Staying at Riad Yasmine in Marrakech
The Riad Yasmine in Marrakech is in a league all its own. This boutique hotel is one of Instagram’s most famous spots, and it’s easy to see why.
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Easily one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in Morocco, no trip to Northern Africa is complete without checking out Marrakech. This 1000-year-old city is home to a thriving medina, amazing shopping, and some of the most gorgeous architecture you’ll find anywhere in the world. Marrakech is also famous for its beautiful riads (guesthouses often converted from family homes) and you’ll find amazing little boutique riads dotting winding streets all over the city. Ready to fall in love with Morocco? Here’s the ultimate Marrakech travel guide.
Language: In Marrakech, you’ll hear a flurry of languages including French, Spanish, Arabic, and Berber. English is common anywhere touristy, but it’s definitely handy to know a few words of French.
Currency: Morocco uses dirhams, and one US dollar will get you about 11 of them. When it comes to spending money, carry cash and expect to haggle in the markets.
Climate: Marrakech is warm all year. Average temps are around 55 degrees Fahrenheit in the coldest months and 85 in the summer. It can get super hot (100+) on summer afternoons so plan for some steamy days.
Clothing: Morocco is a Muslim country, so you’ll quickly notice some cultural differences. I’d recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees (think maxi skirts and summer scarves).
Customs: When you’re interacting with people, remember that the left hand is considered unclean so people always use their right hands for interactions and eating. Also, if you’re there on a weekend, it’s good to know that Fridays are holy days so some things are closed.
It’s pretty easy to get around the city of Marrakech on foot and by taxi. We mostly walked, but I recommend having a map or using a phone with data to use Google maps as some of the directions can be tricky! You can also download offline maps in advance if you know where you will be headed.
Look out for locals on the street trying to direct you one way or another. They will offer directions and then ask for money in return, so simply politely decline and move along.
City hopping in Morocco is easy and cheap. I took an overnight train from Marrakech to Tangier during my trip and had a good experience. If you’re traveling between Tangier, Fes, Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, or any other major area in Morocco, train travel is the way to go.
For spots farther afield, Supratours buses are a great option. It takes a little bit longer but it’s comfy and will take you anywhere you want to go.
Marrakech is home to the most luxurious hotels in Morroco—and they’re definitely worth the splurge. But, depending on what you’re looking for, you can also find authentic, beautiful accommodations on a budget.
I love staying at riads, which are essentially guesthouses. The city is filled with gorgeous little guesthouses that offer up an authentic experience. The riads have often converted from homes that are hundreds of years old so they have a unique look and interesting history.
Here are the top hotels in Marrakech!
Les Borjs is a charming boutique hotel with a restful atmosphere of contemporary refinement and Arab-Moorish charm.
Another drop-dead gorgeous spot, La Mamounia has been famous with generations of royals and celebs. It’s one of the most luxurious hotels in Morocco!
VRBO has a ton of beautiful villas, apartments, and homes for rent in Marrakech! If hotels aren’t your thing, check out one of the many stunning rental properties for your trip.
I’m obsessed with this riad! The Bohemian Jungle is all your Moroccan-boho dreams come true, and it shows through their raving reviews. It’s located in the heart of Marrakech and includes air-conditioning, an indoor swimming pool, breakfast, and free WiFi!
An elegant, boutique hotel in the bohemian heart of the Marrakech medina. Classical style meets eclectic harmony in this beautiful space!
Located conveniently in the Medina district of Marrakesh, Gem Riad is a stunning riad with double rooms and suites, plus a restaurant, WiFi, and a beautiful roof-top terrace. It’s in a great location and very affordable for a high-rated property. Plus, they serve breakfast!
Moroccan food is full of flavor, with tasty spices and seasonings, and cooked in a unique way. The marketplaces of Marrakech are the best place for an authentic bite to eat. The main square, Jemaa el Fna, comes alive at night in a vibrantly buzzing atmosphere filled with delicious aromas.
I highly recommend trying couscous, tagines, skewers, and traditional salads when you’re dining out. Here are the best restaurants to try in Marrakech!
The perfect spot for a light lunch, I love the cool throwback style of Le Jardin. They’ve also got a cool popup where you can find local garb.
For a tasty breakfast or lunch with a stunning view of the Atlas Mountains, stop by this riad for a fusion of European and Moroccan dishes.
This one is not like the rest. For a blend of African, Moroccan, and Mediterranean dishes that are one of a kind, head to this stylish eatery.
The former haunt of Winston Churchill, the opulent leather walls, and retro animal print floor give this polished place an incredible old world charm.
Another amazing spot inside of La Mamounia, Le Marocain is absolutely gorgeous. Glam it up for a fun night out and prepare to be impressed!
With some of the tastiest food in Marrakech, this cozy café has great food, a good vibe, and a lovely view.
Marrakech is a colorful city full of Arabic culture, Berber history, the French language, and lively marketplaces! There are so many things to do in Marrakech, whether you prefer to relax and pamper yourself, explore the winding streets around the Medina, or dive deep into Moroccan cuisine.
Here are the top activities to experience in Marrakech!
The oldest and most important mosque in the city, no visit to Marrakech is complete with a visit to the beautiful Ben Youssef Mosque.
This 19th-century palace is now home to the Moroccan Ministry of Cultural Affairs. For a view of North African architecture at its best, don’t miss out on this palace.
I’m obsessed with Moroccan style. There are so many incredible handcrafted goods here. From leather bags to artisan rugs to spices, Marrakech is a shopper’s dream.
Marrakech has world-class hammams and spas offering specialty treatments. One of my favs was at La Mamounia.
While it’s not the first place you might associate with high tea, the tea culture here is strong. You’ll find delicious mint tea all over the city or you can go to spots like Riad Chayma or La Mamounia for a classic high tea.
I could go on for hours about how amazing Moroccan food is (check out my must-eat list and come hungry!) Whatever your taste is, you’ll find unforgettable grub here.
Choose from flying to Marrakech, taking a regular bus if you’re in another close city or heading over on a cruise ship which take frequent trips to Marrakech. You can also travel by train, Eurostar to Paris, then sleeper train through Spain, ferry to Tangier, and train to Marrakech via Casablanca.
Morocco is a conservative country. Struggling to put together great outfit choices?
Check Out My Guide: What to Wear In Morocco as a Female Traveler
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