Explore Marrakech: A Weekend Guide
Where: Marrakech, Morocco
When: Anytime from mid-March to May or September to November
Who: Tourists looking to explore a blend of history, culture, and modern luxury
Day One:
Morning:
Start your journey with the 16th-century Saadian Tombs and admire Sultan al-Mansour's Italian Carrara marble decorations and gilded ceilings. Just a short walk away is the Badi Palace, now a monumental ruin offering panoramic city views and a glimpse of the Koutoubia's original 12th-century prayer pulpit. Next, head to the Bahia Palace for a tour of its opulent rooms and courtyards.
Afternoon:
After lunch at Naranj or the Mandala Society, take a stroll through the Djemaa el-Fna to Rue Mouassine, visiting Le Jardin Secret—a 19th-century palace garden divided into Persian and exotic plant sections. Admire the ancient irrigation system that supports the lush vegetation.
Evening:
Experience the lively atmosphere of the Djemaa el-Fna, with its street performers and food stalls. End the night with a dessert at Pâtisserie des Princes or enjoy a meal at rooftop Dardar, overlooking the medina.
Day Two:
Morning:
Visit Jardin Majorelle, the ultramarine-blue villa and garden once home to Yves St Laurent. Explore the gardens filled with cacti and palm trees, and then tour the Berber Museum and Musée Yves St Laurent to see St Laurent's personal collection and fashion inspirations.
Afternoon:
Explore Marrakech's modern art scene in Gueliz, starting with Comptoir des Mines gallery, then moving to Loft Art Gallery and Musée MACMA. Finish at Galerie 127. End your art walk with a coffee at Amandine.
Evening:
Enjoy a rosé at the Grand Café de la Poste, followed by dinner at Petanque Social Club or +61 for contemporary cuisine. End your evening with cocktails at Le 68 or Baromètre.
Insider Tips: - Visit Ali Ben Youssef Medersa late afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting. - Explore the recently renovated Mouassine area for a mix of traditional and modern shops and cafés. - Use beige petits taxis for affordable rides around the city. - Consider booking a pool pass at the Es Saadi Hotel for a luxurious afternoon.
When to Visit: Spring (mid-March to May) or autumn (September to November) offer the best weather. Summers can be extremely hot, and winters, though mild, can be chilly at night.
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Mandarin Oriental
- Mid-Range: L’Hotel
- Budget: Riad Jardin Secret
What to Bring Home: - Kaftans and accessories from Norya Ayron - Trendy homewares from Chabi Chic - Traditional babouche slippers from local markets
Essential Information: - Currency: Dirham (MAD) - Time Zone: GMT+1 - Languages: Darija (Moroccan Arabic), French, Tashelhit (Berber) - Flight Time: Approximately 3-4 hours from London
Local Laws and Etiquette: Dress modestly and respect local customs. Marriage is highly esteemed, and questions about marital status are common. Avoid using the left hand for food and refrain from public displays of affection.
For Emergencies: - British Embassy in Rabat: +212 537 63 33 33 - Tourist Police: +212 524 38 46 01 - Nearest Hospital: Polyclinique du Sud, +212 524 44 79 99
This guide provides a brief yet comprehensive look at a weekend in Marrakech. The city's blend of historic sites, modern art, and cultural diversity offers something for every traveler.