Marrakech Holidays

The Atlantic coast

Marrakech is an inland city, and while it does see the Oued Issil River running through it, the river dries up completely during the summer months. Despite this, it is possible to enjoy a classic seaside experience by taking a day trip, or an overnight trip, to the Atlantic coast. The Moroccan beaches can be reached in two to three hours depending on which beach you choose. Safi, Essaouira, and Agadir are the most popular choices for a day out at the beach. While they each have their own unique characteristics, only one is known as ‘The Miami of Morocco’. Agadir Beach is often likened to those of Florida.

Sand dunes

For a sand experience with a difference, why not venture into the Sahara Desert and visit North Africa’s famous sand dunes? The nearest dunes to Marrakech are located 350 kilometres away in Zagora, so it’s best to hire a car and allow for two or three days to really enjoy yourselves. Merzouga is another destination known for its incredible sand dunes. While you’re there, you can take part in a number of activities, such as camel trekking. It’s also a great opportunity to check out some of the popular tourist destinations outside of Marrakech. Ouarzazate, with its UNESCO-listed old fortified village, is well worth a visit.

Bargain Buys

Bargain buys

Haggling is the name of the game in the Marrakech souk, so it’s a great place to grab some bargains. The local souk is a labyrinth of narrow aisles with row upon row of vendors. You can buy everything from rugs to lamps, but travellers often opt for smaller souvenirs which they can pack in their suitcases. Silver jewellery, oriental slippers, harem trousers, cashmere scarves and tagine pots are popular purchases.

Mid-Range Buys

Mid-range buys

There are lots of quality souvenirs you can bring back from Marrakech, including the black hammam spa soap that you can find in many gift shops. You’ll find them all around the city, as well as in the local shopping malls. Carre Eden features a blend of gift shops and international brands like Adidas, H&M, and Lacoste, while the Menara Mall includes 90 stores, an ice rink, cinema, and even its own indoor souk.

Designer Buys

Designer buys

Don’t forget to look beyond the Marrakech souk and venture down the tiny alleyways of the medina. While you may not think of this as being a place for high-end goods, these little streets are actually home to a number of global designer stores. Isabelle Topolina and Belgian designer Valerie Barkowski both have shops here There’s even a luxury vintage boutique owned by Vanessa ‘sister of Richard’ Branson.

Laid-back evenings

Laidback evenings

For a truly local nightlife experience, stick around in the medina and Jemaa el-Fna square after the sun sets. There are many traditional clubs that show off the very best of Moroccan entertainment. Dinner shows are very popular here. You’ll find yourself enjoying a classic tagine dinner, while watching the bejewelled belly dancers show off their moves on stage, supported by local singers and saxophonists. Be sure to order a freshly squeezed orange juice or a green tea with mint, which are two of the most popular beverages enjoyed in Marrakech. You can pick these up at street vendors in the square, too.

Lively evenings

Lively evenings

Believe it or not, Marrakech isn’t all about tradition. Outside of the medina you’ll find a very different type of nightlife. In the Gueliz, Palmeraie, and Hivernage Garden districts of the city, the nightlife is very modern and very international. It could give the beach clubs of the Spanish coast a run for their money. Live music is common, and it’s easy to find cocktail bars, piano bars, and fine dining experiences. Alcohol is permitted in Marrakech in licensed bars and restaurants, so you’ll have no trouble ordering a beer, wine, or cocktail here. Also be sure to check out the entertainments offered at your Marrakech hotel.

Mediterranean blends

You may be surprised to learn that Moroccan cuisine is similar in many ways to Mediterranean, as the country extends all the way up to the Med. The difference is that Moroccan foods are generously seasoned with fresh local spices including cinnamon, cumin, turmeric, ginger, paprika, and coriander.

The Moroccan tagine

Savoury stews known as tagines are common menu items here, often made with meat, veg, spices, nuts, and dried fruits. They’re prepared in a pyramid-shaped pot, also known as a tagine. What is believed to be the world’s largest tagine is located just a two-hour drive from Marrakech, in the pottery town of Safi.

Street food scenes

Morocco has a big street food culture. Spiced meat sandwiches called brochettes are extremely popular, as are kebabs. Be sure to try chermoula, which is marinated grilled or fried fish. In Morocco, the fish used is usually sardines. Morocco is a major exporter of them, and most fish caught here are sardines.

Where to eat

For an authentic Moroccan experience, it has to be the medina in Marrakech, especially Jemaa el-Fna Square. It can be hot here, so be sure to pick up a fresh orange juice or green tea with mint. Outside of the medina are more modern cafes and bistros, along with international fast food joints.

Wine and beer

Although Morocco has a hot climate, most of the vineyards are located in the cooler Atlas Mountains. The colder weather here creates high acidity wines such as Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc. Brasseries du Maroc brews local Moroccan beers, lagers and pilsners including Speciale Flag, Stork, and Casablanca.