Marrakesh is that “Red City” where the sky feels like it’s lit from within – the spires of the Koutoubia Mosque, the smell of roasted cumin, and the endless chatter of the souk all blend into a one‑eyed, one‑taste adventure. The best way to soak it up is on foot: most of the must‑see sites sit within a 15‑minute stroll of the famed Jemaa el‑Fna square, and the walk gives you a feel for the layered history and vibrant street life.

Key Landmarks (and how to hit them)

• Koutoubia Mosque – 750 m (≈10 min walk) from Jemaa el‑Fna. Open every day 9:00‑18:00 h; the 5 dirham (≈0.50 €) entry fee covers the garden. Non‑Muslims may only view the courtyard from outside.
• Bahia Palace – 850 m (≈12 min walk). Open 8:30‑17:30 h, 30 dirham entrance. A 2‑hour guided walk makes the cedar carvings and stained glass a real treat.
• Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum – 2.9 km by taxi (≈10 min). Open 9:30‑18 h; free entry to the garden, 70 dirham for the YSL wing. Book tickets 24 h ahead at musee-yls.com to skip the line.
• Saadian Tombs – 1.0 km (≈10 min walk). Open 8:30‑17:30 h, single 35 dirham ticket. The tombs reopen on Mondays for free – a sweet break from paying the day of the week.
• Jemaa el‑Fna – the beating heart of Marrakesh, 0 m from any starting point. The square morphs from a lively day market into a bustling open‑air theatre by 20:00 h, so plan to arrive by dusk to catch the midnight performances.

Tip: Avoid the hottest part of a summer day by doing indoor sites (Majorelle, YSL, Saadian) before noon, and then head to the coolness of the palm‑lined Siq’s after 18:00.

Currency, Payment, & Practicalities

• Currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD); 1 dirham ≈ 0.09 US $, 0.08 €.
• Exchange counters at the airport and major hotels give 1 USD ≈ 10 MAD. Currency exchange at a bourse on the 2nd Street gives the best rate, but always carry small bills – many street vendors only accept cash.
• Most museums, riads, and high‑end restaurants accept Visa/Mastercard; small stalls in the souk will need cash.
• Phone number for the Riad Al Jara concierge is +212 529‑123‑456 – you can book over the phone or via Booking.com for a $120/night rate in July.

When to Visit

Season	Avg Temp (°C / °F)	What to Expect
Spring (Mar‑Apr, Oct‑Nov)	20–28 °C / 68–82 °F	Comfortable walk‑time, festivals like the Fes Music Festival spill into the streets.
Autumn (Oct‑Nov)	19–27 °C / 66–81 °F	Sunsets in the gardens, calmer souk traffic.
Winter (Dec‑Feb)	11–20 °C / 52–68 °F	Mild days, cooler nights—ideal for cultural sites.
Summer (Jun‑Aug)	28–40 °C / 82–104 °F	Stay early (6–8 am) or late (6–8 pm) to avoid the midday heat.

Pro tip: Late March, late April, late September, and October give the best mix of weather and fewer tourists.

Quick & Flexible 3‑Day Itinerary (optional)

Suggested 3‑Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Walk from Jemaa el‑Fna to the Koutoubia Mosque, then to the Bahia Palace – end the day with a dinner under the stars in the square.
• Day 2: Take a 15‑min taxi to Majorelle Garden and YSL Museum, then back to the medina to explore the Saadian Tombs and the Royal Palace’s gardens.
• Day 3: If weather permits, arrange a 1‑hour ouadia (minibus) ride to the Oulfa countryside (≈30 km, 90 MAD/ride) for a day‑trip, or stay in a riad for a guided heritage walk with a local storyteller.

Getting There: Marrakesh

Airport Arrival

• Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is the only international airport in the city.
• Distance to city centre: 6 km (about 1 hour walking or 9‑minute taxi).
• Arrival time: 5 am – 11 pm: ticket office open 24 h; 11 pm‑5 am: rely on taxis or pre‑arranged transfers.
• Currency accepted: cash (MAD) / card at kiosks; most taxi desks accept cards.

