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Tourist guide: what to do and see in Marrakesh
From bazaars to spices.
Your sense of smell will lead the way. What once was the capital of the Islamic Empire is still one of the most important cities in Morocco and a must if you travel to the country. Once you've visited, you will not only remember its views, but you will also conjure up the assortment of scents that invade its every corner. The city is brimming with history and is torn between past and present: get carried away by the charm of the old city and by the airs of the new century in the new town.
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
- Sights
- Shopping
- Leisure
- Dining
- Open air
- Museum
Other places to shop
Make a getaway to the boutiques and stores in the Guéliz or Sidi Ghanem neighbourhood
Because not everything has to be traditional...
If you prefer to get away from the more traditional items and you're looking for pure sophistication, in the modern French-style Guéliz neighbourhood you'll find the most famous international chains and boutiques. The Sidi Ghanem area offers creations designed by both locals and foreigners.
Mellah spice market
Located in the Jewish quarter, this market is another display of the art of Moroccan commerce. Spice and more!
We bet here you'll come across spices you never knew existed
If you wish to take home a souvenir of the best condiments in Moroccan cooking, pay a visit to the Mellah spice market in the city's Jewish quarter. It is full of maze-like alleyways that seem to transport you back to ancient times and contains a wall that separates it from the rest of the Medina. Business is frenetic and you won't spot many other tourists here. Although it is famous for selling spices, in the Mellah you can also buy metal objects, tapestries and above all, jewellery. The spice market is the oldest in the neighbourhood. You will be amazed by the amount of receptacles and cones that contain cumin, saffron, coriander and tens of other spices, as well as medicinal herbs and plants, dried fruits, perfumes an aromatic soaps.
Rahba Kedima Square
Spices, leather and even magic potions! They say that wizards come to this square to buy their ingredients....
Lose yourself in the Media and come across this interesting square
An ideal place to lose yourself among furs, leather and rugs handwoven by Berber and Tuareg women is the frenetic Rahba Kedima Square and its hundreds of stalls. This place is also universally known for its concentration of curious stalls selling magic potions and concoctions that are used as ancestral remedies to cure all kinds of ills. This is one of the most intriguing visits in the Marrakech souk labyrinth where vendors even offer you a cup of tea while you leisurely negotiate the best price for each object.
Amira Bougies Artisanales
All candles here are original and different which makes it an unbeatable place to find something different
Illuminate your world with candles of all shapes and colours
Modern and elegant, this store is a classic in the city as far as candle sales in the city goes. And yes, they are all designer. Soak up this warm atmosphere and the romantic atmosphere that this place exudes, and imagine the shape, colour and size of a candle: here you're sure to find the one you have in mind. Square-shaped, cone-shaped, rectangular, round, floating, translucent and in an endless number of styles which will brighten up any corner of your home. Other not-to-be-missed en vogue boutiques if you're looking for top-flight shopping in Marrakesh are Via Notti, which offers high quality embroidered Moroccan art and Moor, an exquisite space dedicated to the sale of traditional national objects.
Akkal
As well as ceramic and fabric, you can discover the work of young local artists
If you like handmade ceramics, make a beeline for this excellent store
This gorgeous space, opened by Belgian Barkowski Charlotte in 1999, is dedicated to ceramics. All its sophisticated and vibrantly coloured designs have been handmade, combining traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics. But in Akkal you will not only find ceramic articles with clean lines and high quality, but also embroidered fabric, clothes and other creations as the place also serves as an exhibition area where local artists can exhibit and sell their work.
Atelier Moro
Clothes, accessories......the hippest meets the most traditional in this offbeat boutique
Another display of Moroccan good taste
Hand-embroidered clothes and accessories, decorative homeware, traditional rugs, natural soaps and other aromatic plant-based bath products, Berber-inspired jewellery...You'll find all this and much more when you enter the doors of Atelier Moro, one of the coolest boutiques in the Marrakesh Medina. It offers carefully selected articles, most of which are signed by Moroccan designers. Tastefulness reigns inside, where you're sure to find a heap of ideas for buying the best souvenirs from the city.
Akbar Delights
Exclusive fashion and luxury articles Here you will find its own-made items as well as Indian imports
Pure luxury in Marrakesh
If you're looking for real luxury in Marrakesh, don't walk past Akbar Delights. It is one of the most prestigious boutiques - and one of the most expensive - in the city. This is a showroom specialised in fashion, accessories, textile pieces that are both made in-house and also imported from India. This cosy space offers embroidered dresses, shirts, tops, jewellery, bags, scarves, silk scarves and typical Moroccan slippers in every imaginable colour.
33 Rue Majorelle
Jewellery, clothes, home interior items.....All imaginable forms of Moroccan design
To suit all budgets
Diaphanous shapes dominate this design space dedicated to selling Moroccan fashion and decoration with a clear contemporary outlook. The store is spread over two floors and over 200 square metres of exhibition space. It is found in the heart of the Medina on the rue Yves Saint Laurent, opposite the famous Majorelle Garden. The boutique was designed by Monique Bresson and brings together the creations of around fifty Moroccan designers and brands. You will be amazed by its selection of clothes, beauty products and modern objects for the home. Its price range appeals to all, from those with tighter budgets to those willing to invest in quasi-luxury items. The area also features an art gallery with beautiful period furniture and a café if you feel like a snack.
Ensemble Artisanal
The closest you can get to a shopping centre, but here everything is handmade
The essence of artisanship
As its name indicates, this multi-purpose space is all about handmade with various groups of professions selling their wares. This is the closest you will get to a conventional shopping centre in the city. It is located on avenue Mohamed V where you will find a plethora of multicoloured handmade leather, wood and crystal handmade goods as well as musical instruments, decorative pieces for the home, jewellery and all forms of utensils for traditional Moroccan cooking. In the Ensemble Artisanal, you can escape from the hullabaloo of the Marrakesh markets and enjoy a more relaxing, haggle-free shopping experience although note that in the souks, if you're a good negotiator, you will get more reasonable prices.
Haggling in the souks
Agreeing on a price is an achievement of its own!
