A place of serenity and calm in the middle of the souks.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
A hidden gem in the medina.
Le Jardin Secret is a beautifully restored 19th-century palace complex in the Mouassine district of Marrakech.
An oasis with exotic plants and flowers where you can sit and enjoy calm, beautiful surroundings, listening to the birds in the trees.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There is a beautifully painted pergoda in the centre, for sitting in the shade.
Le Jardin Secret boasts two attractive large gardens. One containing plants from around the world, the other a traditional geometric Islamic garden.
It also has one of the highest towers in the medina with panoramic views.
There is a museum, a boutique, and two coffee shops on site for light refreshments.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Le Jardin Secret dates back 400 years ago to the Saadian dynasty and was left to decay before being discovered and renovated in the nineteenth century.
It is a perfect example of Islamic art and architecture, and you can read all about its history inside the museum.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The gardens are simply beautiful with Cacti, palm trees, and other exotic plants, flowers, and shrubs.
The sound of birdsong and the resident toads in the little pond allow you to feel like you’re a world away from the busy souks outside it’s walls.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
As you wander around the tranquil gardens, you forget you are inside the busy medina, dodging motorcycles and donkey carts.
There are plenty of benches dotted around the gardens to sit and enjoy the tranquillity and beauty surrounding you.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
To get the most peaceful experience from your visit, I suggest going early in the daytime before the gardens become too busy with other tourists.
Le Jardin Secret is located at,
121 Rue Mouassine
Marrakech 40030 Morocco.
Opening times may vary depending on the time of year.
It costs 100 dirhams to enter, and the gardens are wheelchair user-friendly.
The cafes have a good selection of sandwiches, pizzas, and salads.
They also serve hot and cold beverages, including juice, smoothies, tea, coffee, and delicious homemade cakes.
Bahia Palace is a stunning, 19th century palace in Marrakesh.
It’s definitely a must-see if you’re visiting the city, as it’s quite a spectacular place.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The rooms are decorated with stuccos, paintings, and mosaics to capture the essence of Islamic architecture.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The word Bahia means ‘brilliance’ in Arabic, reflecting the splendour of Islamic art and architecture.
It is necessary to book tickets prior to visiting the palace as queues can be extremely long.
They cost 70 dirhams each, and the palace is open from 8.00am-5.00pm daily.
The courtyard is stunning, and all the rooms open out onto it.
It is rather grand and very spacious with a fountain in the centre and intricate tile work typical of Morroccan culture.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There is also a 2-acre garden surrounding the palace and beautiful orange trees lining the route to the entrance.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
When Morocco gained independence from France in 1956, the Bahia palace was used as a royal residence. This was until King Hassan II transferred it to the custody of the Moroccan Ministry of Culture.
The building then became a cultural icon and tourist attraction in Marrakech.
Bahia Palace is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city.
It is best to arrive as close to opening time as possible to avoid the crowds.
That way, you can spend time reading about the history of the palace and enjoying the experience before it becomes too overwhelming and you can’t capture any photos.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I would recommend visiting Bahia Palace.
It’s gives you a good understanding of Islamic culture and the fine craftsmanship that defines it.
If you enjoy looking at Islamic architecture, you could also visit Badi Palace in the Kasbah area of the city.
Smoothies can be found everywhere in Marrakesh. They are one of the healthiest, most vibrant, refreshing drinks in the medina.
Using the freshest fruit from the local market and packed with nutritional goodness, smoothies are the perfect start to the day.
There is no shortage of exotic fruits and vegetables in Marrakech.
The markets are alive with colour.
I regularly go for detoxifying smoothies for their positive health benefits and as a pick me up after a long, hot day exploring the medina.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Literally, everything goes into making a perfect smoothie, and in Marrakech, they seem to have perfected the art.
Fresh fruit, dried nuts, spiralina, cucumber, avocado, berries, banana, and spinach are just some of the healthy ingredients that are blended together to make the perfect smoothie.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Fresh juice is also a popular choice amongst tourists who need something to quench their thirst in the hot African sun.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is tangy and exhilarating.
Served with fresh mint, it’s both aromatic and a real taste sensation.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Orange juice made from freshly picked oranges off the trees around the medina is a breakfast staple.
It is sunshine in a glass.
Mixed fruit juice is a favourite sold by the vendors in the main square.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
My absolute favourite is the freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.
