Just a three hour flight from London, Marrakech, also spelt Marrakesh, is the perfect winter sun escape. It’s a cultural feast for the senses, with a boujee party scene and a nation obsessed with tea and tagine! I first visited Marrakech in 2017, and while I enjoyed the experience, I wasn’t in a hurry to return. Fast forward to February 2025, and the craving for rooftops and sunshine close to London took over. This time, I found a whole new appreciation for this red city. I’m not sure if it’s because I was more prepared for the medina or if the city’s vibe has evolved, but one thing was clear: Marrakech now has a Dubai/Mayfair style scene. There are now so many swanky spots to drink, dance, and dine, which makes the destination even more diverse in its offerings. But let’s not forget, this is still a Muslim city, and respect is key.
So, in my Marrakesh travel guide I wanted to cover all the questions I had: What you need to know, must see and do. What is worth visiting? Are the airport queues really bad? What should you wear? Can you drink alcohol in the medina? Is it safe to visit as a solo woman? Is the Wi-Fi good or do I need data? Hopefully, this guide will help answer them for you, as well as point you to some great places to visit of course, including a few of my favourite rooftops! For all 16 rooftops click here.
What you need to know, must see and do:
When is the best time of year to visit Marrakesh?
Firstly, you’ll want to check the dates for Ramadan. This is the time fasting takes place during the day. Some restaurants won’t serve alcohol in this period and close in the day though weirdly I learnt that bars tend to operate as usual. However the evenings come alive as fast is broken but it all depends on what you want from your trip.
I visited in February 2025 and March 2017, and the weather on both trips was perfect. It was just the right temperature to lounge by the pool, explore the medina covered up, and enjoy sunset rooftop drinks. However, after sunset, the temperature drops dramatically, so you’ll need a jacket or coat if you want to dine alfresco. February is supposedly the best time for oranges to be at their ripest, so if you love a mimosa, this is your time! It’s also meant to have only about three days of rain, and we had none. Maybe we got lucky, as March can be wetter, but like anywhere, it can be unpredictable. The downside of this time is that places like Café de Mar aren’t open yet – if that matters to you! If you are here for history, culture and being warm then pre and post and shoulder season is ideal!
You might be tempted to visit in the summer, but be warned, temperatures can soar to 50°C. While you’ll want to dress respectfully, the medina, especially the souks, would definitely be a lot to handle in that heat. On the flip side, I’ve heard that December and January can be surprisingly cold, with snow in the Atlas Mountains, meaning some of the hikes may even be cancelled.
Can you sunbathe in February and March in Marrakech?
A question I was keen to understand before I booked! So, if you’re like me, yes, you can definitely sunbathe in February and March in Marrakech. Unless, of course, there’s a freak storm or cold snap – which happened the week after we left! So, it’s never predictable. The weather during both trips ranged from 20°C to 25°C during the day. Mornings were a bit chilly, so the rooftop pool where I stayed was busiest from 12pm to 4pm, when it was hot enough to get burnt!
Which Area Is Best to Stay in Marrakech?
The most popular area to stay in by far is the Medina, particularly in a traditional riad. It also offers rooftop havens right on your doorstep. However, as someone who is claustrophobic, fair-skinned who may be out late at night, navigating the labyrinthine streets of the Medina didn’t appeal. Additionally, despite sex outside of marriage still being illegal, many riads do not cater for twin beds if you are travelling with a friend or not! So I opted to stay on the outskirts but if you want the traditional experience of an exquisite authentic setting, then a riad here is it – and many come with a little rooftop!
Alternatively, you could stay in the Hivernage area which is upscale with hotels such as The Four Seasons, Nobu and M avenue – a street lined with designer shops, restaurants, art exhibitions. It is also home to the Meydene Cultural Center. that opened just a few years ago. This is a fancy escape from the medina madness.
Another option outside the Medina is the neighbouring Gueliz, where I stayed. This modern area of Marrakech features quiet streets filled with art galleries. It’s easy to walk into the Medina, although walking back at night felt safe, even though it was eerily quiet.
