Morocco · City Guide
Marrakech
Marrakech is the most captivating and sensory city in North Africa, a medieval imperial capital of dazzling riads, labyrinthine souks, magnificent palaces, extraordinary street performances and the famous Djemaa el-Fna square that comes alive each evening with storytellers, musicians and food stalls in a spectacle that has been listed by UNESCO. From the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs to the Majorelle Garden, the hammams and the outstanding riad hotels, Marrakech is an experience of profound intensity.
Elect's take
"Marrakech is the destination that most immediately engages all the senses simultaneously. The colours, sounds, smells and sheer energy of the medina create an experience that can be overwhelming but is never anything less than completely captivating."
The Djemaa el-Fna at sunset is one of the world's great urban spectacles, as the square transforms from a daytime market into an evening carnival of food stalls, entertainers, musicians and storytellers. The Bahia Palace is a magnificent 19th century vizier's residence of extraordinary decorative richness with beautiful gardens and mosaic tiled rooms. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum and the adjacent Majorelle Garden provide outstanding cultural and botanical experiences. The souks of the medina, particularly the copper, leather and textile districts, are outstanding. The hammam experience, essential to Marrakech, is available at multiple levels from neighbourhood hammams to luxury spa hammams in the finest riads. The Atlas Mountains, clearly visible from the city, provide excellent day trips.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Djemaa el-Fna
The world's most extraordinary open-air spectacle, a UNESCO listed cultural space.
Bahia Palace
A magnificent 19th century palace of extraordinary decorative richness and beautiful gardens.
Majorelle Garden
An extraordinary botanical garden and YSL Museum in brilliant cobalt blue.
Marrakech Souks
A labyrinthine network of covered markets for copper, leather, textiles and spices.
Hammam Culture
The essential Marrakech wellness ritual from neighbourhood hammams to luxury spa experiences.
Riad Stays
Traditional courtyard houses converted into some of the world's most beautiful boutique hotels.
