Do you know of exotic places within a two- or three-hour flight from most European countries? Few. That's why Morocco's cultural heartland and its sacred ruins, chaotic markets and mouth-watering cuisine are among the world's most sought-after tourist destinations. Marrakech is a particular highlight, offering a fun way to unwind.
Visit Jemaa el-Fna Square
This massive public square in the Medina (old city) is the city's center and open-air theater, surrounded by vendors, street performers, cafes and restaurants. The sound of snake charmers' flutes is a delight.
Head to Jardin Majorelle
This 12-acre botanical garden with its famous cobalt blue buildings that house the Museum of Islamic Art in Marrakech is a pleasant and calm contrast to the chaos of the city.
Try the signature dish - sheep's head
If you are a fan of exotic cuisine, then you should definitely try the signature dish of Jemaa El Fna - sheep's heads boiled in a delicious broth, which are eaten without utensils and served with salt and fresh bread.
Visit a Riad
To really soak up the local culture, you need to visit a distinctly Moroccan place. The Riad has over 800 traditional houses with their unique and spectacularly decorated courtyards.
Explore the Koutoubia Mosque
The largest mosque in Marrakech was built in 1184. It is impossible to miss due to its location just 200 meters from Jemaa el-Fna. There is nothing more emblematic about the Koutoubia Mosque than its red stone façade.
Go shopping
Once you explore the area, you will realize that you are surrounded by many market stalls where you can buy anything. There are products for every taste, made by both factory manufacturers and artisans. Be firm in your opinion at the market, do not be afraid to say "no" to the most intrusive sellers.
Dine on tagina
A culinary favorite in Morocco is the simple tagine, a stewed meat dish cooked in traditional clay pots. The ingredients are cooked in their own juices, so the meat and vegetables are very tender and soft.
Admire the remains of El Badi Palace
Built in 1578, this ruined palace was also known as the Incomparable Palace, so one can still recognize the craftsmanship and expensive materials of gold and onyx associated with the construction of the legendary building.
Order the orange juice of your life
The special part of Jemaa El Fna is the abundance of vendors selling glasses of freshly squeezed orange juice. If the quality doesn't surprise you, the price will, as a glass can be had for 20-30p.
See the Saadian Tombs
These beautifully decorated tombs, containing 60 members of the Saadian dynasty, were only discovered in 1917 and have become a major tourist attraction since restoration work by the Beaux Arts Service.
Enjoy mint tea between excursions
The most popular drink in the city is strong green tea with mint flavor. Those who do not like sweets should not supplement this drink with dessert, as the amount of sugar in a standard portion is very high.
Go to the Marrakech Museum
You're unlikely to visit Morocco without visiting at least one museum, and the best collections of modern and traditional Moroccan art can be found only in the 19th-century Dar Menebhi Palace.
