Weekend in Marrakech: what to do in the red city
- October 18, 2024
- Matthma
- 3 min
I visited Marrakech over a weekend and was captivated by the unique atmosphere of this city. The colors, people and smells on the streets captivated me from the first moment.
I highly recommend visiting at this time of year, when the weather is pleasant and allows you to best enjoy the gardens, markets and palaces without the extreme heat. In two days I managed to discover some of the most fascinating sights in Marrakech, and here I want to share my favorite stops.
8 Things Not to Miss in Marrakech
Majorelle Gardens
During my visit to the Majorelle Gardens, I was struck by the calm and beauty of this place. Created by painter Jacques Majorelle and restored by Yves Saint Laurent, this oasis is an explosion of exotic plants and the famous “Majorelle blue” lends a touch of magic. It is a perfect place to take photos and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Bahia Palace
The Palace is a perfect example of Moorish architecture with green-filled courtyards and exquisite decoration. Walking through its rooms, it is easy to imagine the glitz and elegance of life in the 19th century.
The Medina and the Souks
Getting lost in the narrow streets of the Medina. I became enveloped by the bright colors, the scents of spices and the voices of the merchants. In the souks I found everything from traditional textiles to handcrafted jewelry. Haggling is part of the fun and helps make the experience even more authentic.
Koutoubia Mosque
Although it is not possible to go inside, the Koutoubia Mosque is a sight to behold. Its minaret towers above the city and is visible from many points. I sat in the nearby park to enjoy the view and the contrast between the historic architecture and the surrounding greenery.
Jemaa el-Fnaa
Marrakech’s main square is the beating heart of the city. During the day you can find fruit vendors, street performers and snake charmers. At night, it turns into an open-air market with stalls selling typical dishes and traditional music performances.
Saadian Tombs
Visiting the Saadian Tombs was like stepping back in time. The richly detailed architecture and intricate mosaics make this place truly special. It is an important piece of Moroccan history that I recommend not to miss.
Menara Gardens
The Menara Gardens are especially impressive at sunset. With olive groves and a large lake reflecting the Atlas Mountains in the distance, it is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll after a day of exploring.
Ouzoud Falls
Although a bit out of town, Ouzoud Falls is definitely worth a visit. I decided to devote a half-day to this excursion and did not regret it. The waterfall, which cascades from a height of more than 100 meters, is a true spectacle of nature. I took the opportunity to take a walk along the surrounding trails and admire the monkeys that inhabit the area. It is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and an immersion experience in nature.
Two inns you absolutely must try
Dar Yacout
At Dar Yacout I had an unforgettable dining experience. The couscous and tajine were simply delicious, served in a fairy-tale setting reminiscent of tales from the Arabian Nights. In addition, the view of the city from above was the icing on the cake.
Fatima
Fatima is the owner of a very small inn at the northern entrance to the souk. Here I found an intimate and cozy atmosphere with excellent tajine (perhaps the best I have ever tried and in fact I have returned several times). I also sampled other traditional dishes such as harira and pastilla, a uniquely flavored cake that combines sweet and savory. The cuisine is authentic and the flavors are those of true Moroccan tradition.
