Are you the one who is visiting Marrakech for the very first time? Then get yourself ready for a place that is full of life, super busy, and definitely not so quiet. Just imagine, over three million people a year can’t be wrong. And if it’s your first time, it can feel like a lot. That’s why knowing what to expect can really help you dive in and have a blast without feeling totally overwhelmed. If you are looking for a flight to Marrakech from the UK, think of it as a friendly heads up to make the most of your trip. In this guide, I will tell you about the vibe of the city, some must-try food, and all the activities that you can do while you’re there. So are you ready to get in?
What to Expect in Marrakech?
The City Is Busy and Full of Movement
Medina is not just an old town in Marrakech. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a maze of narrow streets where tiny shops are packed together, the delicious smell of street food travels in the air, and motorbikes zoom around. Sometimes it might feel a bit inexplicable, but that’s what makes it cool! People who live there will shout hello, try to help you find your way (and maybe want a small tip for it), or ask you to come into their shops. That’s just how they do things there. It’s normal, not meant to be mean. It’s all part of the fun of being there.
Prepare for Heat and Sun
If you are not used to the harsh weather conditions, you should make up your mind then. Because it is usually hot for much of the year in Marrakech. Sometimes the temperature crosses 38°C (100°F). So, prepare yourself for such weather conditions, especially from May to September. If you want to experience the best weather, you should visit in spring from March to May, or fall, from September to November. It is nice and cool, then. When you pack your bags, bring light clothes that cover your arms and legs. This helps keep the sun off you.
Getting Around
You can explore most parts of Medina on foot. And for the longer distances, you can use petit taxis and small cars that are cheap, and you can find them everywhere. Moreover, make sure that the driver uses the meter and agrees on the price before getting in. Even though Google Maps works, it’s good to be prepared for the possibility of getting lost in Medina. If you want to avoid any inconvenience, hiring a local guide on the first day of your trip is a smart move.
What to Eat in Marrakech?
Okay, if there is one thing that you must experience in Morocco, is its food. The way they use the spice like cumin, paprika, turmeric and cinnamon creates unbelievably rich and delicious taste. Trust me your taste buds will thank you.
Must-Try Dishes
- Tagine: It’s a slow-cooked stew made with meat or vegetables. Common versions include chicken with preserved lemon and olives or lamb with prunes and almonds.
- Couscous: This dish is usually served on Fridays, topped with vegetables and meat.
- Pastilla: You should never miss out on savory pie made with shredded chicken or pigeon, wrapped in pastry and topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
Street Food and Local Snacks
Street food is an important part of any country’s culture. You will find a lot of street food around Jemaa el-Fnaa. Don’t forget to try fresh orange juice, grilled meats, fried eggplant, and msemen, which is a flatbread served with honey or cheese.
Do you want to try something different? You can try these adventurous options like snail soup or sheep’s head. Some of the stalls sell these local foods.
What to Experience in Marrakech
You can have much more in Marrakech than just eating and walking around:
Explore the Souks
You are going to have everything in souks, from spices to carpets to leather bags. Don’t settle for the first price. You can bargain here as well. Start with half of the price and meet somewhere in the middle.
Tip: Don’t feel pressured to buy; a polite “No, thank you” works fine.
Visit the Historic Sites
Marrakech is an old city with a long history. If you are a history buff, these places are calling your name.
- Bahia Palace – This palace was built in the late 1800s with amazing tilework and gardens.
- Koutoubia Mosque – The city’s largest mosque. Non-Muslims can’t enter, but you can see it from the outside.
- Saadian Tombs – These tombs of royal people were found again in 1917, but they were built way back in the 1500s.
Relax in a Hammam
If you want to have a relaxing time, you can try a hammam in Marrakech. A hammam is a traditional steam bath. Locals use it for cleansing and relaxation. You can go to a basic public hammam (people of all genders go separately) or try a spa version in your hotel or riad.
Take a Day Trip
You don’t have to stay in the city. Great day trips include:
- Atlas Mountains – About 1.5 hours away, with hiking and Berber villages.
- Ouzoud Falls – Tall waterfalls surrounded by olive trees and monkeys.
- Agafay Desert – It’s a rocky desert with camel rides and overnight camps.
Stay in a Riad
If you want to have a traditional experience, you should stay in riads. These are traditional Moroccan homes built around a central courtyard. Many are now guesthouses. They offer a calmer environment than hotels and offer a more local experience.
Final words
If you are looking for something out of the ordinary, add Marrakech to your list. It is a place to see, hear, and taste something new. At first, it could seem like too much is happening, but it’s also very exciting, and you will feel that you have done something amazing. You can fly there with British Airways, easyJet, or Royal Air Maroc for convenient options from the UK and Europe. Go with an open mind, stay flexible, and you’ll come home with a lot of stories to tell.