Let’s talk about the suitcase.
It’s the one thing that causes a flicker of panic before a trip to the Red City. I see it in the questions travelers ask. “Will I be disrespectful?” “Will I be too hot?” “Do I need to cover my hair?”
As your Marrakech guide, I want to tell you one thing first: Breathe.
You are coming to a city that is modern, cosmopolitan, and joyfully welcomes visitors. But it’s also a city that holds its traditions close to its heart.
The Marrakech dress code isn’t a set of strict rules. It’s an unwritten conversation between respect and practicality. And once you understand it, packing becomes easy.
This isn’t just a Marrakech packing list. This is your guide to feeling comfortable, confident, and completely at home in the magic of the medina.
The Golden Rule: The Two Marrakech Worlds
This is the most important local tip I can give you. The ‘rules’ for dress change based on where you are.
- Inside the “Sanctuary” (Your Riad, Resort, or Pool): Inside the private walls of your riad, at a hotel pool, or in a high-end resort, you are in a private bubble. Here, you can wear what you would on any sunny European holiday. Swimsuits (yes, bikinis are fine), shorts, tank tops… it’s all perfectly normal.
- Outside in the “Public World” (The Medina, Souks, & Squares): This is where we practice respect. When you step into the medina, you are a guest in a living, working, and traditional neighborhood. The key here is modesty. It’s not about being “covered head to toe”; it’s about being respectful.
For both men and women, this simply means covering your shoulders and your knees.
That’s it. That’s the secret. It’s not about hiding yourself; it’s about showing respect to the local families, the shopkeepers, and the culture you’ve come to experience. Trust me, this will also make you feel more comfortable and help you avoid unwanted attention.
💃 What to Wear in Marrakech: For Women
Ladies, you have the most fun options. Moroccan style is all about elegant, flowing comfort.
- The Holy Trinity: Linen, Cotton, and Rayon. These will be your best friends. The air in Marrakech is dry and hot. Breathable, natural fabrics will keep you cool in a way that polyester just can’t. Think loose linen trousers, flowing cotton maxi dresses, and long skirts.
- Your Secret Weapon: The Scarf. I cannot overstate this. A beautiful, lightweight scarf (or pashmina) is the single most useful item you will pack.
- Feeling a bit exposed? Drape it over your shoulders.
- Sun getting too strong? Cover your head.
- Evening chill? Wrap it around your neck.
- Entering a religious site? It’s your respectful head covering.
- Plus, it’s the perfect, instant-buy souvenir from the souks!
- Dresses & Skirts: Maxi and midi-length dresses and skirts are your uniform. They are perfectly respectful, incredibly comfortable, and look stunning against the pink walls of the city.
- Tops: T-shirts, loose blouses, and tunics are all fantastic. You don’t need long sleeves (though they’re great for sun protection). Just aim to keep your shoulders covered. A cap-sleeve is better than a spaghetti strap.
- What About Shorts? This is a common question. In your riad? Go for it. In the medina? I’d advise against short-shorts. If you must wear shorts, opt for a longer, knee-length “Bermuda” or culotte style in a dressy fabric. Honestly, you’ll be cooler and more comfortable in a loose linen skirt.
What to Wear in Marrakech: For Men
Gentlemen, the same rules of comfort and respect apply to you.
- Shirts: Lightweight, breathable shirts are key. T-shirts are absolutely fine. A short-sleeve linen or cotton button-down is even better—it looks smart, keeps you cool, and protects your neck from the sun. You’ll see many local men in similar styles or the traditional djellaba.
- Bottoms: This is where many men get it wrong. While you’ll see tourists in short shorts, I promise you, you will feel more comfortable and “blend in” better with knee-length shorts or, ideally, lightweight trousers.
- Linen trousers or Chinos: This is the ultimate Marrakech look for a man. It’s stylish, respectful, and perfectly practical.
- Jeans: You can wear them, but you will regret it from 10 AM to 6 PM. They are simply too hot for daytime exploring.
- What to Avoid: Please leave the sleeveless “muscle” shirts and sports jerseys for the gym. In the medina, they are seen as undergarments and are a bit too casual.
Shoes, Seasons, and Special Occasions
1. Footwear: Your Most Important Decision
You will walk. A lot. The streets of the medina are uneven, ancient, and dusty.
- DO Pack:
- Comfortable, Closed-Toe Walking Shoes: This is non-negotiable. A good pair of sneakers (Veja, Stan Smiths, etc.), comfortable flats, or desert boots are perfect. Your feet will thank you.
- One Pair of “Nice” Sandals or Flats: For rooftop dinners or relaxing in the riad.
- DON’T Pack (for the medina):
- High Heels: You will break your ankle on the 1,000-year-old cobblestones.
- Flip-Flops: The streets are not clean. Trust me on this. Save them for the pool.
2. Packing by Season
- Summer (June – August): It is hot. Think 40-45°C (105-113°F). Pack your lightest, most breathable linens and cottons. A wide-brimmed sun hat is not a suggestion; it’s a necessity.
- Winter (November – February): This shocks everyone. It gets cold. The days are sunny and pleasant (like a perfect spring day), but the mornings and nights are crisp. The old riads, with their open courtyards, can be chilly.
- You MUST pack: A warm jacket (leather, denim, or a puffer), sweaters, jeans, and socks/slippers for the cold tile floors of your riad. Layering is everything.
3. Special Activities
- A Fancy Dinner (La Mamounia, a rooftop bar): Dress up! Marrakech has a very glamorous side. A nice dress, a smart shirt, and your “nice” shoes will be perfect.
- A Trip to the Desert/Atlas Mountains: It’s all about layers. The desert is hot by day and freezing by night. Pack warm pajamas, a hat, and a windbreaker.
🎁 My Final Local Tip
Don’t overthink it, and don’t pack your “best” clothes.
Marrakech is a city of dust, spices, and adventure. Things might get a little dusty or stained with tagine. Even better, pack light. Leave room in your suitcase.
Why?
Because you will be diving into the Marrakech souks. You will find the most beautiful leather bags, hand-woven scarves, intricate babouche (slippers), and flowing kaftans. The best souvenir is finding that perfect piece and wearing it to dinner that very night, feeling like a part of the city’s magic.
So, be comfortable, be respectful, and get ready to find your own Marrakech style.
Now, I’m curious: What’s the one item in your closet you’re already sure you’re packing for your trip? Let me know in the comments!
