beautiful riads and bustling souks to peaceful gardens and mountain landscapes, every part of the city offers something visually inspiring.

If you enjoy art, photography, interiors or beautifully crafted objects, Marrakech is a destination that will fill both your camera roll and your sketchbook. Every corner offers another photograph, another detail to admire and another reminder that some of the best travel experiences come simply from slowing down and looking carefully.