If, however, you are visiting to make the most of the weather or staying for more than a long weekend, then the Palmeraie area is perfect for you. Located north of the city, resorts and restaurants such as Club Med and Nikki Beach are nestled in this area, offering the best of both worlds.
2Ciels Hotel with a Rooftop Pool in Marrakech
I have stayed at the same hotel on both visits to Marrakech, purely by coincidence as it was due to budgets. I usually like to try somewhere new but I loved it the first time, so I was excited to return. 2Ciels Hotel is just outside the old town, and of course, it has a rooftop bar and pool. (Read my full review if you are considering this hotel)
However second visit it lacked attention to detail which is maybe why it’s a 4 not 5 star rating. We had some issues on arrival which did taint the start of our trip and meant we missed our dinner reservation. It could have been a one off so won’t over share the details here but can read more on my full hotel review . Suffice to say, if you are easily irritated then this is not the hotel for you.
During my first visit, I loved the lazy mornings and having breakfast in the room, and I was looking forward to this experience again. However, things had changed, and the minimal tray charge was not an option. We would have to pay for breakfast again even though it was included in our booking, which took about six calls to figure out! As you may have guessed the service and information were a bit patchy, depending on who you were dealing with. This was across the board. Nevertheless, the coinvent location, stunning rooftop, and super comfy beds certainly made up for it! So much so, I would stay again. Top tip: ensure you book the pool side or it is a just noisy road below.
Marrakech Airport Queues 2025
I had done a lot of research into the reported long queues at Marrakech Airport. Was it true? Were they only a summer thing? I’d sailed through last time, surprised by how modern the airport was and how close it was to the medina. What I didn’t realise then was that the airport was brand spanking new. Since then, the popularity of this corner of Africa has skyrocketed and so have the queues.
Does it really take 3 hours to get through Marrakech Airport?
It could easily take three hours from disembarking the plane at Marrakech to leaving. It seems like a game of roulette depending on the time, day, and month you land. Part of the reason for the long wait is the extra security you go through after immigration and passport control. I’d read that you can get fast track passes, and there was an empty line for this, but it wasn’t clear, and there were very few staff to ask. If you book a meet and greet, you’ll be whisked through, but it comes at a price. If you have a hidden disability, be sure to wear your lanyard and ask to be prioritised, if you need it. Some staff will know what that means, some won’t, it’s a bit of a lottery.
The order to leave the airport goes like this: first, passport control, then you’ll show your passport again as you exit that area. After that, head to baggage claim, where your bags will need to be x-rayed. Thankfully, you don’t have to unpack your water or other liquids. If you’re looking to get an eSIM or change money, this is your chance. More on that below.
Once outside, you will find a sea of waiting drivers. The first time I didn’t book a taxi and found many drivers trying to hustle and rip us off so this time I prebooked and prepaid. Which also meant I didn’t need any cash. There is also a regular shuttle bus though our taxi was only £9, it was definitely the preferred option after the overwhelm of the airport. But just as you think you are in the clear to make sunset… it took another 20 minutes in the car park just to leave!
Do you really need to be at Marrakesh airport three hours before your flight home?
I would 100% advise arriving at the airport three hours before your flight. I’d heard stories of taxis being booked, and tourists cutting it down to two hours, especially those with only hand luggage. They then missed their flights! I wasn’t taking any chances, even though our hotel suggested that 2 hours 30 minutes would be ‘plenty’ – it would not! That said another day it could have been.
We arrived at the airport exactly 3 hours before our flight. The first thing you’ll do is place your bags on the scanners again, no need to empty your water or anything. The TikToks I saw about this were a bit of scare-mongering, or maybe just clickbait! Our queue only took a few minutes, although it looked a lot worse than it actually was.
You’ll find that you can’t access your boarding pass online, but you can check in online. But you’ll still need to queue to get your boarding pass, just like you would if you were checking in luggage. If your airline does allow you to get your boarding pass online and you have even printed it at your hotel, you’ll still need to have it stamped before going through security, so make sure to get in that queue! So hand luggage privileges are lost here as you still have to queue with all those checking bags in.
