Top 10 Marrakech

La Maison de la Photographie

The Maison de la Photographie is located at 46 Ahal Fès, just up from the Medersa Ben Youssef and a few doors along from Le Foundouk restaurant. The collection of largely black and white photographs, displayed on three floors of a converted Marrakech riad, contains approximately 3,500 images of Morocco, covering the period 1870-1950. They illustrate the history, culture, ethnology and daily life of the people of Morocco. The roof terrace offers a stunning 360° view of the Marrakech medina.

Dar Cherifa

Dar Cherifa is a magical, wonderfully restored, 16th century house built around a central courtyard with tall columns, ancient stucco work and old carved beams. Located near the Mouassine Mosque, it serves as a literary café (drinks and light refreshments) and an art exhibition space. There is a small reference library of books about Morocco, lots of alcoves with lazy sofas for dreaming, and a delightful two-tier sun terrace.

Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden, made famous by Yves Saint Laurent, is one place every visitor to Marrakech must experience. Created by Jacques Majorelle, the gardens were first opened to the public in 1947. Purchased by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé in 1980, the garden was developed further and is now a stunning tropical sanctuary in the middle of Marrakech.

Medersa Ben Youssef

Originally constructed in the 12th century, this exceptionally preserved Koranic school is one of the largest in North Africa. Here too are excellent examples of Moroccan arches, wall carvings, tiles and mosaics. Hundreds of students once studied here, gathered in the large and peaceful courtyard. There is also a small mosque on-site.

The Souks

Essentially, the Marrakech souks are like a giant, Moroccan flea-market. These dark, mostly covered alleyways are broken up into distinct districts, based upon the nature of their wares. Be prepared to bargain hard for purchases, but maintain a good sense of humour and an open-mind, and deals can be found. If you’re just looking and not interested in buying, a simple “non merci” or “la shukran” and a smile while you walk by should suffice.

Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs in Marrakech were sealed up for centuries until their rediscovery in 1917. Occupying a wonderfully peaceful space in the kasbah district of the Marrakech medina, the tombs are magnificently decorated with colourful tiles, Arabic script and elaborate carvings.

Oasiria Swimming Pool Marrakech

This Marrakech swimming pool is for the kids and the young at heart. When the city gets too much, jump in a taxi or the free shuttle bus and take the 15 minute journey to Oasiria, Marrakech's aquatic park. There are various slides, a wave pool, a calm swimming pool, two lagoons for younger kids and an assortment of cafes and restaurants.

Kasbah du Toubkal

This wonderful kasbah is located just 75km from Marrakech (1 hour 20 minutes by car), in the Berber village of Imlil, at the foot of Jbel Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. The surrounding area offers great hiking, rivers and waterfalls to splash in, and lots of options for lunch. You can eat at the Kasbah itself or one of several restaurants in the village. The scenery here is stunning, it's definitely worth the journey.

Kasbah Tamadot

Sir Richard Branson's Moroccan retreat! You'll pass this fabulous luxury kasbah on the way to the village of Imlil. Many guests stop here for lunch on the way back from visiting the Kasbah du Toubkal - it's fantastic food, service is flawless, and the price not too bad at all!

Beldi Country Club

The Beldi Country Club is an incredible place, just 15 minutes outside of Marrakech. Rustic yet chic, it offers gardens, two stunning swimming pools and relaxing areas, and a wonderful spa complex offering hammam, massage and a host of treatments. The swimming pools are classy, lined with black tiles instead of the usual blue. A day by the pool with a three-course lunch will set you back 350 dirhams, plus drinks.