It is a refreshing tonic and gives me a boost of energy.
I was flagging in the heat during a hike around Ouzoud Waterfall, and pomegranate juice instantly hit the spot.
I felt revitalised again..
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The fruit juice vendors in the main square call you over to sample their mango and pineapple juice.
They use carefully crafted banter to draw you towards them with many competing for business.
They have a selection of exotic fruits to try, and it’s exciting watching them make it for you.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
There are a few places I can recommend where you can enjoy a refreshing juice or healthy smoothie..
Pikala Cafe has an excellent choice, and it’s a great little spot.
I have written a separate post about Pikala Cafe.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Le Ferme Medina.
Henna Art Cafe.
La Famille (vegetarian restaurant)
All offer comfortable, attractive surroundings for a peaceful break from sightseeing and a pleasant way to get some vitamin C.
There are also plenty of rooftop restaurants around the main square to enjoy a well-deserved rest whilst sipping a refreshing cold juice or fruit smoothie and watching the action from above.
Sugarcane juice is widely available around the medina, also.
It is important to stay hydrated whilst out and about in the medina.
The temperature is very warm and humid.
I can not underestimate the power of a bottle of water, and you should always carry one with you, but for a healthy, refreshing treat, consider trying some of the wonderful juices and smoothies also.
The vitamins and minerals are necessary to function for the hectic, busy schedule you may have planned.
Remember, there may still be a high sugar content, so moderation is key.
A guide for choosing the correct clothes for your trip.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech can get very hot in summer, and temperatures can exeed 40° Celsius.
Even the cooler months can feel warm and humid, especially walking around the busy souks and popular points of interest.
Marrakech is also a conservative city with a majority Muslim population.
The locals are extremely hospitable, but respect is a big thing in Marrakech.
So, what should you wear to feel comfortable yet still appear respectable?
For female visitors, I would suggest palazzo trousers.
These are flowing and elegant, keeping you nice and cool.
They pair well with smart cotton blouses and can be worn underneath a silk kimono, adding a touch of glamour.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Lightweight cotton or linen trousers also look smart, and neutral colours give a sophisticated, modest appearance.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Silk (including recycled sari silk) maxi dresses are very versatile and keep you cool. They can be worn with a drawstring sari petticoat underneath for modesty if the dress is sheer.
Linen is perfect and always looks polished.
It may get slightly creased, so I would suggest bringing along a portable steamer. They’re a life-saver and take up very little space in your suitcase.
However, most accommodations have an ironing and laundry service at your disposal.
Cotton tee-shirts and blouses are ideal and can look very flattering with the right accessories.
Yoga pants are also perfect for a day exploring.
They are loose fitting and comfortable.
Headscarves are fashionable and can be used as a head covering whilst visiting some of the religious sights or as a convenient wrap around for covering your shoulders.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I like to wear turbans to cover my locs.
They keep my head and neck cool, and at the same time, I feel well put together.
Silk scarves roll up really small and fit perfectly in your bag.
They are versatile and can be used as a hair tie, head covering, or pretty accessory.
Marrakech is definitely more liberal than other morroccan cities. However, exposing too much flesh is definitely frowned upon.
You may attract unwanted attention from both males and females, spoiling your overall experience by making you feel self-conscious.
How you present yourself will determine the kind of experience you have in Marrakesh.
In your hotel or riad, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear shorts and swimwear for sunbathing, so pack those items of clothing also.
Males can wear knee-length shorts with linen or cotton short-sleeved shirts to look smart yet casual.
Many high-end restaurants won’t accept men wearing sandals, but smart leather sliders are deemed acceptable.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Linen or cotton long trousers for men are ideal and keep the body cool.
Men’s clothing is definitely more liberal than females.
They don’t invite the same attention but are still expected to dress for the occasion when visiting certain establishments.
I wouldn’t advise a male to walk around without a shirt on.
That is best left for beach holidays..
So, to summarise, staying smartly dressed whilst comfortable is the only thing men need to consider.
On the other hand, women are expected to respect the cultural norms of the country unless they’re going to the clubs in the Gueliz or Hivenage part of Marrakech.
It’s acceptable to dress more provocatively if you’re having a night out there.
You can still look and feel good in appropriate clothing.
It’s about choosing nice accessories to elevate your outfit.
