Going to Marrakesh This Winter? Here’s What to Wear

Got a winter trip planned to Marrakesh, Morocco? Marrakesh can be fun to visit in the winter, but you'll want to make sure you're dressed right. The weather is mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 68°F (that's 20°C). So what should you wear so you can stay comfy and fit in with the local vibe?

To make the most of your trip to Marrakesh, a good rule of thumb is to pack comfortable clothing that you can layer. Loose-fitting clothing in breathable fabrics will keep you cool in warmer weather, while a light jacket or cardigan will come in handy for cooler days or evenings. And if you plan on doing any sightseeing, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Nothing like a nasty blister to ruin a good vacation, right?

In just a second, I'll share my specific recommendations for exactly what to wear in Marrakesh in winter—whether you're visiting the Medina, exploring the Jemaa el-Fnaa, visiting the Bahia Palace, or touring the Majorelle Garden.

🔗 What should women wear in Marrakesh in winter?

Marrakesh in winter is generally mild, and there are a few key items you'll want to pack. Here's what I definitely wouldn't go without: light jacket, jeans, cardigans, long skirts, and pashmina. With these essentials, you’ll be all set to experience everything Marrakesh has to offer. Keep in mind that Marrakesh is culturally conservative, so it's important to dress modestly too.

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Marrakesh, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Jeans

You just cannot go wrong with a good pair of jeans. They're comfortable, versatile, and easy to care for—not to mention they always look great. Whatever you're doing in Marrakesh, jeans will always come in handy. Of course, not all jeans are created equal. Be sure to choose a pair that's comfortable and flattering. If you'll be doing a lot of walking, look for a light-weight denim that won't weigh you down. And if you're hoping to dress up for a nice dinner out, a dark wash denim will always do the trick.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

🔗 Cardigans

A cardigan is the perfect piece of clothing to pack for a trip to Marrakesh in winter. They are lightweight, versatile, and easy to care for. Cardigans can be dressed up or down, and they work well in both warm and cool weather. When choosing a cardigan for travel, natural fibers such as cotton or wool are great (though synthetic equivalents can work well too). You mostly just want to look for fabric that breathes well so it will keep you comfortable in all types of weather.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 Long skirts

Many women pack skirts as a staple for their travel wardrobe, but often overlook the long skirt. Though less popular than their shorter counterparts, long skirts offer a number of advantages that make them ideal for travel. For one, they tend to be more versatile than short skirts, as they can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. They also offer more coverage, which can be important in hot weather or when exploring more conservative cultures like Marrakesh. And don't forget, long skirts are often more comfortable than shorter styles, as they are not going to ride up or constrict movement.

Need some inspiration? Start here:

🔗 Pashmina

A pashmina is a must-have accessory for a trip to Marrakesh. They can be used as a scarf, sarong, blanket, or even a headscarf. They are light and easy to pack, yet they provide warmth and color to any outfit. Pashminas come in a variety of colors and patterns, so it's easy to find one that compliments your personal style. When choosing a pashmina, look for one that is made from natural fibers such as wool or cashmere. These fibers are not only more durable, but they will also breathe better and keep you covered without making you sweat.

Here are a few of my top picks:

🔗 What should men wear in Marrakesh in winter?

For guys, here's the list of essentials I recommend you start with: long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, light jacket, lightweight comfortable shoes, and jeans or khakis. With these in your suitcase, I guarantee you will enjoy your trip to Marrakesh in comfort and style. While you won't need to be quite so covered as the ladies, it's still a good idea to respect cultural norms and not wear anything that would draw too much attention.

🔗 Long-sleeved shirts

Long-sleeved shirts are an essential part of any travel wardrobe. They can be dressed up or down, and they offer sun protection on bright days. When choosing a long-sleeved shirt for Marrakesh, it's important to look for one that is comfortable and breathable. A lightweight cotton shirt is a good option, as it will keep you cool in warm weather and can be layered under a sweater or jacket when the temperature drops. It's also a good idea to choose a shirt in a neutral color that can be easily paired with other items in your suitcase.

These options are both stylish and comfy:

🔗 Sweaters

Sweaters are super versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them ideal for both day and evening wear in Marrakesh. They also take up less space than other types of warm clothing, so you can pack more sweaters into your suitcase without sacrificing style. When choosing sweaters for travel, look for ones that are made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, such as Merino wool or cashmere. These materials will help to keep you warm without adding bulk.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Light jacket

A light jacket is always a good idea to pack for Marrakesh, even if the weather is forecast to be warm. You never know when the weather will change or you'll end up in an air-conditioned place. They're also useful for protection from the sun and wind. And of course, it can get chilly in the evenings. But not all light jackets are created equal. For example, denim jackets are great for everyday wear but they're not always packable because they can be bulky. A better option is something like a nylon windbreaker which can be rolled up into a small bundle.

This is the kind of thing I mean:

🔗 Lightweight comfortable shoes

Traveling can be tough on your feet. You're constantly on the move, walking through airports and down crowded streets. And even if you're just sitting on a plane or in a car, your feet can start to swell after hours of being confined in one position. That's why it's important to pack comfortable, lightweight shoes that won't add too much weight to your luggage. But how do you know which shoes are right for Marrakesh? Look for ones made from breathable materials like mesh or canvas. They should also have good arch support and a cushioned sole to help reduce fatigue.

If you're stuck for ideas, here are some of my favorites:

🔗 Jeans or khakis

Jeans or khakis are surprisingly versatile when traveling. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and they're perfect for cool evenings or air-conditioned restaurants and shops. When choosing jeans or khakis, look for comfortable styles with a bit of stretch. Darker washes tend to be more versatile, but feel free to pack a pair in a light denim or white if you know you'll have the opportunity to wear them.

Here are some options I'd recommend:

I hope these recommendations for what to wear in Marrakesh will help make your winter visit unforgettable. Now that you have a better idea of what clothing to take, it's time to pack your suitcase—and then go ahead and enjoy everything Marrakesh has to offer!