Morocco’s “Red City”, the very mention of Marrakech (also spelled Marrakesh) conjures up images of serpentine alleyways and bustling markets, or souks as they are called in that part of the world. Cultural life in Marrakech is centred on the famous Djemaa El-Fna square, which comes to life as the sun sets, with performers, touts and locals enjoying the cooler evening temperatures.
Other sites include the Koutoubia mosque, just next to Djemaa El-Fna, although the main highlight is undoubtedly the busy souks, where everything from spices to hookahs can be bought for a fraction of what they would cost back home. Day trips outside of Marrakech are also poplar, and many tour operators organise excursions to the High Atlas mountains and to nearby Berber villages.
Most locally-run hotels and traditional Moroccan ‘riad’ accommodations are conveniently located in Marrakech’s medina. If you are looking for something more exclusive or with more modern amenities, many of the big 5-star and chain hotels are in the outskirts, which many people prefer as they allow you to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city.