More than the Medina: A City Guide to Marrakech

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Advisor - Abbie Synan
Curated By

Abbie Synan

  • City Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Arts & Culture

  • Marrakech

  • Morocco

  • History

  • Hidden Gems

  • Architecture

medina market in a dessert city
Curator’s statement

Marrakech is one of my favorite urban getaways, but it can be a dizzying city to navigate if you don't plan accordingly. With so many places to shop and restaurants to try, it's easy to get turned around in the maze of the Medina. Scratch the surface here with a few places I visit every time I return to Morocco.

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Where to stay in Marrakech, Morocco

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Things to do in Marrakech, Morocco

view of rooftops from over a dessert city
  • Take a cooking class with Amal's Women's Training Center. Also a restaurant it is a great place to go to get an introduction into Moroccan cooking as well as learning a few traditional dishes.

  • Stroll through the gorgeous Jardins Marjorelle, and learn more about fashion icon Yves Saint Laurent's connection to Marrakech.

  • Shop and get lost in the Medina, among the souks. Having spent so much time in the city, I know a few really fabulous artisans where you can find memorable souvenirs.

  • Looking for a quiet rest after the business of shopping in the Medina? Head to Le Jardin Secret for a peaceful stop in the heart of the walled old city.

  • Spend an evening in cultural immersion at Cafe Clock. The restaurant events are a fantastic glimpse into the Moroccan community, through music and storytelling.

  • Find relaxation at a Moroccan Hammam. I'll guide you to some of the best spas or bath houses in Marrakech where you can experience the traditional bathhouse rituals.

  • Learn a little more about the history of Morocco, North Africa and glimpse into the life of Berber people through photography at the House of Photography Marrakech.

  • Find out where I go for a mint tea and sunset views over Jemaa el Fna!

Day Trips

My personal favorite because I lived there, a day trip to Imlil and experience the grandeur of the High Atlas Mountains. Pair your mountain visit with the market day in Asni to see how rural Moroccans shop.

Places to eat & drink in Marrakech, Morocco

small street in early evening lined with blue potted plants
  • Nomad rooftop dining is in the heart of the Medina, it's a great location to overlook the old city. The food is delicious, and it's often busy so reservations are recommended.

  • Fine Mama is the answer to fast casual, local dining. Great introduction to berber and traditional Moroccan dishes with approachable menu items.

  • L'mida is another chic rooftop dining option, with traditional menu items. Be sure to order one of their inventive and refreshing mocktails over sunset happy hour.

  • Le Jardin is a little oasis in the busy medina, with beautiful design and even better dishes. Ideal lunch spot when sightseeing and shopping in the city.

  • If you can't get to Fez, the famous restaurant there has a location in Marrakech. Cafe Clock is known for their camel burgers if you are looking to try something out of your comfort zone.

  • Grande Cafe de la Poste is a French style brasserie located in the Gueliz neighborhood. Open since the 1920's.

  • Terrasse des Epices is another rooftop eatery, overlooking a picturesque square in the souks. The first floor has their pastry shop, perfect for taking a sweet treat on the go.

  • Great vegetarian dishes and homemade desserts, La Famille menu is full of fresh fruits and veggies, along with bountiful salads. Meals here feel like having a long Sunday lunch in a friend's garden.

  • Petit Cornichon in the Gueliz neighborhood has the striking YSL blue decor. The menu has Parisian and Mediterranean influences and is a bistro that showcases a more modern side of Marrakech.

Advisor - Abbie Synan

Travel Advisor

Abbie Synan

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For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Travis Tiffany's guide, Food & Culture Guide to Marrakech, Morocco.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Marrakech.