Marrakech has no shortage of beautiful jewellery and handbags.
Regarding footwear, there is a lot of walking around the medina, so comfortable footwear is certainly essential.
Trainers, pumps, or sandals are all acceptable.
A little tip I found useful is to take a couple of outfits in my travel bag, and once I arrived, I bought the rest of my clothing in the souks.
It wasn’t too expensive, and I felt as if I blended in with the locals better.
I enjoyed wearing the traditional Moroccan dresses, kaftans, and djellabas.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Finally, I have never needed to take a warm coat to Marrakech.
Depending on the season and whether you plan a trip into the Atlas mountains or not, a lightweight weatherproof jacket is enough
I usually take a shawl or cardigan, and it’s always been sufficient for cooler evenings.
Winter in Marrakech is better suited to layers.
A trip to Agafay desert can get very blustery whilst watching the sunset in the open air.
A thin thermal skin worn underneath a long dress or trousers is usually enough to protect from the drop in temperature.
I wore long sleeved tee-shirts underneath my dresses during the evenings.
A comfortable hoodie can also be useful.
Keeping your eyes on the weather forecast before travelling will also help you to plan accordingly for your trip.
So, to summarise,
Wearing comfortable clothing suitable for a day exploring the medina and tourist hot spots is the most important thing to consider.
You will walk a lot, and it can get humid.
To discourage unwanted attention and negative vibes from the locals, female travellers should refrain from dressing too provocatively.
Unless they’re in the bars and clubs, which are more liberally minded.
Choosing natural fibres is the best way to stay cool, and long, loose-fitting garments are ideal because they look modest and feminine.
Lastly, don’t forget to bring the sunscreen.
You don’t want to walk around looking like a lobster.
A popular restaurant where booking a table is essential.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Cafe Arabe is a popular destination for people looking for Italian and Morroccan cuisine.
It is open all day serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The open-air restaurant has a rooftop overlooking the medina and comfortable seating in the large patio area.
The incredible views of the sunset draw people in to enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop, and it gets booked up very quickly.
I stopped by for a refreshing smoothie and a break from the intensity of the souks and the heat.
I was given breadsticks and olives to accompany it,
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I enjoyed looking out over the rooftops of the medina whilst relaxing and cooling off.
There was no pressure to order anything to eat, and I appreciated the relaxed energy of this busy restaurant during mid afternoon.
I decided to book a meal for later in the evening because the vibe was good inside the restaurant, and the food being served looked delicious.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
One thing I particularly liked was the decor.
The exotic green colour leading upstairs to the terrace is absolutely stunning.
This was my favourite part of the restaurant, I could have sat there all afternoon quite happily.
The bathroom is also very clean and well maintained.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Returning later for a meal, it was incredibly busy.
The atmosphere was different.
There were people queuing to be seated and waiters rushing about trying to cope with the demand.
I ordered a margarita pizza, which was very tasty.
I also enjoyed a cold beer with olives whilst waiting for my food to arrive.
I would have liked a desert, but I didn’t have time to wait for its arrival, so I decided to try again another day.
I realised that due to the demand for seating at Cafe Arabe, booking is essential.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Such is the demand for this popular restaurant, I tried booking a table for the following evening but it was full.
I would suggest booking a few days or possibly weeks in advance to guarantee a place.
The prices are pretty average considering the proximity to Jamaa El Fna, and the food was relatively good.
It was a little bit too busy for me during the evening, and not surprisingly, the waiters appeared to be slightly under pressure due to the number of people.
In Marrakech, there are so many wonderful restaurants to dine in, and I favour a more peaceful environment.
The food was nice, though, so I would be tempted to come back at lunchtime, perhaps when it’s less busy with tourists and the energy is more relaxing.
Cafe Arabe is open daily from 10.00am-12.00am
The address is,
184 Rue Mouassine
Marrakech 40000 Morocco
I would recommend booking a table for around 6.00pm. This is the best time to come before it gets too busy.
A peaceful, fragrant riad in the heart of the medina.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The first time I visited Marrakech, I stayed in Monriad.
This is where my love affair with the medina began.
I had no idea what to expect and was absolutely amazed at the wonderful experience I had staying in a traditional riad for the first time.
Monriad was so pretty.
