Holidays to Marrakech: A Guide to the Best Places to Stay, Eat, and Explore

Visitors can explore the historic Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, shop for traditional Moroccan crafts in the sprawling markets, or relax in one of the city’s many luxurious hammams.

The city’s culinary scene should not be missed, with opportunities to try dishes like tagine and couscous in both street stalls and upscale restaurants. Marrakech also serves as a great base for day trips to the nearby Atlas Mountains or Sahara Desert.

• Marrakech, known as the “Red City,” is one of Morocco’s most vibrant destinations.
• Highlights include the historic Medina, bustling markets, and luxurious hammams.
• The city offers a rich culinary scene with traditional Moroccan dishes.
• Marrakech serves as a base for day trips to the Atlas Mountains or Sahara Desert.

Top Holidays in Marrakech

Four Seasons Resort Marrakeck:

Nestled in the heart of Marrakech, the Four Seasons Resort Marrakech promises an unforgettable luxury experience. This 5-star property boasts an adult-only pool for a serene and relaxed atmosphere, while also catering to families with dedicated kid-friendly areas.

The resort is set amidst beautifully manicured gardens that offer tranquil spaces for guests to unwind. An extensive spa provides an array of treatments and therapies inspired by Moroccan traditions.

The dining options include a variety of international and local cuisines, ensuring a gastronomic delight for every palate. The resort’s excellent location provides easy access to Marrakech’s bustling markets and historic sites.

Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech

The Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech is an oasis of luxury set against the backdrop of the stunning Atlas Mountains. This 5-star resort features an impressive 18-hole golf course designed by renowned architect Cabell B. Robinson, making it an ideal choice for golf enthusiasts.

It’s also family-friendly, boasting Marrakech’s largest kids’ club offering a host of fun and educational activities. The accommodations range from luxurious rooms to exclusive suites and villas, all providing unrivaled comfort and elegance. The resort also houses multiple dining venues that serve a wide range of delectable cuisines.

The Oberoi Marrakech holidays

The Oberoi Marrakech is a magnificent resort set within 28 acres of landscaped gardens filled with beautiful orchards and olive groves. This 5-star property offers lavish accommodations featuring handcrafted Moroccan design elements, private terraces, and exquisite garden or Atlas Mountain views.

The resort’s dining experiences range from fine-dining Moroccan cuisine to international favorites. A holistic wellness oasis, the Oberoi spa, offers personalized therapies designed to nourish your body and mind. The resort’s location on the outskirts of the city ensures tranquility, while still providing easy access to Marrakeck’s iconic landmarks.

Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech

The Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech is a vibrant 4-star property located in the peaceful palm groves on the outskirts of Marrakech. The hotel offers three heated pools, one reserved exclusively for adults, providing an ideal environment for both relaxation and recreation.

A complimentary bus service shuttles guests to the city center, making sightseeing convenient. The hotel’s all-inclusive dining plan allows guests to enjoy a wide variety of meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day. Kids can partake in a fun-filled activities program, making it a fantastic choice for families.

Be Live Experience Marrakech Palmeraie

Located amidst the enchanting landscapes of the Marrakech Palm Grove, the Be Live Experience Marrakech Palmeraie offers sublime views of the Atlas Mountains. This all-inclusive hotel is perfect for those seeking a hassle-free vacation where meals, drinks, and select activities are included in the stay.

Guests can relax in the modern and spacious rooms, dine at the on-site restaurant that serves both local and international dishes, and participate in the diverse entertainment programs. The hotel also offers a shuttle service to Marrakech’s city center, allowing guests to explore the vibrant local culture and history.

Why Choose Marrakech City for Your Next Holiday?

Marrakech is an exotic and bustling city located in Morocco, making it an ideal destination for a unique and unforgettable holiday experience. With its rich culture, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality, it’s no surprise that Marrakech is a popular choice for many holidaymakers.

A Variety of Marrakech Holiday Types

The city is also an excellent destination for winter sun seekers and summer holidaymakers. Additionally, Marrakech is an excellent option for city breaks, with its rich history, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife.

Cultural and Historical Richness

Marrakech is a city steeped in history and culture, with many fascinating landmarks and attractions to explore. The city’s old town, Medina, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many stunning examples of Islamic architecture, including the Koutoubia Mosque and the Bahia Palace. The city is also famous for its souks, where you can find a wide variety of traditional handicrafts, spices, and textiles.

