Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is located just 6 km southwest of Marrakech's medina and city center. The journey takes only 15-25 minutes by taxi or bus, making it one of the most conveniently located airports in North Africa.

About Marrakech City Center

Marrakech's city center revolves around the Jemaa el-Fnaa, one of the world's most extraordinary public squares. By day, the vast plaza fills with orange juice sellers, snake charmers, and henna artists; by night, it transforms into an open-air food market with dozens of smoking grills and storytellers performing under lantern light. The sensory overload of Jemaa el-Fnaa has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

The surrounding medina is a labyrinth of narrow alleys (derbs) lined with riads (traditional courtyard houses, many converted to boutique hotels), souks organized by trade (leather, spices, carpets, metalwork), and architectural treasures. The Koutoubia Mosque with its 77-meter minaret dominates the skyline; the Bahia Palace showcases exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship; and the Saadian Tombs were hidden for centuries before their rediscovery in 1917.

Modern Marrakech extends beyond the ancient walls into the Ville Nouvelle (Guéliz district), where French colonial architecture houses contemporary art galleries, international restaurants, and chic boutiques along Avenue Mohammed V. The Majorelle Garden — a botanical paradise created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent — is a must-visit oasis of cobalt blue buildings and exotic plants.

Nearby Landmarks

Jemaa el-Fnaa Koutoubia Mosque Bahia Palace Majorelle Garden Saadian Tombs

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost Varies by traffic
Time 20-40 min

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Exit RAK arrivals and find the official taxi rank or bus stop
2. Option A: Take a petit taxi (beige/cream color) to Jemaa el-Fnaa (MAD 70-100, 15-20 min)
3. Option B: Take Bus 19 from the airport to Jemaa el-Fnaa (MAD 30, every 20-30 min)
4. Taxis drop you at the edge of the medina near Jemaa el-Fnaa
5. Walk or arrange a porter for the final stretch to your riad inside the medina

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi Varies by traffic 20-40 min Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Taxis are available at the airport 24 hours. The standard fare to the medina is about MAD 70-100 (€7-10). Insist on the meter or agree on a price before departing. After midnight, taxis are still available but less plentiful — the airport always has some waiting. There is no Uber in Marrakech; use Careem or InDriver.

Luggage Tips

Taxis easily handle luggage for the short trip. However, many riads inside the medina are only accessible via narrow alleys where wheeled luggage is difficult. Some riads arrange porters with handcarts to meet you at the nearest vehicle-accessible point. Confirm your riad's exact taxi drop-off point in advance.

Accessibility

RAK airport has basic wheelchair assistance. The medina is extremely challenging for wheelchair users due to narrow, uneven alleys, steps, and lack of ramps. The Ville Nouvelle (Guéliz) is more accessible with paved sidewalks. Most riads in the medina are multi-level without elevators.