Then you go through passport and security as usual. If you have time for some shopping and getting some snacks don’t dilly dally! An hour and a quarter before our flight we were actually at our gate but then were asked to line up and queue again! This time for more security random checks. After that, boarding finally began. You’ll need those 3 hours! Unless it’s a quiet day, but how would you know? I didn’t risk it, and if I had listened to my hotel’s advice, I probably would have missed the flight. Maybe that’s their cunning plan so you stay! I could very easily have!
Does Data and Wifi work in Marrakesh?
Data will work but for most people it will not included in your usual roaming charges. I went to Australia and could use all my usual data and wasn’t charged anything extra. But here you either need to turn that data off and use wifi only, pay the roaming fees or get a sim at the airport or E sim before going. I didn’t need much data, so I relied on the Wi-Fi, which I’d read that Wi-Fi was everywhere, and it is but it often didn’t work as expected. For those like me that worried about meeting our driver at the airport, it did work but was patchy! You can get messages but not make or receive Wi-Fi calls.
The only real issue I had during the trip was navigating the rooftops when I lost my blue dot on Google Maps! My plan had been to get to each rooftop, then reset the destination to the next one, but that quickly went awry. Fortunately, I’d downloaded Google Maps, so I still had a rough idea of where I was going amidst the winding streets. My first visit had been much more aimless without that, and honestly, it wasn’t as enjoyable. So buy the data or download the maps!
Do I need cash in Marrakech – what is closed currency?
Just like my trip to Albania, Morocco has a closed currency which means you can’t get any cash before you go and won’t be able to change it back at home. And you will need cash. Many of the high-end restaurants and hotels now accept cards, but smaller bars, restaurants, markets, taxis, and tips for day trips still only accept cash. In Marrakesh, cash is king. At arrivals, you’ll find plenty of currency exchange options, but the best rates are usually from an ATM. Just keep in mind that the airport ATMs charge a small fee. Since we prepaid for our hotel transfer, we didn’t need cash right away and opted to walk to an ATM near our hotel after checking in. Fully recommend then you don’t have to worry when you arrive.
What to wear in Marrakesh
Of all the towns and cities in Morocco, Marrakech is undoubtedly one of the most liberal. But when I was researching what to wear, I was completely baffled to see images of girls rocking Ibiza style outfits for dinner! Initially, I couldn’t quite get my head around it. However, I quickly realised that once you’re inside a venue, anything goes, dress as you like! That said, getting to the venue is a different story. Whether you’re heading to one in the Medina or staying in it, or just exploring during the day it’s important to show some respect for local customs such as covering your knees and shoulders.
I saw plenty of people not following the dress code and it wasn’t a big deal as it wasn’t swimwear or tiny dresses, more long shorts not quite meeting knees and vest tops. However, what I found when dressing to respect their culture was the sense of mutual respect. Yes, men may still try to engage in conversation, but I never felt hassled or harassed. This is one of the reasons I couldn’t handle coming in summer—I’d simply melt and most of my dresses are short!
My top three must have items were a pashmina or a light shirt to throw over your outfit. Trainers (the Medina isn’t the cleanest, and there are lots of cobblestones. And, of course, sunnies, so you can avoid making eye contact and getting roped into haggling for a mirror you don’t need that is now on your overcrowded wall at home.
Are Taxi’s Cheap in Marrakesh?
I found the standard rate for a taxi when I would first approach the driver was around 100 MAD (£9), but if you’re up for a bit of haggling, you can usually get it down – often by half. I’m not great at it myself, though! I hate haggling! I was also warned that, upon arrival, drivers might try to change the price since they won’t turn on the meter. Surprisingly, this never happened to us perhaps because we were already paying extra! That said, I think many of the drivers are aware that tourists know the tricks now. One even joked when we arrived, “One million dollars!” Taxis are easy to hail and, overall, perfectly safe.
Tips for Exploring the Medina in Marrakech
The Medina, markets, and souks are an incredible experience, but as a neurodivergent, I didn’t enjoy them on my first visit. I found it very overwhelming, claustrophobic and when we got lost, quite panic-inducing. It’s a lot for the senses to take in. We also faced some challenges as two fair-skinned women, we were followed and had some hassle. Nothing too serious, but it was definitely intimidating.