The courtyard was tranquil, and the sound of the trickling water and birds singing was blissful.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The owner and her staff were friendly and helpful, greeting me with the ultimate respect and offering traditional mint tea with olives on arrival.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I was given helpful advice about the area surrounding the riad and popular excursions I might wish to book.
She also suggested that I could eat dinner in the riad with the other guests and recommended places of interest close by.
The rooftop was glorious, and watching the sunrise up there each morning really was a blessing.
Captured by Freebird Tracey.
My room was impeccable, with traditional and good quality furniture and a beautiful bathroom with a traditional basin.
The riad smelt amazing. Cleanliness was a top priority for the staff.
There was a large, traditional, carved wooden door into the riad. I wasn’t given my own set of keys, but it was never a problem.
I did eat dinner once inside the riad, and the food was quite good. It was popular with other guests who seemed to really enjoy dining inside the riad.
The breakfast was very good.
Monriad is tucked away down a quiet little street.
It’s a pleasant, safe area with several cats and kittens who have also made the surrounding streets their home.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Monriad is close to Jamaa El Fna and points of interest, such as Bahia Palace, yet it is peaceful and secluded.
It is considered a mid price riad but has still maintained a family and welcoming feel about it.
It remains my mission to stay in as many different riads as possible in Marrakesh, but I would definitely consider returning to Monriad.
If you think that the main square in Marrakech is a busy place during the daytime, be prepared for a surprise once the sun begins to set.
Gone are the snake charmers and monkeys on chains, replaced by food vendors, henna ladies, street musicians, and dancers.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The scene is organised chaos and a complete sensory overload.
The sights, sounds, and smells are not for the faint-hearted.
The drumming becomes intense, and the square takes on the appearance of a huge fair ground with thousands of people congregating.
People from Marrakech and beyond come together to meet each other, alongside tourists all vying for space to watch the spectacle unfold.
The atmosphere is electric and vibrates with a magnetic energy.
Street vendors pursue potential customers with menus as they try to navigate their way through the crowds.
They hop in front of you, and you have to dodge them like you are part of some assault course.
Images by Freebird Tracey
Sometimes, they can be very persistent, and you can feel pretty intimidated.
Camel head and fresh snails may not be your thing, and you have to be quite firm when telling them you’ve already eaten.
Although the scene is very intense, it is magical and exciting.
I really enjoyed myself, but other people were saying that they felt overwhelmed.
They preferred sitting on the edge of the square, sipping mint tea, and observing from a safe distance.
It is unlike anything else you may have experienced.
There is so much to see. There are games being played, and a few little scams take place to trick you into coughing up a few dirhams.
Locals hang around the cafe de France, chatting with each other over coffee.
Youths play football against the walls of the medina.
Sugarcane and fresh juice are sold from vending carts by lively vendors in high spirits.
Bemused onlookers sit observing everything outside restaurants or from the rooftops around the square as the Koutoubia mosque rings out the call to prayer.
As the sun sets, the crowds flock, and the atmosphere becomes electrifying.
The square is transformed into a social hub where anything and everything takes place.
It’s an incredible experience.
The bright lights dazzle from the food vendors, and beautiful Morroccan lamps sit for sale on blankets lighting the way, giving off a wonderful glow.
The scent of fragrant incense competes with the aroma of sheeps head cooking, floating through the air on the breeze.
Tourists tempted to try a traditional bowl of snails queue to sample this culinary delight.
Drums beat, belly dancers perform to curious onlookers and acrobats show off their skills to the gathering crowd.
You can not escape the craziness.
It draws you in.
It is the heartbeat of the city.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Jamaa El Fna magnetises you.
The sheer chaos is a complete assault on the senses in every way possible.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Just be mindful when stopping to take photos.
Someone in the thick of the action is eagle eyed and continuously watching for interested tourists who have stopped to watch.
They will spring upon you from out of nowhere, cap in hand for a donation.
After sunset, it’s as though the whole of Morrocco has come out to play in Jamaa El Fna, and they are determined to have a good time.
It is truly a spectacle to behold.
Lively, colourful, aromatic, and noisy.
Be sure to visit and become a part of what makes Marrakech so unique.
It’s certainly an eye-opener.
Although it’s mostly safe around the square, exercise the usual caution in large crowded areas and try to avoid obvious scams.
Kabana Rooftop Bar is a lively, popular place serving a wide range of cocktails and other alcoholic beverages.
They have a good selection of high-quality dishes on the menu to suit all palates.
