Historic Marrakech tour
Palaces, gardens and ramparts: the history of Marrakech in half a day
Marrakech was built over nearly a thousand years. The Almoravids raised its ramparts, the Saadians built their tombs, a grand vizier treated himself to a palace. It all fits into a morning, if you know where to go.
It's a great way to start your stay. You'll understand the city you'll be exploring over the following days much better.
What you'll see
The Bahia Palace
Built at the end of the 19th century for a grand vizier, it is a palace of courtyards and gardens. Zellige tiles, carved stucco, painted cedar ceilings: you'll be looking up in every room.
The Saadian Tombs
They date from the 16th century and remained walled up for a long time, before being rediscovered at the beginning of the 20th century. The Hall of Twelve Columns is exceptionally delicate.
The ramparts and the Menara
A tour of the ochre ramparts and their great gates, then the Menara garden: a large pool among the olive trees, with the Atlas in the distance when the sky is clear.
How the day works
- In the morning : departure from the riad, at the time agreed with you when you book. Your driver waits for you two streets from the door, where cars can get to.
- The Bahia Palace : visit of the courtyards, salons and gardens.
- The Saadian Tombs : next to the Kasbah mosque, close to the Bab Agnaou gate.
- The ramparts : a drive along the city walls and their gates.
- The Menara : a stroll around the large pool and through the olive grove, then back to the riad.
Prices and what's included
400 DH for the half day.
Included : the private driver and the air-conditioned vehicle.
Not included : entrance fees to the monuments, shopping and tips.
Book at least 48 hours in advance. After that, the full price of the excursion is due, even if you cancel.
Our tips
Set off early
The Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs get very busy in the late morning. The earlier you arrive, the more you can enjoy them in peace. In summer, it's also more pleasant because of the heat.
Do it at the start of your stay
Once you've seen the city's main landmarks, you'll find your way around the medina much more easily.
Keep some change for the entrance fees
Tickets are paid on site, at each monument.
Look out for the gate of our neighbourhood
The riad is in the Bab Doukkala district, one of the historic gates in the ramparts. You'll see it on your way back.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a lot of walking?
No. The car drops you at each site. Once there, you walk at your own pace, on flat ground.
Can we bring children?
Yes. Children enjoy the gardens and the big courtyards, and half a day isn't too long for them.
What is the best season?
All year round. In summer, choose early morning. In spring, the gardens are superb.
How do I book?
Write to us with the date you'd like and the number of people. We organise everything with our partners and agree on the departure time with you. Book at least 48 hours in advance. After that, the full price of the excursion is due, even if you cancel.
Can I take part if I'm not staying at the riad?
No. Our excursions are reserved for Riad Malika guests.
Fancy more time in the mountains?
If you love the Atlas, stay there for a few nights. Our Domaine Malika is in Ouirgane, in the High Atlas, an hour from Marrakech. Guided hikes, Berber villages, a pool heated all year round. Many of our guests combine a few nights at the riad and a few nights at the Domaine.
Book your historic Marrakech tour
Give us your date and the number of people. We'll take care of the rest.
Photo: Val Traveler, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons