Marrakech Morocco

Overview

Marrakech is Morocco's liveliest city, with a red-walled medina, buzzing souks and a setting at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. The Jemaa el-Fna square, palaces, gardens and riads sit close together. Nearby valleys, desert and mountains make easy day trips into nature.

Getting around

The medina's narrow lanes are walked on foot; petit taxis (ask for the meter) are cheap for short hops. Buses serve Guéliz and the airport, and trains link the city to Casablanca and Tangier. For valleys and mountains, a private driver or organised tour is easiest.

Where to stay

• Medina – The walled historic core, packed with souks, palaces and riads.
• Guéliz – The French-era new town, known for cafes, galleries and modern restaurants.
• Mellah – The old Jewish quarter, with a spice market, a synagogue and a cemetery.
• Hivernage – An upscale area of hotels, gardens and nightlife.
• Palmeraie – A vast palm grove north of the city, home to villas and luxury resorts.

Guide topics

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  Food & Drink

  Marrakech cuisine centres on tagines, couscous and spiced grills. Square-side stalls, riad gardens and rooftop restaurants give the dining scene its variety.

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  Museums

  Marrakech's museums tell Morocco's art and history in palaces, mansions and gardens. Most are close together in the medina, so several fit into one day.

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  Hiking

  Around Marrakech you can choose from easy garden and oasis walks to trails in the Atlas Mountains. Mountain hikes need a one- to two-hour drive.

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  Extreme Sports

  Around Marrakech you can try ballooning, quad biking, skiing and mountain sports. Most take place in the palm grove or in the Atlas Mountains.

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  Culture

  Marrakech culture blends Berber, Arab and Andalusian influences in its madrasas, souks and squares. Living traditions sit side by side with historic sites.