However, on this last trip, I didn’t feel that way at all. Maybe it’s because I’m now medicated lol, just older or perhaps I was just mentally better prepared. A few years ago, I was lucky enough to visit Jerusalem, and the passageways there felt very familiar. Ironically, that was one of the places in the world where I felt the safest. So maybe that also played a part. But if this sounds like you then definitely ensure you have maps downloaded so you don’t get lost.
Another thing to watch for, in the labyrinth of alleyways, is the motorbikes. Yes, when you leave the city, you’ll find these brilliant motorcycle lanes on the highways—something I wish the UK had! However, on the flip side, motorbikes zip through the walkways at high speed. Honestly, I have no idea how I didn’t get mowed down a few times. So, if you’re drinking, have earbuds in, or are just lost in your own little world while exploring, be warned! They’re fast and weave effortlessly through the crowds, with barely a whisker of space between you and them!
Jemaa El-Fna is the famous market square at the heart of the Medina and is a must visit both day and night to truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere. It’s vibrant and electric, especially later in the evening. From street food stalls and engaging entertainment to souvenir shops and stalls, there’s something for everyone here. However, there are many stories about the food and juices causing dodgy stomachs, since I have a sensitive gut, I decided not to take the risk. So, if you plan to eat, just be vigilant about where you choose to go.
Sadly, this is also where you’ll encounter some distressing scenes involving animals. Monkeys chained up, snakes being passed from person to person, and birds being exploited. The best thing to do is ignore them and avoid taking photos. Firstly, they will likely demand a small fee for photography (only a few pence), but more importantly, taking photos and sharing them keeps this industry thriving, ironically, your photo could be helping to sustain it. There is this website if you are moved to help by sending a pre templated letter to the mayor to put a stop to it.
Taking Photos in Marrakech – What you need to know
As most of us love to capture our travels and memories in our phones there’s a couple of things to know. If you are taking pictures of crowds in the medina then that is like London, no problem. But if you want to take a portrait of a local working or sat poised, then out of respect ask as should anywhere really. If you want to capture the circus in the medina of animals I would implore you not to as just discussed – as it perpetuates the abuse of these animals.
Must see sights of Marrakesh City
In addition to the medina, souks, and markets that I’ve already covered, here are a few extra treats for your trip. A quick caveat: I did extensive research on these spots but ultimately decided not to visit. Most had long queues, and the reviews were rather mixed. So, I chose to go on a day trip out of the city instead (more on that below). Honestly, I don’t feel like I missed out at all. If I’d had more time, I probably would’ve checked these out, but definitely would have gone early and prebooked. However, I didn’t want my research to go to waste, so if you’re looking for some guidance on what to prioritise, read on!!
Botanical gardens Jardin Secret is an floral oasis in the heart of the medina and right opposite a very popular rooftop café and bar, Cafe Arabe. This was a place I had hoped to visit, but we didn’t prebook, and the queues were long! So, we naturally took refuge opposite at the rooftop instead. However, it’s a real treat to visit if you love architecture, green spaces, or Islamic art and design. There’s a café inside to extend your visit as it is reported to take as little as half an hour or you can easily head up to the rooftop opposite afterward (just remember to prebook this to avoid the wait!).
Next, is three must do’s in Marrakech that are all located within minutes of each other. If you are going to do one it does feel remiss to not do them all but equally that can make quite a day of it. They are only a half hour walk north west of the medina so you could do just one.
Jardin Majorelle is where the décor of two rooftop restaurants, Café Kessabine and Masion Arabe took their inspiration! Owned and indeed saved by Yves Saint Laurent, I was really keen to visit. However, after reading reviews that it was overcrowded, smaller than expected, and perhaps overhyped, I decided to skip it.
Next door is the Musee Yves Saint Laurent. A must for fashionistas. Which I am not! So if I wasn’t going to the Jardin Majorelle then I wouldn’t come just for this. However I have again heard visitors who have been disappointed with the offering.
Lastly in the trio is the Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts. The Berber, or Amazigh, are the indigenous people of Morocco and North Africa. This museum pays tribute to their heritage, history, and art, with over 600 objects on display to help deepen cultural understanding.
Which Jardin location is which?
