Marrakesh, known as the "Red City," is a vibrant and enchanting destination that captivates travelers with its rich history, bustling souks, and stunning architecture. From the winding alleys of the Medina to the grand palaces and serene gardens, this city offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. Whether you're exploring the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, relaxing in a peaceful riad, or discovering the beauty of the Atlas Mountains nearby, Marrakesh promises an unforgettable experience filled with colors, scents, and sounds that will leave a lasting impression.

What to do?

New District

On our first day in Marrakech, we ventured straight into the city, specifically exploring the New Town of Marrakech. Since our Riad, l’Oiseau du Paradis, was located in the southern part of Marrakech, we began our morning with a stroll through the Medina towards Le Jardin de Majorelle. We crossed the Medina around 10:30 AM on a Wednesday and were pleasantly surprised by the calmness of the narrow streets.

The walk from our Riad to the gardens was about 2.5 km, but you can also arrange a taxi through the Riad or hotel staff if you prefer not to walk.

Le Jardin de Majorelle

Tickets for these gardens can be purchased online in advance or on-site. You reserve a timeslot, and groups are allowed entry every half hour. Tickets cost 16.50 euros per person.

These gardens were created in 1924 by a French painter, Jacques Majorelle. They boast an extensive collection of plants, particularly numerous cacti.

You can enjoy a peaceful tea or even a pastry in the courtyard of the garden.

Jardin Majorelle is open daily.

After visiting the gardens, we continued exploring the New Town, where you can clearly see the contrast with the narrow alleys of the Medina. The streets here are much wider, and the buildings more modern.

We eventually arrived at a charming rooftop bar, Kechmara, after about another 20-minute walk.

Following lunch, we walked further to see the Marrakech train station. While it's a beautiful building, we didn't find it particularly worth the walk, in our opinion.

Jemaa El-Fnaa square

In the evening, we dined at PepeNero, a cozy Italian restaurant located near our riad. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the food—a mix of traditional Italian dishes with a Moroccan twist—was delicious. After dinner, we decided to take a leisurely stroll to the famous Jemaa El-Fnaa square, which truly comes to life after dark.

During the day, Jemaa El-Fnaa is already a bustling hub of activity, but the atmosphere is quite different. You’ll find fresh juice vendors, street performers, and countless stalls offering everything from traditional crafts to snake charmers putting on a show for the crowds. The square has a lively energy, but it feels a bit more laid-back compared to the frenetic pace of the evening. As the sun sets, the transformation is remarkable.

At night, the square becomes even busier, packed with food stalls selling Moroccan delicacies, souvenir shops, and traditional musicians filling the air with captivating tunes. It’s a sensory overload, but one that offers an authentic glimpse into Marrakesh’s vibrant culture. Even at 9:30 PM, the narrow streets around the square were bustling, but we found it a must-see experience to visit after dark when the square truly comes alive

Old District

The old city of Marrakech, known as the Medina, is renowned for its deep-rooted history, vibrant culture, and impressive architecture. This area, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, forms the heart of Marrakech's traditional and cultural essence.

In the old quarter of Marrakech, you can easily spend an entire day wandering through its narrow streets. You'll come across one shop after another selling traditional clothing, shoes, leather goods, and more. The souks also feature countless shops where you can linger for hours, exploring and browsing.

The old quarter can get very crowded, especially in the evenings. Sellers can be quite persistent, but remaining calm and politely declining (shukran) usually leads them to leave you in peace.

It's always advisable to negotiate prices. While initial prices may not be very high, you can often haggle and save a few euros.

Within the old quarter, there are several attractions worth visiting, such as the Madrasa Ben Youssef (Islamic school), Le Jardin Secret, the Koutoubia Mosque, the Bahia Palace, and the Saadian Tombs. However, we chose not to visit these sights and instead thoroughly enjoyed simply strolling through the small streets.

Agafay Desert

From Marrakech, you can also take a day trip to the Agafay Desert. This excursion typically costs around 30€-50€ per person and can be arranged through your hotel/riad or booked online. These trips often include round-trip transportation, quad biking, camel riding, and a desert dinner show with lights and fire. We opted not to take this day trip because we were heading further into the desert. However, if you're staying only in Marrakech, it's highly recommended! Moreover, due to the somewhat commercial nature of day trips to Agafay, spending a night in the Agafay Desert is even more recommended. This allows for a more relaxed experience, including dining in the desert and enjoying a show with belly dancers and live music.

Where to stay?

Riad L'Oiseau Du Paradis

Nestled in the serene neighborhood of Derb Cherrata, in Marrakech's southern part, Riad l’Oiseau du Paradis offers a perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. Just a leisurely 10-minute stroll from the lively city center, this riad allows you to easily immerse yourself in Marrakech's bustling souks and historic sites, yet retreat to a peaceful haven at any time.

Riad l’Oiseau du Paradis boasts 14 beautifully appointed rooms, each designed with comfort in mind and equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning and private bathrooms. The traditional Moroccan decor enhances the riad’s ambiance, creating an authentic and inviting atmosphere.

Step into the riad’s courtyard, a sanctuary of relaxation featuring a charming restaurant where you can savor traditional Moroccan cuisine. In the center, a refreshing pool invites you to cool off from the Marrakech sun, providing a serene oasis amid the city’s vibrant energy.

One of the highlights of your stay is the delightful breakfast served daily until 11 a.m. Indulge in a variety of treats including fluffy pancakes, eggs prepared to your liking, fresh yogurt, seasonal fruits, and more, all meticulously prepared to start your day on a high note.

Experience the essence of Moroccan hospitality at Riad l’Oiseau du Paradis, where modern comforts meet traditional charm, promising a memorable stay in Marrakech.

Riad l'Oiseau du Paradis

Riad Le Peroquet Bleu

Riad Le Perroquet Bleu is a charming accommodation located about a 15-minute walk from the bustling Jemaa El-Fnaa Square, nestled in a quieter part of Marrakech. This serene retreat consists of three interconnected riads, providing guests with an oasis of tranquility amidst the city's vibrant atmosphere.

The riad boasts a stunning traditional Moroccan design, complete with intricate tile work, lush courtyards, and beautifully decorated rooms. Each room is equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay while still preserving the authentic Moroccan ambiance.

Guests can start their day with a delightful breakfast included in their stay, featuring a variety of local and international dishes. For those who wish to indulge in more culinary delights, the riad offers an exquisite menu for lunch and dinner, allowing guests to savor traditional Moroccan cuisine without having to venture far.

Riad Le Perroquet Bleu is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a peaceful and luxurious experience in Marrakech, with its perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm.

Riad Le Perroqut Bleu

Discover the Magic and Chaos of Marrakesh: Morocco’s Enchanting Red City