Marrakech is a city of dazzling contrasts, where centuries-old tradition meets modern vibrancy at every turn. Lose yourself in its maze-like medina, where the scent of spice drifts through the souks, and calm oases hide behind ornate doors. From golden sunsets over Bahia Palace to tranquil moments in Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech is a feast for the senses – timeless, intoxicating and endlessly alive.
Begin your journey with Marrakech’s most iconic landmark. The 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque dominates the skyline with its 77-metre minaret, a perfect example of Almohad architecture that inspired others across the Maghreb. Though entry is reserved for worshippers, the surrounding gardens are open to all – a peaceful spot to pause as the call to prayer echoes through the palms.
A short stroll from the mosque leads to the Saadian Tombs, built by Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour in the late 16th century. Hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917, this royal necropolis is a dazzling showcase of Islamic art. Intricate tiles, carved cedar ceilings and shafts of golden light illuminate the sultan’s final resting place – along with those of his family and advisors, arranged in striking geometric harmony.
Step into the splendour of the 19th-century Bahia Palace, a masterpiece created for a grand vizier and his many wives. Its name means “brilliance”, and it’s easy to see why: ornate zellige mosaics, carved stucco and tranquil courtyards capture Morocco’s artistic peak. The scent of jasmine fills the air as sunlight dances across marble floors – a glimpse of a lavish past preserved in perfect stillness.
Next, travel through time at the Maison de la Photographie. This elegant riad houses an extraordinary collection of photographs from 1870 to 1950, capturing Morocco’s landscapes, traditions and faces in haunting black and white. Each portrait tells a story of the country’s evolution, seen through the eyes of early travellers and locals alike. End your visit on the rooftop terrace with mint tea and a sweeping panorama of the medina.
Finally, retreat to Jardin Majorelle – a serene garden that feels worlds away from the city’s bustle. Created by artist Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent, it’s a vision of cobalt-blue walls, cacti and bamboo groves surrounding a chic Art Deco villa. The calm hum of fountains, the play of light and colour – it’s a masterpiece of design and one of Marrakech’s most beloved sanctuaries.
Stay in an opulent riad just minutes from Jemaa el-Fna Square, where ornate tiles, soaring arches, and traditional Moroccan furnishings create an Arabian Nights backdrop. Enjoy breakfast, Moroccan tea and pastries, and make the most of the rooftop bar, hammam, and indoor pool – plus longer stays unlock extra perks. With the attentive staff on hand, you can arrange rooftop dinners, desert day trips, or even a hands-on Moroccan cooking class.
Book nowDive into the beating heart of Marrakech in its sprawling souks. North of Jemaa el-Fna, this maze of narrow alleys brims with scent and sound – spices piled high, metalworkers at their craft, and textiles in every hue. Each turn reveals another artisan’s secret. It’s the place to bargain for leather goods, lanterns and rugs, and to lose yourself in the hypnotic rhythm of local life.
By sunset, the city converges on Jemaa el-Fna. This legendary square has been Marrakech’s stage for centuries – alive with storytellers, snake charmers, musicians and sizzling food stalls. UNESCO hails it as a living masterpiece of oral tradition, but it’s the energy that captivates most. Climb to a rooftop café, sip sweet tea, and watch the spectacle unfold beneath you.
For a change of pace, explore Gueliz and Ville Nouvelle – the modern face of Marrakech. Built during the French protectorate, these leafy boulevards now buzz with galleries, concept stores and stylish cafés. Come evening, the area hums with cocktail bars and restaurants where locals and visitors gather to toast the city’s creative spirit.
End your stay the Moroccan way – with a hammam ritual that soothes both body and mind. Steam, exfoliation and argan oil massages combine for deep relaxation and renewal. Choose an authentic bathhouse in the medina like Hammam de la Rose or a luxury spa in Gueliz. However you indulge, it’s a fitting finale to days of discovery in this mesmerising city.
Escape the city and journey to the Agafay Desert, a moon-like landscape just outside Marrakech. Ride camels or 4x4s across rocky dunes, watch the sun dip below the horizon, and savour a serene evening under the stars. This otherworldly setting is perfect for a sunset picnic or a night in a luxury desert camp, offering a striking contrast to the bustling medina and an unforgettable taste of Morocco’s wild beauty.
Combine the excitement of Marrakech with a night or two under the stars in the Agafay Desert. Begin with a luxury hotel or riad stay in the city’s medina, then escape to a luxury desert camp, complete with half-board, private tours, and optional experiences like hot air balloon rides or jeep adventures. Return to Marrakech to explore the medina, shop in the souks, and soak up the city’s culture – the perfect blend of city and sand.
Book nowPerched above the medina, Nomad combines modern Moroccan cuisine with rooftop views that capture Marrakech’s vibrant pulse. Dishes blend traditional flavours with contemporary flair, from spiced lamb and fresh salads to inventive vegetarian plates. The minimalist interior, warm lighting, and sunset vistas create a perfect pause after wandering the souks, making each meal a sensory experience that balances atmosphere, taste, and the city’s unmistakable energy.
Tucked away in a quiet courtyard, Restaurant La Famille offers a peaceful retreat from the medina bustle. The Mediterranean-inspired menu highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients, with colourful salads, mezze plates, and vegetarian options. Sunlight filters through the leafy canopy above, while the serene atmosphere allows guests to linger. Every dish and detail is crafted to make each meal feel restorative, intimate, and a moment of calm in the lively city.
A medina favourite, Café des Épices is perfect for light bites, people-watching, and soaking up the sights and sounds of Marrakech. Nestled along a narrow alley, it serves refreshing juices, tagines, and Moroccan pastries. The rooftop terrace offers sweeping views over the spice-scented streets below, making it ideal for a mid-morning snack, a pause with afternoon mint tea, or a leisurely stop to admire the medina while the city hums beneath your feet.
Le Jardin offers a sensory escape within a verdant riad setting, where lush gardens, colourful tiles, and trickling fountains frame every meal. The menu features classic Moroccan dishes alongside inventive seasonal creations, all presented with care. Guests can linger over lunch or an early dinner in the peaceful, garden-filled courtyard, enjoying both the flavours of Marrakech and the tranquil, intimate atmosphere that makes this restaurant a favourite among visitors and locals alike.
Dar Cherifa is a riad-turned-restaurant where history and gastronomy combine. Nestled in the medina, its candlelit courtyard and intimate architecture enhance the dining experience. Traditional Moroccan dishes, such as slow-cooked lamb and spiced couscous, are elevated with refined presentation. Each meal feels immersive, connecting guests with the city’s culinary soul while offering a memorable evening in a space that fuses heritage, charm, and the enchanting rhythm of Marrakech.
Win a dreamy escape to Marrakech with a four-night stay for two at the luxurious Park Hyatt Marrakech. Enjoy daily breakfast, one delightful dinner, and £500 towards flights. Wander vibrant souks, relax in serene riads, and soak up the city’s colourful energy on this unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
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