Want to experience a different culture, emerge yourself into bright colors and spicy aromas, then hop on a flight to Marrakech.
Length of the stay
I was only in Marrakech for 3 days (a long weekend), but you can definitely stay a few days longer and maybe even pay a visit to the neighboring Atlas Mountains.
Airport
Menara Airport located about 6 km (4 miles) from the city center.
Interesting to know: there`s an ATM in the arrival hall to get Moroccan Dirhams.
Airlines
I flew in from London with British Midland International (BMI), it takes about 3 hours from London and it`s a direct flight. There are low-cost airlines like EasyJet and Ryanair that fly into Menara too.
Ways to get to the city center
Taxi: That`s the way we got to our hotel, because we were staying outside of the city center. I would suggest staying closer to city center to fully experience the city at its best.
A taxi into the city center should take you about 10-15 minutes, make sure to agree on a price before you begin your journey. The best way is to have a meter running, but unfortunately as in all parts of the world, taxi drivers at airports know you just want to get to your destination and negotiate on a price instead of having the meter running. Expect to pay between 100-150 dirham, this is per vehicle. Don`t let anyone fool you it`s per person.
Insiders Tip: A good tip I got from a local when flagging a taxi out on the street, try to catch one that has a local in it, that way the meter is already running.
Bus:
I didn`t try this option, but found following information. You can take bus number 19 for 20 dh (single ticket) For more information
On foot:
Yes, I`ve found during my research that if you don`t have much luggage, some people walk to the city center.
If you`re staying at a hotel or riad in Marrakech, inquire if they offer a shuttle service or pick-up at the airport for a small fee.
Things to See and Do
Something you have to experience
Jema El Fena Square: enjoy the story tellers, musicians and snake charmers. Let yourself be drawn into the chaos on this square, where scooters rush by and people wander.
Sights to check out
Bahia Palace: At the end of 19th century Si Moussa, grand vizier of the sultan, set this up for his personal use. It`s a beautiful palace, definitely worth a visit. Especially loved the details in the rooms. Entrance: 10 dh.
Dar Si Said Museum: Set in an old palace, it houses many artifacts from Morocco through the ages, such as wood carvings, musical instruments, and weapons. I especially liked the courtyard. Admission fee is 20dh.
Saadian Tombs: Inside you will find an overload of Zelij (Morrocan tiles) and some beautiful decoration. It doesn’t take a lot of time to look around, but I enjoyed it nevertheless. Daily 8.30–11.45am & 2.30–5.45pm. Entrance: 10 dh
Best place to catch your breath
Majorelle Garden or Jardin Majorelle at Rue Yves Saint Laurent. Besides the garden there is also a museum, a boutique and a café. Open every day.
1 October till 30 April: 8am – 5.30pm // 1 May till 30 September: 8am – 6pm // Month of Ramadan: 9am – 5pm
Entrance garden: 40 dh – museum: 25 dh
Official website: www.jardinmajorelle.com
Best street food
Stall 32: they offer yummy sausages and plenty of other food. We paid 20 dh for a meal.
Stall 1 and 14 were recommended to me afterwards by a local. Stall 1 because it`s run by a woman, read: clean! Stall 14 is a fish stall, they`re a favorite of the locals because they have fresh fish every day.
Dining
La Salama is a Moroccan restaurant with a beautiful interior, delicious food and even entertainment. There`s live piano music and a Moroccan show with belly dancers.
A main dish (I had a chicken brochette) is between 150-200 dirham.
Another option is Dar Fakir. This is a lovely riad located only 3 minutes for the buzzing Jema El Fena Square. You wouldn`t think so when you`re enjoying a meal here, as it oozes tranquillity. It`s also the perfect place to stay when visiting Marrakech for its location as well as its charm.
Accommodation Tip: 130-160 euro per room with breakfast
Shopping
Besides visiting the Souks for bargains, you can find a nice boutique shop at the Majorelle Jardin or across from the gardens at 33 Rue Majorelle, where they have the latest gadgets.
Café with an extra
Have a drink at rooftop of the Café de France and enjoy the panoramic view over the Jema El Fena Square.
Most essential experience
Wander around in this city and take it all in!
If you still want to know more about Marrakech, then read this helpful article by Legal Nomads.
I flew with BMI, British Midland International. The airline flies direct between Heatrow and Marrakech, Morocco offering five flights per week. Economy fares are available from £138, and business class fares are available from £249 including all taxes and charges. Opinions in this post as always are my own.
Opening hours and prices were accurate at time of publishing, but may change.
These street stalls look like they have great food! It seems that these types of foods are the most authentic!
I also only spent short time at Marrakech, but had the opportunity to participate in a bus trip to Ouazazarte, on the other side of the Atlas – fascinating.
And I loved the light – great colours.
That sounds like a lovely experience. Thanks for stopping by.