You enter the bar from the road, and it’s up a couple of flights of stairs.
From the outside, it looks rather unassuming, but inside, it is very modern and tastefully furnished.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
There are lanterns hanging everywhere, giving off a cosy, glow, and music videos playing on a large television screen.
Video by Freebird Tracey.
It’s a very busy venue with young and old alike, and booking is essential to be guaranteed a seat.
The bar itself is huge, serving a variety of alcoholic beverages and cocktails.
You can either sit inside the bar or on the rooftop, where most people prefer to hang out listening to the music.
Table service is provided.
The food is delicious..
I took my son for his birthday meal and he chose the steak. He said it was cooked to perfection.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Some people have expressed mixed reviews, saying waiting times to be served are lengthy and found it was a little pricey in comparison to other places.
The food is Mediterranean inspired, and they also have a sushi menu.
Kababa gets very busy, and booking is advisable to guarantee a place, especially if you only wish to visit for a drink.
Lunchtime is generally quieter, and the lunch menu is also very good.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The bathroom is rather special too..
Kabana rooftop bar is lively and loud. It is typical of somewhere you’d expect to find in Gueliz.
There is a spectacular view of Koutoubia Mosque from the rooftop, especially at nighttime.
It’s slightly shielded because drinking alcohol with the Mosque in full view is prohibited in Islamic culture.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Kabana rooftop bar has a very cosmopolitan vibe..
Image by Freebird Tracey.
It is situated at the gate of the medina and open daily from,
11.00am-2.00am
They play DJ sets, and it’s a vibrant setting with a relaxed dress code.
It is not the ideal place for a romantic or quiet meal, I found it rather difficult to hold a conversation amidst the crowds of people and loud music.
Lunchtime would be better suited if you’re looking for a more intimate experience.
There are plenty of places in the medina offering a quieter environment if that’s something you’re looking for.
Kabana is a modern cocktail bar with a vibrant energy within walking distance for people staying in the medina.
It’s definitely worth a visit if you want an exciting evening out in the medina.
A beautiful, peaceful environment serving authentic Morroccon food.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Palais Dar Donab is a special treat for visitors to Marrakech.
The scent of orange blossom fills the air, and the sound of birds chirping in the courtyard gives a sense of complete peace and tranquillity whilst dining here.
This was one of my favourite places to visit and I absolutely love it here.
I keep going back time and time again.
Sometimes, it is for a glass of wine during the afternoon and a welcome break from sightseeing.
It’s a place where you can unwind and enjoy the sunny courtyard with its large pool in the centre.
Image Freebird Tracey.
The menu is extensive with food to suit all palates.
They also serve a decent selection of excellent wines and beers.
I was really impressed with the quality of food and enjoyed each meal I have eaten in this fine restaurant.
The vegetable tagine was one of the tastiest I have tried in Marrakesh, and the delicious smoothies were beautifully presented and full of fresh, vibrant fruit.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Palais Dar Donab is also a high-end accommodation, where guests and visitors mingle together for a quiet break from the busy medina.
As you relax in the calm, tranquil surroundings, you never feel rushed.
The pace is slow and calm.
The staff are attentive, and at the same time, they allow you to enjoy the lovely, peaceful setting without feeling any pressure to leave.
The gentle sound of the leaves on the trees and the trickling water make dining here a very pleasant experience.
Tangerines fall from the trees, and you can hear the birds singing happily.
Palais Dar Donab is open for lunch as well as dinner.
The tables are set around a large pool with citrus trees lining the courtyard.
Beautiful flowers add an array of colour.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Music is played subtly in the background, allowing conversation to flow and a nice laid-back atmosphere.
Relaxing for an hour or so admiring the intricate craftsmanship that surrounds you is a perfect way to recharge your batteries.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I highly recommend trying Palais Dar Donab, not just for the quality of the food or the friendly service, but for the peace and serenity it offers.
You come away feeling recharged and de-stressed after the overwhelming medina with crowds of tourists.
It’s a pleasant oasis in comparison to the over stimulating Jamaa El Fna.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Opening hours are,
Monday-Sunday
10.00am-10.30pm
Address is,
53 Dar el Basha-Bab,
Doukkala Marrakech, Morocco.
The restaurant is vegetarian and vegan friendly and accepts credit card payments.
Sounds Of The Souks 