Marrakesh

Discover the timeless glory of the Red City through its rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each one a vibrant reflection of Marrakesh's cultural richness. From bustling historic quarters to hip art-deco-infused bohemian quarters, and monumental 12th-century landmarks, each neighborhood offers a unique cultural experience. The Red City retains the allure of the Berber Golden Age with 12th-century mosques, palaces, and gardens dazzling with Imperial might. Peel back the layers of history and roam the maze-like alleys of the medieval walled city, animated with lively souks showcasing centuries-old artisanal tradition. An oasis for the intrepid traveler, here are Marrakesh's top neighborhoods: Djemaa El Fna, Southern Central Medina, Gueliz, Ville Nouvelle, Kasbah, Mellah, Mouassaine, and Kaat Ben Nahid.

JEMAA EL FN

The majestic and vibrant main square Jemaa El lies in Marrakech's Southern Central MedinaFna. Established in the 11th century, the square is the center of Marrakech’s social, cultural and economic life. From morning until evening, the square takes many forms, starting from a bustling marketplace occupied by fruit, crafts, jewelry and spices vendors. As the evening approaches, the marketplace turns into a stage for street performers as many entertainers and musicians gather to amuse their audience. As it symbolizes Marrakech’s rich history and culture, the square was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage in 1985 and continues to attract visitors from all over the world with its captivating charm.

GUELIZ

Aside from its historic old town and medina, Marrakesh also boasts a modern and cosmopolitan district, Gueliz. Located in Ville Nouvelle, or ‘the new town,’ Gueliz offers a variety of experiences, from high-end restaurants and shopping malls to rooftop bars, nightclubs, and lounges. Art enthusiasts will find a number of museums and art galleries showcasing contemporary Moroccan art, adding a modern twist to the city's rich cultural heritage.

KASBAH

Within Marrakech’s medina lies the Kasbah of Marrakech, a district behind whose ancient walls you will discover royal palaces, mosques and narrow alleyways, all of which tell a story about the rich history of Morocco. The Kasbah is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to exquisite architecture of historic palaces and Islamic schools that showcase intricate tilework and ornate decorations, epitomizing Marrakech’s cultural heritage and long history. Within Kasbah’s walls, you will find many artisan workshops and bazaars offering handmade goods and many restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy Morocco’s traditional cuisine.

MELLAH

Throughout its history, Morocco has been home to many different cultures, including the Jewish culture. Mellah of Marrakech is the Jewish quarter in Marrakech’s old town and it reflects the cultural heritage of the city’s Jewish community. The quarter represents the synergy of the two cultures, as you will find examples of traditional Moroccan architecture, as well as some of the country’s oldest synagogues and the Jewish Cemetery. Besides historic landmarks, the Mellah is known for its artisan workshops and markets, where you will find traditional Moroccan crafts, such as jewelry and pottery. You will also come across cafes and restaurants that serve traditional Moroccan and Jewish meals; immerse yourself in the richness of Jewish tradition through the art of culinary exploration.

MOUASSINE

Another gem of Marrakech’s medina is this historic neighborhood, Mouassine, famous for its rich history, which is reflected today in the traditional Moroccan architecture of its mosques and landmarks. For a unique shopping experience, you will find many artisan workshops and boutiques, and if you would like to taste traditional Moroccan cuisine, you will find a curated selection of rooftop terraces and upscale restaurants.

KAAT BEN NAHID

Kaat Ben Nahid, also called Ben Youssef Madrasa, is an Islamic college located in Marrakech’s old town. It dates back to the 14th century, when it was established as an Islamic school where students studied theology, law, and philosophy. The college showcases exquisite Moorish architecture combined with traditional Islamic arabesques and calligraphy, which is why it is one of the city’s most important historic landmarks and a popular tourist destination.

Ground zero of some of the world's most hearty, fragrant, and distinctive cuisines, the food alone is reason enough to visit the Red City. Perched at the crux of civilizations between Africa and mainland Europe, Marrakesh's fine dining heritage is beyond comparison. An incredible roster of gastronomic experiences awaits the intrepid diner, from spontaneous eats at a market stall to the most prestigious white tablecloth dining. Savor the timeless comfort of an aromatic couscous and robust tagine or sample daring fusion fare from some of the world's most promising culinary artists.

LA VILLA DES ORANGERS

Combining East and West, traditional and modern, the restaurant at La Villa des Orangers Hotel takes you on an incredible gastronomic journey. Whether you prefer to dine by the pool or by the fireplace, the restaurant guarantees an impeccable gourmet experience as it offers a sophisticated fusion of diverse flavors of Moroccan, French and Mediterranean cuisines.

