Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech In North Africa

  • Winter In Marrakech.

    Visiting Marrakech During The Cooler Season

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    December in Marrakesh can still be warm and sunny, making it the perfect destination for people who don’t particularly enjoy the stifling summer temperatures.

    If you want to avoid the huge crowds of tourists, you might prefer the months of December and January.

    It’s worth noting that there is a possibility of more rain during the winter months, and evenings can be chilly, but packing the right clothing will ensure that you still have a wonderful experience.

    In Gueliz and Hivenage, modern hotels and apartments have heating.

    In the medina, riads have air conditioning and will supply their guests with extra warm blankets.

    Wearing light layers and carrying a lightweight weatherproof jacket and umbrella will make visiting the city’s attractions more enjoyable.

    I went in December, and it was still sunny most days, turning chillier after sunset.

    I still had a brilliant time and found that vendors in the souks were easier to haggle with because of fewer tourists.

    I even managed to bag a few really good deals to take home with me.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Another thing worth mentioning is that the price of flights and accommodation are significantly cheaper too.

    Regarding day excursions, the Atlas mountains do get snow, so if you’re considering a day trip to Ourika Valley or Imlil, check if travel is safe before booking.

    The train to Casablanca is operational, and buses to Essaouira still run, so that’s an alternative day trip if it’s too dangerous or cold to go hiking in the more remote areas.

    I was pleasantly surprised at how often I was able to sit outside and people watch in Jamaa El Fna in December.

    Some days were bright and sunny, and some were cloudy with marginally cooler temperatures.

    I never felt cold and was able to walk around the medina comfortably.

    Marrakech in December/image by Freebird Tracey.

    Some of the restaurants I visited, such as The Clock in the Kasbah, had roaring fires during the evenings, creating a nice cosy atmosphere.

    Occasionally, Marrakech can experience more rainfall than usual, so this is something to bear in mind.

    If  you don’t want to get caught out, take an umbrella out with you or a lightweight jacket.

    There is still plenty to see and do, so don’t be too upset if you’re caught in a storm.

    Tailor your itinerary to suit the climate and keep an eye on the weather forecast daily.

    There are so many exciting museums such as the Museum of Photography and Berber Carpet Museum to keep you entertained.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I would definitely go again during winter.

    It helped me to cope with the gloomy grey days in the UK and broke up the long winter.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Krepchy.

    A restaurant in a quieter area of Marrakech with more local people than tourists.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Krepchy in the Kasbah was a lucky find.

    I wanted to try something else as an alternative to the usual breakfasts offered by my accommodation.

    At Krepchy, there is a good choice, and everything is freshly cooked to order.

    I was pleasantly surprised at how nice the waffles were, and they were very filling.

    Eating breakfast at Krepchy really set me up for the day.

    The portion size was good, and the quality of the food was excellent.

    I enjoyed a traditional pot of atay sitting outside and chatted with the passing local people going about their daily life.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It was fun..

    The atmosphere was relaxing and the staff were friendly.

    The interior decor of this little establishment is pleasant with beautiful Amazigh artefacts adorning the walls and colourful Berber rugs strewn along the floor.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Krepchy has been awarded 5* by trip advisor, and it’s not hard to see why.

    It’s a popular little place.

    They also serve lunch and dinner, becoming quite busy during peak times.

    There’s a good menu with several choices available, including dishes suitable for vegetarian and vegans.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Hours of opening are from 8.00 am. until 1.30 am.

    The address is;

    Sidi Belabed, Route, Marrakech 40014.

    Krepchy is an authentic Morroccon restaurant with tourists and locals alike enjoying its delicious, competitively priced food.

    For a glimpse into real, authentic life in Marrakech, this is one place you’ll find it.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Staying In The Kasbah.

    An authentic district of Marrakech with more local people.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is a quieter part of Marrakech, with fewer tourists than the medina.

    Staying in the Kasbah, you feel totally immersed in the culture of Marrakech as you rub shoulders with the friendly locals.

    There are plenty of restaurants and shops including a good fixed price store selling everything you will find in the souks at a realistic price.

    *See my separate post on Dar Bouchaib.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Inside the Kasbah, you can visit tourist attractions like the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.

    Zeitoune Cafe overlooking the mosque is a lovely spot for lunch or a drink whilst taking a break from sightseeing.

    Sitting outside on the colourful cushions people watching in the Moroccan sun was quite an experience.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The kasbah is about 15 to 20 minutes leisurely walking from the main square with plenty to see along the way.

