Marrakesh
Temperature
16°
Time
1:36 AM
Marrakesh
A city steeped in medieval allure, Marrakesh is a tapestry of myths, drama, and the enigma that entraps all who enter its ochre-hued embrace. Step inside, and you'll journey back through time into a world largely preserved in historical chronicles. With its maze-like Medina, the sensory overload of the bustling souks, the theatrical spectacle at Jemaa el-Fna square, and the towering Atlas Mountains serving as a dramatic backdrop, Marrakesh indisputably reigns as Morocco's most dazzling gem.Find your trip
Constructed in the 16th century under the orders of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty, El Badi Palace — the "Incomparable Palace" — was once hailed as a marvel of its era. Initially featuring 360 rooms, an expansive courtyard, and a 90-metre-long pool, the palace was a monument to the Sultan's affluence and influence. Adorned with a lavish selection of materials sourced globally — from Italian marble to Malian gold — the palace was envisioned as an opulent space for grand receptions and ceremonies. However, following al-Mansur's death in 1603, the palace was abandoned and gradually succumbed to decay, especially during the waning years of the Saadian rule. Many of its precious elements, particularly its marble, were harvested and repurposed in various Moroccan structures. Nowadays, El Badi stands as a significant point of interest in Marrakesh, housing various exhibitions and even showcasing the Minbar of the Kutubiyya Mosque. Though largely in ruins, the palace still whispers stories of a bygone era of wealth and grandeur.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Marrakesh as you embark on a city sightseeing tour. Visit the top highlights, including the Majorelle Gardens, the Berber Museum, Koutoubia Mosque, and the Medina. While you explore, your guide provides context on the history of Morocco as well as the local culture.
Erected in 1120, the Koutoubia Mosque and its 70-metre-tall Minaret serve as the spiritual and architectural heart of Marrakesh, framed by expansive gardens. Situated in the southwest area of Marrakesh's medina, close to the bustling Jemaa el-Fna marketplace, the mosque is not just the city's largest but also one of its most iconic. Although entry is restricted to Muslims, the mosque's exterior is an awe-inspiring sight that can be appreciated by all.
Jemaa el-Fna, the vibrant epicentre of Marrakesh's medina, is a riot of colours, sounds and scents, especially at sunset. Though the square has transitioned from its roots as a daily food market for mountain traders, its hustle and energy remain palpable. During the day, vendors offer refreshing fruit juices, but it's at dusk when the place truly transforms. Street theatre, or 'halqa,' has been a mainstay here since the 11th century, and the tradition continues in modern times. As the sun dips below the horizon, food stalls magically unfold, adding tantalising aromas to the air. Musicians tune their instruments, snake charmers enchant both serpents and tourists, and the spectacle crescendos into a nightly celebration of Marrakeshi life and culture.
Step away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech to witness the impressive Atlas Mountains and traditional Moroccan life. Explore broad valleys and lush orchards with views of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Ride a camel through a broad gorge, pause for tea in Imlil Valley, then hike to the isolated village of Ait Souka to share a meal in a Berber family’s home. A truly unforgettable experience.
When the chaos of the city becomes too much for you to handle, the one-hectare botanical Majorelle Garden is a perfect refuge. Stroll in the shade of the palms and watch beautiful plants, fountains and birds and when you're tired you can sit down at the garden café. The iconic Villa Oasis — the private residence of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge — is a must-see. Its vividly blue walls are a perfect match with the verdant greenery of the garden.
A trip to a hammam is an essential Marrakesh experience for rejuvenating both body and spirit. Berbers have honed their skincare rituals for centuries to keep their skin radiant in the harsh desert climate. Relish the bliss of a cleansing session with black olive soap, hair care, and thorough scrubbing with exfoliating mitts. For a top-tier experience, the Royal Mansour hosts Marrakesh's premier hammam. Here, luxury meets tradition: you'll recline on heated marble while water from intricately designed silver buckets is poured over you. They use premium Moroccan ingredients in their signature rhassoul scrub, featuring a blend of rose, basil, and other natural elements. Diverse treatments are available, and advance booking is a must.
Witnessing the age-old craft of leather treatment at the Bab Debbagh tanneries is a fascinating experience. Situated near a river for water supply, these tanneries have been operating for centuries. The distinctive odour, resulting from ammonia used in the leather-softening process, will let you know you've arrived. Unlike some other Moroccan tanneries, the focus here is on treating leather in its natural state; the dyeing happens elsewhere. Visiting the site can be a bit tricky due to the presence of unofficial 'guides' demanding payment. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider hiring a certified guide as part of a medina tour. Otherwise, prepare to navigate past these unofficial attendants by offering a small tip and insisting on entering without their assistance.
Constructed in the 16th century under the orders of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty, El Badi Palace — the "Incomparable Palace" — was once hailed as a marvel of its era. Initially featuring 360 rooms, an expansive courtyard, and a 90-metre-long pool, the palace was a monument to the Sultan's affluence and influence. Adorned with a lavish selection of materials sourced globally — from Italian marble to Malian gold — the palace was envisioned as an opulent space for grand receptions and ceremonies. However, following al-Mansur's death in 1603, the palace was abandoned and gradually succumbed to decay, especially during the waning years of the Saadian rule. Many of its precious elements, particularly its marble, were harvested and repurposed in various Moroccan structures. Nowadays, El Badi stands as a significant point of interest in Marrakesh, housing various exhibitions and even showcasing the Minbar of the Kutubiyya Mosque. Though largely in ruins, the palace still whispers stories of a bygone era of wealth and grandeur.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Marrakesh as you embark on a city sightseeing tour. Visit the top highlights, including the Majorelle Gardens, the Berber Museum, Koutoubia Mosque, and the Medina. While you explore, your guide provides context on the history of Morocco as well as the local culture.
