Marrakech isn’t Morocco’s capital, but to many people it seems to at least be the tourism capital. Despite it’s incredible architecture, dating back to it’s history as an imperial city, and it’s beautiful blending of cultures – both of which can be found almost anywhere in Morocco – what is it that makes Marrakech so special?
„Traveling—it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.“
Ibn Battuta
Jamaa El Fna
The markets of Marrakech are something not to be missed, although if you’re planning on spending time in this maze of a city it’ll be hard to miss them anyway. The large souks that have existed on the city’s streets for hundreds of years are the center of the city’s madness and vibrancy, and you can find almost anything hidden down an alleyway, from delectable and traditional street food to handcrafted metal and ceramic homewares. Not only can you find traditional market produce here, though.
The market streets of Marrakech are also home to some incredible performers and entertainers, so don’t be alarmed if you see a snake charmer or a belly dancer while exploring the Medina – it’s totally normal. Marrakech’s beautiful markets bring the dazzling mix of cultures that exists here alive in a big mixing pot on the sides of the roads – you’ll get lost among the languages spoken, the colors of the products and almost definitely down an alleyway. Don’t worry – it’s hard to find your way without a guide here.
Riad:
Marrakech’s history as an imperial city means that it is still home to some of the world’s most well preserved and awe-inspiring architecture. While hotels do exist here that have been purpose built for luxury travellers, many of the riads that operate in Marrakech have simply been renovated and opened their doors to tourists from across the world.
As such, spending time in one of these traditional riads, which often feature open floor plans, cozy rooms and terraces on which you can spend an entire night talking in the evening heat will provide you with a real sense of Moroccan life – calm, cozy and warm. Locals also run many of these riads, and anyone who has ever been to Morocco will tell you that the locals here are some of the friendliest in the world. Hospitality is huge in Marrakech, and it’s likely you’ll be treated to a home cooked meal, some traditional mint tea and a good conversation if you get chatting with the locals who operate your riad.
Food Stalls
If you’ve come to Morocco, you’d be crazy to skip a taste of the authentic Moroccan taste. Not only does Marrakech home hundreds of cafes owned and operated by passionate locals in which you can taste some deliciously sweet pastries, cakes and tea, but it is also home to many Berbers, whose culture is renowned for it’s exciting cooking.
The huge cultural melting pot of a city is home to people from across the country, across many religions and ways of life, and as such, you can find almost any flavor of Moroccan food in Marrakech with just a short walk down the road – although you might want to take a map.
The street food here is also incredible and well worth a shot, and many times will be more authentic and more exciting than food served in restaurants. If you’re looking to take some of this taste home with you, you can easily find a cooking class (or a few) in Marrakech, with English speaking guides who will help you recreate these incredible dishes in your own kitchen, and find the ingredients freshly served in the souks for you to take back to your riad.
Start Your Journey Here
At Morocco Getaway, we’re thrilled to be able to help you unravel and discover the many layers of our beautiful country to find a place that is uniquely yours. Whatever you’re looking for – from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert to the busy streets of Marrakech – we’ll help you find it. Discover our small group tours here.