    The walk is interesting, with many shops and vendors selling all kinds of stuff.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    In the kasbah, there are a  range of budget and high-end riads to stay in.

    It is definitely quieter than the medina.

    I stayed in Riad Hikaya, it was absolutely lovely and a totally relaxing few days for me.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I have written a separate article about staying at Riad Hikaya.

    The Kasbah is the historical citadel in Marrakesh with fortified walls.

    The narrow alleyways make it an exciting place to visit, and there are fewer motorcycles and donkeys trying to negotiate the streets at the same time as you, making it less stressful than the medina.

    There are plenty of good restaurants to enjoy nice food so you won’t have to go too far.

    The Kasbah is home to the Clock restaurant and its legendary camel burger and storytelling evenings.

    Also, the Kasbah Cafe is a popular place for lunch and dinner.

    Krepchy does a fantastic breakfast, and the prices are very reasonable.

    I highly recommend the waffles.

    To return from the medina, consider taking a tuk-tuk if the weather is hot.

    It’s quite an adventure as you rattle along the bumpy streets back into the Kasbah.

    Spending an hour or two enjoying this interesting area of Marrakech is definitely worth it.

    The locals are very friendly, and it was a pleasure getting the opportunity to sit and chat with them.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I would recommend staying in the kasbah if you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience in Marrakech.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Riad Hikaya.

    A beautifully restored riad in the Kasbah.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It was purchased by an Englishman who spent 15 years restoring it.

    Riad Hikaya is a gorgeous riad located in the Kasbah district of Marrakech.

    It’s very beautiful inside, and the amount of work that has gone into restoring it is evident as soon as you walk through the door.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Hikaya is not considered a budget accommodation.

    However, considering its aesthetics and the professionalism of the staff, it’s worth paying a little bit extra to stay here.

    The breakfasts are really good and I ate my evening meal here one evening and the food was delicious.

    I had a three course meal, and it was freshly cooked.

    I sat at the edge of the pool to eat, admiring the stunning decor and the beautiful Moroccan lampshade that hung in the centre.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There is a beautiful rooftop with several places to sit in the shade or soak up some of the hot, morroccan sun.

    It is a lovely space to relax with colourful couches and cushions and lush green plants growing along the walls.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is a great place to stay with more of an authentic feel about it.

    There are fewer tourists, and the locals are friendly and welcoming.

    There are plenty of good restaurants, including The Clock, which is across the road from Riad Hikaya.

    There are plenty of shops and attractions such as El Badi Palace and the Saadian tombs to explore.

    I enjoyed staying amongst the locals in the Kasbah, and it was an easy 20-minute walk to the main square, Jamaa El Fna.

    Riad Hikaya was a good choice of accommodation.

    I especially loved the large copper bathtub in my room and the total peace and quiet inside the riad

    If you’re looking for a lively scene, this place may not be for you.

    However, if you want to disconnect from the busy touristic areas for a while, it’s a perfect retreat.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I stayed at Riad Hikaya in the winter, I expect it may be busier during the spring and summer months.

    The riad was warm and cosy, and I appreciated the way the room was heated to a nice  comfortable temperature.

    Some riads can be quite cold inside at this time of year.

    Riad Hikaya is a beautiful riad.

    The craftsmanship that’s gone into creating each piece of furniture and door is exceptional.

    The views of the snowcapped Atlas mountains in the morning are spectacular.

    I really enjoyed my winter break at this riad and would definitely return again.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Mandala Society.

    A hip joint playing cool music and serving excellent food.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I was lucky enough to stumble across this wonderful little place in the medina

    The music they were playing alone was enough to keep me seated happily for a while as I sipped on a deliciously fresh fruit smoothie.

    There is a chilled, boho vibe in this little place with an air of sophistication that suits all ages and walks of life.

    I went at lunchtime and it was quite busy so I sat on the rooftop to eat my food.

    The view across the medina was pleasant, and the energy was good up there.

    I tried the avocado toast, and it was so delicious.

    The creative way that the chef used fresh fruit to decorate the meal added a touch of refinement to my meal, making a simple brunch rather more special.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The interior decor is cosy, yet modern, bright, and airy.

    Friendly staff wait on the tables, and the menu is  exciting and interesting.

    I found the price of lunch competitive and the quality of the food served is very good.

    I sat listening to The Doors, Bob Dylan, and a few other tunes from the late sixties and seventies.

    It was such a great vibe, and I was happy to sit and enjoy the music they were playing and the nice atmosphere.

