THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE, MARRAKECH
When it comes to captivating destinations, Marrakech holds a special place in my heart as one of the most stunning and lively cities in Morocco. From the bustling medina to the vibrant souks, the rich historical palaces, delightful dining spots, and breathtaking architecture, Marrakech offers a sensory journey that will truly enchant you.
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NAVIGATING MARRAKECH
Although Marrakech is a big city, most of the attractions are within walking distance. Furthermore, exploring on foot is the ideal way to uncover its hidden gems and truly appreciate the city’s charm!
Moreover, it’s important to be cautious of locals offering directions on the street, as they may ask for money in return.
Alternatively, an enjoyable way to explore Marrakech is by bicycle. Medina Bikes, Africa’s first bike-sharing system, has recently been launched. These bicycles are available 24/7, with over 300 of them conveniently located throughout the city. A day pass costs 50 MAD, while a weekly pass costs 150 MAD. For more information, visit medina bike
While taxis are a convenient option, it’s crucial to be aware of potential overcharging. Always insist on using the meter or agree on a price before getting into a taxi.
BEN YOUSSEF MADRASA
WHERE TO STAY IN MARRAKECH
RIAD LE PÈLERIN
Riad Le Pèlerin is one of my top choices for accommodation in Marrakech!- Due to its central location and exquisitely designed rooms. The Riad features a central courtyard that serves as a serene oasis. This provides a peaceful retreat from the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
Additionally, the rooftop terrace offers a perfect spot to unwind and bask in the sun! Whether you prefer lounging on comfortable sun lounges, seeking shade under the parasols, or indulging in al fresco dining, Riad Le Pèlerin offers plentiful options for your enjoyment.
RIAD BE MARRAKECH
Located near the Jemaa el Fna and renowned souk at the heart of the historic medina, this boutique riad offers an authentic and unique atmosphere, adorned with intricate décor, vibrant tile work, and traditional textiles.
Moreover, the riad boasts two shared plunge pools and a terrace affording views of the medina, providing a perfect respite after immersing yourself in the vibrant city’s offerings. The on-site restaurant further enhances your experience, treating you to delectable local cuisine that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.
For those yearning to embrace the captivating allure of Marrakech, I wholeheartedly recommend a stay at Riad Be Marrakech. With its comfortable accommodations, chic ambiance, and finally its genuine authenticity. This Riad promises an unforgettable and truly enjoyable stay!
EL FENN HOTEL, RESTAURANT AND ROOFTOP BAR
In the bustling heart of the medina, you’ll find this ultra-chic Riad.
El Fenn offers an impeccable blend of traditional Moroccan design. Each room and suite is a masterpiece, boasting unique character and style.
The standout feature of this remarkable hotel is its rooftop bar, offering breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape. The Riad also features a rooftop restaurant, two inviting pools, and finally a serene spa.
DAR FANNY
Dar Fanny is a beautiful traditional guesthouse located in the heart of Marrakech. It seamlessly blends Moroccan architecture with modern amenities. The Riad features a stunning courtyard, rooftop terrace with plunge pool, and intricately decorated rooms. It offers the perfect retreat for travellers seeking an authentic experience.
WHERE TO EAT IN MARRAKECH
DARDAR ROOFTOP
Dardar is one of the dreamiest rooftop restaurants in Marrakech and is one of my personal favourites! Situated in the heart of the ancient Medina, this restaurant offers a magical rooftop dining experience that allows you to savour sunsets al fresco while indulging in a diverse array of cuisine – from traditional tagine’s to innovative fusions. As the sun sets, Dardar transforms into a chic and lively rooftop bar, serving up innovative cocktails and premium drinks!
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- DARDA ROOFTOP
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- DARDA ROOFTOP
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- DARDA ROOFTOP
La Table De La Kasbah
Experience the flavours of Morocco at La Table De La Kasbah, a unique restaurant located within a historic Kasbah. Surrounded by beautiful architecture and lush greenery, this charming venue offers a taste of traditional Moroccan cuisine.
L’Mida
L’Mida, a hidden gem in Marrakech’s bustling medina. With its bohemian rooftop setting and stunning city views, this restaurant provides a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a modern twist on Moroccan cuisine, accompanied by a variety of delicious non-alcoholic beverages.
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- L’MIDA
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- L’MIDA
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- L’MIDA
M Rooftop
Discover the charm of M Rooftop, a captivating restaurant atop the Medina Heritage. Explore the craft shop and gallery on the first floor before reaching the stunning multi-level terrace. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Medina rooftops while savouring delicious Moroccan cuisine with a gastronomic twist. Quench your thirst with refreshing mocktails. M Rooftop offers an unforgettable dining experience in Marrakech.