Soak up the most fun form of shopping in Marrakesh
Speaking about shopping in a city like Marrakesh and not mentioning its souks would almost be sacrilege. In the north of Djemaa El Fna square you will find the city's most famous and traditional markets. They are organised according to profession. So, in each of its parts, you can treat yourself to one form of item or another: jewellery, food, spices, leather goods, fabric, plants and medicinal preparations, all forms of exotic objects and, of course, some rare items. Even if you don't plan on buying anything, you should not miss the chance to lose yourself in this fascinating world of labyrinthine, snaking alleyways. The Soul Smarine street divides the souk in half and is covered to provide sun protection. If you're interested in spices, metal objects and dyed fabrics, visit the Attarin Souk. However, if you're after leather items, rugs, eastern objects at reduced prices and traditional Moroccan dresses, scour the Souk Al-Kabir. A good way to avoid getting lost in the tumult is to hire a guide first.
Galerie 127
Located in the Guéliz area, it prides itself on being the first gallery in North Africa to specialise in photography.
Get to know the best of Africa without moving from Marrakesh
This space prides itself on being the first art gallery to specialise in photography in all of Africa. In 2006, it opened its doors on avenue de Mohammed V in the Frenchified neighbourhood of Guéliz. Its innovative and contemporary spirit covers 100 square metres which houses many intimate photographs with small-sized prints as well as large-format images. It opens from Tuesday to Saturday from 15.00 to 19.00 and boasts a truly international scope. Take a look at the collections on which it focuses at www.galerienathalielocatelli.com.
Matisse Art Gallery
If you're looking for artwork by young artists, you've found the right place.
Moroccan art for the world
Art and calligraphy exhibitions and much more is what you can find if you stop by at Matisse Art Gallery, an innovative area in Marrakesh that seeks to promote Moroccan art both inside and outside the country. In an effort to support local artistic production, it lends its support to promising young painters and also publishes its own catalogues and monographs. It also presents successful temporary exhibitions by internationally renowned designers. If you would like to find out more about the gallery and consult its exhibition and artist listings, visit www.matisseartgallery.com. To get to know the Marrakesh art gallery circuit, other places to discover are La Galerie Bleue or La Qoubba Galerie D'Art, among many others.
Maison de la Photographie de Marrakesh
Delight in the images of the riches of ancient Marrakesh
A focus on the past
An unusual place to discover the city is undoubtedly at this photography house which exhibits original images taken in Morocco between 1870 and 1950. When selecting the photos that hang from its walls, its fundamental criteria is that each and every one of them breathes the wealth and complexity of the country's culture, traditions, landscape, scenery and ways of life. It hosts conferences, screens documentaries about Morocco and functions as a documentation centre. On its terrace, with vistas of the city and the Atlas Mountains, you can savour a snack. La Maison de la Photographie de Marrakech is located close to the Ben Youssef Madrasa, opens from 9.00 to 19.00 and admission is from 40 dirhams. Find out more at www.maisondelaphotographie.ma.
Ministero del Gusto
Original and modern artistic creations from all over the world
International art in the heart of the Medina
In the heart of the Medina you can discover this multi-functional space which, thanks to Italian designers Fabrizio Bizarri and Alessandra Lippini, opened its doors in 1998. It functions as an art gallery that exhibits work from international artists as well as a showroom for furniture, designer jewellery and vintage articles. Finally, it offers a cutting-edge study for planning interior design projects. This space filled with warm and sensual shapes, where every last detail receives special attention, has managed to unite cultural Moroccan wealth with the latest trends in international design. The Ministero del Gusto combines materials, textures, colours and fine details which will captivate your senses from the moment you enter. Find out more at www.ministerodelgusto.com.
Dar Cherifs
A place of cultural exchange where you can also sip on a wonderful Moroccan coffee.
Literary and art Café, all in one
In a charming 17th century riad stands this multi-purpose space that functions as an art gallery and literary café. It has gradually carved a place for itself as one of the hottest spots in the Marrakesh art scene. It hosts temporary exhibitions by local and foreign artists and also serves light snacks, teas and coffee. In its beautiful inner courtyard, it often hosts Moroccan folklore music concerts. It has a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere and features a rooftop terrace with lovely views across the city. The building, with walls decorated with stucco and tiles, carved wooden beams and Moorish arches, is a hidden gem that's really worth discovering.
Marrakesh Museum
Located in the ancient Mnebbi Palace, it is cherished not only for its art, but also for the impressive lamp in its courtyard.
One of the most beautiful museums
You will find it inside the ancient Mnebbi Palace. Its construction dates back to the late 19th century and was driven by the Grand Vizier of Sultan Mulay Mehdi Hassan. Its permanent collection features copper objects, vestments, Berber jewels and traditional furniture. Since 1995, it has been organising temporary exhibitions focusing on contemporary art or the rich heritage of the country. It also works as a venue for the various cultural activities that are celebrated in the city, such as cinema, theatre, dance, music etc. It is a stunning building set on a plot of 2000 square metres and has the appearance of a majestic, traditionally Moorish-style house. Its central courtyard is also a feast for the eyes. The Marrakesh Museum is today funded and managed by the Omar Benjelloun Foundation, a respected Moroccan patron and collector, who is responsible for its rehabilitation. It is located next to the Ben Youssef Madrasa. Find out more at www.museedemarrakech.ma.
The Maison Tiskiwin Museum
Organised according to its geography, the halls in this museum will bring you a step closer to the country's culture.
If you're a Moroccan art aficionado, this place is simply unmissable.
It is also known as the Bert Flint Museum. Flint was a Dutch historian, anthropologist and collector who was passionate about rural Moroccan art. In his palatial Marrakesh home is a private, Moorish-style exhibition room housing a magnificent collection of clothes, carpets, ceramics, musical instruments, furniture and Berber fabrics. It focuses on the products and handmade furnishings most typical to each one of the country's regions, mainly the Souss Valley and Sub-Saharan Africa. The building, located very close to the Bahia Palace, dates back to the early 20th century, although the museum did not function as such until 1996.
Museum of Islamic Art
After a stroll through the Majorelle Garden, admire the private collection of Berber art belonging to its owners.
