You either love or hate Marrakech. Having just returned from my second trip, there I love it more that ever. It is a very affecting city: loud, colourful and busy. It can be daunting for Londoners being thrown into the swarm of hassling souk sellers but once you feel confident in the city and understand its ways, it has so much culture, food and entertainment to offer.
To stay
Riad Farnatchi – a gorgeous five star Riad in the middle of the Medina. Your wish is their command; anything is possible at this hotel where they believe “there is no no”. The accommodating staff and beautiful design is entrancing, you will never want to leave.
Es Saadi Palace – An epic but characterful, luxurious hotel with every amenity on offer: stunning swimming pool, picturesque gardens, sensational spa and several fine restaurants. The perfect place to relax and indulge.
To eat
Al Fassia – Run by two sisters and now with a second branch, this is a popular Moroccan restaurant serving delicious traditional food for reasonable prices. Try the authentic lamb tagines and chargrilled meats and treat yourself to a fragrant bottle of Medallion Moroccan wine.
Maison MK, English afternoon tea – missing home? Weave your way through the souks to Maison MK where they serve a freshly made afternoon tea up on the sunny roof terrace.
To drink
Comptoir – A stylish cocktail bar and restaurant near the main hotel area. Friday and Saturday nights host an opulent belly dancing show which takes place around 10.30pm amongst the crowds. Great drinks and great fun.
Bo Zin – this elegant bar and restaurant has quite a reputation for its fabulous food and drink. Go for the evening or just pop in for an enticing cocktail or chilled glass of wine, whilst admiring the surroundings.
To see
Jardin Majorelle – the Yves Saint Laurent colourful gardens are the perfect place to find solace and calm away from the crazed city. Filled with vibrant pots and thriving plants, you can also visit the boutique Berbere Museum which is interesting and informative.
Bahia Palace – this 19th Century building offers historical beauty, weather-worn tiles and intricate carvings; walk round and admire the artistry.
Medersa Ben Youssef – an awe-inspiring example of 16th Century Andalusian-Arab architecture. Originally built as a religious college and amazingly stayed in use until the 1960s. Imagine the students lives as you wander round and explore this huge building.
If you are planning a trip to Marrakech, I would advise three or four days there – that should give you enough time to experience what the city has to offer. If you want to explore more of Morocco you could spend three days in Marrakech then travel on to another town or perhaps visit the beach. I have heard a day trip up into the epic mountains it worth the taxi journey.
Even without an itinerary, walking on foot round Marrakech you will discover and stumble across a wealth of activity and excitement. With regular 3 hour flights from London with Ryanair and Easyjet getting cheaper and cheaper, there is no excuse not to jump on a plane and discover the excitement of the Medina in Marrakech.