• walking through the blue of Villa Oasis
    Provided by: John_Walker/Shutterstock.com
  • Botanical garden Jardin Majorelle in Marrakesh (Morocco)
    Provided by: KajzrPhotography / Shutterstock.com

Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.​

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El Badi Palace

El Badi Palace

Constructed in the 16th century under the orders of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty, El Badi Palace — the "Incomparable Palace" — was once hailed as a marvel of its era. Initially featuring 360 rooms, an expansive courtyard, and a 90-metre-long pool, the palace was a monument to the Sultan's affluence and influence. Adorned with a lavish selection of materials sourced globally — from Italian marble to Malian gold — the palace was envisioned as an opulent space for grand receptions and ceremonies. However, following al-Mansur's death in 1603, the palace was abandoned and gradually succumbed to decay, especially during the waning years of the Saadian rule. Many of its precious elements, particularly its marble, were harvested and repurposed in various Moroccan structures. Nowadays, El Badi stands as a significant point of interest in Marrakesh, housing various exhibitions and even showcasing the Minbar of the Kutubiyya Mosque. Though largely in ruins, the palace still whispers stories of a bygone era of wealth and grandeur.
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Jemaa el-Fna

Jemaa el-Fna

Jemaa el-Fna, the vibrant epicentre of Marrakesh's medina, is a riot of colours, sounds and scents, especially at sunset. Though the square has transitioned from its roots as a daily food market for mountain traders, its hustle and energy remain palpable. During the day, vendors offer refreshing fruit juices, but it's at dusk when the place truly transforms. Street theatre, or 'halqa,' has been a mainstay here since the 11th century, and the tradition continues in modern times. As the sun dips below the horizon, food stalls magically unfold, adding tantalising aromas to the air. Musicians tune their instruments, snake charmers enchant both serpents and tourists, and the spectacle crescendos into a nightly celebration of Marrakeshi life and culture.
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Royal Mansour Marrakesh Hammam Spa

Royal Mansour Marrakesh Hammam Spa

A trip to a hammam is an essential Marrakesh experience for rejuvenating both body and spirit. Berbers have honed their skincare rituals for centuries to keep their skin radiant in the harsh desert climate. Relish the bliss of a cleansing session with black olive soap, hair care, and thorough scrubbing with exfoliating mitts. For a top-tier experience, the Royal Mansour hosts Marrakesh's premier hammam. Here, luxury meets tradition: you'll recline on heated marble while water from intricately designed silver buckets is poured over you. They use premium Moroccan ingredients in their signature rhassoul scrub, featuring a blend of rose, basil, and other natural elements. Diverse treatments are available, and advance booking is a must.
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Bab Debbagh Tanneries

Bab Debbagh Tanneries

Witnessing the age-old craft of leather treatment at the Bab Debbagh tanneries is a fascinating experience. Situated near a river for water supply, these tanneries have been operating for centuries. The distinctive odour, resulting from ammonia used in the leather-softening process, will let you know you've arrived. Unlike some other Moroccan tanneries, the focus here is on treating leather in its natural state; the dyeing happens elsewhere. Visiting the site can be a bit tricky due to the presence of unofficial 'guides' demanding payment. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, consider hiring a certified guide as part of a medina tour. Otherwise, prepare to navigate past these unofficial attendants by offering a small tip and insisting on entering without their assistance.
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Souks

Souks

Step into the sensory whirlwind that is Marrakech's sprawling labyrinth of souks. Known as Morocco's largest and among the world's most exotic marketplaces, they offer a feast for the senses — vibrant colours, intoxicating aromas, and the ceaseless hum of haggling. While the thrill of the hunt and the art of bargaining are all part of the experience, first-time visitors may find the maze-like alleys a bit disorienting. The narrow, often-covered passageways, brimming with goods, can seem indistinguishable one from another. To help you navigate this complex web and truly appreciate what's on offer, consider taking a guided tour to get your bearings and avoid getting lost.
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Saadian Tombs

Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs stand as an opulent tribute to the Saadian dynasty. Originating from the 16th century, the site was envisioned by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur as a monumental homage to his lineage. Found within the aged Kasbah Mosque, the tombs are divided into multiple sections, each boasting a collection of chambers festooned with ornate stucco work and vibrant tiling. The architectural flair of the Saadian Tombs is nothing short of mesmerising. From ceilings embellished with kaleidoscopic tiles to walls etched with intricate Islamic motifs, every element contributes to the site's majestic ambiance. Domed chambers further add to the grandiosity, featuring complex geometric and arabesque patterns.
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City Walls

City Walls

The iconic walls of Marrakesh, stretching over 12 km, are more a statement of aesthetic grandeur than a fortification for defence. Originally erected in the early 12th century by the city's Almoravid founders, the walls have undergone several expansions, including the notable addition of the Kasbah to the south and later extensions towards the northern districts. These walls offer an idyllic backdrop for romantic interludes, especially as dusk settles over the city. For those looking to explore further, caleches — traditional horse-drawn carts — are available for leisurely tours around the medina and the ramparts.
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Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Inaugurated in 2017, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum is an architectural marvel featuring a captivating blend of curves, straight lines, and intricate patterns, all rendered in brick. Located conveniently near Majorelle Garden, the museum houses exhibition spaces, an auditorium, and a library. Showcasing the pivotal works of the iconic French designer, the museum also hosts rotating exhibitions. It's an ideal spot for aficionados of fashion and design to spend an enriching afternoon.
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