Marrakesh

Marrakech Travel Guide

Marrakech is a vibrant and enchanting city located in the heart of Morocco. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and exotic souks (markets), Marrakech is a must-visit destination for any traveler. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate this bustling city, explore its hidden gems, and make the most of your travel experience.

Places to Visit

1. Jardin Majorelle

  • Address: Rue Yves Saint Laurent, Marrakech 40000
  • Tickets: 70 MAD (7 EUR) per person
  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (April to September), 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (October to March)
  • Description: A beautiful botanical garden created by French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s. The gardens were later restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Berge.

2. Bahia Palace

  • Address: Rue Riad Zitoun Jdid, Marrakech 40000
  • Tickets: 70 MAD (7 EUR) per person
  • Opening Hours: 9:30 AM - 4:45 PM (April to September), 9:30 AM - 4:15 PM (October to March)
  • Description: A 19th-century palace built as a residence for the Grand Vizier of Morocco. The palace features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and an impressive collection of traditional Moroccan crafts.

3. Koutoubia Mosque

  • Address: Avenue Mohammed El Fassi, Marrakech 40000
  • Tickets: Free entry (but modest dress required)
  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (April to September), 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (October to March)
  • Description: A 12th-century mosque and the largest in Marrakech. The mosque features a beautiful minaret, which is an iconic symbol of the city.

4. Souk el Khamis

  • Address: Medina of Marrakech, Marrakech 40000
  • Tickets: Free entry
  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (daily)
  • Description: A bustling souk that specializes in traditional Berber crafts. You can find unique items such as handmade jewelry, carpets, and textiles.

5. Majorelle Garden’s Museum of Berber Cultures

  • Address: Rue Yves Saint Laurent, Marrakech 40000
  • Tickets: 20 MAD (2 EUR) per person
  • Opening Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:30 PM (April to September), 9:30 AM - 4:45 PM (October to March)
  • Description: A museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Berber people. The museum features an impressive collection of traditional artifacts, jewelry, and clothing.

Activities

1. Explore the Souks

Marrakech’s souks are a must-visit attraction for any traveler. You can spend hours navigating the narrow alleys and discovering hidden gems such as unique crafts, delicious street food, and local artisans at work.

2. Take a Hammam Experience

A traditional Moroccan hammam is a rejuvenating experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed. You can find many hammams throughout the city, each with its own unique atmosphere and traditions.

3. Attend a Traditional Music Performance

Marrakech’s music scene is thriving, with many local musicians performing traditional music at various venues across the city. You can experience the vibrant rhythms of Moroccan music by attending a live performance.

Where to Eat

1. Le Foundouk

  • Address: Place des Ferblantiers, Marrakech 40000
  • Cuisine: Moroccan and international cuisine
  • Price Range: 100-200 MAD (10-20 EUR) per meal
  • Description: A cozy restaurant located in the heart of the medina. Le Foundouk serves delicious Moroccan cuisine with a modern twist.

2. Le Tobsil

  • Address: Rue Riad Zitoun Jdid, Marrakech 40000
  • Cuisine: Moroccan and international cuisine
  • Price Range: 100-200 MAD (10-20 EUR) per meal
  • Description: A beautifully restored riad that serves exquisite Moroccan cuisine in a tranquil atmosphere.

3. Cafe Arabe

  • Address: Derb Arbi, Marrakech 40000
  • Cuisine: Moroccan and international cuisine
  • Price Range: 50-100 MAD (5-10 EUR) per meal
  • Description: A charming cafe located in a beautifully restored riad. Cafe Arabe serves delicious Moroccan coffee and pastries, as well as light meals.

Where to Stay

1. Hotel La Mamounia

  • Address: Avenue Abdelmoumen Ben Ali, Marrakech 40000
  • Price Range: 500-1000 MAD (50-100 EUR) per night
  • Description: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the medina. Hotel La Mamounia features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and world-class amenities.

2. Riad Yacout

  • Address: Derb Moulay Ali Kaba, Marrakech 40000
  • Price Range: 200-500 MAD (20-50 EUR) per night
  • Description: A beautifully restored riad located in the heart of the medina. Riad Yacout features cozy rooms, a tranquil atmosphere, and delicious Moroccan cuisine.

3. Hotel Ibis Marrakech Centre Gare

  • Address: Rue Ibnou Taybiya, Marrakech 40000
  • Price Range: 200-500 MAD (20-50 EUR) per night
  • Description: A modern hotel located near the train station. Hotel Ibis Marrakech Centre Gare features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

Things to Know

1. Respect Local Customs

Marrakech is a conservative city, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions. This includes dressing modestly, removing shoes when entering mosques or private homes, and not taking pictures of people without their permission.

2. Haggling is Expected

Haggling is an essential part of the Moroccan shopping experience. Visitors should expect to haggle over prices in souks and markets, but always be respectful and fair-minded.

3. Learn Basic Arabic Phrases

Learning basic Arabic phrases such as “hello” (as-salamu alaykum), “thank you” (shukraan), and “how much?” (kan fi?) will help visitors navigate the city with confidence and make a positive impression on locals.

Transportation

1. Walking

Marrakech is a walkable city, and visitors can explore the medina and surrounding areas on foot. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated in the hot desert sun.

2. Taxi

Taxis are widely available throughout Marrakech. Visitors should agree on the fare before starting their journey and always sit in the back seat.

3. Grand Taxi

Grand taxis are shared taxis that operate on fixed routes. Visitors can hail a grand taxi on the street or at a designated rank, but be sure to agree on the fare before boarding.

4. Petit Taxi

Petit taxis are small cars that operate on a metered system. Visitors should agree on the fare before starting their journey and always sit in the back seat.

Tips

  • Bargain Hard: Haggling is an essential part of the Moroccan shopping experience.
  • Learn Basic Arabic Phrases: Learning basic Arabic phrases such as “hello” (as-salamu alaykum), “thank you” (shukraan), and “how much?” (kan fi?) will help visitors navigate the city with confidence and make a positive impression on locals.
  • Respect Local Customs: Marrakech is a conservative city, and visitors are expected to respect local customs and traditions.
  • Stay Hydrated: Visitors should stay hydrated in the hot desert sun by drinking plenty of water and avoiding strenuous activities during peak hours.

Other Things

1. Shopping Tips

Visitors should expect to haggle over prices in souks and markets, but always be respectful and fair-minded. They should also learn basic Arabic phrases such as “hello” (as-salamu alaykum), “thank you” (shukraan), and “how much?” (kan fi?) to navigate the city with confidence.

2. Safety Tips

Visitors should always be aware of their surroundings, keep an eye on their belongings, and avoid traveling alone at night. They should also follow local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly and removing shoes when entering mosques or private homes.

By following this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their travel experience in Marrakech and enjoy a safe and enjoyable stay in this vibrant city.