Marrakech is one of the most popular North African travel destinations and for good reason. The city is divided into two sections, with the old city being a UNESCO protected site full of traditional markets (known as Souks) while the new city, referred to as the Gueliz or Ville Nouvelle has a much more European tone.
Visitors looking for a taste of Moroccan life should head to the Djemma el Fnaa Square to sample the traditional food and street life. In the evening, the square fells up with musicians, story-tellers and dancers eager to put on a show for tourists and locals alike.
For a taste of history, head to the Saadian Tombs. These tombs were discovered only recently and the art work and tiles are incredibly well preserved. Another amazing historical sight is the ruins of the El Badi palace. The terrace offers a majestic view of the city and exploring the underground passageways is an interesting way to pass the afternoon.
The Dar Si Said Museum offers an interesting insight into the history of Morocco and in particular the traditional crafts of the region.
Other interesting attractions include the picturesque Marjorelle gardens and the attached Museum of Islamic Art, the gorgeous olive groves and orchards of the Menara Gardens, the Ben Youssef Madrassa (which is one of the largest Madrassas in North Africa) and the ornately decorated, imposing El Bahia Palace. Try to get to see the Koutobia Minaret.
If you prefer to head out of the city, a visit to the Rif Mountains of the Atlas Mountains will provide you with some amazing photography opportunities. The nearby oasis villages offer the perfect retreat for tourists looking to enjoy the Moroccan countryside and pleasant weather.
Several major airlines serve Menara Airport (RAK) and there are Marrakech flights from Birmingham Airport (BHK), Manchester (MAN), as well as London Gatwick (LGW), London Heathrow (LHR), London Luton (LTN) and London Stanstead (STN).
Once you have arrived, it is easy to get around the city on foot. If you want to explore more distant attractions then you may want to make use of the city's bus system, or take a taxi. There are regular busses going from the Djemaa el Fnaa to the airport and there is an open-topped city sightseeing bus that provides guided tours of the city in several languages. For a more romantic trip around the city, consider renting a Caleche (pronounced kutchee). This is a small horse-drawn carriage. Usually, the carriage drivers charge a flat fee per hour.
A trip to Marrakech doesn't have to cost a fortune. You can find cheap flights to Marrakech by using TravelSupermarket's price-comparison tool and there are hotels and holiday cottages available to suit all budgets.
