Marrakech is full of delightful little places to sit, and people watch whilst sipping traditional mint tea.
A pretty little spot inside the medina.
The colourful, boho decor and tempting pastries are the perfect way to take a much needed breather from the chaos of the souks.
Shopping in the medina is a fascinating experience, but it can be overwhelming.
I found out that taking a break and pacing myself was the best way to thoroughly enjoy my time looking around and navigating the maze of the souks.
I especially loved the sweets and pastries on offer. They were absolutely delicious and complimented the refreshing mint tea perfectly.
There were so many to choose from, and I decided to treat myself to a selection of smaller pastries to see which were my favourites.
A tasty snack inside the medina.
If you are shopping for gifts or spending time in the colourful, vibrant souks, I would highly recommend that you take some time out to rest and pace yourself.
Sitting outside a cute little tea shop and sampling something light and tasty is a great way to engage in the culture of Morrocco and its people.
Enjoying a breather from shopping.
There are plenty of places offering mint tea and pastries dotted in and around the main square.
The sweets are an absolute treat, but you will be spoilt for choice.
The choice of delicious treats on offer in the souks.
Part of the pleasure of exploring the medina is finding hidden gems where you can sit and gather yourself before venturing further.
Marrakech is known for its delicious pastries, and they’re a nice snack that won’t spoil your appetite for later in the day.
Watching the world go by in the medina.
A few suggestions are,
. Medina Kawa Marrakech.
. La Patisserie de la Terracce Spices
. Boughaz Coffee in the Kasbah.
Also, check out my blog post about traditional Morroccan mint tea.
Riad Blue Berber is a traditional riad close to some great places such as Bahia Palace, Dardar rooftop bar, Le Pegola, and a variety of restaurants and shops.
It is situated on my favourite side of the medina because it’s still lively yet a little less manic.
I find it easier to locate riads here than negotiating the souks late at night.
The riad is authentic and pretty with typically morroccan furnished suites.
There is a more intimate feel about this riad because it’s slightly smaller.
The owner, Habi, is a knowledgeable man who enjoys a chat with his guests. He is very hospitable, and the riad has a homely feel about it because of its staff.
Mona, the lady who cooks breakfast, doesn’t speak English, but every morning, she prepared a hearty breakfast for me.
The riad can organise tours, runs cooking classes, and will store your luggage after checking out.
The rooftop was large with different tiers to sit on and was being updated during my stay.
The rooftop of Riad Blue Berber.
However, it would benefit from a lick of paint to make it perfect.
I always felt safe walking to and from Riad Blue Berber. This is also a bonus, especially for female solo travellers.
The traditional 17th century tiles on the floor of the courtyard give it a sense of character and charm.
Riad Blue Berber has four rooms.
Three of the rooms have air conditioning, and two have fans and heaters.
L’Mdina is a great little place serving authentic, good quality food close to Jamaa El Fna.
The meals are good value for money, and there’s a lively atmosphere with live music playing.
The menu is interesting and varied.
They serve traditional tangia (tender meat, cooked for hours in an earthenware pot, called a tangier)
The lamb was cooked to perfection, succulent and tender, and the aromatic aroma as it was tipped from the tangia onto the plate was mouthwatering.
The salads are delicious and creative, combining an interesting infusion of flavours.
I especially enjoyed the vegetable tagine, with root vegetables and chickpeas.
L’Mdina is a restaurant serving Moroccan, Mediterranean, and international dishes with a traditional gastronomic touch.
It is located about 2 minutes from the square.
They also have seating available for people, simply wanting a coffee or just a drink at the bar, whilst listening to some live music.
The menu is suitable for vegetarians with vegan options also available.
The restaurant seats 60 people and is beautifully decorated with an authentic Moroccan theme.
The musicians played a mix of traditional Morroccan music and Latin American.
They entertained the diners without being too loud, so we were able to engage in conversation.
It was the perfect dinner setting. A combination of good food, a nice ambience, as well as being budget friendly.
Whilst it can get quite busy, I didn’t have to queue long.
I was happy to be seated outside. It was a nice, warm evening, and I was content feeling the vibe of the restaurant mixed with the magic of the medina during evening time.
L’Mdina is close enough to the main square for a break from the hustle and bustle, whilst still feeling a part of it. It’s a place to go for an hour or so to recharge one’s batteries.
There is a set menu at lunchtime for 85 dirhams, and it’s worth every penny.
If you want a tasty meal, which is reasonably priced with some entertainment, I recommend giving L’mdina a try.
