The optimal time to visit Marrakesh

As Morocco’s top tourist hotspot, Marrakesh attracts visitors eager to admire its stunning palaces, explore its charming alleys, and shop for unique handcrafted items in the souks.

Tourist numbers peak in spring and autumn, as well as during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Despite high summer temperatures, especially in July and August, the city is now a year-round travel destination.

Those who travel during off-peak months, particularly January and November, enjoy the bonus of winter sunshine, greater accommodation availability, and fewer tourists at popular attractions. Whether you're drawn by culture, local festivals, or shopping, the winter sun or summer warmth offer the best times to experience Marrakesh.

High season runs from March to May and September to October, offering the best weather conditions.

Temperatures begin to rise in early March, bringing back delightful evenings perfect for dining on rooftop terraces, with the scent of orange blossoms filling the courtyards. In May, while wandering through the art galleries and architecture of Gueliz, watch for jacaranda trees adding vibrant color to the main streets.

During the Easter break, the city becomes crowded, so having a general plan for your days will help you avoid disappointment, especially at the Majorelle Gardens where purchasing timed tickets in advance is essential.

By June, the heat intensifies, with temperatures soaring around 45ºC (113ºF). The snow-capped Atlas Mountains, visible from the rooftop terraces of the medina, attract visitors seeking cooler temperatures (around 10ºC/50ºF) and refreshing mountain air.

A lively atmosphere envelops the city in early autumn as locals return to their energetic routines after summer, galleries host openings to showcase new exhibitions, and travelers flock back, especially during Europe’s half-term breaks. Ensure you book your accommodations, guides, and restaurants well in advance of your visit.

Late December offers the best opportunities for nightlife

From around December 20 to the first week of January, Marrakesh buzzes with energy as travelers select Morocco to celebrate the New Year in style. If you plan to visit during this festive season, be prepared to stay at least five nights, the minimum requirement at many places. Your days can be filled exploring the medina, day-tripping to the Atlas Mountains or Agafay Desert, and hopping between galleries in Gueliz.

Renowned for its nightlife, stylish eateries, and trendy bars in the Gueliz and Hivernage districts, Marrakesh attracts Moroccans from all over the kingdom to ring in the New Year. A night out may be pricier than in London or New York, but it generally includes dinner and vibrant entertainment, with revelers dressing to impress.

As the city pulses with energy during this period, making advance reservations for restaurants and excursions is essential. Last-minute bookings are unlikely to be available.

From June to August, the city is perfect for lounging by the pool.

Although typical tourists may be fewer from June to August, Marrakesh sees an influx of Moroccans living abroad (locally known as MRE) returning home for summer holidays. This season is also a popular time for wedding festivities.

These months often offer great deals on riads and hotels. Riad options with a pool, even a small plunge pool, and air-conditioning are highly recommended during the summer. The hotels and resorts in the Palmeraie provide ideal spots for relaxing poolside under the sun.

If you're exploring the medina or Gueliz during this time, venture out early and retreat to the pool during the hottest parts of the day. Day trips to the Atlas Mountains provide a refreshing escape from the heat. Be aware that restaurants catering to foreign tourists might close for summer vacations during this period.

As night falls, the city’s nightlife heats up. Flashy cars, fashionable party-goers, and friends chatting in street-side eateries until the early hours create a vibrant atmosphere.

The city hosts various events from January to February and November to December

These months are considered shoulder season and typically see the highest rainfall in Marrakesh, which can disrupt exploration plans. However, the rain usually lasts just a day or two, creating perfect opportunities to visit a hammam to warm up and refresh.

Mild daytime temperatures make wandering through the still-bustling medina enjoyable. With fewer tourists around, you might even snag a good deal while negotiating. Be prepared for temperatures to drop to around 10ºC (50ºF) after sunset, so securing accommodations with heating is essential, especially in a riad in the medina.

Anticipate road closures as marathon runners race around the city’s ramparts, through palm groves, and down main streets, finishing at Djemaa el Fna during the Marrakesh marathon on the last Sunday of January.

Every third weekend of February, the art community converges in Marrakesh for the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, held at the renowned La Mamounia. Galleries throughout the city unveil captivating exhibits, often spotlighting Moroccan artists, and the art fair welcomes the public.

In November or December, the city becomes a hotspot for movie stars and filmmakers during the Marrakesh International Film Festival, an underappreciated event worth attending. Free passes for official screenings, often featuring a glamorous jury and cast, can be reserved online and collected in person. Cinema Colisée also hosts panel discussions with cast members after select showings.