Discover the cultural side of Yves Saint-Laurent
Inside the Jardin Majorelle, you will find this Museum of Islamic Art that was the workshop of French painter, Jacques Majorelle. Here you can see the personal collection of Berber art of the brand-new onwrs of the garden and now-deceased designer, Yves Saint Laurent. The museum's collection, which is a true reflection of true Moroccan culture, is divided into three sections: one that concentrates on daily-use or ceremonial utensils; another one for ancestral ornaments and jewels; and one dedicated to costumes, weapons and traditional fabrics. Admission into the Museum of Islamic Art costs 25 dirhams. Discover it at www.jardinmajorelle.com/introduction-a-la-culture-berbere.
Dar Si Saïd Museum
As well as its artwork, its highlight is the decoration of its courtyard
Marrakesh's most complete museum
Also known as the Museum of Moroccan Art, its vast collection is dedicated to the country's art and handicrafts. It is the oldest museum in the whole of Morocco and exhibits the greatest number of objects. Over two floors, it displays furniture and wood carvings, pottery, ceramics, weapons, musical instruments, costumes, Berber jewellery (marble, ceramic or silver) and impressive traditional rugs. It was built at the end of the 19th century as the residence of Sid Saïd, brother of Ba Ahmed, Chamberlain of Sultan Moulay Hassan I and Grand Vizier of Moulay Abdelaziz. The premises have been functioning properly as a museum since 1932. Needless to say that the Spanish-Moorish style building is in itself worthy of admiration.
Excursion to the desert of Marrakesh desert
If you have a spare three or four days, don't miss out on this trip to the desert
Live like a real Berber
This is one of the most typical excursions among intrepid travellers who have various days to visit the area, as to really explore Zagora or Merzouga, which are two of the most important areas in the Moroccan Sahara dessert, you will need at least two or three days. The most common means of transport is by camel or by 4x4. You will sleep in tents on the sand and discover first-hand the traditions and ways of life of the Berber people. To plan your trip, you can compare what the following specialised agencies have to offer: www.tours-from-marrakesh.com, www.saharaparatodos.com, www.quadsmaroc.com, www.amazighmarruecos.com/es/excursiones-desde-marrakech.html or www.saharasalvaje.com.
Excursion to the Ouzoud waterfalls
It is one of the region's most visited sites and the most daring among you can enjoy a swim.
They are considered the country's tallest waterfalls
If you want to relax with good views and a little hiking in paradisical surroundings, then set a day aside for a getaway to the Ouzoud waterfalls, the country's highest and most beautiful. They are located around 150 kilometres from Marrakesh and the waterfall reaches up to 110-110 metres high in certain points. It name, of Berber origin, can be translated as "olive". Such a name will put you on the trail of this type of natural tree. Once there, don't hesitate to visit the old windmills that you will see above the waterfalls. You can also grab a snack at of the terraces with views. Don't be surprised at the amount of tourists there as this is one of the most visited attractions of central Morocco. Let yourself be enchanted by the orchards and verdant valleys or the circuit that will take you to the nearby vertiginous gorges of the River El Abid.
Excursion to Ouarzazate
Feel like Lawrence of Arabia or Russell Crowe in Gladiator
The birthplace of the well-known Atlas studios
Have you ever dreamed about getting to know first hand the set where some of cinema's most legendary films were shot? If the answer is yes, you're in luck: Ouarzazate, an interesting area in the south of Morocco, is home to Atlas Studios, the country's most important cinema studios. Here films such as Lawrence de Arabia, Star Wars and Gladiatorwere filmed. Another attraction of the city, also known as "the door of the desert" is its proximity to the Atlas Mountains. If you want to escape the bustle of Marrakesh and discover some of the region's Berber settlements, this is undoubtedly the trip for you. You can visit the famous kasbahs, that in their day were palaces and defensive forts at the same time. One of the most representative kasbahs of Ouarzazate is the stunning Taourirt Kasbah, recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site.
Excursion to the Ourika Valley
As well as the Berber settlements, don't miss the Setti Fatma waterfalls.
Find out how the ancient Berbers used to live
Fruit trees, orchards and crops, but also ancient Berber settlements and the ruins of powerful forts make up the landscape of the rocky Ourika Valley. Located 70 km south west of Marrakesh, it features a privileged viewpoint for admiring the High Atlas Mountains in all their splendour. In a day trip you will have time to get to know the picturesque area of Setti Fatma and the nearby Ourika waterfalls. If you fancy discovering what life was like for the Berbers, you can visit some of the homes of the villagers themselves and you may be invited in for a cup of tea in exchange for buying a typical handicraft item. To gain a closer insight into the area's most characteristic trade, stop by at one of its famous traditional markets, such as Ourika, Asni and Aghbalou.
Excursion to Essaouira
Such is the beauty of Essaouira that has enamoured figures such as Orson Welles and Jimmy Hendrix.
Do you know the pearl of the Atlantic?
Popularly known as the "Pearl of the Atlantic", Essaouira is a cultural and architectural landmark on the Moroccan coast. The villa is well known in terms of its wealth in terms of art, music, painting and handicrafts. If you intend to take home a souvenir, it's worth knowing that there are prized craftspeople working with cedar wood in the region. Romans, Portuguese, Carthaginians, Phoenicians, Arabs and Berbers were some of its former inhabitants. This characteristic endows Essaouira's monuments with a mestizo, colourful flavour. So there's a very good reason why its Medina was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Still, its great splendour comes from the celebration of the Essaouira Gnaoua World Music Festival that, at the end of June, attracts thousands of visitors that bring the city to life.
Hiking, hunting, fishing or rafting through the High Atlas Mountains
If you have time, do not hesitate to do some activity on Mount Toubkal
time for adventures
The Atlas Mountains, which separate the Sahara desert from the coasts of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, stretch for 2,400 kilometres. One of the main massifs of the Moroccan Atlas is the High Atlas, near Marrakech, whose Mount Toubkal has the privilege of being the highest point in all of North Africa. If you have several days to visit the "red city" and its surroundings and you miss out on adventure and extreme experiences, many agencies offer you the opportunity to venture into the imposing mountain range and practice all kinds of activities, be it hiking, hunting, fishing , rafting, quad or bicycle routes... Some good examples for contracting your adventure plan – even tailor-made – are www.omeyaaventura.com, www.aalma.es or www.trekkingtoubkal.com, among many others.