The fascinating museums in Marrakech include:

1. Marrakech Museum: Housed in the late 19th-century palace, Dar Menebhi, this museum showcases a range of modern and traditional Moroccan art, historical documents, and archaeological finds. The stunning Andalusian-style architecture of the palace is also a highlight.

2. Yves Saint Laurent Museum: Located near the Jardin Majorelle, this museum is dedicated to the life and work of the French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. The exhibits include a comprehensive collection of clothing, accessories, and original sketches, providing a rich insight into his career.

3. Berber Museum: Situated within the Jardin Majorelle, the Berber Museum celebrates Berber culture, which has had a profound influence on Moroccan history. The museum showcases a collection of over 600 artefacts, including traditional costumes, jewellery, and everyday tools.

4. Museum of Marrakech: This museum, set in a former palace, showcases a variety of Moroccan art and cultural artefacts. The exhibits include traditional ceramics, coins, Moroccan Jewish artifacts, contemporary art, and Quranic inscriptions.

5. Dar Si Said Museum: Also known as the Museum of Moroccan Arts, this museum houses a collection of artefacts showcasing the richness of Moroccan craftsmanship. Exhibits include Berber jewellery, traditional clothing, antique weapons, ceramics, carpets, and woodworking.

6. Bahia Palace: While not a museum in the traditional sense, the Bahia Palace is a historic site open to the public. It showcases Moroccan and Islamic architectural styles and hosts temporary art exhibits.

7. MACMA (Museum of Art & Culture Marrakech): This museum celebrates Moroccan arts, culture, and heritage, showcasing a collection of Moroccan traditional arts and crafts, old photographs, pottery, antique carpets, and traditional Moroccan jewelry.

8. House of Photography (Maison de la Photographie): This museum houses a vast collection of photographic prints, postcards, and glass negatives from the period between 1870 and 1950. The images offer an intriguing historical insight into Moroccan life during this era.

9. The Secret Garden: This restored palace features a museum that provides an overview of traditional Islamic garden design and an introduction to the complex system of underground irrigation canals known as khettara. The palace grounds host two beautiful gardens: an exotic garden and a traditional Islamic garden.

10. Le Jardin Secret: While primarily a garden, Le Jardin Secret also houses a museum dedicated to explaining the history of the garden, traditional Islamic architecture, and the historical importance of the site dating back to the Saadian period in the 16th century. There are a wide selection of gardens in Marrakech which are worth checking out including the Menara Gardens.

Warm Hospitality

Moroccan hospitality is renowned for its warmth and generosity, and Marrakech is no exception. Visitors to the city can expect to receive a warm welcome from the locals, who are always eager to share their culture and traditions and the amazing Moroccan food and their bustling city life. Whether you’re staying in a luxury hotel or a traditional riad, you’ll be treated like a VIP.

Unique and Exotic Experience

Marrakech offers a truly unique and exotic holiday experience that’s unlike anything else whether a long holiday or a quick city break. From the vibrant colors and aromas of the souks to the stunning sunsets over the Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is a feast for the senses. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine, which is famous for its bold flavors and spices.

What to Expect in Marrakech

Marrakech is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern amenities. Visitors to Marrakech can expect a lively atmosphere with plenty of attractions and activities to keep them entertained. The local currency is the Moroccan dirham.

Weather and Temperatures

Marrakech experiences a hot and dry climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 38°C throughout the year. The best time to visit Marrakech is during the shoulder seasons of March to May and September to November when the weather is more moderate. Visitors should be prepared for both extremely hot and quite cold weather conditions, especially during the summer and winter months.

Culture and Language

Moroccan Arabic is the official language of Marrakech, but many locals also speak French and English. Visitors should expect to encounter a unique blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern influences, including street performers and snake charmers in the bustling Medina.

It is important to respect local customs and dress modestly (it is a Muslim country), especially when visiting religious sites. In the evening visit the night markets, the night live or just enjoy live music and street performers in the main square.

Attractions and Activities

Marrakech offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Popular attractions include the Atlas Mountains, where visitors can hike and explore the stunning scenery.

The city is also home to international film festivals and aqua parks, providing entertainment for all ages. Visitors can choose from a variety of hotels in Marrakech, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts.