This confused me – which Jardin is which. Different people told me I must visit Jardin du Lotus, while others recommended Jardin Majorelle, and of course, Jardin Secret came up as well. They all kind of merged together in my mind! Maybe it’s just me, but here’s the breakdown to help you avoid the confusion and ensure you go to the right one for you: Jardin Majorelle is the YSL one blues and yellow buildings. Jardin Secret is botanical gardens in the medina. And the Jardin du Lotus is the pretty in pink Instagramable restaurant: The El&N café of Marrakech but also beautiful fairy lit restaurant.
Is Dar El Bacha coffee worth the wait?
Also on the must see and do list is the Del El Bacha – specifically having a coffee there. But is it over priced or a coffee lovers dream destination? I read mixed reviews on this must go to café. From ‘style over substance’ to ‘divine and delicious’ with ‘worth a visit not the wait’ seeming the most conclusive. Featuring over 200 coffee options (and cake), set in a stunning courtyard with an equally famous queue. High season is reportedly 3 hours! You also need to pay to enter the museum to access the café and you probably be glad you did to kill some time. head to first to the café get in the queue 9via a buzzer system which hold don’t put in your bag). Enjoy the museum and wait – it is stunning, was the advise I got from a few people. Now I love coffee but considering Nescafe instant gold is my favourite (yes over any barista made, shame my taste in bubbles isn’t as cheap!) It just wasn’t worth the wait but coffee lovers, gorgeous café lovers, history lovers, instagrammers. This place is for you. Just go early or go with a tour as I heard they get prioritised. Which makes sense.
Must do day trips from Marrakesh
Hike in the Atlas Mountain’s
Choose between a whole 1- 3 day trek or a 2 hour hike to Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa in the Atlas Mountains. Unsurprisingly, I chose the 2 hour hike! However it should be called 2 hours of rock climbing, navigating slippery pebbles over rivers and dodging sheer drops below that could make you question your life choices! But wow was it worth it! Read more here soon, on what to expect, take and wear. I booked through Get Your Guide and our guide, Karim literally kept me alive! Read more here.
Ourika Waterfalls or Ouzoud Waterfalls?
The hike I was booking included the Ourika Waterfall, but then I discovered the Ouzoud Waterfalls – the highest in North Africa. I was initially torn between the two. Ouzoud offered a boat trip, but it was a 3-hour drive with not much else to see. On the other hand, Ourika is just an hour and a half from the city, offers a stunning riverside lunch afterwards, and provides a more varied day trip experience. So, Ourika won for me. Read more about it here about what to expect from the hike.
The Riverside Lunch in Ourika Valley
When I booked my day trip to Ourika Waterfalls and Valley, there is the option to join just for the riverside lunch, if hiking isn’t your thing and I’d highly recommend this experience. I stalked social media and I was completely obsessed. The restaurants along the river stretch for miles, each with colourful Berber cushions and low table settings, offering the perfect setting for a relaxing meal. The stunning backdrop of the Atlas Mountains made the whole experience even more magical. Read more here.
Take a breath taking balloon ride at sunrise
I’d been obsessed with the stunning sunrise balloon rides in Cappadocia, and when I found out we could do the same in Marrakech, I was just a teeny bit excited. So, I dove into some in-depth research on the companies offering the experience. However, I soon discovered that it’s not recommended if you’ve got a dodgy back – which, as someone who’s hypermobile, I do. The problem seems to be the landing. Sometimes smooth and sometimes a thud and bouncing along until you stop. I had to concede the risk just wasn’t worth ruining the rest of the trip and an expensive osteopath bill when home. But if you don’t then for just £100 each this is a once in a life time experience. Top tip, the time for sunrise obviously changes so if you aren’t a morning person go in the winter!!
What to Eat and Drink in Marrakech
If you are looking for the classic Moroccan meal in Marrakech then you will find it at most restaurants – the tagine. Lamb, chicken or just a vegetable option stew with vegetables and fruit. The classic beber tagine is again lamb or chicken with olives, lemon and veg. if you want to be truly authentic!
