The Best Hotels in Marrakech

Marrakech Hotels

The beautifully preserved colonial city of Marrakech mixes the wonders of the old with the indulgence of the new. The third largest city in Morocco, the sandy hued buildings and bustling streets contain a wealth of markets and street vendors peddling everything from intricate rugs and trinkets, to fresh, fiery local cuisine. There's also a huge amount of culture and history hidden away in the Old City, along with a number of beautiful open spaces and gardens for everyone to enjoy.

Things to see

If you're planning a visit to Marrakech, then in addition to wandering the bustling, winding alleys of the Medina and its Souks, taking a walk through the vibrant crowds that gather in the vast open space of the Djemaa El-Fna is an absolute must. Whether it's in the glittering lights of an orange soaked sunset, when performers, musicians and storytellers gather to bathe the surrounding area in music and song, or during the warm afternoons where a cacophony of trader's voices fill the air, it's a truly unique experience. After the bustle and energy of the Souks, a visit to the pale white pillars of the Museum of Marrakech can be a welcome counter point. The Museum itself is something of an attraction, being a converted 18th century palace, in addition to the traditional Moroccan cultural artefacts housed there. The gently shimmering waters of Menara Gardens, makes the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll away from the crowds.

Hotels in Marrakech

When it comes to hotels in Marrakech, you're spoilt for choice. You'll find all kinds of accommodation, from discount pads to luxury hotels in Marrakech – so whether you're saving your spending money for the buzzing Souk markets or looking to splurge, you'll be catered for here. Even the more boutique hotels tend to have a swimming pool and bar, perfect for freshening up in the heat, and you'll find free WiFi in the public spaces of most hotels. You can also enjoy a complimentary breakfast on a rooftop terrace as the sun bathes the city in its morning warmth.

Where to stay

If you're looking for affordable but pleasant accommodation with easy access to the main attractions of the city, then the numerous Riads (guesthouses) located in and around the Moolay Mousa can be a good choice for solo travellers or couples. If the history and culture of the city is at the top of your list, then staying in and around the Medina, or old city, is the best choice. You'll also still be close to attractions such as the markets and Djemaa El-Fna here too. For those after a little seclusion, the Hivernage area is close to a number of gardens.

How to get to Marrakech

Marrakech-Menarah Airport connects to most major cities around the world, and is only 3 miles from the city. To get to your hotel, it's often best to get a 'petit taxi', as these are smaller taxis that operate in the city, and usually charge a little less. If you're already in the country, then heading to the station in Avenue Hassan II is easy from Tangier, Casablanca, and Rabat, with journey times around 2 hours. The city itself has plenty of bus services, and 'petit taxis' to get you around, although much of the Medina is explorable on foot too.

When are the best times to travel to Marrakech?

You can expect warm sunny days throughout the year in Marrakech, although you’ll want a jumper for the evenings during the winter months of December through February. The height of the summer, from June to September, sees high temperatures and demand for hotels in Marrakech is often high. Autumn and spring feature pleasant sunny days and warm evenings, while Easter and Christmas both see an influx of visitors.

What are the top must-see attractions in Marrakech?

Marrakech reviews always mention the Medina, the old walled city surrounded by 12 miles of medieval ramparts. Explore meandering, narrow streets shaded from the midday sun and stop off at little coffee shops. At the heart of the Medina is Djemaa El Fna, an expansive market square that acts as an open-air performance space for acrobats, musicians and snake charmers. The 12th-century Koutabia Mosque features a 70-metre minaret from which the faithful are summoned to pray with evocative calls 5 times each day.

What are the best types of food and restaurants in Marrakech?

As the sun sets and lanterns are lit, the Djemaa El Fna square is transformed into an open-air streetfood emporium with dozens of stalls serving Moroccan delicacies such as freshly fried fish, spicy merguez sausages and just-baked flatbreads. There are more formal restaurants on the edges of the square and the surrounding streets where you can sample tagines, spicy stews made with fish, lamb or chicken and served with couscous. Look out too for sweet tasting French patisserie, a legacy from colonial days.

What are the top things to do in Marrakech?

Visit the Jardin Majorelle, originally created in 1924 and stroll round this Moroccan-style garden which includes cooling streams, lily ponds and soaring palms as well as a handsome Art Deco villa housing a collection of Berber Art. Take a guided tour on a camel to explore the rolling dunes just outside the city, with a dramatic backdrop of the towering Atlas Mountains. Quad bike and hot air balloon trips are also available. Sample the relaxing delights of a leisurely Moroccan steam bath at the Hammam Dar el-Bacha.

What are some fun facts about Marrakech?

Marrakech is often called the Red City because of the sandstone used in the construction of many of its buildings. The Majorelle Gardens were sadly neglected until fashion guru Yves Saint Laurent bought them in 1980 and restored them to their former glory. During World War II, Winston Churchill met Franklin D. Roosevelt at Casablanca. Churchill implored Roosevelt to visit Marrakech, saying “You cannot come all the way to North Africa without seeing Marrakech.” The 2 duly broke off from their wartime duties and visited the city.

What kinds of public transport are there in Marrakech?

There is a bus service in the city, but it can be somewhat unpredictable in its timing. Cabs, known as petit taxis, are easy to find. They are metered but the meters are not always used, so it’s a good idea to agree on a price before you start your journey. Both cars and taxis are available from the airport to Marrakech hotels. You can also take a trip in a calèche, a horse-drawn carriage.