Morocco’s second largest city is also perhaps its most famous and popular tourist destination.  Marrakesh, known as the “Red City”, is an ancient city at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.  Founded in the 11th century, Marrakesh’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed historical centre is a network of complex alleyways and streets, too narrow for cars, all of which open out into the central square Djemaa el-Fna.  This thriving city, full of entertainment and energy, attracts people with its sensual and exotic charms, its bustling markets, sumptuous cuisine, relaxing hammams, exquisite architecture and picturesque gardens. 

See:

• Djemaa el-Fna Square – Teaming with life and entertainment, this bustling square is the largest in Africa, and the centre of Marrakesh’s Medina (old city).  Ever changing, it’s particularly popular and lively in the evening when it fills with entertainers, food stalls, magicians, snake charmers and more.
• Koutoubia Mosque – Visible from almost anywhere in the city, this magnificent mosque and its minaret is surrounded by gardens and is adjacent to the Djemaa el-Fna square.  The minaret is different on all four sides.  
• Gardens – There are many famous gardens in Marrakesh such as the Menara Gardens, considered by many to be the most romantic and relaxing part of the city.  The delightful Majorelle Gardens in Gueliz, the modern part of Marrakesh, house the Museum of Islamic Art.
• El Badi Palace – The ruins of this magnificent 16th century palace can be explored, but are mainly popular for its views over the city.
• Bahia Palace – set on sprawling gardens, this stunning late 19th century palace was built in the Islamic style.  Intended to be the greatest palace of its time, its name translates as “brilliant”

Experience:

• The Souks – The bustling markets are a paradise for lovers of handicrafts, carpets, pottery, and other exotic goods.  Bargaining is expected and prices may be set on the vendor’s perception of the buying power of a customer, not on the value of the goods sold.  Local leather goods, particularly camel leather, of high quality can be found here.
• Cuisine – One of the best places to experience the local cuisine is at the Djemaa el-Fna.  These food stalls are intended for locals, not tourists, and are strictly controlled and monitored for safety and hygiene.  This means that genuine food at reasonable prices are on offer in an electrifying atmosphere.

Secrets of the City:

• “Cactus Silk” – In the souks, some vendors may try to sell garments made of this so-called cactus silk at premium prices.  It is in fact rayon produced from the cellulose of the cactus plant.