8 of the best things to do with kids in Marrakesh

28.11.2023 - 18:25 / lonelyplanet.com

For curious travelers with an open mind, Marrakesh is a family-friendly treasure chest waiting to be explored.

Moroccans, as a culture, love children, often growing up in multi-generational homes. Traveling with kids can open doors to unique cultural connections and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. The city has year-round sunny weather and is perfect for families who love outdoor play, water parks, city explorations and desert adventures. 

The bustle of the city can be overstimulating for all ages, adults included. Noisy, smelly, and an endless maze of labyrinthine streets, it awakens all the senses and can be a cultural shock for first-time visitors. Be realistic about how much you can see during your stay.

Marrakech is an excellent city for intrepid families looking to introduce their kids to a unique culture and different ways of seeing the world. Children are welcome in most places, and there are many public gardens and play spaces where you can meet and mingle with local families. Few restaurants offer separate kids' menus, but most will include a child-friendly option and try to accommodate any dietary wishes.

While the child-specific attractions are less obvious than in some global cities, they do exist. A walk through souk alleyways with some imagination can become an evening of entertainment. The Medina can feel like an open-air museum; watch your kids' eyes light up as their history books come to life.

That said, the city can be overwhelming. You may encounter basic public conveniences, limited changing facilities, relaxed health and safety laws, the hassle of being asked for money for photos, uneven footpaths, and busy public transport. Keep an open mind, be realistic with your travel plans, and include time out to recharge.

The Medina and Djemaa El Fna are where your kids' natural curiosity can run wild. Both are busiest around sunset; you could avoid this by visiting in the morning, but you will miss out on the atmosphere of the city's pulsing heart and mingling with the masses.

The city center is flat and easily explored on foot. Babes in arms are best in a baby carrier or sling. Toddlers may be easier in a lightweight stroller, keeping them safe from passing bikes and motos in the narrow streets. Big buggies can be cumbersome for the souk-lined alleys and heavy to carry upstairs to rooftop cafes with no lifts.

If you're in the Medina area and your kids need to let off some steam, the Djemaa El Fna, nearby Koutobia Gardens, and Cafe Munich are a few options. Cafe Munich is the only place in the Medina with an indoor kids' area, including a slide for little ones. 

Marrakech has a dry, sunny, hot climate. If you and your little ones enjoy shaded gardens and pool play, the hotels in leafy suburbs