Hot air balloon ride around Marrakesh
Take in every single detail of Marrakesh from up above
Do you feel like seeing the city from a whole new angle?
A fun and refreshing way of discovering Marrakesh from every angle is to book a ride in a hot air balloon. Do you dare to discover the imperial city as you soar through the skies? The contrasts of the city will unfurl before your eyes like you've never seen them before: its monuments and plazas, cafés and terraces, the mayhem of the souks and the maze-like alleyways or the beauty of its natural surroundings where palm trees, olive groves, gardens, ponds and even modern gold courses are neighbours, all under the watchful eye of the High Atlas mountains. One website for planning your experience is at: http://www.amazighmarruecos.com/es/excursiones-desde-marrakech.html.
Majorelle Garden
Today property of Yves Saint Lauren and Pierre Bergé, it is home to over 300 plant species from all over the world.
Cool off among exotic plants and birdsong
Vibrant and exotic, the Majorelle Garden is one of Marrakech's most beautiful green lungs. They exist in the heart of the city and also house the Museum of Islamic Art. French painter Jacques Majorelle spent 40 years of his life composing this paradise. After purchasing the property in 1923, he endowed it with such splendour that it soon became more famous than his paintings. He brought to Marrakesh species from all over the world that today are estimated at 300. When you enter the gardens, you will feel as though time has stopped still a you listen to the birds singing, the rustle of the wind in the leaves and the flowing water in its ponds, rivers and fountains. In the grounds you will also see a Moorish Art Deco edifice known as Villa Oasis. The Majorelle Garden, which opened its doors to the public in 1927, fell into obscurity when the artist died in 1962 until 1980 when Yves Saint Lauren and Pierre Bergé bought it and restored it. "We are delighted with this oasis where the colours of Matisse mingle with those of nature", said the designer when describing his first impression of the place. Nothing in the world should prevent you from missing this festival of colours, fragrances and sensations. Admission to the garden will cost you 50 dirhams, although a museum visit (which was the painter's workshop back then) will cost you 25 dirhams. Check the opening hours on www.jardinmajorelle.com.
Menara Gardens
It is said that its central building was the place frequented by Sultans for amorous encounters
Impressive gardens that surround an equally spectacular lake
The Menara Gardens were built in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty. They are located to the west of the city and possess an Atlas Mountains backdrop. The view of its pond which reflects an elegant 16th century Saadi pavilion is one of the most used images to symbolise the beauty of the "Red City". The name Menara refers to the small green pyramid that crowns the pavilion. A large expanse of orchards and olive groves surround the complex, whose irrigation system functions thanks to a large central pond supplied by melt water from the mountain. Legend has it that the Sultans used the pavilion and gardens as a romantic meeting place by Sultans. And romanticism is present until dusk when one of the city's most impressive sunsets can be observed. The gardens are found on avenue de Menara in Hivernage and reaching them by foot from Place Djeema El Fna will take around one hour. However, the quicker option of a taxi or a horse-drawn carriage is always available.
Marrakesh Palmeraie
Be enthralled by its 100,000 + palm trees and admire its unattainable villas and hotels
An idyllic place for taking a camel or carriage ride
This is one of Marrakesh's most breathtaking landscapes. The Palmeraie is a stunning natural area that originally covered 13,000 hectares; today its area has been reduced to almost half of this. Around 150,000 date palms will welcome you. Its horizon is dominated by the peaks of the High Atlas mountains and has recently become a hotbed for luxury hotels, gold courses and dream-like villas with prices only attainable by the ultra-rich. The most common modes of transport to enjoy a bucolic ride through the Palmeraie are taxi, horse-drawn carriage or camel. As you may imagine, a sunset visit is highly recommended.
Palais Jad Mahal
A masterly marriage of restaurant, disco and live music for an unforgettable night out
Live music, among other offerings, with a contemporary vibe
Restaurant, disco, lounge bar, concert hall and boutique. Such is the offer of the Palais Jad Mahal Sensual, modern and exquisite, before your eyes will be appear an idyllic space furnished in quintessential Moorish style but with a few touches that will surely remind you of India. The kitchen of this restaurant flaunts Moroccan, Thai and western recipes. In brief, a whole creative universe of flavours, aromas and spices that are guaranteed to delight. If you're craving live music, every night international bands of various musical styles perform. For those who want to party, its club - a reference for nightlife in the city - extends its opening hours until well into the small hours. Another more relaxed option is to enjoy a mid-afternoon cocktail accompanied by candle light while a live DJ takes to the table. And the icing on the cake is the exotic and chic boutique where you can deck yourself out in fashionable clothes, jewellery and accessories. If you opt for the restaurant, you can make an advance reservation at www.jad-mahal.com.
Souk Café
A charming restaurant that's ideal for taking time out
A chilled-out spot in the souk
A pleasant lounge and a rooftop with vistas of the Koutoubia Mosque make this the biggest selling point of this popular establishment. It offers competitively-priced traditional Moroccan fare in the heart of the Medina. The menu will set you back around 100 dirhams. Another restaurant in the hub of the old city, which is slightly more costly, however, is the Riad Tamsna. Its menu boasts Mediterranean dishes, Moroccan recipes and international options. Good taste rules its dining room which resonates to the rhythm of jazz. The establishment also functions as a tea room and a small art gallery.
Gastro MK, in Maison MK
Do not forget to make a reservation if you don't want to miss sunset its terrace
A Moroccan-French fusion restaurant that caters to every budget
Stylish and refined, this eatery has succeeded in blending Moroccan and French cuisines like no other. At midday it serves lunch on the terrace at around 15 euros per dish with options such as smoked salmon, marinated kebabs, battered red mullet or mint pannacotta. However, what makes a visit to Gastro MK really worthwhile is savouring its tasting menu at nightfall. The banquet consists of canapés, cream of broccoli soup with blue cheese, chicken with almonds accompanied by quail eggs, pumpkin mash and apricot sauce, duck leg confit with nuts, potatoes, crunchy carrot and foie gras sauce, iced mint and carrot and apple tart with vanilla ice cream and caramel syrup. What about the price? 55 euros per head. Make sure you make a reserve ahead! This is because its rooftop terrace only admits 10 people per night. Find out more on http://www.maisonmk.com/gastro.htm.
