Marrakech is Morocco's most visited city. With a rental car collected at Marrakech-Menara Airport, you gain freedom: sunset outings in the Palmeraie, a trip to the Atlas, dinner in Gueliz without depending on taxis.
1The Medina: the historic heart
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the medina is home to Jemaa el-Fna square, the souks, the Ben Youssef Medersa and the Bahia Palace. A car is no use inside: the alleys are pedestrian or reserved for two-wheelers. Park in a guarded car park on the edge, for example near the Koutoubia or Bab Doukkala, then continue on foot.
2Gueliz: the modern city
Built during the protectorate era, Gueliz is full of shops, cafés, galleries and restaurants around Avenue Mohammed V. It is an easy area to drive and park in, ideal for dinner. The Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum are close by.
3Hivernage: the chic district
Between Gueliz and the medina, Hivernage is home to large hotels, the conference centre, bars and clubs. Its wide tree-lined avenues make it one of the most pleasant areas to stay with a car, with easier parking than in the medina.
4The Palmeraie: nature and wide open spaces
North-east of the city, the Palmeraie stretches over thousands of hectares of palm trees. There are villas, hotels with gardens and activities (quad biking, camel rides, golf). Here, a car is essential: distances are long and taxis are rare in the evening.
5The Ourika valley: a getaway in the Atlas
About an hour south, the Ourika valley offers Berber villages, a river and the Setti Fatma waterfalls. A perfect day trip. On the way back, make a detour via Asni or the Lalla Takerkoust dam.
6Which neighbourhood to stay in in Marrakech?
| Neighbourhood | Ideal for | Parking |
|---|---|---|
| Medina (riad) | Immersion, couples | Guarded car park outside |
| Gueliz | Restaurants, mid-range budget | Easy |
| Hivernage | Upmarket hotels, nightlife | Easy |
| Palmeraie | Families, calm, pool | On site |
7Driving in Marrakech: our tips
- Watch out for the many two-wheelers and for horse-drawn carriages around the medina.
- Use guarded car parks: allow a few dirhams per visit or a daily rate.
- Avoid crossing the medina by car at rush hour.
- A city car like the Renault Clio 5 is perfect in town; an SUV is more comfortable for the Atlas.
8Frequently asked questions
Do you need a car to visit Marrakech?
Not for the medina, which you visit on foot. A car is, however, very handy for the Palmeraie, Gueliz in the evening and trips to the Atlas.
Where to park near the Marrakech medina?
In the guarded car parks on the edge of the medina, for example near the Koutoubia or Bab Doukkala.
What is the best neighbourhood to stay in Marrakech?
The medina for atmosphere, Gueliz or Hivernage for convenience, the Palmeraie for family calm.
