Here are our top 5 things to do:
1. Explore the Medina of Marrakech
In the heart of Marrakech is the medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the old city was founded in the 11th century. Its labyrinth of winding streets and alleyways is best explored with a sense of adventure and a willingness to get lost. Your bravery will be rewarded with a nearly endless feast for the senses as you stroll through its markets and squares and explore its riads. But give a polite “no thanks” if someone offers to show you the way unless you’re willing to pay for a guide.
2. Djemaa el-Fnaa
At the heart of the Medina lies the world-famous Jamaa el Fnaa square. Walking through this square is an experience like no other! Feel the heat beating off the stone floor as you worm your way through snake charmers, entertainers, and street food stalls selling fresh juices.
By night, the square comes to life with music, with flute players, dancers, and artists all showing their talents under the twinkling lights of the stalls. This amazing demonstration of Moroccan culture is not to be missed!
Tip: Pickpockets happen in this area so always be wary and keep an eye on your belongings.
3. Explore the souks & artisanal markets!
Just behind Djemaa el-Fnaa are alleys upon alleys of souks. Shop for sweets, clothing, and leather goods on your way to the Place des Épices (The Spice Souk). There, in the medina’s centre, is where you’ll find spices, soaps and perfumes. A narrow, almost hidden entrance leads to the carpet souk, where you can find rugs made by women of the Amazigh, or Berber tribe, one of Morocco’s indigenous peoples.
Just around the corner, float through lighting shops that resemble miniature galaxies here, you have the perfect Pinteresque backdrop for Instagram collection or, you can shop for large castanets, also known as qraqeb, so you can jam with those gnawa musicians in Djemaa el-Fnaa. And remember – in the medina, all prices are negotiable, and bargaining is a social art.
4. Stay at a Traditional Riad
Staying in a traditional riad /guesthouse is the best way to see the stunning details of Moroccan architecture. A Riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an indoor garden and courtyard. On the outside, they are typically a sandy color with basic architecture. However, once you open the door, there is a whole new world.
5. Jardin Majorelle
This incredible, vibrant blue house is one of the biggest tourist attractions in Marrakech and an absolute must-see! It was created by the French Orientalist artist Jacques Majorelle over almost forty years, starting in 1923, and features a Cubist villa designed by the French architect, Paul Sinoir in the 1930s. In the 1980s, the property was purchased by the fashion designers, Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé who worked to restore it. Today, the garden and villa complex is open to the public. The villa also houses the Berber Museum and in 2017 the Yves Saint Laurent Museum opened nearby. It is totally worth exploring.
