Marrakech: A Cultural Vacation like No Other!

Photo Credite: Rol 1000

Set against a backdrop of the imposing Atlas Mountains, Marrakech is a destination like no other. It’s Morocco’s most popular tourist destination, and it really isn’t hard to see why. From the smell of spices filling your nostrils at the Djemaa el-Fna to the tranquil settings of the Jardin Majorelle as well as some of the world’s most beautiful natural scenery, it’s no wonder more and more tourists are booking their flights to Marrakech!

Even without the myriad attractions to keep you occupied on your trip, there’s plenty to see and do in Marrakech, and one of the best ways to spend your time is by getting a dose of the unique and vibrant culture. Discover a true taste of Morocco with our guide to the best cultural attractions and activities Marrakech has to offer!

Enjoy a Cookery Class

Moroccan cuisine is amongst the most delicious and flavoursome in the world, so why not learn some of the secrets of a Marrakech kitchen with a cookery class? There are plenty throughout the city to cater for travellers of all abilities, and you’ll learn all about local ingredients and may even have the chance to visit a market to pick up your fresh produce. You’ll then learn how to prepare dishes and mix spices to create Moroccan specialities such as salads, tajines and cous cous at home.

Visit the Djemaa el-Fna

The famous Djemaa el-Fna has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but while many of the sites bask in calm and tranquillity, this bustling square could not be any more different! Snake charmers, acrobats, merchants and men with small monkeys set the mood in the daytime hours, while the square comes alive in the evening with the smells of chefs barbequing food and a whole host of street performers. From boxers to storytellers, belly dancers to astrologers, this street theatre has been taking place for more than 1,000 years, but there’s always something new to discover. It really is a true taste of Morocco!

Relax at the Jardin Majorelle

The hustle and bustle of everyday life in Marrakech isn’t for the faint-hearted, and if you ever find it too much, the Jardin Majorelle is the perfect place to steal a little peace and quiet. Formally owned by Yves Saint Laurent, there is a monument to the late designer here as well as rare species of flora from across five continents. It’s also a dream for wildlife spotters, and you’ll find a number of indigenous African songbirds passing through here. You might want to pack your own picnic though, as lunch at the café will set you back.

Day Trip to the Ourika Valley

If you find yourself with some time to spare, the 45-minute drive to the Ourika Valley is well worth it! Here you’ll find impressive rock walls rising above the river, which is lined by orchards of almond and cherry. There are also riverbank restaurants which you can reach by swing bridges, and you can enjoy your meal on a red carpet spread under the trees while you watch the tagine bubble away on a charcoal burner. At the end of the valley you’ll also find the Setti Fatima village, where a trail to seven waterfalls begins.