The restaurant’s address is;
42 rue des banque
Marrakech 40000
L’Mdina opens at 12 midday and closes at 23.00
They accept card payments.
For more information about places to eat, contact me via the email address below;
This is a large riad very close to the main square. It has a very pretty courtyard with beautiful plants and a swimming pool.
The colour of the walls are a lovely blue that works really well against the lush green foliage and tiled flooring.
The rooftop is large with plenty of seating and a warm jacuzzi. It’s lit up in the evening and looks incredibly pretty.
Views from the rooftop.
The square is visible from the rooftop, and you can hear the lively sound of everything that is going on until late at night.
I chose a room on the rooftop. It was exceptionally pretty and decorated in a Saffron colour.
Saffron room.
For light sleepers, you may find the early morning call to pray rather loud, and the noise from the square may be a bit of a problem.
The sound of the food stalls being dismantled can be heard until the early hours of the morning.
I would recommend taking ear plugs.
Riad Persephone is not a reasonably priced accommodation, and it is not a luxury riad.
It has a rustic charm, and some areas are a little bit tired and in need of a face-lift.
If you prefer a traditional style of riad, this is what you will get but at a high-end price. Don’t expect a five-star experience. You may be disappointed.
The riad offers the usual activities and has a hammam.
Riad Persephone is in a great location, close to some nice restaurants and shops.
It is vibrant and colourful, with a few cosy little nooks to sit and relax.
Interior of Riad Persephone.
If you’re looking for a traditional riad,there are similar riads that have excellent customer service at a more reasonable price.
At Raid Persephone, you are paying for the close proximity to the Jamma El Fna.
Overall, it is aesthetically pretty and very close to the main square.
If you are looking for a more intimate place with a friendly, homestay vibe, there are better options available.
A few helpful tips you may find useful before arriving in Marrakesh.
Marrakech is a cash society. Although many cafes and restaurants take cards, cash is often the preferred method of payment.
In the main square called Jamaa El Fna, you will need cash to purchase almost everything.
There are 🏧 machines located around the city.
I use the one outside the post office near where the horse and carriages stand, close to the taxi rank.
The exchange rate is good, and it was always working.
You can get cash at the airport, but the exchange rate isn’t great.
There are also plenty of places to exchange money around the city.
It’s advisable to always carry a small amount of cash with you.
It’s useful for tipping, small purchases in the souks, and picking up a bottle of water.
Something you may want to consider if you don’t wish to get any cash at the airport is..
Make sure to organise a taxi to your hotel or riad in advance.
Most accommodations will do this for you when you book, and it’s prepaid.
You will probably need a SIM card.
I got an Orange SIM in the airport, and they put it into my phone for me.
This saved me any hassle, and I had data from the moment I arrived.
Having data gave me reassurance as a solo traveller.
I could use Google maps in the souks, which was helpful in case I got lost.
Tipping is not customery in Marrakesh, but the food and service are usually exceptionally good.
So it’s nice to be nice.
I generally leave a small tip of approximately 20-30 dirhams.
You can drink the tap water allegedly.
Personally, I didn’t.
I preferred to air on the side of caution, plus it doesn’t taste that good.
There are plenty of places selling bottled water around the medina, and riads or hotels also sell water.
Non Muslims can’t go inside the Mosques, with the exception of Hassan ll Mosque in Casablanca.
Koutoubia Mosque has the most beautiful gardens, which are well worth a visit. They are open to everyone, and particularly nice in the evening when they’re lit up.
Image Freebird Tracey.
Some tourist attractions get incredibly busy, so try to arrive at opening times for the best experience.
The same applies to shopping in the souks.
Aim to arrive at places like Bacha Coffee and Bahia Palace for around 9.30.am.
Although Marrakech is an Islamic city, it’s fairly relaxed and liberal.
However, out of respect for the culture of your hosting country, it’s appropriate to cover your shoulders when visiting certain religious places.
Aim to dress modestly without exposing too much flesh, and you’ll have a great experience.
NB: See my separate post on what to wear when visiting Marrakech.
Marrakech is a dry city. However, there are bars and clubs that cater to Western tourists.
There are a few nice bars selling alcohol and cocktails around the medina, such as Le Pergola and Kabana rooftop bar.
Gueliz and Hivenage have plenty of clubs and bars if you want a night out with alcoholic beverages and entertainment.
Some high-end riads and hotels will have alcohol also.
It’s forbidden to consume alcohol in the medina unless you’re in a place that is licensed to sell it.
If you get tired of haggling in the souks, there is an artisans market.
The prices are slightly higher but you can simply buy the products without having to bargain for them.
