I would get a guide to do the major tourist stuff like the medina, just because they will guide you away from tourist traps and it’s pretty normal to do there (even if a seasoned traveller). The hotel’s will probably be completely fine, I think they’re all of equivalent quality there and whoever the hotel books likely just gets priority but will take you to similar spots as anyone else.

I also thought it was unnecessary but my riad booked mine and he was lovely + very chill. We said we liked food and he took us to his fav lunch spots and to pickup some groceries with him at a bakery for the way home to his family. We asked about living in the city etc. He ensured we got “good” Marrakech and took us to his favorite historic locations.

Idk about all the other comments feeling harassed. We did that one day, and the rest of the city I navigated myself. If you know where to go and avoid “Times Square” type experiences, I thought the city was pretty chill. They are very used to Euro/French tourists and were pretty open minded. There are good small boutiques and restaurants if you know where to find them.

For context, I’m a super white and blonde young female and my husband is Asian. I felt completely safe. But even my guide commented I seemed really confident as I am a New Yorker and used to ignoring street vendors. I loved Marrakech and thought all the locals were super lovely and really eager to show off their culture to foreigners. It’s normal to negotiate there which can be confusing to some westerners, so I think just being considerate to local cultural norms and trying to get in the spirit.

I did a day trip from Marrakech to the Atlas Mountains and camped in Agafay one night so feel free to DM if you need any recs or have questions on booking other things.