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What to do in Marrakech in 1 week? A Morocco family itinerary

Written on : 06 September 2024
What to do in Marrakech in 1 week? A Morocco family itinerary

A 7-day family visit to Marrakech brims with a host of exciting activities for kids and adults alike. Explore the bustling souks to discover local crafts, stroll through lush gardens such as the Jardin Majorelle, and immerse yourself in history at the Bahia Palace. Enjoy Moroccan flavours in traditional restaurants, visit the Palmeraie in a horse-drawn carriage, and relax by the pool in your exceptional riad selected by Villanovo. Known as the Red City, Marrakech mixes adventure, culture and relaxation for an unforgettable family holiday in Morocco. We've put together a 7-day itinerary of places to visit and must-do activities for a week in Marrakech centred on refinement and discovery with your children.

Day 1: Yves Saint Laurent Museum and the Majorelle Gardens

Opened in 2017, the museum honours fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent with a collection of archives, sketches, emblematic creations and temporary exhibitions designed by architect Pierre Bergé. The Majorelle Gardens, created by painter Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s, is a haven of peace, its lush grounds teeming with exotic plants, fountains and mosaics dominated by Majorelle blue. Together, they offer a unique blend of fashion, art and nature, inviting you to immerse yourself in Marrakech's cultural heritage.

Day 2: The palaces and the Saadian Tombs 

Built in the 16th century by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour, the El Badi Palace is an impressive ruin that reflects the grandeur of the past with its gardens, pools and imposing facades. Nearby, the Saadian Tombs, discovered in 1917, are famous for their stucco decoration, colourful Moroccan ceramics and refined architecture, including the Chamber of the 12 Columns and the tomb of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour and his family. 

Day 3: The centre of Marrakech, the medina and Place Jemaa El Fna 

The Marrakech medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a lively maze of alleyways, souks and markets where visitors can immerse in traditional Moroccan life. Discover the secrets of the old city with a private guide. A few minutes from its centre, hear the call to prayer at the Koutoubia Mosque, its 77-metre minaret a symbol of Almohad architecture. Visit the Marrakech Museum to learn about the history of the area. Nearby in Hivernage, a modern neighbourhood besides Gueliz, the Menara Garden has a pond and century-old olive trees that provide a sanctuary of peace. In the evening, the Place Jemaa El Fna lights up with snake charmers, storytellers and food stalls. Witness the festive, authentic atmosphere from a rooftop terrace above.  

Day 4: Relaxing things to do - Hammams, spas, Beldi Country Club 

Day 4: Relaxing things to do - Hammams, spas, Beldi Country Club 

For a day of relaxation and luxury during your week in Marrakech, start with a traditional hammam followed by an essential oil massage in one of the city's many spas, like Les Bains de Marrakech. Then enjoy a moment of peace and quiet with a mint tea in a tranquil garden. Afterwards, head to the Beldi Country Club for a refined lunch surrounded by its magnificent gardens, savouring modern Moroccan or international dishes. In the afternoon, there are plenty of activities at the club to enjoy, such as a dip in the infinity pool, a tour of the gardens, a game of pétanque or exploring the Moroccan craft workshops. 

Day 5: Excursions to the Agafay Desert and a quad ride, a must

For a memorable adventure in Marrakech, an excursion to the Agafay Desert is a must. Only a one-hour drive from the city, this magical desert features landscapes of golden sand dunes and arid plains that are perfect for a quad ride, one of the top 10 things to do on a family holiday in Marrakech. Explore the desert's vast expanses and take in the spectacular views with an experienced guide. Or, take a hot air balloon ride at sunset or sunset. After exploring, relax in a traditional camp and savour a Berber meal around a campfire while being entertained by traditional music and local dances. Your Villanovo concierge can give you advice for the best Agafay Desert excursion for your family during your week in Marrakech.

Day 6: Visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls in a verdant valley 

For the 6th day of your family holiday in Marrakech, the Ouzoud Waterfalls are an ideal excursion. Around 150 kilometres from the city, these waterfalls are the highest in Morocco, plunging 110 metres into a green valley. Admire the falls surrounded by lush gardens and explore the hiking trails for different vantage points. In the summer, enjoy a swim in the natural pools. Looking for a fun experience for children? Watch monkeys roam free or take a boat cruise at the foot of the waterfalls. For lunch, local restaurants serve authentic Moroccan food overlooking the falls, sure to be one of the best meals of the trip.

Day 7: Ourika Valley in the Atlas Mountains 

For the last day of your week in Marrakech, the Ourika Valley is an ideal destination that is just 60 kilometres and an hour drive from the city. Nestled in the Atlas Mountains, this verdant valley offers magnificent scenery of terraced farms, waterfalls and traditional villages. Start with a walk along the Ourika River to admire the seven waterfalls. The most impressive one soars at the end of the hiking trail. Children can cool off from the Moroccan sun with a swim in the natural pools formed by the falls. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in a traditional restaurant overlooking the Atlas Mountains. Sample authentic Moroccan food made with fresh ingredients like chicken tagines or mechoui. In the afternoon, visit a Berber village to discover the local culture and meet the friendly people who live there. 

Villanovo in Morocco: Exceptional stays and concierge service

Our exclusive collection: 

Villanovo offers a wide selection of exclusive villas in the most beautiful locations in Morocco. Enjoy a wonderful family holiday in Morocco in a villa with private pool, house staff, chef or cook and other luxurious amenities. 

Villas in Morocco: In Marrakech, Essaouira, and beyond

Choose from our exceptional villas in Marrakech: in the medina, in the Palmeraie, or on Ourika Road.

A unique experience

Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can focus on your holiday. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, like booking excursions to the Atlas Mountains or a massage at a hammam, hiring a private driver or a tour guide or organising childcare. Last but not least? Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel diary for each stay in one of our villas. You'll find all our recommendations and great addresses for restaurants, shops and other experiences to discover in Marrakech.

Discover Villanovo's selection of luxury villas for Marrakech

Dar 118

(106 reviews)
350 € - 750 € per night
6 3 3

Marrakech - Medina

Villa Palmeraie 32

(50 reviews)
2 500 € - 4 000 € per night
32 (34 max.) 17 16

Marrakech - Palmeraie and nearby