LE MAROCAIN LA MAMOUNIA

As its very name suggests, the restaurant Le Marocain is a place where the traditional Moroccan charm will enchant you. Located within La Mamounia Hotel, the restaurant serves traditional dishes, such as couscous and tagine, as well as various seafood specialties combined with different kinds of vegetables. The restaurant’s magnificent ambiance, furnished in traditional Moroccan style, gives away the charm of a palace, contributing to the overall pleasure of dining at Le Marocain.

RESTAURANT DAR ESSALAM

Nestled in the center of Marrakech, Restaurant Dar Essalam is a distinguished dining establishment famous for its refined and traditional Moroccan ambiance. On its menu, you will find carefully selected traditional dishes, such as pastilla and grilled meats, all prepared using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s professional staff will ensure you have a pleasant dining experience at their restaurant, as they are at your disposal for any special request you might have.

DAR MOHA

In Marrakech’s old town, Dar Moha is a renowned restaurant famous for its authentic Moroccan cuisine, serving dishes inspired by traditional recipes and flavors. Carved woodwork and luxurious furnishings of the restaurant’s interior breathe elegance and charm. At the same time, the outdoor terrace is adorned by blooming flowers and lush vegetation, creating a soothing and intimate atmosphere ideal for a tranquil dining experience.

LE TROU AU MUR

Marrakech’s historic Medina hides a prestigious restaurant that combines cuisines of various countries and cultures, constantly innovating and experimenting with different flavors. While the restaurant is best known for the variety of traditional Moroccan and French dishes it offers, it also has a wide variety of international cuisine meals that you can choose from. What sets this restaurant apart is the concept of “blind dining,” where you dine in complete darkness, employing your senses of taste, smell, and touch to experience the aromas and textures of the dishes fully.

LE PETIT CORNICHON

The Le Petit Cornichon Restaurant brings the taste of France to the heart of Morocco with its exquisite French-inspired cuisine served in an intimate ambiance. Meals prepared with fresh and locally sourced ingredients allow you to get a taste of the irresistible French charm while enjoying the restaurant’s sophisticated and cozy setting.

ARTS & CULTURE

The Red City reconciles old-world allure with cutting-edge cosmopolitan amenities. Punching well above its weight, Marrakesh delivers a dizzying array of galleries, museums, and cultural sites. An emerging haven for young artists and bold experimentation, Marrakesh has become one of Africa's foremost creative incubators. Whether you're an art collector, couturier, or history buff, this city delivers plentiful surprises that may have you extending your stay. Spellbinding deserts and mountainscapes have offered great inspiration for interactive sculpture gardens and daring intermedia projects. A cultural melting pot unlike any other, Marrakesh enjoys cachet in regional and international spheres, with a par excellence exhibition cycle showcasing some of the world’s finest contemporary pieces. Marrying an illustrious history with the vanguard of creativity, here are some of Marrakesh's leading cultural sites and institutions:

MONTRESSO

Montresso is a contemporary art gallery that encourages diverse approaches to art, including those that go beyond the established norms. It also supports established as well as aspiring artists on their artistic journey, hosting many exhibitions during the year. The exhibitions display paintings, sculptures, photography, installations and multimedia art, allowing you to explore your artistic preferences and tastes.

BERBER MUSEUM OF THE MAJORELLE GARDENS

Established by the great fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé, the Berber Museum of the Majorelle Gardens showcases the rich cultural heritage of one of the oldest indigenous cultures of North Africa, the Berber people. Artifacts, jewelry, tools, and many other items provide you with insight into the daily lives of the people belonging to this ethnic group, which has had a great impact on Morocco’s culture and tradition.

YVES SAINT LAURENT MUSEUM

Located in the close vicinity of the Majorelle Gardens, the museum is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the renowned fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The museum exhibits Laurent’s iconic collections, sketches and accessories, all of which allow you to observe the evolution of his style throughout his 40-year-long career.

MARRAKECH MUSEUM

The Marrakech Museum is a part of the splendid Dar Menebhi Palace, built in the 19th century and famous for its classical Moroccan architecture. Courtyard fountains and opulent chandeliers, colorful tilework and traditional arabesque motifs create an enchanting atmosphere and showcase traditional Moroccan art. The museum exhibits collections of traditional art and religious objects from not only Moroccan but also Berber and Jewish cultures, as well as occasional exhibitions featuring contemporary Moroccan artists.