People in Marrakesh can be quite camera shy.
It’s best not to take photographs unless they specifically say you can.
Be prepared to have to pay for the privilege, too.
Most travellers are discouraged from starting conversations about the King of Morocco.
Try sticking to conversations about the history of Marrakech and Amazigh culture.
The locals will love telling you all about it..
There are a few scams going on in the square, but it’s mainly opportunists trying to make a dirhams.
I haven’t had any problems myself, but just keep your wits about you and don’t fall prey to anything.
Marrakech is relatively safe, but just like anywhere else in the world, exercise caution with your personal belongings in crowded areas.
Keep your personal items in front of you and don’t carry large amounts of money around.
The Souks close around 9.00 to 10.00 pm, so be careful if you’re walking around after that, especially if you’re a solo female traveller.
I haven’t experienced anything unpleasant, but it can feel rather unnerving in the dark alleyways after dark.
NB: See my separate post about solo female travellers in Marrakech.
A list of my favourite and more challenging things in Marrakech.
Colourful Babouches
Marrakech is ‘my happy place’. It’s a city of contrasts, from the ancient walls of the medina to the plush bars and clubs of Hivernage in the new part of the city.
Visitors may find the experience to be an assault on the senses.
The lively sounds, sights, and smells can be a complete overload on the senses and somewhat overwhelming to the most seasoned traveller.
However, don’t let that put you off coming to Marrakech.
You do become accustomed to it, and it’s part of the charm of Marrakech.
I have made a list of the 5 things that I myself love and hate about this fascinating city to help you get the most out of your visit.
Here are the 5 things I hate about Marrakech.
1.
If you’re an animal lover, you might find the hustlers in the main square too much to cope with.
The monkeys on chains and the snakes (which you are encouraged to have a photo taken with) are difficult to accept.
Don’t encourage this.
The monkies have been brought down from the Atlas mountains, and although people need to make a living, they clearly don’t want to be there.
Then there are the horses, taking tourists through busy traffic and the donkeys pulling carts through narrow alleyways full of motorbikes and tourists.
The horses seem to be looked after, but the traffic is horrendous, and I’ve witnessed accidents where they’ve been clipped by passing motorists.
The donkeys look overworked and neglected.
It’s the culture of the city, but very different from what I’m used to.
I avoided eye contact with the snake charmers and monkeys in the square, and they stopped approaching me eventually.
There are a lot of stray dogs and cats, but they are looked after by the locals, and many of the cats have been rehomed by the owners of the riads.
They are regularly fed, and the people in Marrakesh are kind and caring as a rule.
If you are an animal lover, you may find Marrakech a bit of a culture shock to begin with.
I joined Brooke, a sanctuary, for working animals abroad when I arrived home.
I can’t change how people earn their money, but I can help to educate them.
2.
Queueing at the airport.
Be prepared to stand in line for up to 2 hours on arrival. The process is slow, so get used to it.
Take a snack and keep a drink readily available. You will most likely need it.
You can pay extra for the fast- track service, but it may cost you around €230 for the first person and €190 for the second person.
Tip: Try to visit the bathroom before the plane lands and consider choosing a seat near the exit.
Get off the plane and boot it to passport control as quickly as you can.
3.
Marrakech is touristy.
The narrow alleys of the Souks can be very crowded most of the time.
Don’t expect to get anywhere quickly because you and hundreds of other tourists will be browsing around the shops at the same time.
Marrakech is one of the most popular tourist destinations, and it will certainly feel as though they’re all there at the same time as you.
Tip: Plan to visit in January or November to avoid the crowds.
It is still sunny but much cooler than during the summer months.
There are fewer people around the tourist attractions, so you will get that perfect photo opportunity.
Tip: Don’t try taking photographs of the local people or vendors. They don’t feel comfortable about it and may even expect a payment from you.
4.
The smell of fumes from the motorcycles in the souks.
Everyone in Marrakech seems to own a motorcycle, and they all appear to be riding them at the same time.
The souks are full of motorcycles and tuk-tuks, giving off clouds of fumes as they hurtle past.
This can get stuck in the back of your throat, causing you to feel a little bit nauseous occasionally.
There is little you can do to change this, but I recommend doing your shopping in the souks early in the morning before they get busy.
Around 9.00 is an ideal time.
There are a lot of vehicles on the roads, and it can be chaotic at times.
Pollution is fairly bad, so just be aware of this if you struggle with asthma or other breathing issues.
5.
The street vendors in the main square can be rather persistent.
During the evening, the main square opens up becoming a meeting place for thousands of people.