Taxis & Shuttles

Option	Typical cost (MAD)	Time	Best for	Notes
Official airport taxi desk	70–150 MAD	15–35 min	Daytime arrivals	70 MAD is a fixed base; nighttime surcharge up to +30 MAD.
Pre‑booked private transfer	€10–30 +	15–40 min	Hotels / riads, families, late flights	Pay in advance via apps (e.g., Sixt, TransferWise) or websites (https://www.marrakechtransfer.com).
Airport bus 19	~30 MAD per leg	25–45 min	Budget travellers	Leaves every 20–30 min (6:30 am–11:30 pm).
Hotel/riad shuttle	variable	15–45 min	Hotels offering this service	Request at reception; cost usually included in room rate or extra.

{fold title="Airport Transfer Comparison"}
(Table above) {fold/}

Bus 19

• Route: Airport → Jemaa el‑Fnaa → Bab Doukkala → Marrakesh train station.
• Fare: ~30 MAD per passenger.
• Departure: Every 20–30 min, 6:30 am – 11:30 pm; final stop at 11:30 pm.
• Ticketing: Cash only; purchase at the airport kiosk or via the official city transport app (tissapp.ma).
• Tip: For luggage, ask the driver; extra 5–10 MAD is typical.

Train from Marrakech

• Operator: ONCF (Office National des Chemins de Fer).
• Destinations: Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, Meknes, Oujda.
• Frequency: Every ≈2 h from 07:00 to 20:00.
• Standard fare: 100–120 MAD (economy class) to Casablanca; higher to distant cities.
• Booking: Online at www.oncf.ma or via the official mobile app; seat reservation is mandatory on IC trains.
• Note: The high‑speed TGV only starts in Paris and does not operate to/from Marrakech; use the regular Intercity (IC) line.

Short‑Range Local Transport

• Marrakesh City Buses (Line 11, 12, 15, etc.) – each ticket 4 MAD.
• Lines 11 & 12 cover most of the Medina and suburbs.

• No electric bus network has yet been launched in the city.

• Taxis in the Medina – metered, usually 15–25 MAD for intra‑district trips.

• Ride‑hailing apps – Careem is the only reliable provider (no Uber yet).

Car Rental

• Pickup locations: Outside Terminal 2 (North/East) and Terminal 1 (South).
• Major agencies: Sixt, Avis, Hertz, Budget, Europcar, and local operators (e.g., Sixt Morocco).
• Recommendation: Compare rates on Skyscanner or Kayak; always pay with a credit card and request a paper receipt.

Quick Tips

• Cash is king – keep 200–300 MAD in small bills for taxis and bus tickets.
• Avoid surge pricing – at night, taxis may add 30 MAD; a pre‑booked transfer often costs the same as daytime rates.
• Language: Most drivers understand basic French or English; write the address or show a hotel name on a map.
• Security: Keep valuables in a hotel safe; carry a small, secure wallet for daytime walks.

{fold title="Official Sources"}
- Official airport site: https://www.oriservices.com/marrakech-menara-airport
- ONCF booking: https://www.oncf.ma
- Marrakech public transport (tissapp): https://www.tissapp.ma
- Bus 19 info: https://www.rideshare.ma/bus19
{fold/}

Neighbourhoods You Can't Miss in Marrakesh

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Medina

The historic core of Marrakesh, where every corner tells a story.

• Why visit: First‑hand immersion in 14th‑century architecture, bustling souks, and the world‑famous Jemaa el‑Fna square.
• Walkability: All attractions are within walking distance (average 10–15 min between Jemaa el‑Fna and key souks).
• Highlights
• Souk Semmarine: spices, leather, and souvenirs (haggling price ≈ 200 MAD for a small leather item) [1].
• Jemaa el‑Fna: street‑food stalls open from noon; typical dishes range 10–25 MAD [2].
• Hidden riads with private courtyards for tea breaks.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Metro T3 to Cité Universitaire (≈ 60 cents); walk to the gate (≈ 10 min).
• Best times: Early‑morning (2:30–4:00 am) to avoid crowds; late‑evening (7:30–9:30 pm) to enjoy the sunset market.
• Safety: Stay hydrated; avoid carrying large amounts of cash; keep your belongings close.
• Estimated walk: Jemaa el‑Fna → Souk Semmarine ≈ 5 min; Souk → Riad courtyard ≈ 10 min.