DAR BELLARJ MUSEUM

Primarily built as an inn taking in travelers, it was converted to a charitable foundation supporting local artisans. Today, Dar Bellarj is a cultural center that promotes Morocco's cultural heritage. The museum is located in the center and it displays a collection of contemporary art, traditional crafts and historical artifacts from Moroccan culture while showcasing unique artistic styles and mediums, such as ceramics, textiles and metalwork.

JAUNTS

Marrakesh's majestic surroundings are the stuff of legend. Cradled between the soaring High Atlas and Rif Mountains, the technicolor oasis of the Souss Basin, and the dense cedar woodlands of the central plateau, this destination is the gateway to one of Africa's most naturally spectacular regions. A single-day trip delivers endless possibilities, bringing the intrepid traveler from the snowy peaks of the Oukaimeden ski resort to the austere beauty of the Agafay Desert. A land of unmatched natural wonder, ecological diversity, and exoticism, Marrakesh is at the forefront of daring adventure and exhilarating recreation. Discover the otherworldly UNESCO Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou, made popular in the blockbuster Game of Thrones series, and soak in the supernatural splendor of the Atlas' technicolor valleys and aromatic fauna. Here are some of Marrakesh's finest day trip destinations: Ouzoud Falls, Marrakech Palm Groves, Sahara Desert, Agafay Desert, The Atlas Mountains, and Ourika Valley.

OUZOUD FALLS

The Ouzoud Falls are a hidden gem of the serene Atlas Mountains, tucked in the lush greenery of the mountains among olive groves and almond trees. You also have a wide variety of activities to engage in while enjoying the spectacular beauty of the falls. Different hiking routes to enjoy breathtaking views, swimming in the pools at the base of the falls or taking a boat ride to admire the cascades from close up are just some of the activities to complement your adventure at the falls.

MARRAKECH PALM GROVES

The palm oasis located on the outskirts of Marrakech will provide you with a memorable, exotic experience. Also known by the name Palmeraie, the oasis is home to several hundred thousand palm trees surrounded by lush greenery which makes the landscape even more mesmerizing. At your disposal, you have a number of activities, such as camel trekking and quad biking, but also a variety of gourmet dining restaurants, luxurious spa centers, and exclusive golf courses.

SAHARA DESERT

The greatest desert in the world will mesmerize you with its irresistible charm and provide you with an unforgettable experience. While on your Sahara adventure, you will be able to engage in different activities such as camel trekking, which will allow you to enjoy the vastness of the desert’s landscape, stargazing at the vast clear skies by the campfire, or sandboarding down the sand dunes if you are an adrenaline enthusiast.

AGAFAY DESERT

Other than the Sahara Desert, Marrakech hides another gem of nature, the Agafay Desert. Characterized by rocky and barren terrain as well as erosion-sculpted hills, the majestic landscape of the Agafay Desert will leave you speechless. Activities like quad biking and horseback riding will make your adventure at the Agafay Desert even more exciting and amusing.

OURIKA VALLEY

This valley lies along the Ourika River in the Atlas Mountains. The Ourika Valley is renowned for its lush greenery, breathtaking landscapes, terraced fields, and cascading waterfalls. If you want to stay active during your vacation and explore the local culture, the Ourika Valley is the right place for you. You can engage in hiking and trekking as well as explore the Berber culture, as there are several traditional Berber villages where you will get a closer insight into their tradition and customs.

SHOPPING

Whether you are looking for high-end fashion stores or you are interested in unique home decor items, Marrakech offers a variety of boutiques and stores where you will find products that cater to your needs and tastes. Take a piece of Marrakech home with you by choosing among elegant clothes and accessories designed by both Moroccan and international designers and handicrafts made by the most skillful artisans.

M AVENUE

The first open-air shopping mall in Marrakech offers a variety of high-end boutiques and designer fashion stores lined along the mall’s promenade endowed with lush greenery that enhances your enjoyment. For further relaxation, you have a number of luxurious wellness and spa centers at your disposal, all offering a tranquil atmosphere where you can indulge in soothing experiences.

MARRAKECH DESIGN

The Marrakech Design is a boutique offering Moroccan-inspired home decor. Carefully crafted tiles, rugs, lighting fixtures, and furniture are all designed to fit into your home interior and add a touch of the irresistible Moroccan charm.