Café des Epices
Located on the lively Café des Epices square, Café des Epices is Marrakech’s first rooftop restaurant. Indulge in fresh, uncomplicated, and tasty dishes throughout the day. Whether you’re in the mood for a light breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a cozy dinner, Café des Epices caters to all tastes. Don’t forget to unwind at the rooftop bar, offering serene views to enjoy a drink after exploring the vibrant souks.
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- Café Des Épices
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- Café Des Épices
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- Café Des Épices
ATAY CAFE
Located in the vibrant heart of the Medina, Atay Cafe is a hidden gem that you shouldn’t miss. Their menu offers a variety of dishes, including classic Moroccan cuisine, fresh salads, and tasty pastries. But their coffee is the real star of the show. Their knowledgeable baristas are passionate about coffee and take pride in sourcing the finest beans to make delicious, aromatic cups of coffee!
Also, be sure not to miss the chance to experience one of Marrakech’s highest view points from this café.
NOMAD
Nomad stands out as a renowned rooftop in Marrakech, located within the lively Spice Market (Place des Épices). With two terraces, it offers stunning views of the Medina and Atlas Mountains. Their menu combines traditional Moroccan cuisine with modern flair. While alcohol isn’t served, a variety of fresh juices are available!
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- NOMADS
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- NOMADS
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- NOMADS
KABANA
Kabana’s a super chic, lively spot. Their lush terrace offers city views in a jungle-bohemian setting, yet it’s a hotspot for tourists. To dine there, it’s wise to book ahead due to crowds, although walk-ins are fine after 10:30 PM. They also serve alcohol and tasty cocktails!
LA FAMILLE
When you’re ready for a relaxing lunch break, La Famille is one of the coolest restaurants in town. Nestled in a lush garden within the Marrakech Medina, this venue offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. The ambiance is serene and tranquil, perfect for a pause after a busy day of souk shopping.
La Famille also has a small boutique shop that sells handmade items, including ceramics, textiles, and jewellery.
TOP 13 THINGS TO DO IN MARRAKECH
1- BAHIA PALACE : A MOROCCAN JEWEL
Experience the allure of Bahia Palace, an architectural gem that captures Morocco’s history. Built in the 19th century, this magnificent palace merges Moroccan and European styles, showcasing intricate tile work, carved stucco, and ornate wooden doors. Explore gardens and courtyards, immersing in its beauty. Uncover the heritage at Bahia Palace, a must-visit for global travellers!
BAHIA PALACE
2- MUSÉE YVES SAINT LAURENT: A CREATIVE LEGACY
Step into Musée Yves Saint Laurent, a tribute to the profound bond between French designer Yves Saint Laurent and Marrakech. Enchanted by Jardin Majorelle, Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé acquired the gardens in 1980. The museum hosts a permanent exhibition spotlighting hundreds of designs spanning Yves Saint Laurent’s remarkable 40-year career. Immerse yourself in the legacy of this fashion visionary amidst Marrakech’s vibrant tapestry.
3-JARDIN MAJORELLE: BLUE HAVEN
Embark on a leisurely journey through Jardin Majorelle, a serene botanical haven created by the artistic touch of French painter Jacques Majorelle. This lush garden is home to a captivating collection of cacti and is famous for its iconic indigo blue walls. Located just outside the bustling medina, in the heart of the new town, Majorelle Garden is truly one of Marrakech’s most exquisite natural treasures
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- THE JARDIN MAJORELLE
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- THE CAFÉ MAJORELLE
4-MAISON DE LA PHOTOGRAPHIE: CAPTURING HISTORY
Situated in the heart of the Medina, Maison de la Photographie invites you to explore its wonders. A former three-story riad transformed into a gallery, it proudly houses an extensive photographic archive. These images vividly capture Morocco’s lifestyle and landscapes from the 1870s to the 1950s, offering an immersive journey into the country’s visual history.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating tapestry of Morocco’s past. Furthermore, you’ll find a rooftop café, elevated amidst the medina’s heights.
5- BEN YOUSSEF MADRAS:Moroccan Architectural Masterpiece
Ben Youssef Madrasa is an Islamic school known for its intricate decorations. Admire carved stucco, stunning tiles, and detailed wooden doors, all showcasing remarkable craftsmanship. Explore the rich heritage of Ben Youssef Madrasa and its exquisite architectural marvels.
