Hustle and bustle, magical gardens; architectural treasures everywhere you look and the wonderful scent of mint in the air: Marrakech is an experience like no other. The largest medina in North Africa hides lively streets and buildings steeped in history behind its high walls, and it's worth just immersing yourself in the hustle and bustle. The main square, Djemaa el Fna, is the ideal place to browse the famous souk, relax in a café and watch the snake charmers - after sunset, these and the other performers clear the square and it fills with dozens of stalls offering delicacies.

Dazzling buildings with history: the Medersa Ben Youssef is as beautiful as ever. ©Unsplash

You can't leave Marrakech without trying tajine, the typical stew. Or how about a snail soup? A real delicacy with the locals. The perfect balance to Marrakech's bustling centre are the hammams, which remain deeply anchored in cultural life. The luxurious treatments work wonders not only for physical well-being, but also for the mind. 

Why is Marrakech worth a trip?

Because the lively hustle and bustle, rich culture, luxury and exceptional architecture richly gift visitors.

Don't miss:

The Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of 66 members of the Saadian dynasty, are a prime example of opulent Moroccan architecture.

Hotel El Fenn: Located in the heart of the medina, this hotel is a beautiful retreat as colorful as Marrakech itself. ©Cécile Treal 

Where to eat 

Restaurant Le Kilim

The centrally located restaurant combines Moroccan tradition with contemporary cuisine and aesthetics - whether it's a modern breakfast, healthy snacks for lunch or a classic dinner, Kamal Laftini's newest eatery offers guests everything their hearts desire.
lekilim.com

© Restaurant Le Kilim

Restaurant Nomad

In the rooftop restaurant in the middle of the medina, you dine with a fabulous view. The menu includes delicious reinterpretations of traditional dishes and fragrant Moroccan tea.
nomadmarrakech.com

What to see

Jardin Majorelle

The majestic botanical garden with the villa in dominant blue, bought and restored in the 1980s by the fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé, is one of the most famous sights of the Red City. The house now houses the Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
jardinmajorelle.com

Radiant blue: the "Bleu Majorelle" villa is named after the garden's original owner, Jacques Majorelle. © Unsplash

Where to sleep

Berber Lodge

A love letter to the village of Oumnass and its people, this rural retreat is an oasis of tranquillity with wonderful rooms and an outstanding restaurant. 

Berber Lodge
Douar Oumnes, Tamesloth, Marrakech, Morocco
Web: berberlodge.net
Tel: +212 6 62 04 9043
Price: Double room incl. breakfast from € 240,-.

© Debbie Trouerbach

Riad Mena

Spacious and stylishly designed riad in the heart of the medina is the perfect accommodation to experience Marrakech in an authentic way. With pool and lushly planted courtyards.  

Riad Mena
70 Derb J'Did, Douar Graoua 40000, Marrakech, Morocco
Web: riadmenaandbeyond.com.
Tel: +212 (0)5 24 38 18 28
Price: doubles from €150

Peacock Pavilions

Not only is this family-run boutique hotel beautiful and homey, but it also supports a nonprofit organization that promotes the education of Moroccan girls. 

Peacock Pavilions
Kilometer 18, Route de Ouarzazate, Douar Ladaam, Marrakech, Morocco
Web: peacockpavilions.com
Tel: +212 (0) 666-10 55 88 
Price: double room incl. breakfast from € 250,-.

Where to shop

Maison ARTC
Artsi Ifrah's outfits and looks are as colourful and edgy as the city itself. Each creation is handmade and unique, made from upcycled vintage materials.
maisonartc.com

© Maison ARTC

Text: Michaela Hessenberger, Philipp Rossmann and Heidi Rietsch