Marrakech, known as the Red City of Morocco, is one of the most photogenic destinations in the world. From vibrant souks and majestic palaces to secret gardens and bustling streets, every corner feels like a perfectly framed picture. Whether you’re a professional photographer, a travel blogger, or just someone who wants beautiful Instagram content, Marrakech offers endless opportunities.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best photo spots in Marrakech, including hidden gems, free locations, and insider tips that most travel guides don’t cover.
Why Marrakech is a Photographer’s Dream
The beauty of Marrakech lies in its contrast: ancient riads with intricate zellij tiles, colorful markets overflowing with spices, and the golden hues of the desert at sunset. Unlike other destinations, Marrakech allows you to capture authentic Moroccan culture alongside luxury experiences, all within a short walk or drive.
But beyond the usual landmarks, the real magic is found in quiet alleys, rooftop cafés, and everyday street life.
Best Free Photo Spots in Marrakech
Not all Instagrammable places require an entrance fee. If you’re traveling on a budget, here are some of the free photography spots that will elevate your Marrakech album:
1. Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
At the heart of Marrakech, this bustling square is a mix of food stalls, storytellers, snake charmers, and musicians.
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Best time: Sunset, when the sky glows behind the Koutoubia Mosque.
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Pro tip: Capture the chaos from above by heading to a rooftop café like Café de France—it’s free if you just order tea.
2. The Medina Alleys
The narrow streets of the Medina are full of color and texture. Wooden doors with brass knockers, hanging carpets, and lantern shops create picture-perfect frames.
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Best time: Early morning, before crowds fill the alleys.
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Free bonus: Every alley feels unique—no two backdrops look the same.
3. Bab Agnaou Gate
One of Marrakech’s 19 gates, Bab Agnaou is a massive stone structure with intricate details that photograph beautifully.
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Free and accessible 24/7.
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Great for dramatic portrait shots with the ancient wall as your backdrop.
Instagram-Worthy Riads and Hotels
Even if you don’t stay overnight, many riads allow visitors to enjoy a drink or lunch while taking photos. Their courtyards with fountains, mosaic walls, and lush greenery make for dreamy shots.
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Riad Yasmine: Famous for its turquoise pool surrounded by banana trees.
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La Mamounia Hotel: A luxury icon, known for its zellij tile hallways. (Note: Entry requires paying for a coffee or spa pass.)
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Hidden tip: Ask smaller riads if you can tour their courtyard. Many owners are happy to show their riad in exchange for buying mint tea.
Iconic Landmarks for Photography
1. Bahia Palace
This 19th-century palace is filled with marble courtyards, colorful tiles, and cedar wood ceilings.
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Fee: Around 70 MAD.
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Photography tip: Use wide angles to capture the symmetry of the courtyards.
2. Majorelle Garden & Yves Saint Laurent Museum
The electric-blue villa, cactus gardens, and exotic plants make this spot one of the most famous Instagrammable places in Marrakech.
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Fee: 150 MAD for the garden, 150 MAD for the museum.
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Tip: Arrive when it opens to avoid crowds.
3. Koutoubia Mosque
Marrakech’s largest mosque, visible from almost every part of the city.
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Best photo: Capture it during the golden hour with horse carriages passing by.
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Free spot: You can’t enter the mosque if you’re not Muslim, but the exterior is photogenic.
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Photo Spots
Most travelers only see the popular sites, but here are lesser-known photography locations that can make your Instagram stand out:
1. Le Jardin Secret
A peaceful oasis inside the Medina, full of fountains, exotic plants, and traditional Moroccan architecture.
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Less crowded than Majorelle.
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Entrance fee: 80 MAD.
2. Mellah (Old Jewish Quarter)
Colorful houses and unique markets different from the main Medina.
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Authentic daily life shots.
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Bonus: Beautiful views of spice stalls.
3. Agafay Desert (Outside Marrakech)
If you don’t have time for the Sahara, the Agafay Desert is only 40 minutes away. White rocky dunes, camel rides, and desert camps create surreal photos.
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Best time: Sunset.
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Insider tip: Many camps allow you to visit just for photos.
Rooftops with a View
Marrakech is full of rooftops that offer panoramic shots of the Medina, Atlas Mountains, and the desert horizon.
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Café des Épices: Popular rooftop overlooking spice markets.
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Nomad Café: Modern design with stunning views at sunset.
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Insider hack: Order mint tea and stay as long as you want—it’s a cheap way to access premium photography views.
Photography Etiquette in Marrakech
When photographing people, especially vendors and locals, always ask permission first. Some may expect a small tip (10–20 dirhams).
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Avoid photographing women without consent.
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Street performers in Jemaa el-Fnaa will expect payment if you take their photo.
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Always be respectful—Marrakech is not just a photo backdrop but a living culture.
Photography Tips for Marrakech
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Golden Hour: Sunrise and sunset are the best times for soft lighting.
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Editing style: Warm tones and earthy filters enhance Marrakech’s natural colors.
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Gear: A wide-angle lens is ideal for palaces and courtyards. A drone is not recommended, as restrictions are strict.
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Dress Code: Wear Moroccan-inspired outfits (flowy dresses, kaftans, neutral tones) for Instagram-worthy portraits.
Sample 3-Day Marrakech Photo Itinerary
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Day 1: Medina alleys, Jemaa el-Fnaa, Bahia Palace, Rooftop sunset.
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Day 2: Majorelle Garden, Le Jardin Secret, Koutoubia Mosque, Riad Yasmine.
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Day 3: Agafay Desert or Atlas Mountains day trip for breathtaking landscapes.
Final Thoughts
Marrakech is more than just a destination—it’s a photographer’s playground. From free photo spots in the Medina to luxury hotels and hidden gardens, the city offers endless opportunities for capturing Moroccan beauty.
Whether you’re looking for Instagram photo spots in Marrakech or simply want to document your journey, this guide ensures you’ll go home with photos that stand out.
So grab your camera, sip some mint tea, and let Marrakech’s charm fill your lens.
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