Yves Saint Laurent

I’m sure there are a lot of quotes and descriptions about Marrakech but this one, in my opinion, sums up the beauty of the former imperial capital of Morocco that is Marrakech.
I’ve been to Morocco three times and every time I visit the sounds the colors and hustle and bustle never get old in this exotic city. From snake charmers and acrobats to exquisite cuisine to cultural sites and museums and getting lost in the labyrinth of the market square there is something for everyone. And if you want to just sit by the pool at a beautiful resort that’s fine too but I must say exploring the city is so well worth it. Here are a few of the things I recommend you check out.

Jemaa el-Fnaa
Probably the most famous place to visit in Marrakech is this large public square in the center of the city that offers food, endless shopping, and the acrobats, snake charmers and fortune-tellers. You can spend hours wandering the labyrinth of the market.

Jemaa el-Fnaa

Bahia Palace
Explore this beautiful palace and gardens built in the late 19th century. Intended to be the greatest palace of its time the perfect blend of Islamic and Moroccan style is a must see.

Avenue Imam El Ghazali, Marrakech 40000, Morocco

Majorelle Garden
Created by French artist Jacques Majorelle starting back in 1923 and then restored in the ’80s by Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Berge this botanical garden is the perfect blend of architecture, color, and nature. Upon his death in 2008 Yves Saint Laurent’s ashes were scattered around the garden.

Majorelle Garden

Rue Yves St Laurent By A-Maps، Marrakesh 40000, Morocco

Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Ladies just down the road from Majorelle Garden you will find the museum dedicated to the famed Fashion Designer. Upon his first visit to Marrakech, the designer fell in love with the city and immediately bought a home and the city was an inspiration for him and his work.

YSL

Rue Yves St Laurent, Marrakech 40000, Morocco

Ben Youssef Mosque
The oldest Mosque in Marrakech built between 1121 and 1132 is probably one of the most important mosques in the cities history. Named after the King Ali ibn Yusuf (“Ben Youssef”) he wanted a grand new mosque built intended to be grander than the one his father built before him that included a marble basin and large fountain.

Ben Youssef Mosque

 Rue Assouel, Marrakech 40000, Morocco

Koutoubia Mosque
Standing like a lighthouse located just off of Jemaa el-Fnaa is one of the iconic buildings in Marrakech.

Koutoubia Mosque

Medina Jamaa El Fenna, Marrakech 40000, Morocco

Saadian Tombs
Dating back to the time of Saadian dynasty these beautifully decorated tombs were discovered in 1917. Here lies about sixty members of the Saadi Dynasty. Outside the building is a garden and graves of their soldiers and servants

Tombs

Rue de La Kasbah, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco

Shop the Souks
Explore the traditional markets of endless shops and stalls selling everything from clothing to spices and leather goods. Prepare to get lost wandering around but don’t worry it’s part of the experience. You will eventually find your way out.

Souks

Taste amazing Moroccan cuisine
Morocco is known for some pretty amazing delights. Don’t be afraid to try some Moroccan dishes. One of my favorite places is Le Jardin in the center of one of the many Souks in Marrakech.

Kofta tagine with egg and tomato sauce

 32 Souk Jeld Sidi Abdelaziz, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco

Stay in a Riad
For a truly authentic Moroccan experience, I suggest staying a least a couple nights in a Riad. A Riad is defined as a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. I recommend the Riad Dar One beautiful comfortable rooms and authentic Moroccan cuisine.

Riad Dar One

Derb Jamaa El Kabir Number 19 Hay Salem Medina, Marrakech derb Jemaa El Kebir, Marrakesh, Morocco

In a world of black and white see color in full HD, hear the sounds of the life and the energy of the city, experience the culture and spirit of the people in this intoxicating city. Don’t let this new year pass without a visit to Marrakech, Morocco.