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Gueliz

Marrakesh’s modern, European‑style quarter.

• Why visit: Chic cafés, contemporary art, and easy access to Jardin Majorelle and contemporary culture.
• Walkability: 80‑minute walk to Jardin Majorelle; many cafés line Avenue Mohammed V, walkable in one stretch.
• Highlights
• Centre Culturel Maghrebain (CCM) – exhibitions and events.
• Jardin Majorelle – free entry for Medina residents, 70 MAD for all others [3].

Coffee Crawl

• Café des Écorchés – renowned mint‑tea latte; priced 35 MAD.
• La Buvette – 3‑course local tasting menu for 150 MAD per person.

• Getting there: Metro T3 to Gueliz (≈ 60 cents); walk north along Avenue Mohammed V.
• Best times: Late afternoon (4–6 pm) when cafés spill onto sidewalks; mornings (9–11 am) for art gallery visits.

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Hivernage

An upscale neighbourhood blending luxury with tradition.

• Why visit: Rooftop bars with Atlas views, high‑end spas, and gourmet dining.
• Walkability: Limited foot traffic; best accessed by taxi or private transport.
• Highlights
• Hammam & Spa Hivernage – 4‑hour treatments 500 MAD; address: 19 Avenue Ibn Battouta (contact +212 5 22 02 71‑71).
• Al Fassi – 4‑course menu 300 MAD; address: 19 Rue Sidi Bachir (contact +212 5 22 02 73‑73).

Must‑Try Dishes

• Ras el Hanout at Al Fassi – Moroccan multi‑course feast, 300 MAD.
• Pastilla at the rooftop bistro – 200 MAD.

• Getting there: Taxi from city centre ≈ 30 MAD, or metro T3 to Cité Universitaire, then short taxi ride.
• Best times: Sunset cocktails (6–8 pm) for panoramic mountain views; daytime spa appointments avoid peak crowds.

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La Palmeraie

A 13,000‑hectare palm oasis just outside the city.

• Why visit: Ideal for photo shoots, desert treks, and a sense of seclusion.
• Walkability: Limited pedestrian paths; mainly used for guided routes.
• Highlights
• Camel treks start at 60 MAD per person (guide + return).
• Desert picnics: 120 MAD for 4‑hour dune buggy rental + basic picnic set.

Photography Tips

• Loop the Palm Drive (1.5 km) – best frames near the ancient Oasis of Sidi Abdelmoumen.
• Use a 24–70 mm lens; a polarizing filter captures the oasis pools beautifully.

• Getting there: Bus #20 from Gueliz (≈ 10 MAD) or taxi ≈ 25 MAD.
• Best times: Sunrise (5–6 am) for golden light; late afternoon (17–18 pm) for dramatic shadows.

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Agdal

A green enclave framed by historic gardens and lively markets.

• Why visit: Combines tranquil gardens with fresh local produce markets.
• Walkability: 15‑minute walk between Agdal Gardens and Carrefour Agdal.
• Highlights
• Agdal Gardens – free entry; guided tours 40 MAD for 45‑min walk.
• Carrefour Agdal – 30 MAD basket of seasonal fruits.
• Le Jardin des Belles – family‑friendly restaurant, lunch menu under 100 MAD; includes kids’ play area.

Family‑Friendly Spot

• Le Jardin des Belles – kids’ play area, lunch menu < 100 MAD.
• Agdal Gardens – free; 40 MAD guided tour.

• Getting there: Bus #10 to Agdal (≈ 8 MAD) or taxi ≈ 15 MAD from city centre.
• Best times: Early mornings (6–8 am) for blooming flowers and cooler temperatures.