For an accessory-shopping adventure, set your sights on Souk El Kebir and neighbouring Souk Cherratin. Situated just off Attarine (the copper souk) and locally known as Ta'ala, these souks are the epicentre of leather craftsmanship in Marrakech. From intricate bags and belts to butter-soft wallets and purses, these markets offer an array of sizes and designs. If you're on the hunt for the iconic Moroccan babouches slippers, you're in luck — these souks offer a rich tapestry of colours, patterned cuts and intricate stitching at a fraction of European or North American prices.
Ensemble Artisanal is a shopping complex with colourful artwork, housewares, musical instruments, clothes & fabrics. It's good to come here if the loud medina gets a little too much to handle, to get an idea of what to expect in terms of pricing or simply if haggling isn't exactly your cup of tea. Many of the items found in abundance in the souks can be shopped here in a much calmer environment and at a fixed price.
Located a stone's throw away from Majorelle Gardens and the YSL museum, 33 Rue Majorelle is a boutique that sells unique items of decor and clothing. Resembling a chic Barcelona boutique, this upscale store resides in one of Marrakech's most luxurious neighbourhoods. Though on the pricier side, the carefully curated selection of home décor and fashion items make it well worth a visit. From whimsical paper-mâché desk lamps to artisanal infused honeys, 33 Rue Majorelle offers an eclectic array of goods that add a dash of flair to any home or wardrobe.
A museum in its own right, this lesser known shop houses a stunning display of local arts and crafts that are a pleasure to browse through and purchase at reasonable, fixed prices.
This compact shopping centre may not compare to some of the giant mega malls an experienced traveller may have enjoyed, yet it still houses quite a few designer boutiques and cafes, including a Starbucks.
Natural oils, spices and aromas are the stars in this unique little boutique whose staff are there to help you navigate the sea of mysterious oriental herb products. There is a restaurant in the same building if you decide to extend your visit.
For an accessory-shopping adventure, set your sights on Souk El Kebir and neighbouring Souk Cherratin. Situated just off Attarine (the copper souk) and locally known as Ta'ala, these souks are the epicentre of leather craftsmanship in Marrakech. From intricate bags and belts to butter-soft wallets and purses, these markets offer an array of sizes and designs. If you're on the hunt for the iconic Moroccan babouches slippers, you're in luck — these souks offer a rich tapestry of colours, patterned cuts and intricate stitching at a fraction of European or North American prices.
Ensemble Artisanal is a shopping complex with colourful artwork, housewares, musical instruments, clothes & fabrics. It's good to come here if the loud medina gets a little too much to handle, to get an idea of what to expect in terms of pricing or simply if haggling isn't exactly your cup of tea. Many of the items found in abundance in the souks can be shopped here in a much calmer environment and at a fixed price.
Menara Airport is located 6 km from Marrakesh. Bus number 19 runs to Djemaa el-Fna every 20 minutes during the week and less frequently during weekends and public holidays. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. A taxi for maximum 5 people plus baggage from the airport to the city centre takes about 20 minutes. Agree on the price before taking off.
Citizens of the European Union, as well as the United States, Australia, and dozens of world countries can enter and remain in Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Look up individual prerequisites prior to travel in order to possibly apply for visa in time.
The primary hub for intercity and local buses in Marrakech is Bab Doukkala Station, with most routes stopping at Djemaa El-Fna and Place Youssef Ben Tachfine. For train travel, head to the Marrakech Train Station. Established in 1923 during the French protectorate era, the original station was situated on Hasan II Avenue and functioned as the rail network's terminus. A new, larger station was unveiled in 2008, just adjacent to the old one and closer to the city centre. Designed to accommodate future rail extensions to Agadir and Laayoune, the modern station also offers shopping and dining options. Direct trains run daily to Fez via Casablanca Voyageurs, with two more direct connections to Tangier. Transfers for Oujda and Mohammed V International Airport are also available, and additional routes to Tangier can be accessed with a change in Casablanca.
Taxi is the favoured method of transport around Marrakesh. There are small taxis (petits taxis) which can take up to three passengers. For destinations further afield, there are large taxis (grands taxis). Prices are reasonable but should be agreed in advance.
You can buy stamps in several shops around the medina and also in some of the most upscale hotels. The main Post Office in the city is located at Place du 16 Novembre.
You don't have to go far to find a pharmacy since there are a lot of them in the city, particularly in the area of avenue Mohammed V between Place Abdelmoumen Ben Ali and Place de la Liberté. A sign in the window indicates which pharmacies are open after-hours.
Country code: +212 Area code: 052
In Morocco, you will encounter two types of electrical outlets: Type C and Type E, both with round prongs. The country's electrical system runs on a 220V supply voltage and a frequency of 50Hz. Make sure to bring appropriate adaptors if your devices are not compatible with these specifications.
Menara Airport is located 6 km from Marrakesh. Bus number 19 runs to Djemaa el-Fna every 20 minutes during the week and less frequently during weekends and public holidays. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. A taxi for maximum 5 people plus baggage from the airport to the city centre takes about 20 minutes. Agree on the price before taking off.
Citizens of the European Union, as well as the United States, Australia, and dozens of world countries can enter and remain in Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Look up individual prerequisites prior to travel in order to possibly apply for visa in time.