Café de France
Don't miss the views from the terraces of one of Marrakesh's most typical cafés.
Famous for its views and its mint tea
If there were ever a place that has never gone out of fashion in the city, its Café de la France, a Marrakesh institution thanks to the views it offers. It is located in no other than the Place Djemaa El Fna. It has various terraces on different levels and serves pasta and salad lunches. Its menu is simple and focuses too on French and Moroccan fare at reasonable prices. The portions are generous, but don't be surprised if you find the place full as it's the most popular café, frequented not only be tourists who visit the city, but also by locals as traditionally it is renowned for being a meeting point for the traders who do business in the Medina. Another café not to be missed in the Marrakesh Medina is the Café de las Especias. The Moroccan pastries on its menu and its panoramic views have earned it the great reputation it enjoys.
Patisserie Amandine Marrakech
Nobody can turn down a sweet, so indulge in this variety of cakes and pastries
Sweeten your visit to Marrakesh
A fan among the sweet-toothed, this top Marrakech bakery and tea room is found on rue Mohamed Al Béqal, in the Guéliz district. Its windows display countless pastries, cakes, pies, cupcakes and biscuits of all imaginable colours and flavours. It is open continuously from 7.00 to 21.00 and all its handmade products can be ordered by weight. It is perfect for arming yourself with the best typical sweets to give as presents. It also possesses a table service so that you can sample in-situ any of its pastries, washed down with a selection of teas and coffees and other appetising snacks.
Le Marrakchi
A place to be enjoyed with all five senses
High-class Moroccan cuisine in an unparalleled setting
North African culinary tradition is fully represented by this fine dining brasserie. Its terrace offers spectacular views across Place Djemaa El Fna and the Marrakesh souk. It is worth trying its menu for two which includes an assortment of Moroccan salads, three different types of tagine (chicken with lemon and olives, lamb with plums and kefta), vegetarian couscous, oranges with cinnamon and berber crepes with honey. The country's typical décor envelops the dining room in a classic and exotic halo that recalls the traditions of ancient dynasties. The walls of its lounge are covered in mosaics and while you eat you can delight in the local musicians performing live Arabesque melodies. Check it at www.lemarrakchi.com.
Un Déjeuner à Marrakech
Take time out of your schedule to indulge in a great lunch at a traditional restaurant.
A welcoming place in the labyrinth of the Medina
It is, for many, one of the Medina's best kept culinary secrets. It is recommended not just for its good quality-price relationship (no more than 15 euros per person) but also for the authenticity of its French and Moroccan recipes. Its modern Moorish style décor, cleanliness and selection of well-presented dishes will make you come back for seconds. From its menu, you can choose between crepes, tagines, couscous, braised lamb, goats cheese, duck or orange and nut salads, lemon curd tart... It's also an ideal choice for a break from your visit to the old city where you can replenish your energies with a coffee, tea or one of its fruit juices which, of course, are alcohol-free. Another two interesting options to sample traditional Moroccan food in Marrakesh are also the Lizbar and La Maison Arabe restaurants.
L’Annexe
Enjoy fine international dining without leaving Marrakesh
A western interlude
This modern grill could be just the thing if you're seeking an alternative to traditional Moroccan food. Its affordable prices and its laid back, casual atmosphere make you feel as though you are at home. Among its French recipes: tuna tartare with cocktail sauce and diced tomatoes, fillet of hake with alioli sauce, duck confit with a green salad, a mouthwatering selection of cheeses or its star dessert, toasted brioche. Its wine and beer selection is also impressive. At midday, there is a menu between 80 and 120 dirhams while you can eat à la carte for around 200 dirhams per head. Check out the menu and its cocktails at www.lannexemarrakech.com.
Le Comptoir Darna Marrakech
An emblematic establishment that marries modernity and tradition
An exotic place where you can luxuriate in fine dining
A gourmet space to find yourself intoxicated by the scents of rose and jasmine, with traditional music and recipes that merge the east and west. Situated on the avenue Echouada, it is popular among travellers as well as business people and famous local artists. It is a complex that brings together under one roof a restaurant, a drinks area and a shop selling typical Moroccan products. Its cuisine blends tradition and modernity with options such as Tagine Berber (with seasonal vegetables, fresh herbs and white Moroccan truffles with Argan oil), Couscous Royal (with four types of grilled meat) or Salmon Teriyaki (with mashed potatoes and olive oil, lemon and fresh coriander). To finish, be enticed by the caramel, sorbet or dark chocolate and raspberry-filled coulants. At night, the experience is topped off by a spectacular post-dinner oriental dance show. It costs around 50 euros per head. Let yourself be thrilled by its magic and subtlety. http://comptoirmarrakech.com/.
A snack among the bustle of Djemaa el Fna Square
Enjoy a tea or a typical meal in the busiest square in the city
Find a place to relax in the middle of the bustle
One of the most authentic experiences for visitors to Marrakech is to mingle with the crowd that animates the Djemaa el Fna Square and be seduced by the aromas of hundreds of traditional food stalls. What is recommended to order in these picturesque and improvised restaurants? Of course, the most typical Moroccan recipes, such as couscous and meat, fish or vegetable tagines. You can also try dishes like harira, a slightly spicy soup made from coriander, lamb, chickpeas and tomato, or the spicy meatballs known as kefta. For dessert, don't miss the Arabic puff pastry and honey sweets. This is undoubtedly the cheapest option in all of Marrakech. As an alternative, the Djemaa el Fna Square also offers a wide range of possibilities to take a break and enjoy a tea or a light lunch in one of the restaurants and cafes that surround it, such as the mythical Café Argana or Café Glacier. . Watching a sunset from the elevated terrace of one of these venues is truly a spectacle.
Be amazed by the Plage Rouge
A tourist club where you can enjoy a drink and live music around an immense swimming pool
An oasis in the heart of the city
A different and unexpected oasis in the city of Marrakesh. At the Plage Rouge, its exoticism is no longer linked to the richness of Islamic culture and its glorious past, but to its cool, minimalist and avant-garde atmosphere. The name of this exclusive club, which means "Red Beach", refers to an enormous and attractive swimming pool surrounded by sunbeds and palm trees where you can bask in the sun, savour its gastronomic offerings or sip a refreshing drink while a live DJ spins electronic tunes. With such details, you're bound to think: are we in Ibiza or Marrakesh? Entrance to La Plage Rouge will not cost less than 15 euros. It is located around 10 minutes by car from the city centre and by taxi from the Place Djemaa El Fna should cost around 100 dirhams. Be dazzled by their website at http://laplagerouge-marrakech.com/index/.
Start or finish the night at L'Avenue
Enjoy its cuisine or drink until dawn: the choice is yours!
An atmosphere for romance, business or simply leisure
If you're looking for a romantic dinner and drinks well into the night, L'Avenue is the perfect place. There is no shortage of possibilities here, as a combination of its Italian-French cuisine in the restaurant, its wine selection and beers make for a perfect work reunion or any other type of social engagement. Situated in the Hotel Le Meridien N'Fis, it is one of the hottest clubs of the moment and has the atmosphere of recent times in the city. Its décor, both contemporary and exquisite, pays attention to every last detail. To get an idea of everything it offers, visit www.lavenuemarrakech.com/.
Be seen in Le Bar Churchill
Within one of the city's finest hotels, luxuriate in its décor as did Winston Churchill himself.
A jazzy atmosphere in which to enjoy an aperitif or a liqueur
Can you guess who the name of this lively bar is referring to? Surely you've hit the nail on the head: it's the very Winston Churchill himself, one of the bar's most famous regulars. Today, Le Bar Churchill is one of the city's most glamorous clubs which pulses to the rhythm of jazz. It is found in the Hotel La Mamounia on avenue Bab Jedid and is open from 18.00 to 01.00. Its Moorish and Art Deco style décor with details of leather and wood will make you feel like an real Arabian prince when you enter the room. Don't forget it has a strict dress code and shorts or trainers are not allowed.
Have a cocktail at the Hotel Jardins de la Koutoubia
Set in the traditional Marrakech, the terrace of this hotel leaves no one indifferent
To end the day, relax with a cocktail in a dream location
The notes of a piano played live set the scene for the bar of this luxurious Hotel Jardins de la Koutoubia, at the foot of a spectacular swimming pool. It is perfect to enjoy a cocktail, a wine or a beer in the warmth of the dim lights that add the icing on the cake to your decoration. It is a suggestive space dominated by the most characteristic colors and aromas of Marrakech: it will leave you speechless. And it is that this complex in the heart of the Medina breathes sophistication and good taste on all four sides. Along with its piano bar, it does not detract from an exclusive restaurant with panoramic views, for the most demanding palates. Find out at www.lesjardinsdelakoutoubia.com.
Go out in the Guéliz area
Known as the European neighbourhood, this is proof of Moroccan modernity
The new part of the city where you can go beyond the traditional
You should not forget that, despite being a Muslim country, Morocco has a fairly tolerant attitude towards alcohol consumption. In Marrakesh, the bars in tourist areas normally extend their opening hours well into the night and it is not difficult to find alcoholic beverages in different areas, but mainly in the new city. Local wine and beer have reduced prices, while imported brands are more expensive. If night time comes around and you find yourself in the Guéliz neighbourhood, or more specifically in the Abdel Moumen ben Ali square or the avenue Mohammed V, you're in the right place for a western-style night on the tiles. The bulk of the city's most modern bars and clubs are found in both these areas, including those found within luxury hotels, that welcome a large crowd of both foreign tourists and locals. The dress code is usually informal and the price is rather high in comparison to the country's cost of living.
Enjoy a movie session at the Institut Français
It mainly shows French films and organizes multiple activities for all tastes
Cultural activities in the perfect setting
Here is an institution that is not only in charge of teaching the French language, but also hosts, on a regular basis, different artistic and recreational expressions for the use and enjoyment of visitors and local people, such as film sessions, storytelling cycles, workshops on music and dance, theatrical performances, plastic arts exhibitions... It can be a great option if you travel with children, as they usually pay special attention to the smallest members of the family. You will find it in the Guéliz neighborhood, on Route de la Targa, and you can check its billboard at www.ifm.ma. In addition to the cultural activities programmed by this French Institute, there are also those offered by the Instituto Cervantes in Marrakech, whether they are exhibitions, projections, theatrical productions or readings, among many others. You can visit its headquarters on Avenida de Mohamed V. http://marrakech.cervantes.es/es/default.shtm.
Discover the city aboard a carriage
It is common for children to throw in objects made of palm leaves; don't forget to reward them with a coin!
An interesting ride for any traveller
An experience to meet every budget can be to plan a ride in one of the typical horse-drawn carriages. Bear in mind that, just as everything in Marrakesh, the price and the ride are more than negotiable. The best way to start your trip is to head for the Place Djemaa El Fna or the Koutoubia Mosque where the majority of the carriages offering these rides are shored. The most typical rides last around two hours and, after a brief haggle, you should not pay more than 200-250 dirhams. Another great option for discovering the city's best-kept secrets in comfort is to travel in one of the taxis that circulate the city. Hiring a ride in one of these famous vehicles - no other than nice old Mercedes with a six-person capacity - will not set you back more than 50-60 dirhams.
Camel riding
Enjoy the city in a different way in a traditional means of transport
A fun experience for all ages
One of the most exotic experiences that Marrakesh offers is the chance to discover the city astride a peaceful camel. Note that this animal was traditionally used by the city's inhabitants as the usual method of transport. If this appeals to you, just go to the Palmeraie (by taxi or carriage) and negotiate the ride with one of the camel drivers found there. And don't forget to haggle: after some negotiating, the price reached should be roughly 100 dirhams per head, which is about 10 euros. If, on the contrary, you opt for a guided tour with specialised instructors, that includes all the necessary equipment to enjoy a walk along stone paths, pools, downhill slopes, with unrivalled panoramic views in the heart of the Marrakesh Palmeraie, you can book a ride from companies such as www.clickexcursions.es, www.amazighmarruecos.com/es/excursiones-desde-marrakech.html or www.marrakech-marruecos.com at a price of about 25 euros.
Visit a Hammam
The traditional are found near to the mosque in each neighbourhood, whereas the more touristy are more known as Spas.
Traditional or touristy, they are unmissable visits
If you would like to take in the traditions of each place, maybe you should find space in your agenda to visit an Arabic Hammam. These spaces have been used for centuries where you can enjoy steam bath which not only used for preserving personal hygiene but also as a useful method of relaxation. Hammams have thus played an important role in Middle Eastern cultures as a social meeting point and a place of hygiene ritual. When taking a Turkish bath, follow these steps: first, relax in a warm room which is heated by a continuous flow of air. Then, you will go into an even hotter room. After than, take a quick dip in a cold water pool. Tras recibir un masaje, el bañista se retira finalmente al cuarto de enfriamiento, para completar el ciclo con un momento de relajación. Si la explicación ha logrado despertar tu curiosidad, apunta el nombre de algunos de los baños árabes tradicionales más famosos de la ciudad, como el Hammam Dar el-Bacha, el Hammam Bab Doukkala y el Hammam Ziani.
Place Djemaa El Fna
It is the main square in Morocco, sheltered by the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque where you can enjoy numerous activities and shows
Snake charmers, dancers and much more
An essential spot to w+L231itness everyday Marrakesh life, this lively square, the epicentre of the Medina, is located very close to the Koutoubia Mosque. Various hypotheses surround its name, such as the one that means "assembly of annihilation" as it was a place where criminals were executed. There is also the theory that its meaning is "assembly" but in its darkest and macabre sense, since here the severed heads of criminals were displayed, as if a "meeting" were taking place. Finally, some say that its name could be referring to the "place of the destroyed mosque", in reference to an Almoravid construction that must have existed here. Be that as it may, the hustle and bustle is today the main attraction of this commercial, cultural and recreational hub, surrounded on every side, one of which is covered by tone of the city's famous souks. It is edged with cafés and picturesque restaurants with highly recommended terraces. Nothing in the world should allow you to miss a visit to the Place Djemaa El Fna at nightfall, when snake charmers, dancers, musicians, acrobats, street vendors, letter-writers and hustlers bring colour, flavour, zest and fun to the square. If you're a film buff, you will be interested to know that Alfred Hitchcock himself filmed several scenes for his film The Man Who Knew Too Much.
Other important monuments
Visit this peculiar Jewish cemetery or a convent that is open to non-Muslims
A Jewish cemetery and a religious convent
Although there is a wide array of ruins and monuments to visit when exploring the Marrakesh Medina, another two spots worth a look are the Miâara and the Zaouia Sidi Bell Abess. The first offers a stunning view that recalls the persecution that the Jewish people suffered during the World Wars of the twentieth century. This is because there was a time when Marrakesh was home to a large Jewish population, part of which today rests in this cemetery. The enclosure harbours hundreds of haphazardly placed rectangular white tombstones, that provide an unusual and haunting vision in the centre of Marrakesh. Meditation, prayer and dances constitute the main activity that Muslims undertake in the lovely Zouia - or convent - Sidi Bell Abess, one of the few temples in the city that non-adherents to Islam can visit. In the mausoleum that was built by the Sultan Ben Abdallah, where rests Sidi Bel Abbel, one of the city's most important saints.
Bab Agnaou Gate
You will be dazzled by its decoration and colours as well as it's history
Enter the Medina through the most beautiful gate
Deemed one of the most important and beautiful works of Almohad art in the world, this imposing monument is one of the 19 gates that allow entry into the Marrakesh Medina. A striking collection of flowers and arches on blue-tinged ochre stone offers the perfect counterpoint to the red of its surrounding walls. The beauty of the gate acts as a precursor to the colour and the contrasts you will encounter when you walk under its arch and delve into the heart of the old city, the Medina. Perhaps you will feel shivers down your spine when you discover it for the first time, if you remember that, in the past, Bab Agnaou Gate served as a place to hang the heads of criminals and thugs who were executed for sullying the life in the city.
Koubba el-Badiyin
This is the only remaining Almoravid structure in Marrakesh. Its inner cupola is a must-see.
A glance into Almoravid history
Marrakesh was founded in 1062 by the Almoravids who built a spectacular villa with an abundance of buildings. Unfortunately, the city was completely destroyed by the following dynasty, the Almohads, who would rebuild it 150 years later. Today, if you walk through the northern part of Medina, you will discover the only standing remnant of the Almoravid heritage, the Koubba el-Badiyin. Its specific charm lies in the fact that it is a rare example of the first architecture of Northern Africa. Its cupola is one of the city's most admired attractions. To visit this complex that offers a unique insight into the history of Marrakesh, you can buy a combined ticket with which you can access both the Koubba and the nearby Marrakesh Museum and the Ben Youssef Madrasa for around 6 dirhams.
Madrasa Ben Youssef
Annexed to the mosque of the same name, this was the place where over 800 young people studied the Koran.
Morocco's largest madrasa and one of the finest examples of Moroccan architecture and art.
Also called the Madrasa Ben Youssef, this is an old Koran school whose corridors and rooms are decorated with stucco, tiles and carved cedar wood. It is important to mention first of all that a Madrasa is a Muslim school of higher education. The Ben Youssef Madrasa is the largest and most important in the whole country. With 130 cells housing up to 900 students knuckling down to study the Koran, its construction was completed in 1565 and commissioned by Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib. It plays host to the most beautiful examples of Moroccan art and architecture. The prayer room offers one of the most exuberant sight in the complex with its use of pineapples and palm trees for decorating the mihrab. The beauty of its interior courtyard (with an impressive central pool) will strike you as a bold contrast with the stark appearance of the cells. Once there, you must also visit the mosque of the same name.
The Badi Palace
Although today only ruins remain, it was one of the most beautiful palaces adorned with gold, turquoise and crystal.
The ancient wonder of the Muslim world
Its name, which can be translated as "the incomparable" is proof that this ancient building was once one of great beauty. It was considered in its time as one of the most attractive palaces in the entire world. Built in 1578 by King Al Mansour, it boasts a whopping 360 rooms which, in the past, were decorated with marble, gold, ivory, onyx, cedar wood and semi-precious stones. This visual feast continues with a large central courtyard with gardens, ponds and fountains. Unfortunately in 1686, the Alawite Sultan Moulay Ismael moved the country's capital to Meknes and stripped the palace of all of its grandeur. Now all that remains are ruins and adobe walls (curiously crowned with enormous stalk's nests). If you visit Marrakesh in June you will be pleased to find that the splendour of the Badi Palace has returned for two weeks thanks to the National Popular Arts Festival celebrated here.
The Saadian Tombs
One of the city's most beautiful spots where the remains of the Saadi dynasty rest.
A history-filled mausoleum
This is one of the most popular monuments receiving some 10 million tourists who visit Morocco each year. The origins of the Saadian Tombs date back to the time of the Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur in the late 16th century. However, they were not discovered by our civilisation until 1917. The main mausoleum houses the remains of 66 members of the Saadi dynasty, including those of Ahmad al-Mansur and his family. In this beautiful three-roomed building, the highlight is the famous twelve-column room that contains the tomb of Ahmad al-Mansur's tomb, whose stele is embellished with cedar wood and stucco. You should not miss a visit to the outside gardens where lie over one hundred tombs decorated with mosaics where the bodies of the servants and warriors of the powerful Saadi dynasty are buried.
Bahia Palace
It was built with the objective to be the most impressive palace of all time
Lose yourself in its patios and gardens
While the spectacular nature of Marrakesh does not lie as much in its buildings and monuments as in its cultural and commercial wealth that it oozes, what is certain is that this palace is considered one of the city's most interesting architectural works. Its eight hectares and 150 rooms, as well as numerous patios and gardens, act as an introduction to this building designed in the 19th century whose name means "brilliance". Its construction was commissioned by the grand vizier of the sultan Abdelaziz Si Moussa and would eventually be left to Abu Bou Ahmed who endowed the palace with its maximum splendour. One of its most intriguing rooms is the harem of the 4 wives and the 24 concubines of Abu Bou Ahmed. Just do not be surprised by the current state of the Bahia Palace as all its rooms have been left empty; they were totally plundered after the death of the vizier. Luckily, the decorative beauty of its ceilings have been preserved. The admission fee is around 10 dirhams.
Koutoubia Mosque
The Mosque of the Booksellers, complete with its own legend, will never leave your sight.
The most representative building of Almohad art
The architectural legacy of the Almohads is no better reflected that in this mosque. Its minaret is what dominates your view when you see Marrakesh from a distance for the first time. It is one of the oldest monuments of classical Moroccan architecture and the city's highest. Its construction dates back to the 12th century. It gains its charm from the fact that each façade and arch is different. And yes, its entrance is prohibited for non-Muslims. However, everyone can stroll through its surrounding gardens which are freely accessible. It is open 24 hours a day. In this natural space you will also find the remains of an Almoravid palace and the excavations of another ancient mosque that was demolished as it was not correctly aligned with Mecca.
The Souk
The Maghreb's largest market is a feast for the senses.
The "big mess" where haggling is an art form.
If a description could sum up the great bazaars of the Islamic world, it would surely be that of unparalleled exoticism. The Marrakesh Souk will succeed in arousing every single one of your five senses like no other can. Its whirlwind of scents and flavours, spices and perfumes, fabric and fruits will spark memories of A Thousand and One Nights or stories of turbaned princes, fakirs, genies hidden in magic lamps and powerful sultans. These and many other sensations will be awakened in your mind as soon as you set foot in the Souk, with an abundance of maze-like streets which emerge to the north of the famous Place Djemaa El Fna. The Souk will reveal the secrets of Moroccan trade: its culture, its products (clothes, spices, food, handicrafts and other typical items), its tricks and bargaining....Of course you have heard hundreds of times the key to avoid being swindled in Morocco when shopping, but, either way, remember that you should not pay more than a third of what the merchant initially asked. Time to negotiate!
The Medina
This is a must for all visitors to Marrakesh, where you will lose yourself among vendors, narrow alleyways and mosques.
A labyrinth where time stood still
To provide you with some background information before you start exploring Marrakesh, it is important to know that the city is split into two parts: the centre, containing the Medina or the old city, flanked by spectacular red earth walls; and the new city, which sprang up outside the walls during times of French colonial rule and continues to grow today. The old walled city of Marrakesh, or the Medina, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It houses a rich treasure of palaces, markets, cupolas, minarets and mosques (normally with a restricted entrance for non-Muslims). These monuments bear witness to the wealth that the ancient Arab dynasties once bestowed upon the city. The real heart of the Medina has to be the emblematic Djemaa El Fna Square, one of the world's most bustling squares. Bear in mind that alcohol is prohibited in the Medina and that houses cannot exceed three floors; rules which do not apply to the new part of the city. However, there is one rule that is common to the entire city: the building exteriors must be red like its native soil, traditionally used in its construction. That is why Marrakesh is universally known as "The Red City".
Guided walking tours through the city
Be guided by a professional who can show you the city's hidden gems.
Discover more delights in the city
If you want to discover the city's special sites that only a native knows, be sure to hire an official guide for at least a day during your stay in Marrakesh. When you plan your trip, you can book these tours with a large number of operators such as www.excursionesmarruecos.es or www.gnawatours.com to quote just a couple of examples. Another easy option is to go on one of the guided visits offered by your hotel. A historytour with stops at the most important ancient monuments or an immersion into the hallucinating paradise of the souks and Marrakesh itineraries are two of the most requested tours by visitors to the city. Beware of unofficial guides who will tag onto you as you walk through the streets of the Medina. They are not the best option as they always try to get something in return.
Find your trip to Marrakesh
Documents for travelling as a tourist to Marrakesh
Check the documents you need for your trip.