Welcome to Marrakech!

The town has two vastly different sections which both have great value places to stay - the historical old medina and the new section with the Hivernage and the European style modern Gueliz district. The old medina is full of charming old homes called Riads which have been modified to create some lovely inns and Marrakech hotels. The Medina hotels in Marrakech are more expensive but it is definitely worth paying the extra for the experience of local style living. You can even use our interactive Marrakech map to choose your hotel in Marrakech based on its location.

Marrakech has been around since the tenth century, when the Medina was all there was of the city. With time it evolved into a proud imperial seat and a coveted place in which to live. Soon it came to be known as the ‘Pearl of the South', although the name Marrakech actually translates to ‘go with speed'. Second only to Casablanca in size, Marrakech is also the administrative seat of the south of Morocco. A hard to beat location and rich history are perfectly complemented by a vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere. The backdrop of the Atlas Mountains and its snow capped peaks are a delight for the senses.

This fascinating city is full of things to see and do and places to explore. Interestingly, in the midst of the bustle are some truly tranquil sights like the Saadian Tomb Gardens and the Majorelle Gardens. Once inside the confines of these peaceful gardens it is easy to drift away into a soulful or spiritual place. If you find the city too confusing to explore on your own, hire a reliable official guide to help you navigate Marrakech, or take one of our interesting local Marrakech tours.

Marrakech is an architectural wonderland with some fine examples of buildings down the ages. The lush green Menara Gardens, the intriguing Saadian Tombs and the Koutoubia Minaret are other sights that make the city even more special. Taking a tour in Marrakech is the ideal way of seeing these marvelous sights and exploring the city like a local.

The Jemaa el Fna is the venue for many a performer every evening, when the square empties out and the musicians set up. A variety of musical instruments take centre stage here, from the lute, flute, banjo and violin to the drums and guitars. The one kind of music that is especially intriguing and mesmerizing is the Gnaoua trance played by bands like the world-famous Nass Marrakech. Inspired by African free slave songs, the rhythmic beats and choruses draw the listener in and cast a magical web around the square. A lot of Moroccan music has evolved from a mix of Arab, African, Berber and Andalucian styles, and the eclectic fusion has been part of local culture for over 1000 years.

If you're hungry, food is easily available and the succulent kebabs sold at the street side cafes and stalls are filling and delicious. There are also numerous Marrakech restaurants so that you can always find a great value and tasty meal. A little further from the main square are little roads where stall owners sell their wares, which range from herbs and spices to metalwork, jewellery and carpets.

The annual festival of the performing arts is a magnet for the artistically inclined, drawing all kinds of acts, including actors, fire eaters, snake charmers, dancers, folk singers and fortune tellers among others. In addition to the best of Morocco's own talent, in recent years the event has also seen the arrival of entertainers and performers from Asia and Europe. The most important events are usually staged at the Jemaa el Fna or the Badi Palace ruins.

During the reign of the Almohade Dynasty, Marrakech was considered the most important Islamic city in the region. Saharan trade ensured that the capital cities d´Al Andalus and Magreb were prosperous. The prime location of these cities at a vantage point between the High Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic Coast, Rabat and Casablanca made them of key strategic importance. Marrakech has been added to the UNESCO's Patrimoine Mondial list.

We are a local company operating in Marrakech and so can offer you great rates in our personally selected Marrakech hotels, as well as some great Marrakech tours run by local tour companies. You are bound to love your visit to Marrakech and we are here to help you have the best Marrakech holiday possible!