About the journey from Agadir to Marrakesh
Leaving behind the vibrant coastal city of Agadir in favor of the bustling medina of Marrakesh feels like an attack on the senses — but in the most spectacular way. The air is filled with music, shouting, lots of honking, and the mouth-watering aromas of freshly cooked tagine.
With approximately 3,000 stalls filling the medina, you can buy almost anything your heart desires and spend your days getting lost in Marrakesh's remarkable streets.
The 2-4 hour journey between these two popular Moroccan cities will give you time to switch your relaxed beach mindset to souvenir shopping mode.
The most popular way to cover the 200 km (125 miles) between Agadir and Marakesh is by bus, but minivans and private cars are also available. Buses are fan favorites due to their convenience, comfort, and cost. Plus, they're the cheapest option!
There are plenty of departures throughout the day, and you can choose your bus depending on the level of comfort you desire.
Most buses depart from Agadir Bus Station, but the drop-off location in Marrakesh varies depending on which company you travel with.
Thankfully, the journey from Agadir to Marrakesh is one of the shorter ones in Morocco, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the views.
Unmissable things to do in Marrakesh
The more you uncover about this magical city, the more you'll find to do. Simply wandering through the medina, absorbing and exploring its endless shops, can easily fill your days.
Here are some more must-do things to add to your Marrakesh itinerary:
Jemaa el Fna Square — The beating heart of the medina. During the day, you'll find delicious juice stalls, street food and plenty of restaurants lining its perimeter. At night, circles of transfixed people form around performers showcasing Moroccan dance, music, comedy and magic. There's an infectious excitement that flows through the square.
Visit a hammam — A central point of Moroccan culture, a hammam is a public bath where people come together every week to cleanse their bodies and catch up with friends. In Marrakesh, you'll find both local and tourist hammams. Do your research and decide which one suits the experience that you're after.
Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa — For a dash of history, the madrasa will make you feel like you stepped back in time. Once one of the largest Islamic schools, it's an important historic site. Wait until you see the mesmerizing mosaics and carvings adorning its walls!
Eat your way through the city — Marrakesh is home to out-of-this-world Moroccan cuisine. Some things to sample include mesemmen, bastilla, tagine, couscous, and Moroccan tea.
How many days should you spend in Marrakesh?
Many people don't give Marrakesh the time it deserves. It's a city that grows on you the more you get lost in its labyrinth of streets and witness the hospitality of locals.
Ticking off the best things to do takes around three days. If you have the time to spare, then set aside five. That way, you won't have to rush and can simply find a cafe, order a Morrocan tea, and watch the city go about its day. That's how you get to know Marrakesh.
How to get from Agadir to Marrakesh
There are three ways to cover the 200km (125 miles) between Agadir and Marrakesh: by bus, minivan, and car.
By bus
Most people take the bus as it's comfortable, convenient and cheap. A few bus companies service this route, offering a safe journey and a selection of classes:
Standard class — basic economy, A/C, charging port, WiFi subject to availability
Comfort class — more comfortable reclining seats, A/C, charging port, TV and WiFi, subject to availability
Classes often vary in price by only a few dollars. Prices start from $16.
Hand luggage is included in the ticket fair, but you'll be expected to pay 5 Moroccan dirhams for any additional luggage.
Most buses leave from Agadir Bus Station, but it's essential to check your departure location as it can vary depending on which bus company you book with. The arrival location will also be different for each company.
By minivan
Minivans from Agadir to Marrakesh can be faster, usually taking closer to two hours. They often include hotel pick-up and drop-off, meaning you don't have to think about how to get to and from Agadir's bus stations.
The ease and fewer passengers mean that minivans are more expensive, starting at around $46.
By car
If you want ultimate convenience and privacy, book a private transfer from Agadir to Marrakesh. It's the most expensive way to travel, with prices starting from $157.
What to expect from the journey from Agadir to Marrakesh
Journey time from Agadir to Marrakesh can take anywhere between 2-4 hours. It depends on the mode of transport you choose and the traffic.
It's not a particularly exciting journey as you'll be on the motorway most of the time. Still, the views are interesting enough to keep you entertained for the short duration of the trip.
Once you hit the outskirts of Marrakesh, the streets quickly come to life, packed with people, cars and motorbikes.
This route is safe for all travelers, whether alone, in a couple, or in a group.
The bus station staff and drivers are usually very helpful. More often than not, they'll stop along the way to go to the toilet and grab a snack or drink.
When is the best time to visit Marrakesh?
The time of the year you pick to visit Marrakesh can greatly impact your trip. Visit during July and August, and it can feel like you're walking in an oven. Temperatures can easily reach 40°C (105°F).
The best time to visit Marrakesh is between March and May and September to October. It will still be hot during this time, but without sweat constantly dripping down your back.
If you're comfortable with cold weather, consider visiting Morocco during winter (December to March) when flights from Europe and sometimes other destinations are available at incredibly low prices. You can score yourself a bargain!
Where to visit after Marrakesh?
If your trip doesn't end in Marrakesh, consider switching up city life for some time at the beach. Essaouira is only three hours away, yet it couldn't feel more different. This city is known for its wind, so get ready to try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing.