Marrakesh was my absolute favorite city in Morocco. Trust me, there’s something about this place that’s just so vibrant and captivating; it’s like stepping into a whole new world. What’s even better is that Marrakesh is incredibly affordable – and I’ll share with you the best way to explore Marrakesh on a budget.
When to visit:
Marrakesh, and Morocco in general, is a year round destination, though the best time to visit Marrakesh would be during spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer mild and pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions comfortably. The temperatures are generally in the range of 20°C to 30°C providing a perfect balance of warmth without the intense heat of summer or the chilly nights of winter.
However, if you’re looking to explore Marrakesh on a budget and save money while still enjoying favorable weather conditions, I would suggest visiting Marrakesh during the shoulder season of June and February.
June falls at the beginning of the low season, after the peak tourist months of April and May, while February is considered the end of the low season. During these months, you can find more budget-friendly accommodations and travel deals compared to the high season (spring and fall). Hotels, riads, and tour operators often offer discounted rates to attract travelers during these shoulder seasons, which can help you save money on your overall trip expenses.
You may also find cheaper airfare and travel deals during this time. Additionally, since there are fewer tourists, you’ll have more room for negotiation and bargaining at the souks, which can help you score better deals on souvenirs and local products.
Getting from the airport to the center of Marrakesh:
Local Bus 11: the absolute cheapest option – 6 MD
The local bus line 11 operates between Marrakesh Menara Airport and the city center. This is the one we took. The main downside of this (not for us) is that you have to walk around 5 minutes from the airport to reach its station. The bus was full of locals so it was a very authentic experience, but it got us pretty fast in the center and for a fraction of the price we would have paid for the shuttle.
Public Bus line 19 – 30 MD
This bus also operates between the airport and Marrakesh center. The good thing is that you can take this from right in front of the airport – the downside is that it costs more than the local bus (without breaking the bank though!)
You can also take a taxi, but that of course will cost you more – just don’t forget that you are in Morocco and everything is negotiable.
Where to stay:
For an immersive experience in the heart of Marrakesh’s cultural and historical heritage, it would be ideal to stay in the Medina. You’ll find charming riads offering an authentic atmosphere and easy access to major attractions.
The Medina is home to many of Marrakesh’s top attractions, such as the iconic Djemaa El-Fna square, the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the Koutoubia Mosque. Staying in the Medina means you can easily walk to these sites, saving time and money on transportation.
Marrakesh’s Medina is known for its charming riads, traditional Moroccan houses with interior courtyards. Many of these riads have been converted into boutique hotels or guesthouses, offering an intimate and tranquil setting away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Staying in the Medina allows you to interact with the locals and experience their way of life up close. You can engage in conversations with shopkeepers, dine at local eateries, and witness the vibrant daily activities of the residents.
There are plenty of accommodation options for every budget, but even for less than 50$ you’ll find some amazing deals. We usually paid around 25$/night and we had breakfast included – but that was in the low season, so be prepared to pay a little more if you’re there for the busy season.
Reccommendations for less than 50$/night in the Medina:
Authentic Morrocan – We stayed here for one night and it was great value for the money. Location is central, breakfast was delicious and the host was really friendly and helpful.
Riad Saad – Central, with great reviews and breakfast included.
What to do in Marrakesh on a budget:
Explore the Medina: Wander through the narrow streets of the Medina and immerse yourself in the city’s bustling atmosphere. Visit Djemaa El-Fna, the central square, to witness captivating street performances, haggle at the souks for affordable souvenirs, and sample delicious street food at budget-friendly prices.
Visit Historic Sites: Discover Marrakesh’s rich history by visiting historic sites like El Badi Palace, Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs. These architectural wonders offer a glimpse into the city’s past and are budget-friendly with modest entrance fees.
Admire the Koutoubia Mosque: Marvel at the stunning Koutoubia Mosque, an iconic landmark visible from various points in the city. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, its exterior and beautiful gardens are worth a visit and free to enjoy.
Stroll Through Gardens: Spend a leisurely afternoon at the Menara Gardens or the Agdal Gardens. These beautiful public parks offer serene surroundings for relaxation and are free to enter.
Explore the Majorelle Garden: While there is an entrance fee for the Majorelle Garden, it’s worth the small cost to experience its tranquil beauty and vibrant blue structures. The garden’s unique design and exotic plants make it a memorable visit.
Catch a Sunset: Head to a rooftop terrace to witness breathtaking sunsets over the city. It’s a magical experience that shouldn’t cost you too much as long as you just grab a drink.
People-Watch at Cafes: winner foor me! Sit at a local cafe in the Medina, order a traditional mint tea, and watch the world go by. It’s an affordable way to soak in the local ambiance and observe the daily life of Marrakesh.
Where to eat on a budget in Marrakesh:
Djemaa El-Fna Food Stalls: Head to Djemaa El-Fna square in the evening, where you’ll find an array of food stalls offering affordable and tasty Moroccan street food. From savory tagines to mouthwatering kebabs and flavorful couscous, there’s something for every palate.
Local Eateries in the Medina: Wander through the narrow streets of the Medina, and you’ll come across small local eateries and family-run restaurants. These places offer authentic Moroccan dishes at reasonable prices, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Street-side Bakeries: Look out for street-side bakeries and pastry shops where you can find delicious Moroccan pastries like msemen (pancakes) and chebakia (honey cookies) at very affordable prices.
Food Markets and Souks: Explore local food markets and souks like Souk Semmarine and Souk El Kebir, where you’ll find fresh fruits, nuts, olives, and other snacks at budget-friendly prices.
Lunch Menus: Many restaurants and cafes offer affordable lunch menus with fixed prices. Opt for these lunch specials to enjoy a satisfying meal at a reasonable cost.
I hope that with these budget-friendly tips, you will make the most of your trip in Marrakesh, embracing its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality without stretching your budget.
PS: If you want to learn how to travel more for less, you must read my Ebook! It’s the complete guide for every beginner who wants to travel the world, but doesn’t know how to start! After reading this ebook you will know how to plan and book your first trip and save money while traveling the world!
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