Constructed in the 16th century under the orders of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty, El Badi Palace — the "Incomparable Palace" — was once hailed as a marvel of its era. Initially featuring 360 rooms, an expansive courtyard, and a 90-metre-long pool, the palace was a monument to the Sultan's affluence and influence. Adorned with a lavish selection of materials sourced globally — from Italian marble to Malian gold — the palace was envisioned as an opulent space for grand receptions and ceremonies. However, following al-Mansur's death in 1603, the palace was abandoned and gradually succumbed to decay, especially during the waning years of the Saadian rule. Many of its precious elements, particularly its marble, were harvested and repurposed in various Moroccan structures. Nowadays, El Badi stands as a significant point of interest in Marrakesh, housing various exhibitions and even showcasing the Minbar of the Kutubiyya Mosque. Though largely in ruins, the palace still whispers stories of a bygone era of wealth and grandeur.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art offers a journey through centuries of art and culture, from Italian Renaissance masterpieces and Asian ceramics to African art and contemporary installations. Don't leave without taking a picture in front of the museum’s iconic, giant badminton shuttlecocks on the front lawn. Admission is free to most exhibitions, and once you get your fix of classical and contemporary art, you can finish the tour at the café or the restaurant on the spot.

Featuring an IMAX theater, a planetarium and a recently-opened digital 3D movie theater, as well as a variety of fascinating scientific exhibits and collections, the museum is the perfect synthesis of hard science and “infotainment.”

Erected in 1120, the Koutoubia Mosque and its 70-metre-tall Minaret serve as the spiritual and architectural heart of Marrakesh, framed by expansive gardens. Situated in the southwest area of Marrakesh's medina, close to the bustling Jemaa el-Fna marketplace, the mosque is not just the city's largest but also one of its most iconic. Although entry is restricted to Muslims, the mosque's exterior is an awe-inspiring sight that can be appreciated by all.