Nestling in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh is a vibrant oasis in the heart of Morocco, captivating travellers from all over the world. Known as the “Red City” because of its stunning buildings made of red clay, Marrakesh is a combination of charm from the old world and the new.
With over one million inhabitants, it’s a bustling metropolis that still holds the mystique of its ancient roots. The ideal time to visit is in the spring (March to May) or the autumn (September to November), when the weather is perfect: not too hot and not too cold. You can get there easily by flying to Marrakesh Menara airport, with direct flights from the main cities in Europe and the Near East.
What makes Marrakesh so irresistible? Its maze-like souks, its vibrant squares, its aromatic cuisine and the constant buzz of everyday life. From the glory of its palaces to the serene beauty of its gardens, Marrakesh is both a charming and inspiring city. If you like cities full of colour, history and culture, where every corner tells a story, then Marrakesh is definitely the place for you! But if you still need some convincing, here are 10 reasons why you should visit this beautiful city soon:
1. Lose yourself in the Medina
The Medina of Marrakesh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and understandably so. It’s the city’s old town, a maze of narrow streets full of history, culture and craftsmanship. As you stroll through them, you’ll discover hidden gems such as traditional riads, bustling souks and ancient mosques. The Medina overwhelms the senses, but in a good way.
Experience the magic of Yamaa el-Fnaa
Yamaa el-Fnaa is the beating heart of Marrakesh, a huge, vibrant square full of snake charmers, storytellers, musicians and food stalls. In the daytime it’s an outdoor market selling all manner of things, from orange juice to artisan products. At night, it turns into a heady mix of lights, sounds and smells.
3. Take in the wonders of the Majorelle Garden
If you fancy taking a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city, the Majorelle Garden will be your sanctuary. These stunning botanical gardens, once owned by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, are an oasis of cobalt blue buildings, exotic plants and tranquil fountains. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a moment of reflection.
4. Explore the palaces of the past
Step back in time by visiting the opulent palaces of Marrakesh. The Bahia Palace, with its intricate tiles and luxuriant gardens, will give you an insight into the lives of Moroccan royalty. The El Badi Palace, dating back to the 16th century, will also amaze you with its grandeur and history.
5. Enjoy the Moroccan cuisine
Great news for foodies! Marrakesh is a culinary paradise. From sizzling tagines to fluffy couscous, the city offers an appetising range of traditional Moroccan dishes. Make sure you try a nice bowl of harira soup or some sweet pastries such as chebakia. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not visit the food stalls in Jemaa el-Fnaa for something truly authentic?
6. Haggle in the Souks
The souks in Marrakesh are a shopaholic’s dream. You can find everything here, from leather goods and carpets to spices and jewellery. Haggling is all part of the experience, so bring out your hidden negotiating skills and clinch a bargain.
7. Relax at a traditional hammam
After a long day exploring, there’s no better way to relax than at a traditional Moroccan hammam. These steam baths form an integral part of Moroccan culture and offer a unique relaxing and rejuvenating experience. Treat yourself to an exfoliation, with a massage and salt scrub. You’ll come out feeling as good as new!
8. Escape to the Atlas Mountains
For a change of pace, take a daytrip to the Atlas Mountains, not far from Marrakesh. Whether you’re up for some hiking, visiting Berber villages or just taking in the spectacular views, the mountains offer a perfect escape from the hectic pace of the city.
9. Discover the artistic side of the city
Marrakesh is a centre of art and creativity. The city is dotted with galleries, studios and museums exhibiting both traditional Moroccan art and contemporary works. Visit the Marrakech Museum for a dose of history and culture, or the Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL) for something more modern.
10. Feel the beat of Moroccan music
Music is the soul of Marrakesh, and you’ll find it everywhere, from the streets to the cafés and cultural festivals. The Gnawa Show Festival is an annual event celebrating the unique sounds of the Gnawa musicians of Morocco, with hypnotic beats and moving melodies that will get your feet moving.
Marrakesh is more than just a city: it’s an experience that will stay with you for a very long time. As the famous American writer Paul Bowles once said: “The Sahara… is the poetry of Morocco”. And in Marrakesh, you can feel the rhythm of that poetry in every street, every square and every smile.
So pack your case and get ready to fall in love with Marrakesh, a city that promises adventure, culture and memories to last a lifetime.