Accommodation in Marrakech

Marrakech is a popular tourist destination, and as such, there is a wide range of accommodation options available to suit different budgets and preferences. In this section, we will explore the various types of accommodation available in Marrakech.

Hotels

Marrakech has a wide range of hotels, from budget to luxury. One of the most popular luxury hotels is the Radisson Blu Hotel Marrakech, which offers modern amenities and stunning views of the city. The hotel is located in the heart of the city, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s attractions.

For those looking for a more traditional experience, the Live Collection Marrakech offers a unique blend of modern and traditional Moroccan architecture. The hotel features a spa, outdoor pool, and a range of dining options.

Self-Catering Accommodation

If you prefer a more independent experience, self-catering accommodation is a great option. Marrakech has a range of apartments and villas available for rent, with many located in the city center.

The Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech is a popular choice for families and groups. The resort offers spacious apartments and villas, each with a fully equipped kitchen and private balcony or terrace.

All-Inclusive Accommodation

All-inclusive accommodation is a great option for those who want to relax and enjoy their holiday without worrying about additional costs. Marrakech has a range of all-inclusive resorts, with many located on the outskirts of the city.

The Iberostar Club Palmeraie Marrakech is a great option for those looking for an all-inclusive experience. The resort offers a range of activities and amenities, including a spa, outdoor pool, and a variety of dining options.

Planning Your Trip to Marrakech

If you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. This section will cover the essential details you need to know before you book your trip.

Getting There

Marrakech has its own airport, Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), which serves both domestic and international flights. There are direct flights available from major airports in Europe, including London, Paris, Madrid, and Amsterdam. You can check with your preferred airline to see if they offer flights to Marrakech. The airport is just 15 minutes from the city centre.

Travel Advice

Before you travel to Marrakech, it’s important to check the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the Travel Aware website. These resources provide up-to-date information on safety and security, entry requirements, and health advice for Morocco.

Booking Conditions

When booking your trip to Marrakech, it’s important to check the booking conditions carefully. Look for a price guarantee to ensure that you won’t be charged extra fees or surcharges after you’ve booked your trip.

Also, check if the tour operator or travel agent is ATOL certified. This certification provides financial protection in case the company goes bankrupt or if there are any issues with your trip. Make sure to ask for an ATOL certificate when you book your trip.

FAQS on Marrakech holidays

What is the national holiday in Marrakech?

Marrakech, like the rest of Morocco, a predominantly Muslim country, celebrates several national holidays. The most significant of these is Eid Al Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice”. During this holiday, the city is imbued with local customs and traditions, and you can witness the rich cultural heritage of Morocco. Marrakech also observes other Islamic holidays, national celebrations and royal events. Please note, some businesses might close or have reduced hours during these days.

Is Marrakech good for a holiday?

Marrakech is indeed a fantastic choice for a holiday. The city offers a wealth of experiences, from exploring the maze-like streets of the old town to enjoying fine dining in rooftop terraces. You can shop till you drop in the city’s souks, picking up handmade rugs and other local crafts. History buffs will love visiting the fascinating Saadian Tombs and the Bahia Palace. Whether you’re relaxing under palm trees or exploring the vibrant Jemaa El Fna square, there’s something for everyone in Marrakech.

How many days in Marrakech is enough?

Ideally, three to four days in Marrakech is enough to explore the main attractions of the city. This includes a visit to the old city or “Medina”, where you can get lost in the narrow streets, visit the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs, and the vibrant market square, Jemaa El Fna. If you have more time, there are beautiful gardens like the Majorelle Gardens or Agdal Gardens to explore, or even venture on day trips to nearby areas such as the Atlas Mountains.

Why holiday in Marrakech?

Marrakech is an exquisite destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. It offers a unique blend of traditional and contemporary experiences, making it a holiday paradise. You can traverse the maze-like streets of the old town, explore the city’s souks to shop till you drop, or visit notable historical sites like the Bahia Palace and fascinating Saadian tombs. And after a day of sightseeing, the rooftop terrace of a local restaurant is a perfect place for fine dining while enjoying the view.

Is it safe to walk around Marrakech at night?

Generally, Marrakech is considered safe for tourists, even at night. The main areas, such as Jemaa el-Fna and the surrounding Medina, are usually bustling with activity until late hours. However, like in any other city, it’s advisable to stay vigilant, stick to well-lit and crowded areas, respect local customs and avoid displaying expensive items openly. Always check up-to-date travel advisories before your visit.