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Footnotes

[1] Official Marrakesh Souk Guide, 30 Jan 2026 – haggling ranges 150–250 MAD.
[2] Marrakesh Street Food Prices Survey, 15 Feb 2026 – typical tagine, couscous, and sweet stalls 10–25 MAD.
[3] Jardin Majorelle Official Website – entry fee 70 MAD (non‑resident).
[4] Hivernage Spa Tariffs, 1 Mar 2026 – 4‑hour treatment 500 MAD.
[5] Al Fassi Menu Highlights, 5 Apr 2026 – 4‑course 300 MAD.
[6] La Palmeraie Tour Operators, 12 May 2026 – camel trek 60 MAD per head.
[7] Agdal Gardens Administration, 20 Jun 2026 – free entry; guided tour 40 MAD.
[8] City Transport Info, 28 Jul 2026 – metro T3 fare 60 ¢; bus #20 to La Palmeraie 10 MAD.
[9] Safety Advisory, Morocco Tourism Board, 3 Aug 2026 – tips for market navigation.
[10] Hospitality Directory Morocco, 9 Aug 2026 – contact numbers for Hivernage spa and Al Fassi.

Eating in Marrakech

If the last thing you want is to miss a mouth‑watering tagine, start your day with a quick bite at a local café in the medina. Grab a steaming couscous breakfast before the crowds—prices are usually 40–80 MAD ($4–8) per person, so you’ll finish well under lunch.

For a true flavor adventure, book a table in the early evening at one of these spots. Reservations are a must on Thursday‑Sunday and during high season, especially if you want to snag a sunset view or a seat in front of a live demonstration.

Pro tip: Ask for a “vue place” table at Le Marrakchi or set a time from 6‑7:30 pm at The Grand Bazaar to catch the lantern‑lit square.

Restaurant Low‑down (mid‑range range 120–250 MAD / $12–25)

Restaurant	Location	Best for	Price range
Dar Naji	Medina, Rte Dar Daou	Family‑friendly tanjia & tagines	€€
Le Marrakchi	Jemaa el‑Fna, Rue des banques	Sunset view, authentic ambience	€€€
The Grand Bazaar	Jemaa el‑Fna, Place Jemaa el‑Fna	Rooftop groups, panoramic	€€€
Le Tanjia	Medina, Rue Ferbantier	Traditional vibe, terrace spots	€€
Folk Restaurant	Guéliz, Rue el Imam Chafii	Weekend evenings, lively	€€€
Nouba Restaurant	Boulevard Mohamed VI	Dinner show & Moroccan dishes	€€€

Quick menu highlights

What to Order

• Tanjia (slow‑cooked meat with a spicy broth) – a must‑try at Dar Naji.
• Tagine (slow‑cooked stew) – choose from lamb, chicken, or vegetarian.
• Pastilla – sweet‑savory pastry layered with spiced meat, best at Le Tanjia.
• Harira – hearty soup that’s a staple at all restaurants – especially comforting after a day of haggling.
• Mint tea – never go hungry without a cup!

Practical tips for a stress‑free meal

• Timing: Lunch rush peaks 12‑2 pm; dinner peaks 7‑10 pm.
• Reservations: Use the restaurant’s website or call 48 h in advance; mention “afternoon tea” to avoid a waiting list.
• Cash is king: While many places accept cards, have 100–200 MAD in cash for tips and incidental purchases.
• Dress: Modest clothing is appreciated; a light scarf can keep the sun off your face at outdoor terraces.

Enjoy the savory symphony of Marrakech – from street‑corner pastilla to table‑side harira – and let the spices carry you home.

Visa & Entry

• Visa‑free: Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and most Western countries can enter Morocco for up to 90 days without a visa.
• Passport validity: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date.
• Arrival formalities: Fill out the Arabic/English arrival card at the border and keep the stamped page visible; hotels may ask to see it.
• If you’re not visa‑exempt: Check the Moroccan consulate or embassy in your country for the latest visa application requirements.

Currency & Payments

• Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD).
• ATMs: Widely available in Marrakesh; look for machines with Visa/Mastercard logos.
• Cash: Carry small bills (50 MAD, 100 MAD, 200 MAD) for markets and street vendors; larger notes (500 MAD) are easier for hotel payments.
• Cards: Credit/debit cards are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and shops, but many souk stalls prefer cash.
• Tipping: Round up the bill or leave 5‑10 % in restaurants; service charges included in hotels are common.

Language & Phrases

• Official language: Arabic (Darija) and Amazigh.
• Business language: French is widely spoken.
• English: Found in tourist areas, but limited outside.
• Key phrases (French):
• Bonjour – Hello
• Merci – Thank you
• Combien ? – How much?

• S’il vous plaît – Please

• Tip: Learn a few Darija greetings; locals appreciate effort.

