Marrakech: Cheap Flights & Best Hotels

Marrakech Travel Guide

First Impressions

Marrakech is a city of the senses. In the medina, narrow alleys open onto souks piled with spices, leather and lanterns; mule carts squeeze past motorbikes; and the call to prayer drifts over terracotta rooftops. Step through a plain wooden door and you may find a riad, a traditional house built around a quiet courtyard garden. Beyond the walls lie modern districts, palm groves, and the snow-capped High Atlas mountains on the horizon.

When to Go

• March to May: Warm days, cool evenings and blossoming gardens. One of the best times to visit.
• June to August: Very hot, often too hot for comfortable afternoon sightseeing. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to be out.
• September to November: Pleasant temperatures return, making autumn another excellent choice.
• December to February: Sunny days but cold nights; riads can feel chilly, so pack layers. Snow often covers the Atlas peaks.
• Ramadan: Daytime is quieter and some restaurants close until sunset, while evenings are lively. Check the dates before you travel.

What to See

Jemaa el-Fnaa. The great square at the heart of the medina changes through the day, from orange-juice stalls and snake charmers in the morning to smoky food stalls, storytellers and musicians at night.

The Souks. North of the square, the souks are organised loosely by trade, from spices and carpets to metalwork and leather. Expect to get lost, and enjoy it.

Koutoubia Mosque. Its twelfth-century minaret is the city's landmark. The mosque is not open to non-Muslims, but the gardens around it are.

Bahia Palace. A nineteenth-century palace of painted ceilings, tilework and courtyards.

Saadian Tombs. Richly decorated royal tombs rediscovered in the twentieth century.

Ben Youssef Madrasa. A former Quranic school with superb carved cedar, stucco and zellige tiles.

Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. A cobalt-blue villa in a garden of cacti and bamboo, with a museum dedicated to the designer next door. Book tickets ahead.

Le Jardin Secret. A restored riad garden in the medina, a calm escape from the crowds.

Beyond the City

Popular day trips include the Ourika Valley and Imlil in the Atlas mountains, the Agafay Desert for sunset camel rides, the coastal town of Essaouira, and the Ouzoud waterfalls. Multi-day trips go to the Sahara dunes at Merzouga.

Moroccan Food

Try a tagine, a slow-cooked stew named after its conical clay pot, in versions with vegetables, chicken with preserved lemon, or lamb with prunes. Couscous is traditionally served on Fridays. Tanjia is Marrakech's own slow-cooked meat speciality. Harira soup, zaalouk (aubergine dip) and msemen flatbreads are great vegetarian choices. Finish with sweet mint tea and pastries. Eat at Jemaa el-Fnaa's stalls for atmosphere, choosing busy ones.

Getting There and Getting Around

Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is close to the city, with many flights from Europe. Agree taxi fares before getting in, or arrange a transfer through your riad, which helps since many are hidden in alleys cars cannot enter. Trains connect Marrakech with Casablanca, Rabat and Fes, with high-speed links on part of the route.

The medina is best explored on foot. Petit taxis serve the city, and drivers should use the meter or agree a price first. Buses run to the newer districts.

Where to Stay

• Medina riads: The classic experience, with courtyard gardens and rooftop terraces.
• Gueliz and Hivernage: Modern districts with larger hotels, restaurants and nightlife.
• Palmeraie: Resorts with pools among palm groves, a short drive out.
• Atlas mountains: Kasbah-style lodges for a peaceful retreat.

Budget Tips

• Haggling is expected in the souks. Start well below the asking price and stay friendly.
• Many sights, including Jemaa el-Fnaa and the Koutoubia gardens, are free.
• Eat at local cafés and food stalls rather than tourist restaurants with views.
• Politely decline unsolicited guides who offer to show you the way.
• Shared grand taxis or buses are cheaper than private tours for day trips.

Practical Information

• Visa: Many nationalities can visit Morocco visa-free for a limited time; others need a visa or an electronic travel authorisation. Check the official Moroccan government website.
• Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD). Cash is needed in the souks.
• Languages: Arabic and Amazigh (Berber); French is widely spoken, and English increasingly so.
• Dress: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is respectful.
• Plugs: Types C and E.

Plan Your Trip

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