Marrakech, Morocco — Things to Do
Sightseeing in Marrakech
With a rich and diverse cultural history and enough smells, tastes and colors to spark just about any traveler's interest, the attractions in Marrakech are second to none and it will take visitors a while to explore all that this enchanting city has to offer. With ochre sandstone buildings, there's no guessing why this city is known as 'The Red City'. Head to the Djemaa el-Fna Square where Berber merchants, travelers peddlers and entertainers such as snake charmers, musicians, fire-eaters and fortune-tellers can be found - a truly unforgettable cultural experience. History buffs will enjoy the countless monuments to be seen and should not miss out on Saadien Tombs, Koutoubia Mosque, El Badii Palace and the breathtaking fountains of Echrab ou Chouf and Mouassine. The Majorelle Gardens are a botanical masterpiece, having been touched by the hands of Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé, and are one of the city's most incredible sights. Hop-on hop-off bus tours are available and travelers will not be disappointed.
Shopping in Marrakech
Shopping in Marrakech is a world-famous travel experience. From the bustling labyrinth of the souks (an area of market stalls) to hand-crafted pottery, contemporary art, couture kaftans and priceless antiques, Marrakech is a treasure-trove of exotic goods.
From the souks, shoppers can purchase anything from traditional belgha(leather slippers) to magical potions; La Porte d'Or is home to some invaluable antiques. The biggest souk in Marrakech is adjacent to the Djemaa El-Fna, while in Gueliz, Intensite Nomade sells trendy kaftans, while contemporary art is available from Matisse Art Gallery. The Gueliz area also hosts some very upmarket, boutique-style outlets. Akkal, in Sidi Ghanem, is renowned for its beautiful, hand-crafted pottery. Other popular souvenirs from Marrakech include 'cactus silk', spices, camel leather goods, and cashmere shawls.
In the souks, bargaining is essential (asking prices may be 5 times what the salesman will take) and the attention of shop owners or staff can be overwhelming. When shopping in the médina with a tourist guide, his commission will be added to the price of goods purchased. Most small shops are closed on Friday afternoon and Sunday; big bazaars are open everyday. Many shops close in August. There is no provision for tourists to reclaim any sales tax or VAT from goods purchased in Morocco.
Marrakech Nightlife
Nightlife in Marrakech is a unique combination of sophistication and tradition, offering everything from local storytellers and dancers to international festivals, lounge bars and the biggest club in Africa. Flyers and posters around town advertise the up-coming events and venues. The best of old Morocco can be experienced at Jemaa el Fna square with local musicians, storytellers and dancers entertaining visitors. In the medina, Café Arabe is a good place to start the evening and Kosybar, in Mellah, has a terrace with comfy lounges and a large wine selection. The Piano Bar often has Frank Sinatra renditions and in Guéliz, Le Grand Café de la Poste and Café du Livre are also good. Euro-Arabian dance music and exotic dancers can be enjoyed at Comptoir Darna, in Hivernage, and nearby Theatro is a popular club. Pacha Marrakech could be the biggest club in Africa and has a gigantic swimming pool, and Montecristo is the place to go for salsa dancing, though it can be seedy. For live music, Bô & Zin is great in summer when musicians entertain guests out in the garden. Afro-Brazilian music can be heard at Afric'n Chic, with classical music performances at Institut Français in Guéliz.
Attractions for Kids
Marrakech may not be the first place that comes to mind when one thinks of holidaying with the children, but for travelers keen on taking the kids with them Marrakech offers a uniquely exotic and spicy experience that the little ones will never forget. Start with a hop-on hop-off bus tour to discover the sights, sounds and smells of this bustling Moroccan city and tell the kids exotic stories of the sights along the way and can be found at different stops throughout the city, such as Theater Royal, Palais des Congres and Les Jardins Majorelle. If they can't stand the heat though, your children will love you forever if you take them to Oasiria Water Park to cool off in one of the children's lagoons, ride on the pirate ship, or splash around in the wave pool, but don't forget the sunscreen! The Majorelle Botanical Gardens provide plenty of space for the kids to run around and makes an ideal picnic location for the whole family, while the Olive Grove of Mariah about an hour from Marrakech provides a gigantic swimming pool, gardens and even a restaurant - a fabulous attraction for the whole family to enjoy. During the winter months when heavy downpours can occur, make use of the French Institute of Marrakech's cultural activities which include everything from circus shows to films and storytelling which children of all ages are sure to enjoy.