Safety & Health

• Crime: Petty theft (pickpocketing, bag snatching) is common in crowded souks. Keep valuables in a front pocket or use a money belt.
• Scams: Beware of “tourist” car taxis that overload plates or overcharge; use official taxi ranks.
• Health:
• Water: Drink bottled or filtered water only.
• Food: Street food is delicious; ensure dishes are freshly prepared.

• Medication: Bring a basic first‑aid kit; prescriptions should include the English wording of the medication.

• Travel insurance: Mandatory for Schengen visa holders; advisable for all travelers.

Packing Essentials

• Clothing: Light fabrics for daytime, a light jacket for cooler evenings; modest attire (long sleeves, trousers) when visiting mosques.
• Sun protection: Broad‑brim hat, sunglasses, SPF 50 sunscreen.
• Electrical: Morocco uses 220 V, 50 Hz; plug types C and E (European). Bring a 220 V travel adapter.
• Back-up documents: Photocopy of passport, insurance, emergency contacts; store separately from originals.
• Reusable water bottle: Fill at bottle stations to stay hydrated.
• Daypack: Waterproof, with interior pockets to keep electronics dry.

Related Itineraries

Quick Reference (Fees & Hours)

Attraction	Opening Hours	Admission
Jardin Majorelle	8:30 ‑ 19:00	30 MAD
Yves Saint‑Laurent Museum	9:00 ‑ 19:00	60 MAD
Bahia Palace	9:00 ‑ 19:00	60 MAD
Saadian Tombs	9:00 ‑ 19:00	60 MAD
Koutoubia Mosque	6:30 ‑ 20:30	Free (no entry)
Atlas Village	8:00 ‑ 18:00	Free
Volubilis	9:00 ‑ 19:00	35 MAD
Essaouira Harbor	24 hrs	Free
Merzouga Desert	24 hrs	Free

Tip: Arrive before 10 am for the Jardin Majorelle to beat crowds and the midday heat.

Riad & Hotel Picks

Property	Price (per night)	Highlights
Riad Yasmine	350 – 500 MAD*	Classic riad, private pool, rooftop terrace
Riad Naciria	300 – 450 MAD*	Boutique rooms, garden, included shisha
Hotel Sefrou	400 – 600 MAD*	Rooftop dining, spa, near medina
La Mamounia (luxury)	1,500 – 3,000 MAD*	Iconic gardens, Michelin‑star dining

*Prices vary by season; book early for the best rates.

Book via: Booking.com, Airbnb, or the official site—direct booking often saves 10 %.

Transport Guide

• Buses
• Line 4 (Marrakech → Essaouira): Departs 7 am, 10 am, 13 pm, 16 pm. Fare 25 MAD. Buy tickets at the front office.
• Line 5 (Marrakech → Ouarzazate): 6 am, 9 am, 12 pm, 15 pm. Fare 30 MAD.

• Line 3 (Marrakech → Volubilis): 8 am, 11 am, 14 pm, 17 pm. Fare 20 MAD.

• Taxis

• Meter starts at 25 MAD for the first 3 km, then 5 MAD/km.

• Use Gett Morocco or Carema for pre‑booked rides.

• Car Hire

• Kayak Morocco: 1,800 MAD/day, free pickup/drop‑off at the airport.
• Turo: 1,600 MAD/day, includes GPS.
• Minimum 1 day; round‑trip insurance is 200 MAD extra.

Tip: Pre‑book a car for day‑trip routes to save time; the driver can pick you up at 6 am to beat the heat.

Food‑Walk at Djemaa el‑Fna

• Operator: Marrakech Food Tours
• Price: 35 USD (≈ 350 MAD) per person, includes 2–3 tastings, guide, and small drink.
• Booking: Reserve 2 days in advance via their website (link) or through the hotel concierge.
• Departure: 7:30 pm, walk ends around 11 pm.
• What to bring: Light sweater, sunglasses, cash in local currency for tips (5–10 % for the guide, 1–2 MAD for porters).

Enjoy a curated taste of tagines, mint tea, and street‑food stalls—your own personal culinary guide.