This includes the locals and tourists alike, and it gets incredibly busy.
The food stalls are all in competition with each other, and vendors can follow you persistently with a menu to get your custom.
Some of them can be very persuasive, even pushing the boundaries of what’s considered to be harassment
It can be very overwhelming, and it’s often difficult to remain calm in those kinds of situations
The henna ladies are also demanding your custom.
It’s not uncommon for them to take hold of your hand and begin applying henna on them without your consent.
Tip: If you’re not interested, try not to make eye contact with any of the vendors.
Saying “ La Shukran” which means no thank you in Arabic, is a helpful way to discourage unwanted attention.
It’s important to remember, every one is simply trying to make a living.
Marrakech was badly affected by the devastating earthquake in 2023, and many people have lost their livelihoods and homes.
Whilst it’s difficult to cope with the constant barage of vendors vying for your custom, it’s worth remembering their own struggle to survive.
Marrakech is certainly a different way of life from what you may be used to and a culture shock to many first-time visitors.
So now I’ve told you about a few of the things I find challenging in Marrakech, I would like to tell you about what keeps me going back time and time again…
A lovely man shows me inside the Hammam/image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech is definitely my ‘happy place’
I am absolutely in love with this city.
Here’s why…
1.
The people are wonderful.
You can expect to encounter the friendliest and most welcoming people you have ever met.
They are constantly smiling and can’t wait to tell you all about their beautiful city.
They are multi-lingual, and many people speak up to 5 different languages.
They love to teach you about the Amazigh culture, the indigenous tribes of North Africa.
It’s absolutely fascinating, and it’s possible to stay with Amazigh people in the Atlas mountains during your trip.
The level of service in restaurants is astonishing, and the riad owners go out of their way to make sure that your stay is nothing short of perfect.
I highly recommend staying in a riad at least once.
They are traditional Moroccan houses with a central indoor garden or courtyard. The views over the rooftops of the medina are stunning, and listening to the birds singing in the morning is delightful.
They are a haven of peace and tranquillity after the exhilaration outside.
NB: I have a separate post about staying in a traditional riad.
2.
The vibrant colours and wonderful craftsmanship.
If, like myself, you are drawn to beautiful colours and intricate designs, you will be in paradise in the Souks.
You will find an assortment of fine jewellery, inticately designed Berber rugs, wood carvings, and a vast array of other wonderfully crafted products
You will be blown away by the artisans, creating wonderfully curated pieces of work in front of you, and the displays of various items at a decent price.
Wherever you look, you will notice something that catches your eye.
Just be prepared to barter.
3.
The food is delicious.
There are some amazing places to dine in Marrakech, and the food is of an incredibly high standard.
There are good quality vegetarian restaurants and cafes, and many cater for vegans and people with gluten intolerance.
The food in Marrakech is diverse, and you can find dishes to suit everyone’s palate from all over the world.
I found delicious Italian restaurants that made the most wonderful pizzas and pasta dishes.
The signature dish of Marrakech is Tagine.
Tagine is the name of the clay pot used to cook the dish in
It’s cooked very slowly, resulting in the most decadent, mouthwatering flavours.
Choose from meat or vegetable tagine, you won’t be disappointed.
There are some more unusual options, such as sheep’s head and snails found around the square.
This seemed to be more popular amongst curious tourists and locals than those people who prefer fine dining.
Overall, I was very impressed with the amount of variety on offer and the stunning restaurant settings.
I also recommend visiting Bacha Coffee ( see my separate post)
There are hundreds of different coffees to choose from and a nice selection of cakes, pastries, and other light snacks.
You do have to wait for a table, but you get to look around the museum and enjoy the lush garden whilst waiting.
4.
The architecture is absolutely stunning.
There are so many interesting places to visit, and the intricacy of the tile work is absolutely astonishing.
Islamic craftsmanship with its symmetry and attention to detail is beautiful, and I was spellbound.
The lush gardens are also breathtaking and a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the Souks.
I recommend visiting these places to get an idea of how exceptional everything truly is,
. Bahia Palace.
. Madrasa Ben Youssef.
. The saadian Tombs.
. The Koutoubia Mosque.
. The Secret Garden.
. Bacha Museum.
Marrakech is steeped in history, and there is something exciting to see for every visitor.
5.
Marrakech is a great starting place for visiting other places
I took a wonderful trip out to the Agafay desert, and it was absolutely magical.
I had dinner in the desert watching the sunset it was unforgettable..
There are trips to Ouzoud to see the second largest waterfall in North Africa and experience the monkeys.