    It is quite a treat in the middle of a busy medina.

    I could have hung out there happily for hours..

    Travellers and tourists alike frequent Mandala Society, attracted to its contemporary style, with a cosy intimate twist.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    You can find Mandala Society at 159 Rue Riad Zitoun el Jdid,

    Marrakech 40000.

    The opening hours are,

    9.30am to 10.30pm daily.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Dar Bouchaib.

    A fixed price store in the Kasbah selling everything.

    If you are fed up with haggling every time you want to buy something, there is a fixed price store in the Kasbah called Dar Bouchaib.

    Here, you will find everything  that’s for sale in the souks but at a fixed price.

    The perfumed oils are of a very high quality, and you can create your own signature fragrance by blending several oils together.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    On the ground floor, there are ceramics, jewellery, clothing, footwear, bags, souvenirs, and much more.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    On the first floor, exquisite furniture, mirrors, Berber rugs, and other beautiful handmade pieces to furnish your home with.

    They also ship worldwide.

    The staff are incredibly helpful, and you can wander around the shop leisurely without any pressure to buy.

    The store is huge and worth visiting just to see the craftsmanship and detail that’s gone into creating the furniture and mirrors on the upper floor.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is a 15 – to 20-minute walk from the main square with plenty of interesting shops and good restaurants along the way.

    Here, you will find the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.

    Dar Bouchaib can be found on;

    Rue de La Kasbah,

    Marrakech 40000.

    Opening times are;

    Daily from 9.00 am until 8.30 pm.

    Bank holiday hours may differ.

    Although part of visiting Marrakech is to enjoy shopping in the souks, sometimes haggling and not knowing how much you should be paying for something can become slightly stressful.

    Dar Bouchaib is a relaxed shopping experience with everything under one roof.

    The prices are fixed and reflect what you should be paying for each item.

    There is also a massive selection of wonderful Berber rugs for sale in the store.

    Make it part of your visit to the Kasbah area.

    You won’t be disappointed, there is something for everyone.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Dar Bouchaib is a few steps away from the popular restaurant Krepchy.

    If you’re sightseeing in the kasbah, I would recommend taking a look around this impressive store.

    You may find something interesting to take home with you.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • La Pergola Rooftop Bar.

    A popular cocktail bar in the medina

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    La Pergola rooftop bar is quite a little jungle.

    Situated in the medina, close to Jamaa El Fna, La Pergola is a popular restaurant serving food and alcohol including a great range of cocktails.

    The beautiful palm trees that grow up from the courtyard of Cafe Arabe make the ambience very tranquil and relaxing.

    It has a jungly, exotic ambience as you sit nestled amongst the palms.

    Part of Riad Monceau, La Pergola is open to the public and a very busy place, so booking for an evening meal or cocktails is recommended.

    It can be heaving with tourists due to its proximity to the main square.

    I spent an hour enjoying some peace and tranquillity during the afternoon, which is a much quieter time to visit than during the evening.

    I found it very relaxing sitting amongst the exotic trees and plants, listening to gentle background music.

    I enjoyed the fresh smoothies, which were beautifully presented with attention to detail.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Like most places serving alcohol in the medina, it is quite pricey.

    That is because Marrakech is a Muslim country, and alcohol is not widely consumed.

    The stunning surroundings of La Pergola make it worthwhile a visit, and although I didn’t try the food, the menu looked very good.

    I may be tempted to go again and indulge myself.

    Le Bistro Arabe is situated below  La Pergola in the courtyard.

    During the evening, they have live jazz musicians and serve food and alcohol.

    To get to La Pergola, you have to cross the courtyard of Le Bistro Arabe and mount the stairs until you come to the rooftop.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    During the evening, you can hear the live jazz band in Le Bistro Arabe.

    The atmosphere is very lively, and finding somewhere to sit is not easy.

    Booking beforehand guarantees you a seat.

    Seating is on different levels, giving views across the medina or looking down on the people below.

    Comfortable couches attract people to come and relax over a drink or two with friends and family.

    La Pergola is open daily from noon until 11.00pm.

    The address is;

    7/8 Riad Zitoun Lakdim.

    Marrakech 40000

    Morrocco.

    Situated in Riad Monceau, directly above Le Bistro Arabe.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are plenty of great shops in this area, and a stop off in La Pergola makes a welcome break from sightseeing.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Mo Mo’s Restaurant.

    A quirky place to dine with terrific views over the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Mo Mo’s restaurant is a colourful and tastefully decorated restaurant in the medina.