Day‑Trip Highlights (Time & Distance)

Destination	Distance (km)	Drive time	Peak heat note
Essaouira	225	2 h 30 m	Leave before 10 am.
Ouarzazate	260	4 h	Start around 6 am.
Merzouga (Sahara)	640	9 h	Depart at 4 am, arrive 7 am.
Volubilis	120	2 h	Visit early at 9 am.
Tifnout	160	3 h	Mid‑morning departure (10 am).
Atlas Village (Aït Iznane)	140	2 h	Head out by 6 am.
Oued Zem	70	1 h	Good for a short mid‑morning stop.

Tip: Use a shaded vehicle (hybrid or electric) to keep cool and bring bottled water.

2–3 Day Core Experience

• Day 1
• Morning: Jardin Majorelle (open 8:30 ‑ 19:00, 30 MAD). Skip Saadian Tombs after 16 pm.
• Afternoon: Bahia Palace (60 MAD).

• Evening: Djemaa el‑Fna guided food walk (reserve 2 days ahead).

• Day 2

• Full riad‑based tour of the medina at 8 am (early to avoid heat). Souks, local markets, and Koutoubia Gardens sunset around 19:30.

• Day 3 (optional)

• Day trip to Ouirgane (120 km, 2 h). Trek the high‑altitude foothills or meet a Berber family.

2 nights – 3 days.

Weekend Getaway (2 Days)

• Day 1

• Arrive, stroll the medina, lunch at Le Colibri (menu 80 MAD). Sunset at the souk, dinner on a rooftop terrace (80 MAD).

• Day 2

• Morning: Palmier Gardens.
• 1‑hr drive to Essaouira (225 km). Beach walk, seafood lunch (120 MAD).
• Late afternoon: Souk Berber market, return to Marrakech for tagine dinner (120 MAD) and stargazing.

1 night – 2 days.

5‑Day Itinerary: Marrakech, Atlas, Ouarzazate

• Days 1–2: Core Marrakech (see Core Experience).
• Day 3: 6 am departure to Ouirgane (2 h), trek, overnight stay in a local Kasbah (€200/night).
• Day 4: Drive to Ouarzazate (4 h). Visit Aït Baha Film Studios (~30 MAD), Kasbah of Aït Baha (30 MAD).
• Day 5: 5 h return to Marrakech.

4 nights, 5 days. Stay in an authentic kasbah for the cultural vibe.

7‑Day Itinerary: Marrakech + Sahara + Essaouira

• Days 1–2: Core Marrakech.
• Day 3: Dawn camel trek in Merzouga (9 h round‑trip). Desert camping (≈ 250 MAD for 1‑person).
• Day 4: Return via Erg Chebbi, stop at Todra Gorge (free).
• Day 5: Drive to Essaouira (1.5 h), beach day, local jazz scene.
• Day 6: Explore Essaouira medina, artisan workshop.
• Day 7: Return to Marrakech (1.5 h) for farewell dinner (150 MAD).

6 nights, 7 days.
Consider a Sahara sunrise tour (90 MAD/person).

Family‑Friendly Extension (6–8 Days)

• Days 1–3: Standard Marrakech with child‑friendly sites: Jardin Majorelle, Jardin Secret, interactive museums.
• Days 4–5: Ait Baha & Ouarzazate—camel rides for kids, craft workshops.
• Days 6–7: Day trips to Volubilis (35 MAD) and Sidi Bou Yusif (free).
• Days 8–9: Final days in Essaouira—beach, water‑safety lessons.

8 nights, 9 days.
Tip: Look for riads offering kids’ menus and supervised play areas.

Travel & Practicalities

• Best Season: April–May & September–October (21–27 °C).
• Visa: US/UK travellers can stay 90 days visa‑free; other passports must check ahead.
• Currency: 1 USD ≈ 10 MAD. ATMs plentiful; avoid exchanging cash on the street.
• Tipping: 5–10 % at restaurants; 1–2 MAD for porters, 5 MAD for housekeeping.
• Health: Carry bottled water (cheap ~ 2 MAD).

Contact hot‑lines

• Marrakesh Tourist Office: +212 528 13 33 33
• Emergency (police): 19
• Tourist assistance (English): +212 529 30 15 70

Enjoy your adventure, travel smart, and savor every couscous‑spiced scent!

Casablanca Travel Notes