Marrakech a week

The main international airport serving Marrakech. It's modern and efficient, with distinct architecture.

• Pre-book a taxi or arrange airport transfer with your accommodation for a smoother arrival.
• Currency exchange is available, but rates might be better in the city.

A beautiful Riad offering a tranquil escape. Enjoy traditional Moroccan mint tea and pastries in a serene courtyard setting after your journey.

• Book a table in advance, especially for afternoon tea.
• Look for the discreet entrance; Riads are often hidden behind unassuming doors.

The vibrant heart of Marrakech, a UNESCO World Heritage site. By day it's a bustling square with snake charmers and fruit stalls, transforming into an open-air food market and performance space by night.

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
• Enjoy the street performers, but be prepared to tip if you take photos or engage.

Located within the Jemaa el-Fnaa food stalls, this spot is famous for its authentic tagines and grilled meats, especially the lamb mechoui (slow-roasted lamb). It offers a true taste of local Moroccan cuisine.

• Ask for recommendations from the staff.
• Sit at one of the communal tables for a more local experience.

A stunning 19th-century palace showcasing intricate Moroccan craftsmanship. Explore its beautiful courtyards, tiled rooms, and painted cedarwood ceilings.

• Arrive early to avoid crowds.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces.

Once a magnificent palace, now predominantly ruins, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Saadian dynasty. Its vast courtyard and sunken gardens are impressive, and you can climb the ramparts for panoramic views.

• Look out for the storks nesting on the ramparts.
• Imagine the palace in its heyday as you explore.

A hidden oasis in the heart of the medina, this traditional riad garden offers a peaceful retreat with its Islamic and exotic gardens. It's a perfect spot to relax and escape the city's hustle.

• Consider visiting the tower for a different perspective of the gardens and medina.

Explore the historic Mellah, Marrakech's former Jewish quarter. It offers a different architectural style and a quieter atmosphere, with its own market and synagogue.

• Visit the Lazama Synagogue and the Jewish Cemetery.
• Observe the unique balconies that characterize the architecture here.

A popular contemporary restaurant offering modern Moroccan cuisine with a view over the Spice Square. It's known for its fresh ingredients and stylish ambiance.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially for sunset views.
• Try their signature dishes like the lamb burger or the spiced chicken pastilla.

While the main souks are chaotic, the Sidi Ghanem district offers a more curated experience with contemporary craft workshops and designer boutiques. It's a great place to find unique, modern Moroccan art and design pieces.

• This area is more industrial; wear comfortable shoes.
• Look for studios selling ceramics, textiles, and metalwork.

A beautiful, atmospheric restaurant set in a former caravanserai. It serves refined Moroccan and international cuisine in a romantic courtyard setting.

• Perfect for a romantic lunch.
• Explore the adjacent concept store for unique gifts.

Dive into the labyrinthine souks of the medina, a sensory overload of spices, leather goods, textiles, lanterns, and metalwork. Haggling is expected and part of the experience.

• Carry a map or use your phone's GPS, but embrace getting a little lost.
• Start with lower offers and be polite but firm.
• Look for specific areas like Souk Semmarine for textiles and Souk Haddadine for metalwork.

Learn to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine, couscous, or pastilla. This hands-on experience often includes a market visit and culminates in enjoying the meal you've prepared.

• Book well in advance as classes fill up.
• Choose a class that includes a market visit for a more immersive experience.

A tribute to the iconic fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his deep connection to Marrakech. The museum showcases his work, inspirations, and the city's influence on his designs.

• Combine your visit with the adjacent Jardin Majorelle.
• The architecture itself is a design marvel.

A stunning botanical garden designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. Its striking cobalt blue buildings, exotic plants, and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit.

• Go very early to avoid the crowds and get the best light for photos.
• The Berber Museum within the garden is also worth a visit.

Housed in a beautiful 19th-century palace, this museum displays a rich collection of Moroccan arts and crafts, including woodwork, textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. It offers insight into traditional craftsmanship.

• Enjoy the peaceful courtyard.
• Look for the impressive displays of traditional Moroccan wedding attire.

Marrakech's most famous landmark, the Koutoubia Mosque's minaret is an iconic symbol of the city. Non-Muslims cannot enter, but its exterior and surrounding gardens are impressive.

• Visit at sunset for beautiful views as the call to prayer echoes.
• It's a good reference point for navigating the medina.

A charming rooftop cafe in the heart of the medina, offering stunning views over the Rahba Kedima (Spice Square). It's an ideal spot for mint tea or a light meal while watching the bustling square below.

• The best seats are on the top terrace for unobstructed views.
• Try their fresh fruit juices.

Escape the city heat for the cooler, picturesque Atlas Mountains. Options include the Ourika Valley for its waterfalls and Berber villages, or Imlil, a base for hiking with stunning views of Toubkal, North Africa's highest peak.

• Book a guided tour or hire a private driver for convenience.
• Wear sturdy walking shoes and dress in layers.
• Be respectful of local Berber culture; dress modestly.

Enjoy a traditional Berber lunch, often a tagine or couscous, at a local restaurant with breathtaking mountain views. Many tours include lunch or can arrange it.

• Ask your guide for recommendations.
• Try the local specialties.

A lively and popular restaurant and bar known for its fusion cuisine and energetic atmosphere, often featuring live music and belly dancers. It's a great place to experience Marrakech's nightlife.

• Reservations are essential, especially on weekends.
• Dress code is smart casual.

Experience Jemaa el-Fnaa in its calmer morning state. It's a good time to see the juice stalls, dried fruit vendors, and perhaps catch some local life before the evening spectacle.

• Enjoy a fresh orange juice from one of the many stalls.
• Observe the setting up of the day's activities.

Indulge in a traditional Moroccan hammam for deep cleansing and relaxation. This includes steam, exfoliation with black soap and a kessa glove, and often a massage.

• Book in advance, especially for popular spas.
• Opt for a package that includes a massage for ultimate relaxation.
• Bring a swimsuit if you prefer.

A stylish cafe and restaurant in the medina, offering a mix of Moroccan and Italian cuisine. Its rooftop terrace provides a pleasant setting for a relaxed afternoon coffee or light meal.

• Good for people-watching in the medina.
• Their pastries are a nice treat.

For a luxurious dining experience, consider La Mamounia, a legendary palace hotel. They offer several exquisite restaurants, including French, Moroccan, and Italian cuisine, set within stunning gardens.

• Reservations are mandatory and dress code is strictly enforced (smart elegant).
• Consider a pre-dinner drink in one of their elegant bars.
• The gardens are spectacular and worth exploring.

A final opportunity to pick up some last-minute souvenirs. This souk is known for its leather goods, including bags, poufs, and jackets.

• Check the quality of the leather carefully.
• Haggle for the best price.

Located in the heart of the medina, this small museum showcases the history of perfume in Morocco and the use of traditional ingredients like rose, orange blossom, and amber. You can also purchase bespoke perfumes.

• A unique and fragrant experience.
• Great for finding a special gift.

A beautifully restored Riad offering traditional Moroccan cuisine in an elegant setting. It's a perfect spot for a final, memorable meal.

• Enjoy the ambiance of this historic building.
• Try their pastilla or lamb tagine.

Depart from Marrakech Menara Airport.