An exotic destination just 2 hours from Europe. Trips to Marrakech are full of unique experiences, culture, new tastes and smells, totally different landscapes… All these ingredients are key to making Marrakech one of the favourite destinations for travellers who seek unusual destinations.

Marrakech, at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, speaks for itself, as its name in the original Berber means “Land of God”. Are you ready to fall under the spell of Marrakech?

1. Mingle with the people in Jemaa el Fna Square

This public square in the medina (old city) is the heart of the city and is where traders, street artists, street vendors… all come together in an atmosphere surrounded by cafes, restaurants and the sound of snake charmers’ flutes.

Jemaa el Fna Square is so lively that it was declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

2. Discover infinite tones of blue and green in the Majorelle Garden

In 1919 the French painter Jacques Majorelle began to create this botanical garden with cactus, yucca, jasmine and a house workshop that today is world-famous for its characteristic blue colour. In the 1980s Yves Saint-Laurent doubled the number of plant species in this garden.

Without a doubt, one of the things to see in Marrakech

3. Try new flavours

If you are looking for the most authentic flavours of Marrakech, take a walk around the food stalls in the Jemaa el Fna square. One of the traditional dishes is the roast lamb head, will you dare to try it?

4. Staying in a Riad

A trip to Marrakech will never be complete without a stay in a riad, a typically Moroccan house with a garden inside. In Marrakech there are about 800 such accommodations, you just have to choose the one you like best!

5. Behold the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech and its minaret, almost 70m high, is one of the most representative images of the city.

6. Learning to haggle in the souks

You may not have the ability to haggle, but to shop in the souks of Marrakech, you will have to put all your cunning (and patience) into getting the best prices on handicrafts: lamps, wallets, bags, jewellery…

7. Try the Tajin

One of the best-known dishes of Moroccan cuisine around the world is the tajin. This cone-shaped container allows the food to be steamed and retain all its aromas and flavours – you have to try it with one of the delicious fresh juices of Marrakech!

8. Imagine the luxurious past of the El Badi Palace

This palace was built in 1578 and was known at that time as the architectural wonder of the Muslim world. No wonder, the 360 rooms of this fortress were decorated with precious materials such as gold and onyx. Today only one esplanade remains with walls and orange gardens.

9. Freshen up with orange juice

In Marrakech, you will taste one of the best orange juices, with the permission of the Valencians, of course! In Jemma El Fna square you will find many stalls where you can order a refreshing freshly squeezed juice for only 4 Dh (35 cents).

10. Enjoy the peace of the Gardens of Menara

If you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city, your place is in Menara Gardens. This space, which centuries ago was reserved only for the sultans, is now open to anyone who wants to admire it.

11. The Tombs of the Saadian Dynasty

Because of their beautiful decoration, the Saadian tombs are another thing to see in Marrakech. This place, with the remains of 60 members of the Saadian Dynasty was discovered in 1917 and restored by the Fine Arts Service.

12. At any time of day, having a cup of tea

Undoubtedly, mint tea is the most popular drink in Marrakech, and you don’t have to wait for dessert to drink it! You can have a delicious tea with or without sugar, with or without pasta when you feel like it

13. Learn something new at the Marrakech Museum

A complete trip must include at least one visit to a museum. In the Marrakech museum, located in the 19th century Menebhi Palace, you will find a beautiful collection of modern Moroccan art.

And these are some of the many things that will make you fall in love with Marrakech. We guarantee that visiting Morocco, and especially Marrakech, will be an unforgettable experience that you will remember fondly. Its people, the curiosities, the cultural contrast, the food make Marrakech a perfect city for a holiday.

Guest Blogger – Driss Benchemsi from ThinkMorocco

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