BEN YOUSSEF MADRASA
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6-EL BADI PALACE: MARRAKECH’S HISTORIC MARVEL
Uncover the allure of El Badi Palace, a magnificent historical site in Marrakech. Built in the 16th century, in fact it was one of its era’s grandest palaces. Today, its towering walls and foundations remain, set amidst sunken gardens. Admire intricate stonework, carvings, and hidden chambers within the palace’s impressive ruins. Plus, enjoy panoramic medina views. Therefore, if you love history or beauty, El Badi Palace is a must-see.
7-LES BAINS D’ORIENT: LUXURIOUS HAMMAM IN THE MEDINA
Discover ultimate luxury at Les Bains D’Orient, a lavish public hammam and spa located in the heart of the Medina. Housed within a traditional Riad, this haven presents a serene escape for relaxation, wellness, and lastly pampering.
Additionally , you can enjoy a variety of indulgent bath rituals and massages. With its peaceful ambiance and rejuvenating spa treatments, Hammam Bains d’Orient is the perfect sanctuary for those seeking self-care as well as relaxation.
8- souk semmarine: a shoppers paradise
Souk Semmarine is one of the largest markets in the country, offering a diverse range of products!
From vibrant textiles and exquisite ceramics to unique antiques, enchanting lamps, and flavourful food and spices, this bustling market has it all. Moreover, Souk Semmarine is renowned for its exceptional pottery, brass, metals, and other authentic goods. What truly sets this market apart, however, is that many of the products are crafted on-site, preserving their traditional charm for centuries.
SOUK SEMMARINE
9- souk place des épices: THE VIBRANT SPICE MARKET
Souk Place Des Épices, a lively spice market located in the heart of the Medina. This vibrant marketplace is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of exotic spices, herbs, and culinary ingredients. Explore the colourful stalls filled with woven baskets, hats, and crafts, adding a touch of local craftsmanship to your collection. And when you need a break, Café des Épices provides the perfect spot to relax and unwind.
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- SOUK PLACE DES ÉPICES
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- SOUK PLACE DES ÉPICES
10-JEMAA EL-FNA SQUARE : SOAK IN THE ENERGY
Experience the enchanting allure of Jemaa El-Fna Square, an iconic destination at the core of Marrakech’s vibrant culture. This bustling square teems with street performers, snake charmers, diverse food stalls, and vendors showcasing traditional Moroccan treasures. As day turns to dusk, the square transforms into a mystical realm, alive with live music and captivating traditional dance performances.
Whether you’re seeking a dynamic cultural immersion, a taste of authentic Moroccan flavours, or a spot to simply observe the lively atmosphere, Jemaa El-Fna Square is a must-visit!
11-the agafay desert : camp under the stars
Be Agafay is a fantastic destination for those looking to experience the beauty of the desert without the long journey to the Sahara. With its luxury tents and lodges, stunning views, and private outdoor spaces, it offers a truly captivating experience.
There are plenty of activities to keep you engaged during your stay at Be Agafay. You can enjoy camel and horseback rides, quad biking, stargazing, and even invigorating open-air yoga. For those looking to relax, the camp’s outdoor pool and hot tub provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate.
One of the highlights of Be Agafay is its exceptional dining experience. The camp uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create traditional Moroccan dishes with a modern twist. Accompanied by live music, creating a truly unforgettable ambiance!
Whether you’re seeking adventure or a romantic getaway, Be Agafay offers the perfect destination for an extraordinary experience in Morocco. Its proximity to Marrakech makes it a convenient choice for a short 45-minute drive.
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- BE AGAFAY
12- LA MAMOUNIA : TEA & DESSERT
Enjoy a truly unique and serene teatime at La Mamounia.
Nestled within the heart of Marrakech, this renowned hotel invites you to savour the delectable desserts crafted by the world-famous pastry chef, Pierre Hermé.
Additionally, this idyllic setting offers a peaceful escape from the vibrant energy of Marrakech. At the tea house, you’ll discover an extensive selection of teas, herbal infusions, and traditional Moroccan pastries and desserts. Whether you seek an afternoon tea or a light snack, this is the perfect spot to unwind and indulge in a moment of tranquility!
13- LE JARDIN SECRET : HIDDEN TRANQUIL OASIS
Uncover the hidden oasis of Marrakech – Le Jardin Secret. Tucked away in the heart of the medina, this peaceful garden offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Immerse yourself in lush greenery and a serene ambiance as you explore this secret gem.