How to Capture the Best of Marrakesh

As a historic city lined with iconic landmarks, Marrakesh is a photographer’s dream come true. Whether you’re an avid Instagrammer with a passion for heritage sites or a professional shutterbug in search of inspiration, there are few locations in Morocco that can provide the diversity of backdrops accessible in Marrakesh. From hitting the city’s bustling souks to documenting its hidden gems on film, here are Instagram-worthy spots to add to your travel itinerary.

Traditional Souks and Medinas

As some of the city’s busiest precincts, the medinas and traditional bazaars occupying Marrakesh are among its most photogenic highlights. These labyrinthine marketplaces that spread out over a vast expanse are an overwhelming melee of colour and culture, as these bazaars have been a part of the city for centuries. While selecting a backdrop to point one’s camera or smartphone at might prove difficult, there are certain souks that are particularly popular among seasoned visitors and photographers. Souk des Teinturiers, which is called the “Dryer’s Souk”, is one such location where colours of high intensity occupy every corner and where storekeepers are eager to demonstrate how specific dyes are made using a combination of disparate shades. Don’t forget to drop by Place des Épices, the spice souk,  where baskets piled high with fresh fruits, veggies, and aromatic spices provide the perfect setting for a holiday snap.

Radiant Riads

Often compared to the havelis found in India, Riads or traditional Moroccan homes with an indoor courtyard and a garden are also among Marrakesh’s finest Insta-worthy hotspots. Raid Elegancia is arguably one of the most Instagrammable riads in Marrakech, especially given its location in the heart of the Medina. Although nearly every one of the city’s most striking riads has now been converted to a luxury hotel, it means that these architectural gems are now open to travellers with an interest in discovering the scenic courtyards, elaborately decorated ceilings and classic design features.

Museum of Marrakech

Located inside the beautifully restored confines of the Dar Menebhi Palace compound, the Museum of Marrakesh is another photo hub Instagrammers should include in their holiday reel. Showcasing the city’s most prized cultural relics, including impressive collections of ancient musical instruments, carpets, pottery and fine jewellery, the Museum of Marrakech is full of exotic backdrops that will enchant the culture buffs among your social media following.

Koutoubia Mosque

Dating back to the 12th century and constructed during the era of Almohad Caliph Yuqub Al-Mansur, the Koutoubia Mosque is a national landmark that’s easily identified by its towering minaret. As one of the most photographed historical sites in all of Marrakesh, the Koutoubia Mosque offers Instagrammers the chance to document a one-of-a-kind spiritual epicentre that’s also considered a masterwork in Islamic architecture. Although visitors are not admitted to the interiors of this place of worship, capturing its golden silhouette during the magical hour of sunset is a must for all those who are documenting Marrakesh’s key heritage sites.

Bahia Palace

Taking visitors on a trip back in time to an era of grand structures and great opulence, the Bahia Palace is another must-visit attraction for Instagrammers. As the perfect photo-op stop for those with a flair for the dramatic, the massive courtyards and the exquisite tilework within the palace grounds can serve as striking testaments of your sojourn in Morocco.

The Menara Gardens

Lined with olive groves and a reflective pool, the Menara Gardens is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site that photographers can’t afford to miss on a trip to Marrakesh. Offering visitors a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of downtown Marrakesh, this picturesque oasis with 12th-century pavilions is set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, which peeks out over the horizon on clear, sunny days.