I always thought us Brits were the tea obsessed nation but we’ve got some competition! In Morocco, mint tea is the drink of choice. While not quite as glamourous as prosecco in Italy or champagne in France but it is also a beloved national beverage. Best of all, unless you add sugar, it’s calorie-free and kind to your tummy! Mint tea is more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of friendship, culture, and hospitality. It’s served in the cutest teapots and glass cups, and the pouring of the tea itself is part of the ritual. The tea is lifted high into the air, carefully aiming for the glass, a mesmerizing sight, especially when enjoyed with a rooftop view!
Best Rooftop Restaurants in Marrakech
The range of restaurants in Marrakech is incredible, with options for every budget, taste, and occasion. From vibrant street vendors serving up local delicacies to fine dining experiences, the city truly offers something for everyone. Rooftop restaurants are a highlight of the Marrakech dining scene, offering stunning views of the city, while traditional riads with their classic courtyard settings provide a unique and intimate atmosphere. Here were my favourites:
Cafe Des Epices
I first visited Cafe Des Epices for lunch 8 years ago, and their lamb tagine was the highlight of my trip. Returning this time, I was a bit wary, sometimes going back to a beloved spot can be disappointing. However, the setting remains authentic, nestled in the heart of the medina with views over a bustling market square. A lot has changed, though. The rooftop restaurant has become incredibly popular, so much so that there was a queue to get in, as you can’t book in advance.
I was waited and waited for a table with a view. I was recreating this rooftop memory! But would the lamb be as good as I remembered? Not quite, but still not bad! It’s a dry restaurant, so no holiday rosé served here, but the atmosphere and food still make it worth the visit. Read more here.
M Rooftop by Medina Heritage
If you’re looking for another dry rooftop dining option, this place offers incredible mocktails and desserts. We popped in for a drink and ended up staying for the delicious desserts and stunning views. Read more here.
Akira Back The Rooftop
If exquisite food, beautiful presentation and a break from the medina is your jam, then this rooftop restaurant is for you. Located at M Avenue in the Hivernage area, the newly opened Akira Back Restaurant offers a unique blend of Japanese cuisine with a clever Korean twist.
Usually, I’d sacrifice the quality of food for a great view or atmosphere but here you don’t have to. The food truly steals the show, and the venue only enhances the overall experience. For a culinary treat that’s both innovative and refined, this place is a must visit. Read more here.
Safran Restaurant
Everything about this restaurant screamed, swanky and a bit pretentious and that’s not my vibe. But I was so wrong. Yes, the entrance feels a bit much, and you’ll definitely want to have a reservation as the bouncers quiz you but mainly because this place is popular and they were good sports for a photo! But you don’t come for the food you come for the fun! However I was chuffed and surprised that they don’t compromise on food quality for the sake of the entertainment. It was delicious as were the cocktails. Sadly for me, as it was winter they had the roof covered but in summer it opens right up.
The highlight at Safran is the entertainment. At regular intervals throughout the night, performers dance around the restaurant, drummers come to your table and you might even get the famous fez hat to wear while being serenaded! But it’s when the conga line starts that the real fun begins. The vibe is electric, and you can’t help but join in. If that sounds like your nightmare, then this place probably isn’t for you, there are quieter spots in Marrakech for a peaceful meal. But if you’re up for a joyful, high energy experience with people of all ages dancing around the restaurant, then definitely get booking! Read more here.
Top Rooftop Bars in Marrakech
This incredible red city is also a rooftop haven waiting to be explored. From Riads with beautiful rooftops to dry rooftop cafes and the boujee spots serving bubbly at the best to be seen at bars, Marrakesh has it all. For a full review of all 17 rooftops I reviewed, click here. But for a few highlights, keep reading!
Dardar Rooftop
The rooftop most people recommended to me… thanks to TikTok and Instagram making it famous, for good reason! This is the spot to catch the sunset. More details here.
Cafe des Epices Rooftop
Another spot that’s been made famous on social media, but one I visited both pre and post fame. Aside from the queues, the experience has remained the same. No airs and graces here just a fantastic dry rooftop in the heart of the Medina. Click here for more.
