Marrakech: Private City Tour with Medina, Souks & Majorelle Garden

Summary

Private Marrakech city tour through old medina colors, Bahia Palace, Jemaa El Fnaa and Majorelle Garden

You’ll step straight into Marrakech’s living story: from Koutoubia Mosque’s quiet beauty to the wild energy of Jemaa El Fnaa and the peaceful blue corners of Majorelle Garden. With a private guide handling every detail—including hotel pickup—you’ll feel both cared for and completely swept up by the city’s rhythm.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest, I wasn’t ready for how quickly Marrakech gets under your skin. Our driver met us right at the hotel — he grinned when my bag nearly toppled over (I always overpack), then off we went. The first stop was Koutoubia Mosque, its sandstone tower rising out of the morning haze. Our guide, Youssef, told us how it inspired towers all across North Africa — but what I remember most is the faint scent of orange blossoms drifting from somewhere nearby. He pointed out tiny details in the stonework that I’d have missed on my own. It felt like the city was just starting to wake up around us.

Bab Agnaou looked almost blue in the early light. We ducked through and suddenly everything changed — alleys twisting, scooters buzzing past (one nearly clipped my elbow), and shopkeepers already calling out “bonjour!” even though it was barely 10am. The Bahia Palace was next; honestly, I lost count of how many tiles I tried to photograph before giving up. Youssef laughed when I asked if anyone ever finds their way out without help. The marble underfoot was cool even as the sun started to heat up outside.

Lunch came quick — olives that tasted sharper than any I’ve had back home and bread warm enough to steam in my hands. Then we wandered into the souks. There’s no way to prepare for that: spices everywhere, leather bags hanging like fruit, people haggling in Arabic and French. At one point I just stopped walking and listened — drums somewhere far off, a kid laughing at his friend’s monkey impression (I think?). Ben Youssef Madrasa was quieter; you could hear your own footsteps echoing under all that carved cedar and tile.

By afternoon we drove into Gueliz — wide streets, French signs, cafés with people sipping mint tea like they had all day. But Majorelle Garden felt like another planet: cobalt blue walls against cactus green and bursts of yellow flowers everywhere you looked. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum is right there too; if you’re into fashion or just want air conditioning for a bit (no shame), it’s worth a look. When we finally got dropped back at our hotel, my shoes were dusty and my head was spinning in a good way. Still thinking about those colors.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Marrakech Old and New City

• Hotel pickup by private vehicle
• Visit Koutoubia Mosque
• See Bab Agnaou gate
• Tour Bahia Palace
• Lunch break
• Walk through Marrakech souks
• Visit Ben Youssef Madrasa
• Drive to Jemaa El Fnaa square
• Visit Majorelle Garden
• Explore Berber Museum
• Visit Yves Saint Laurent Museum
• Drive through Gueliz modern district
• Hotel drop-off

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Marrakech city tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included with your private vehicle.

How long does the private Marrakech city tour last?

You can choose either a half-day or full-day tour option.

Are entry fees to attractions like Bahia Palace or Majorelle Garden included?

The description doesn’t specify entry fees; check directly when booking for details.

Is lunch provided during this Marrakech day trip?

No lunch is included but there will be time for lunch during your tour in the Medina area.

Can infants or young children join this private Marrakech tour?

Yes—infants can ride in a pram or stroller; infant seats are available upon request.

Will we visit both historic sites and modern areas of Marrakech?

Yes—the itinerary covers Old Medina landmarks plus Gueliz and Majorelle Garden in the modern district.

Is this a walking tour or by car?

You’ll travel by private car/minivan between districts with walking tours inside each area.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off with an English-speaking licensed guide plus an expert driver in a comfortable private car or minivan—mini bottled water is provided along with all fuel surcharges so you can just focus on exploring without worrying about logistics.