You can also take a train to Casablanca or visit Essaouira for the day.
If you wish, you can venture into the Sahara desert if you have about 3 days to spare. It’s a very popular destination amongst tourists.
Tours are very well organised, and the tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and helpful. They go out of their way to make sure you have the best experience.
Riads or hotels are happy to help you organise your trip, but you can also check other popular online sights for price comparison.
Ouzoud Waterfall.
There are many different reasons why I love Marrakech, I have listed only a few.
Here are a few other things to take into consideration..
Marrakech is a safe place to visit, especially for solo female travellers.
Although it is mainly an Islamic city, it is relatively liberal.
I would always encourage showing a little bit of respect regarding your dress code. Wearing a loose cover around your shoulders when visiting religious sites is advisable.
Marrakech can reach temperatures of 50° in the summer, which is incredibly hot, so bare that in mind when choosing when to go.
Riads and hotels have places for you to sunbathe, and it is acceptable to wear shorts and bathing suits there..
If you’re looking for a place that is a combination of many different things, from the ancient to modernity,
A place that is diverse and can often feel like an organised chaos, yet perfectly functional,
A place that will transport you to the world of 1001 Nights,
Then Marrakech is for you.
I would recommend doing your research before visiting. Watch YouTube videos and read travel blogs.
Arm yourself with plenty of knowledge before you arrive so that you will know what to expect.
That way, you will have an unforgettable experience and come away with memories of places and people that will stay with you forever.
Intricately tiled fountain.
Continue reading for more information about the places mentioned in this post..
The best way to immerse yourself in the culture of Marrakech.
Library inside a riad
No-one should come to Marrakech and miss out on the wonderful experience of staying in a riad.
If you truly want a taste of Moroccan life, spending time in a riad with traditional tadelakt tiles and gurgling water features will give you just that.
Riads are the homes once lived in by the well-to-do of Marrakech. They are built around a central courtyard and have various citrus trees and foliage in the middle, reaching up through the open rooftop.
The roof top can be reached by climbing the tiled steps, where you will be greeted by colourful seating areas to escape from the heat and admire the views of the medina below.
The rooms are traditionally decorated in Moroccan lamps and Berber fabrics, including cushions and bedding with the most exquisite patterns and colours.
I prefer to stay in the mid- range priced riads because they still maintain their original appearance, and it’s like being immersed into a tale from 1001 nights.
The higher priced riads are also very beautiful but tend to lose some of their authenticity for me.
Many riads have been renovated by Westerners to appeal to the needs of tourists. They are modern and have televisions and bidets in the rooms.
My choice of riad is a family owned property, one that still has it’s old world charm and feels as though I’m staying with a Moroccan family.
Some of the riads I have stayed in have a slightly rustic quality. They cook delicious home cooked food and offer a Hammam service.
Waking up to the sounds of birds singing in the trees, and the gentle flowing of water from the fountain is such a wonderful start to the day.
The early morning sunshine reflecting off the beautifully tiled floors, puts you in a happy mood for the day.
Most riads provide their guests with breakfast, which is often sweeter than we are used to in the west. Some riads cook omelettes and there is always fresh orange and homemade yoghurts and jams served with traditional bread.
I love sunbathing on the rooftop, listening to the call to prayer from the Koutoubia mosque and the musicians in the square.
In the evening, I like to watch the sunset as the Jamaa El Fnaa comes alive with thousands of visitors. You can hear vendors calling out to beckon them into their food stalls, the aroma of the food cooking catches your breathe and the merry throng of the street performers entertaining the masses can be heard.
The rooftop of Monriad
Back in the courtyard, you feel as if you are in an oasis. The calm, peaceful environment is a far cry from what is happening outside the big heavy wooden door of the riad.
The sound of Moroccan music plays at low volume, adding to the spirit of the surroundings, creating an authentic experience.
Courtyard of a traditional riad
When I stay in a riad, the people working there can’t do enough to ensure I have a brilliant time. They are kind and helpful, and nothing is too much trouble. They are always smiling and happy to chat with their guests about Marrakech and it’s history.
They suggest places where you can eat and can arrange excursions for their guests.
Many of the larger riads have swimming pools. They are a welcome retreat after the exhausting heat of the hot African sun.
I like to spend a few days having what I call a ‘riad experience’ just relaxing by the pool amongst the flora and fauna before heading off to do activities.
Whichever type of riad you choose to stay in, you won’t be disappointed.
It’s one of the most delightful experiences you can have whilst visiting Marrakech.
Sounds Of The Souks 