Marrakech is a city that captures all your senses, where your head constantly turns to capture every sight, smell and sound. A vibrant combination of energy and movement, the chaos and character of Marrakech are truly addictive, with a winding maze of market streets that keep you entertained for hours.
Things to do
Although there are specific sites of Marrakech, the true experience of the city can only be grasped by wandering its streets. Start by diving into the heart of the old town, the Medina, which is full of colourful market stalls selling everything you can imagine, from spices to carpets, jewellery to tajine dishes.
Follow the echoing calls to prayer to the main mosques of the city. Designed in Islamic architecture, the Koutoubia Mosque is defined by its large square and tall minaret tower that illuminates every evening. There is also a Jewish quarter in the city, containing cemeteries and synagogues that capture the diverse heritage of Morocco.
The Museum of Marrakech reveals the artisan history of the city, displaying ornately tiled walls, painted wooden floors and crafts from ancient artists and contemporary people, including the Berber culture and nomadic mountain communities.
Gueliz is the modern European centre of the city, home to chain stores and westernised restaurants. For the most authentic cuisine, wait until the evening when makeshift bistros are created under white tents, and vendors sell Moroccan delicacies like tajine and harira soup.
Getting around
With its labyrinth of streets, the medina can only be explored by foot. The outskirts of the city are traversable by bus, taxi or caleche, a romantic horse and carriage.