Marrakech

Overview

Marrakech's medina is a maze by design — narrow lanes meant to confuse invaders now mostly confuse visitors trying to find their riad twice in a row. Jemaa el-Fnaa square anchors the old city, transforming from juice stalls and snake charmers by day into a vast open-air food market by night.

Getting There

Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is about 15 minutes from the medina by taxi. Once inside the old city walls, most of the medina is only accessible on foot, as streets are too narrow for cars.

Top Things to Do

• Explore the souks of the medina in the morning, when stalls are setting up and the lanes are calmer.
• Visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs for a look at Moroccan tilework and courtyard architecture.
• Eat dinner at one of the food stalls in Jemaa el-Fnaa once the square lights up after sunset.
• Take a half-day trip to the Atlas Mountains for a change of scenery and cooler air.

Local Tips

Bargaining is expected in the souks — a starting counter-offer of about half the quoted price is typical. Many riads are hidden behind unmarked doors; save the exact address and a local phone number in case you need help finding it.