Best hotels & accommodations in Marrakech

About Marrakech

Marrakech is one of those destinations that everyone knows about, but few have actually been to. It’s one of the most famous travel spots in the world, an enigmatic city with a history so old and tangled that it feels like a remnant of some long-forgotten past. Imagine lounging on pillows under orange-and-purple-streaked ceilings, sipping mint tea while listening to the call of the muezzin. Imagine wandering through labyrinthine souks, feasting your eyes on spice vendors hawking pungent argan or saffron or cardamom pods, exploring hidden hammams hidden down cobblestone alleys, and taking a stroll through lush gardens with palm trees and pomegranate trees. That’s Marrakech in a nutshell.

Why You Should Visit Marrakech
Marrakech is a must-see for so many reasons. First, it’s a city with a fascinating history. The city dates back to the 10th century, when it was a part of the Islamic empire and famous for being a trading hub. The city is also home to palaces and forts built by the Alaouite dynasty; the environment is a mix of Moroccan culture, Spanish architecture, and French influences, making it one of the most unique and fascinating destinations in the world. The city also has incredible food. Every meal is a sensory experience, and you’ll get to taste both traditional Moroccan cuisine and French specialties that have been adapted to local tastes. Marrakech is also one of the most culturally diverse cities in Morocco. While the rest of the country is mostly homogeneous, Marrakech is a mixture of people from all over the world. You’ll find people from all walks of life in Marrakech — Moroccans, French people, Spanish, Chinese, and many more.

A Quick History of Marrakech
The word “Marrakech” originally comes from the term “Dar al-Ba’ha”, which means “house of many cultures”. The city is indeed multicultural, with its inhabitants hailing from different ethnicities and religions. The city is believed to have been founded in the 10th century by a Berber tribe called the Almoravids, who were the ruling power in the region at the time. The Almoravids were eventually overthrown by the Almohads, another Berber tribe, who ruled Morocco for over 100 years. In the late 13th century, the Kingdom of Fez was founded by the Marinid dynasty, which set its sights on the southern regions of Morocco. The Marinids eventually managed to gain control over most of Morocco, including Marrakech. The Marinids created the first large city in Marrakech, and they also made it their capital. They are credited with developing the city’s architecture and transforming Marrakech into a center of knowledge and culture.

When to go to Marrakech
The best time to visit Marrakech is during spring or autumn. The weather is mild and pleasant, but it’s still warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking or trekking. Average temperatures are around 18°C-34°C (64°F-93°F). Summer can be unbearably hot, with temperatures that often go up to 42°C-44°C (108°F-111°F). It’s best to avoid visiting the city during this time of the year. Winter is also not a very pleasant time to visit Marrakech because it gets very cold. Temperatures can drop below 6°C-10°C (43°F-50°F), and there may be occasional snowfall.

What to See in Marrakech
The Jemaa el-Fna Square: This is where you’ll find the bulk of Marrakech’s souks and markets. It’s a bustling square filled with people of all walks of life, from locals to tourists to people selling their wares. At night, it transforms into a hub of activity, with people dining at restaurants and cafes and enjoying henna tattoos or tarot card readings. The Djemaa el-Fna Square is also home to snake charmers and other street performers. You can also spot acrobats and professional rope walkers at the square. You’ll also see storytellers and poets reciting their works at the square, as well as magicians performing their tricks.

The Bahia Palace: This is a must-visit attraction in Marrakech. Built in the late 19th century, it was the winter residence of the sultan of Marrakech. It’s one of the best examples of Islamic architecture in the world, and the interiors are decorated with intricate hand-painted tiles and exquisite mosaics.

The El Badi Palace: This palace is another must-visit attraction in Marrakech. It was built in the 12th century as a summer residence for the sultan of the time. The palace is composed of Turkish and Moroccan architectural influences, making it a unique and interesting sight.

The Menara Gardens: These gardens are located on the edge of the city. They are very lush, and you can explore them on foot or by taking a boat ride. You can also visit the nearby Bahia Palace from these gardens.

What to do in Marrakech
The city of Marrakech has plenty of activities that are worth your while. You can visit the Jemaa el-Fna Square and explore the souks in the area. You can also take a trip to the Menara Gardens or the El Badi Palace. If you’re interested in local culture, you can also attend a Moroccan cooking class. You can also trek to the nearby Atlas Mountains, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit the nearby Al-Humay Mosque, which is one of the most important mosques in Morocco. You can also visit the nearby towns of Tamegroute and the Ait Ben Haddou. You can also go on a day trip to the Sahara Desert, which is an unforgettable experience. If you’re interested in shopping, you can visit the nearby village of Cascading.

Conclusion
Marrakech is a must-visit destination for people who are interested in culture and history. The city is home to sights that will take your breath away, from the Bahia Palace to the El Badi Palace. You can also go trekking at the nearby Atlas Mountains and visit the nearby desert. Whatever you choose to do in Marrakech, you’re in for a treat. Now all you need to do is make sure you have the right gear and information, and you’ll be able to make the most out of your trip. So what are you waiting for? Book your flight now and make your way to this fascinating destination before it’s too late!

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or revisiting, we hope this guide helps you get the most out of your visit to the city. Please do read our guide on where to stay in Marrakech, so you get an even better idea about the city.

If you like our list of hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Marrakech, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Fez or the best hotels in Cape Town.