MAISON ARTC

Maison ARTC is a high-end culture house in Marrakech offering unique clothing and accessories. Moroccan and international designers make sure that their products showcase the prominent Moroccan culture and heritage. Creative home decor that represents local tradition is what contributes to this store’s authenticity and uniqueness.

33 RUE MAJORELLE

Near the Majorelle Garden, there is a chic concept store where you will find a wide variety of sophisticated fashion, accessories, and home decor items. At the store, you will find pieces by both international and local brands, all of which reflect the vibrant energy of Marrakech’s fashion scene.

NORYA AYRON

Norya Ayron is a luxury fashion boutique located in Marrakech’s Medina. The collections come in limited editions, as every piece is unique and created with a timeless design. The boutique offers designer clothes, handbags, shoes and accessories for both men and women, providing its customers with classy and sophisticated pieces that reflect the spirit of Morocco’s elegance.

NIGHTLIFE

Marrakech is well-known for its vibrant and lively nightlife scene. If you prefer a more energetic and exciting night out, you will experience partying at some of the most exclusive nightclubs and beach clubs. Enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail in one of Marrakech’s bars or rooftop terraces in a lively atmosphere created by live music performers and skillful DJs.

NIKKI BEACH

Nikki Beach, located on the outskirts of Marrakech, is an exclusive beach club famous for its lively pool parties. Luxurious poolside settings where you can enjoy all kinds of drinks and cocktails, as well as world’s famous DJs create an atmosphere similar to that of Miami and St Tropez clubs.

THEATRO MARRAKECH

It is one of the most high-end and exclusive clubs of Marrakech nightlife, where you can dance the night away to the sound of the best house and hip-hop music. Featuring multiple levels and VIP areas in a luxurious ambiance with the most extravagant decor, Theatro Marrakech provides an unforgettable partying experience. Themed parties, including masks and costumes combined with the music played by the best international DJs, elevate the energy of this place to another level and take you to a different dimension of entertainment.

BO ZIN MARRAKECH

This classy lounge bar is famous for its luxury interior design and sophisticated ambiance, offering a wide variety of drinks and cocktails. The lively atmosphere of the bar is enhanced by live music performances and DJ sets that provide you with an unforgettable experience of Marrakech’s nightlife.

BAROMÈTRE

Inspired by speakeasies from the prohibition era, this trendy rooftop bar provides you with a panoramic view of the city skyline and the Atlas Mountains. The bar is dedicated to mixology and Mediterranean cuisine, so at your disposal you will have a wide variety of carefully mixed cocktails as well as many gourmet cuisine dishes.

COMPTOIR DARNA

Comptoir Darna offers you an exceptional gourmet experience while also providing you with high-quality entertainment. Oriental bands, traditional Moroccan orchestras and belly dance shows allow you to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture and enjoy its unique charm and energy.

ACTIVITIES & EXPERIENCES

Thanks to its splendid nature and landscapes, Marrakech offers a variety of outdoor activities that you can engage in while on your vacation. Activities such as quad biking and hot air balloon riding allow you to explore the country’s hidden gems and admire the lush scenery of the region. Stay active during your holiday by engaging in camel riding through the country’s magnificent deserts or by hiking through the picturesque Atlas Mountains.

QUAD BIKING

The palm oasis of Marrakech, the Palmeraie, offers an exciting quad biking experience. Enjoy the wonders of this place while riding through palm groves and exploring the breathtaking landscape of the oasis.

HOT AIR BALLOON RIDING

If you would like to experience the marvels of Marrakech from a different perspective, you can organize a bespoke hot air balloon ride that allows you to admire the city from the air. The breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains, lush green valleys and traditional Berber villages will mesmerize you with their beauty and provide you with a unique experience.

CAMEL RIDING

This timeless tradition allows you to experience the true spirit of Morocco. Whether you opt for a ride through the Palmeraie or choose a multi-day trek into the Sahara Desert, this adventure will certainly be an unforgettable experience.

ATLAS MOUNTAINS DAY TRIP

Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains and enjoy the picturesque landscape of the region while hiking through spectacular valleys and admiring the snow-covered peaks. Explore traditional Berber villages and get to know the traditions and culture of Morocco’s indigenous people.

KOUTOUBIA GARDENS

Stretching out behind Marrakech’s largest mosque, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Koutoubia Gardens represent a green paradise dotted with palm trees and perfect for relaxation. Enjoy while taking a stroll through the palm trees, or relax on a park bench and unwind in the tranquil surroundings.