A firm favourite with those looking to escape the cold British winters, Marrakech is often the first port of call for any visitor to Morocco, its magnificent architecture off-set by the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped High Atlas mountains. It is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of the country, bright colours, fragrant spices, the hustle and bustle of everyday life all combining to form a veritable symphony for the senses.
Holidays to Marrakech promise a wealth of history, founded in 1062, the city has played host to a succession of dynasties and rulers and has outlived them all. Its founders bequeathed it the astonishing legacy of the network of wells and pipes which draw spring waters underneath the city, together with the lush gardens and orchards, which have become such an important part of its very character. It is to the Saadians, who ruled the city in the 16th century, that it owes the vast El Badi Palace and magnificent necropolis, the Saadian tombs. In the 1920's Marrakech became fashionable amongst the European elite, attracting artists, writers and bohemian types from around the world to its laid-back lifestyle, and exotic ambience.
You will find at the heart of the city within the ancient city walls, the Jemaa el Fna, recognised by UNESCO for its unique heritage as a living, breathing monument. This vast open square is closed to traffic and filled with the hubbub of people engaged in every type of activity imaginable. Stalls and street-vendors jostle for space with snake-charmers, dancers and fortune-tellers. As the sun goes down, and the locals come out to enjoy the relative cool of the evening, it really comes into its own. The best way to enjoy the atmosphere is to take to one of the restaurant terraces overlooking the square, order a sweet glass of fresh mint tea and simply sit back and enjoy the unique human tableau unfolding in front of you.
People take away many memories of their holidays to Marrakech and the hunt for souvenirs is just one of them, keen shoppers - and even the more reluctant variety - cannot fail to be impressed by the souks of the old medina. Organised by trade, they are a labyrinth of tiny stalls and workshops, grouped into carpet-sellers, pottery, fine leatherware, copperware and so on. There has been a revival in traditional crafts of late as these are interpreted and reworked for contemporary taste. There are plenty of bargains to be found - and of course bargaining is all part of the experience. Those whose taste falls more towards designer goods, will not be disappointed by the elegant boutiques of Gueliz, one of the city's most upmarket modern districts.
If you tire of exploring on foot, take a ride in a barouche, a traditional horse-drawn carriage, which is a great way of getting around. For a complete change of atmosphere, take a trip around the Palmeraie, the lush gardens comprising over 100,000 trees, or make a tour of the city walls with their numerous gateways, known as 'Bab' in Arabic. Holidays in Marrakech truly are a unique and unforgettable experience.
Marrakech City Breaks
Your stay in Marrakech can be as long or as short as you like, being only around 3 hours flight time from the UK, city breaks in Marrakech are a popular choice for those seeking to dip their toes into a magical exotic destination over a long weekend. The enticing array of accommodation in Marrakech such as the authentic riad-style small hotels are very appealing, whether you are seeking a romantic escape for two, or simply a peaceful and relaxing break.
Marrakech city breaks are very popular but sometimes our customers like to combine them with a stay in one of our Morocco beach or mountain retreats. Why not talk to us about combining the two? We are an award-winning tour operator who have built our reputation on quality and outstanding customer care so your holiday or city break is in safe hands.
Marrakech Riads
The choice of accommodation is vast and one of the best reasons for choosing city breaks in Marrakech are the stunning riads, you will delight in these luxurious havens, the perfect base to retreat to after a busy day taking in the wonders of Marrakech. Set in traditional buildings around courtyards, they offer the experience of a luxurious yet authentic guest house, intimate, charming and brimming with character. Usually set in the old part of town, the medina, the riads in Marrakech are stylish and unique, often with a dash of the Oriental, and ensure your Marrakech city break has a genuine Moroccan flavour. Guests tend to eat their meals together and sit around chatting in the courtyard after dinner, a great way to meet like-minded travellers and share sightseeing tips.
Moroccan Cuisine
Of course, part of the whole Marrakech city break experience is sampling the delicious local cuisine, sure to be a highlight of your holiday. Delicate spices flavour even the simplest of dishes, rice or cous cous elevated to exotic status with the addition of plump sultanas or juicy apricots. The delicious meat stew, tagine - usually made with succulent chicken or lamb - is world-famous and certainly will not disappoint. Dishes are usually made from the freshest of ingredients. Those choosing city breaks in Marrakech should try the pastilla, an elaborate confection of delicate filo-like pastry with shredded meat - traditionally pigeon, but these days more commonly chicken or lamb - combining sweet and savoury flavours. Morocco also offers a good range of freshly-caught fish and seafood and it is the world's largest producer of sardines, so fish lovers are well catered for.
Alcohol is freely available and the country does a nice line in local lager and also has many fine wineries producing good local wines.
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