    Inside, the tables are set with attractive earthenware, and there is so much to catch your eye strategically placed around the restaurant.

    There is a mid century feel to the restaurant, similar to the Tiki style.

    The colourful interior is vibrant and exciting, with pink and pale blue tones creating a relaxed ambience.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is very popular and the perfect place to watch the sun set over the medina.

    The views across the main square are perfect for observing all the action from a distance.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I decided to relax with a drink and watch the setting sun.

    It was quite spectacular.

    The opening time for serving dinner was 6.00pm, and the tables were filling up rapidly.

    The waiters were very busy due to the popularity of Mo Mo’s, and they were friendly and helpful, making the guests feel welcome.

    The menu is interesting, and the food is of good quality with decent portion sizes.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Mo Mo’s is popular with all age groups, and there is plenty of space inside and out to accommodate a large number of people.

    There is certainly plenty to look at, and it’s a very instagrammable place.

    People were taking photos of the fascinating decor.

    It’s unlike other places in the medina, yet still exudes the same charm.

    It is modern and elegant, with a touch of chilled, mellow 1960s energy.

    Mo Mo’s serve Mediterranean food alongside traditional Moroccan specialities.

    Some reviews suggest that the menu is limited, but people say that they enjoyed the food and rated it as high quality.

    Mo Mo’s is quite a new restaurant, so the menu may be tweaked as time goes on to include more dishes.

    The breakfast is an innovative take on a full English breakfast served in a tagine.

    I can vouch for the drinks.

    They were beautifully presented and fresh.

    There was a good choice of juices and smoothies.

    I had a lovely smoothie and I could taste each individual fruit, it was very healthy.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    If you’re looking for somewhere with an explosion of colour, traditional yet with a modern twist, this is the perfect place.

    It is exciting and classy at the same time.

    I will definitely be returning..

    Mo Mo’s is open daily from 11.00am to 12.00am

    The address is;

    1 Riad Zitoun, Lakdim, Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • El Badi Palace.

    One of the must-see attractions in Marrakesh.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    El Badi Palace was built in 1578 by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansoor of the Saadian dynasty.

    The palace was built to showcase the considerable wealth of the Saadian dynasty and was a prime example of Islamic architecture and exquisite craftsmanship.

    Using both Moroccan and European influences, the palace was beautifully decorated with intricate mosaic tiles, marble arches, and ornate carvings.

    The palace was home to the sultans harem and included over 500 women.

    Now, only the ruins remain.

    After Sultan Ahmad al-Mansoor died in 1603, the palace fell into neglect and was subsequently stripped away with the materials being used for other buildings in Morocco.

    The palace is certainly worth a visit if you want to learn about the history of Marrakech and the ruling elite centuries ago.

    The exhibition space contains the Almoravid Minbar, which is a finely decorated pulpit that once  stood in the Koutoubia Mosque.

    It also hosts temporary art and cultural exhibitions.

    The underground chambers contain information and photographs about the palaces history.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The palace was badly damaged during the earthquake in 2023, and renovations have taken place to repair the cracks in the walls.

    El Badi Palace is situated in the Kasbah district of Marrakech and a popular tourist attraction.

    The courtyards are impressive, and the nesting storks on the towers give it a magical feel.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    You get a sense of the grandeur of the Saadian dynasty, and there’s a feeling of peace and tranquillity within the walls of the once opulent palace.

    El Badi Palace is open every day from 9.00am to 5.00pm and costs 100 dirhams to enter.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.
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  • The Saadian Tombs.

    A discovery from the air led to this amazing attraction being opened up to the public

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    One of the tourist attractions in Marrakesh is the Saadian tombs.

    Rediscovered in 1917, they have become a historical landmark dating back from the late sixteenth century.

    Built by the Saadian dynasty, they house the mausoleums of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansoor and his family.

    The architecture is very impressive, with detailed stucco work, intricate mosaic tiles, and carrara marble.

    The main mausoleum is incredible, and there are usually very long queues to get to see it.

    It’s definitely recommended that you arrive early to avoid waiting for up to more than an hour in the heat.

    The Saadian tombs are very decadent, with a mixture of Morroccan, Andalusian, and European styles.

    They showcase the wealth of the Saadian dynasty.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Hidden for centuries, they were spotted through aerial photography and are now one of the most visited tourist attractions in Marrakesh.

    Located in the Kasbah next to the mosque, the opening times are;

    9.00am – 5.00pm

    The price of entry is 70 dirhams.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.
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