What to Do in Marrakech During the Summer

Marrakech, a city where the old and new beautifully converge, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern comforts. While summer temperatures can soar, there are plenty of cool and comfortable places to retreat to after a day of exploring. Whether you’re staying in the vibrant Medina or seeking a peaceful retreat outside the city, there’s always something to enjoy during this season.


1. Visit the Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden is a must-see during your stay in Marrakech. With its lush plants and iconic blue buildings, it offers an oasis of cool respite in the heart of the city. For a similar tranquil atmosphere, properties such as Riad Lalla Khiti or Riad de l’Orientale in the Medina provide peaceful courtyards, where you can enjoy Moroccan architecture and serene spaces after your visits to the garden.


2. Explore the Souks Early in the Morning

Marrakech’s famous souks are vibrant and bustling with energy. To experience them at their best, head out early in the morning when the weather is cooler. After a morning of shopping, return to a peaceful retreat. Riad Ikalimo or Riad des Trois Palais, located in the heart of the Medina, offer an authentic Moroccan escape, perfect for unwinding after a busy day of exploration.


3. Take a Dip in a Riad Pool

Many traditional riads in Marrakech feature stunning courtyards with refreshing pools that offer a perfect escape from the heat. If you’re staying in a Riad Sources Berberes or
Palais Nejma, you can enjoy a cool and relaxing swim surrounded by traditional Moroccan architecture. These properties provide guests with serene environments ideal for relaxation.


4. Experience a Traditional Moroccan Hammam

A traditional Moroccan hammam experience is the ultimate way to relax and rejuvenate in the summer heat. Many riads in Marrakech, including Riad Lalla Khiti and Riad de l’Orientale, feature their own hammams where you can enjoy a soothing scrub, massage, and aromatherapy. If you prefer a more private experience,Locanda Villa orLocanda House outside the city provide quiet, intimate settings with their own wellness offerings.


5. Visit the Jardin Secret

Tucked away in the heart of the Medina, the Jardin Secret offers a peaceful oasis filled with beautiful greenery and fountains. If you prefer to experience such serenity in a more private and traditional Moroccan setting, properties like Riad de l’Orientale and Riad des Trois Palais offer beautiful courtyards and gardens where you can relax in a peaceful atmosphere, away from the bustling streets.


6. Take a Day Trip to the Atlas Mountains

If the summer heat in the city becomes too intense, consider a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. The cooler temperatures at higher altitudes offer a perfect contrast to the Marrakech heat. Locanda Villa and Farm Lodge Ikalimo located in the Ourika Valley offer the ideal getaway in nature, where you can enjoy hiking, fresh mountain air, and a peaceful atmosphere, far from the heat of the city.


7. Sunset at Café de la Plage

As the day cools down, head to one of the many rooftop cafes in Marrakech to catch the sunset. The cool evening breeze, paired with panoramic views of the Medina, creates a magical atmosphere. Whether you’re staying in the heart of the Medina at Riad des Trois Palais or in a more serene environment at Locanda Residence in the peaceful Massira area, you’ll find stunning rooftops for taking in breathtaking views.


8. Enjoy Moroccan Cuisine at Night

Marrakech is a food lover’s paradise, and summer evenings are the best time to enjoy the city’s rich culinary traditions. From street food stalls in Jemaa El-Fna Square to in-house dining experiences at many charming riads, you’ll find an endless variety of delicious Moroccan dishes. Whether you’re staying in Palais Nejma or Riad Ikalimo , many of the properties offer intimate dining experiences with traditional dishes, prepared with locally sourced ingredients.


9. Attend the Marrakech International Film Festival

If you’re lucky enough to visit during the Marrakech International Film Festival, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the city. Stay at Riad Sources Berberes or Locanda House for easy access to the event’s venue. Afterward, retreat to your peaceful riad for a relaxing evening in the heart of the Medina or in a more tranquil setting outside the city.


10. Explore Marrakech’s Nightlife

As the sun sets, Marrakech comes alive with an exciting array of nightlife options. From rooftop bars offering stunning views of the city to local clubs and cafes, the cooler evening temperatures make it the perfect time to explore. Whether you’re staying in the Medina at Riad de l’Orientale or Riad Lalla Khiti, or at Locanda Residence in Massira, you’re never far from an exciting nightlife scene.


Conclusion

While summer in Marrakech can be hot, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the city and its surroundings. From tranquil gardens and refreshing pools to the cool mountain air and vibrant evening activities, Marrakech offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re staying in a traditional riad in the Medina like Riad des Trois Palais, a luxury villa like Locanda Villa, or a peaceful retreat outside the city, you’ll find the perfect place to relax and experience the charm of Marrakech.