Maison Arabe Rooftop
This rooftop is a must-visit for history buffs. It’s also perfect for anyone who appreciates the two incredible French women who, beneath this colourful and vibrant rooftop, opened the first restaurant for tourists in the Medina. And yes, it was frequented by none other than Winston Churchill. The rooftop itself, a more recent addition, is inspired by the Majorelle Gardens. So, if you didn’t make it there to enjoy those iconic bold colours, you know where to go! Click here for more.
Kabana Rooftop
Another popular spot, and for good reason. If you’re not into the boujee clubs but still want a great vibe, Kabana is the perfect rooftop for brunch to evening. Click here for more.
Where to Dine, Drink, and Dance in Marrakech (Indoors)
While Marrakech has fully embraced the rooftop culture, there are also plenty of fantastic indoor options to explore. Of course, I only managed to visit a few, as I’m always drawn to the dizzy heights of the alfresco experience! There were a few places I had planned to visit but unfortunately time ran out. While I can’t personally recommend them, they’re worth considering if you’re looking for more options. For a romantic riad dining experience, La Trattoria comes highly regarded. Nommos, located further south of the city, offers a Mediterranean vibe with entertainment – I thought it might be similar to Safran. And of course, you can’t go wrong with the iconic Buddha Bar, a classic spot known for its lively atmosphere. As well as the already mentioned the perfectly pretty in pink, Jardin Du Lotus. But for those I have been to read on!
Le Bistro Arabe
I dined a Le Bistro Arabe several years ago and came back by accident as was checking out their rooftop that had popped up since! I was disappointed to see this riads décor had changed and wasn’t as elegant and lavish as once was. But this was due to becoming a jazz restaurant so more in keeping and I heard the food and vibe is still on point. So recommending as had such a lovely evening here.
Le Grand Cafe De la Post
I don’t have any pictures from this meal but if you’re craving French cuisine in Marrakech, this restaurant did not disappoint. The setting is effortlessly classic, complete with a gorgeous staircase perfect for posing on! Located in the vibrant Guéliz area, it’s the perfect spot if you’re looking to break up your tagine routine and indulge in something a little more Parisian!
La Mamounia Hotel
La Mamounia is the hotel to the rich and famous, famous in its own right. Known for its luxury and grandeur and most recently gained notoriety for being featured in Netflix’s ‘Inventing Anna’. Set in lush gardens with tree-lined avenues, it’s absolutely stunning. You’ll go through security scanners to enter, but once inside, there are four bars, five restaurants, and two tea rooms. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth popping by just to experience how the other half live!
Babouchka Nightclub
Babouchka, probably the most disappointing place we visited in Marrakech. Recommended for dancing, but there was none at 1am. It didn’t get busy until much later and had we known, we would’ve gone elsewhere. But since we’d paid the entry fee, we stayed. It had a Mayfair vibe, the place to be seen with overpriced drinks and mediocre music. Really reminded me of Tramp in London – which is definitely not my vibe but appreciate it will be others as it did get busy! Sharing to manage expectations not to recommend!
What Souvenirs to buy in Marrakech
As a self proclaimed souvenir junkie and gift-giver, Marrakesh offers an incredible selection of unique, locally crafted treasures. The markets are brimming with one off finds, you soon be regretting being on hand luggage only like me!
Choose from the famed Argan oil and fragrant spices to intricately woven baskets, vibrant rugs, and beautiful tea sets. Don’t miss the stunning mirrors, hand-carved wooden pieces, and even a variety of aphrodisiac infused goods! And remember, the airport shops are limited and pricier, so the markets are your best bet for authentic and affordable souvenirs!
Final thoughts about visiting Marrakech
On my first visit to this exceptional city, I found it a bit overwhelming. I worried about dressing the wrong way, avoiding public displays of affection, dealing with slow service (it’s French, after all) and navigating the chaotic maze of the medina. But my second visit felt like discovering an entirely new city. Whether it’s because the city has changed or I have, I’m not sure. Many people I’ve spoken to say they didn’t plan on a second trip after their first. However, those who have returned a second time find Marrakesh’s true treasures and can’t wait to return for a third. So, if it’s your first time visiting, keep in mind that it might take a little time to adjust. But once you do, the magic of Marrakesh will surely unfold.
