Whether you’re planning a city trip to Marrakech or just a short visit during your trip through Morocco, Marrakech is a former imperial city you simply have to visit!
In my opinion, Africa’s first official Capital of Culture is a whirlwind of excitement and energy, packed with delectable dishes and a very tangible sense of importance that cannot be manufactured. Make no mistake, Marrakech is a city that hits every one of the senses and holds nothing back in the process.
However, like me Im, sure you have some questions before your trip? What are the best things to do in Marrakech? What should be seen, heard, smelt, touched and tasted?
Well from magnificent museums to sunset dinners on rooftops, here is my top 10 things to do while in Marrakech.
1) Bahia Palace
What is it? This 150-room palace was home to slave-turned-vizier Abu ‘Bou’ Ahmed, who spared no expense in its gorgeous decoration. The painted, gilded ceilings, polychrome zellige tiling and carved stucco still have the intended effect - That'll be "wow", just so you know and this is a perfect stop if you love your Instagram pics!
Why go? Bahia is roughly translated as ‘beautiful’, and that’s definitely not an overstatement. Escape from the heat of the midday sun to the palace’s shaded spaces and get lost in all the intricate detailing.
2) Jardin Majorelle
What is it? Created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle, this botanical garden is home to more types of cacti than you can shake a terrarium at and has a stunning indigo blue art deco house as its centrepiece.
Why go? Phone cameras at the ready – Jardin Majorelle is pure Instagram gold. Though you’ll see some cringe photoshoots going on, it’s impossible to take a bad picture here. Arrive early to avoid unwanted photo-bombers.What is it? Created by the French painter Jacques Majorelle, this botanical garden is home to more types of cacti than you can shake a terrarium at and has a stunning indigo blue art deco house as its centrepiece.
3) El Badi Palace
What is it? The epic ruins of Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour's once-magnificent palace, set within sunken gardens and surrounded by epic ramparts whose decrepit towers boast panoramic views over the medina.
Why go? El Badi may be a ruin, but it offers a fascinating insight into the power and wealth of past Moroccan dynasties. Within the ruins, you’ll also find the jewel that is the Koutoubia’s minbar (prayer pulpit), crafted by 12th-century Cordoban artisans.
4) Koutoubia Mosque
What is it? Five times a day, one voice rises above any other in the square as the muezzin calls the faithful to prayer from the Koutoubia Mosque. The mosque's minaret has been standing guard over the old city since the Almohads erected it in the 12th century. Today it's Marrakesh's most famous landmark. The tower is a monumental cheat sheet of Moorish ornament: scalloped keystone arches, jagged merlon crenelations and mathematically pleasing proportions.
Why go? Well they say imitation is the greatest compliment, and the 12th-century 250ft-high minaret has quite the reputation as an architectural muse. It’s the prototype for the Giralda in Seville, Spain, and Le Tour Hassan in Rabat, the capital of Morocco. Unlike Middle Eastern mosques, which have domed minarets, the Koutoubia's square design is an Amazigh trademark.
5) Aït Benhaddou
What is it? Drive out of Marrakesh heading southeast through winding mountain passes and barren desert landscapes, and in just under four hours, you will arrive at the famous fortified village of Aït Benhaddou. Known to the region’s native Berbers as a ksar, the village lies on the former caravan route between Marrakesh and the Sahara Desert. It is renowned for the fabulous earthen clay architecture that makes it one of the most photogenic and historically fascinating sites in Morocco. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit destination for film buffs.
Why go? Much of the ksar’s relative intactness is also thanks to its popularity as a filming location. So much so this place has the reputation for being the Hollywood of Morocco as it has appeared as a backdrop for many international movies and series, including The Mummy, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven,Prince of Persia, Aladdin and Game of Thrones -where it served as the slavers’ city of Yunkai. There is also a nearby Atlas Film studio which is worth a visit.
6) Jemaa el-Fnaa
What is it? The vast open square at the heart of the medina is one of Marrakech’s biggest attractions and is a Unesco world heritage site. Expect snake charmers, street entertainers, a variety of food and cultures not to mention over-enthusiastic henna artists at every turn.
Why go? Locals and tourists descend on the Jemaa every night, drawn by the ceaseless hoopla and halqa (street theatre). Grab some food from one of the barbecue stalls, listen to some music, head up to a rooftop bar and marvel at the sunset.
7) The Mellah
What is it? The Jewish quarter of Marrakech, which has undergone an extensive renovation programme. Make sure to visit the Al Azama synagogue and the extraordinary Miara cemetery.
Why go? Tours give an insight into a fascinating part of Marrakech’s (and Morocco’s) history. This area of the city is rarely explored by tourists other than Jewish heritage groups – get down before everyone else cottons on.
8) Hot Air Balloon - Atlas Mountains
What is it? Glide over the city of Marrakech also known as the "red city" and the steep valleys of the Atlas Mountains in a hot air balloon with this sunrise Balloon flight. The trip includes transport to and from your hotel and a Berber breakfast.
Why go? This is a great way to discover the balloon from the inflation to the landing as you experience the extraordinary trip of a flight at sunrise. From the sky you will see the sunrise over the Atlas Mountains and assist in the navigation of your small basket in the comforting silence, far from the hubbub of the souks of the medina or the Jemaa el-Fna square of Marrakech.
9) Afternoon Tea -Royal Mansour Marrakech
What is it? Enclosed within the Medina and protected from view by the city walls, Royal Mansour is as precious and mysterious as the city itself. Its beauty is revealed in layers and this voyage of discovery begins with a sweeping, private avenue, lined with centenarian olive trees, leading towards the hotel’s imposing bronze gates which is the go to address for Hollywood A-listers and Royalty.
Why go? This epic, regal masterpiece and undoubtedly one of the world's foremost properties when it comes to luxury hotels is a must visit. Discover the awe-inspiring creations dreamt up by the talented Jean Lachenal, pastry chef of the Royal Mansour Marrakech. Frozen delights, fruit delicacies, chocolate compositions, caramelised sensations and crisp-fondant mouthfuls play their part in this beautiful and delicious performance.
10) Souk Semmarine
What is it? Marrakech is famous for its souks (markets), and Souk Semmarine is the biggest of them all. Rugs, leather goods, silverware and crockery of all shapes and sizes are on offer in this labyrinth – just try not to get lost.
Why go? If you’re looking for a true Marrakchiexperience, get stuck in and do some haggling with one of the local traders. Knock them down from their opening price and come away with a one-of-a-kind memento.
Check out the full Marrakesh Travel Vlog!
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