Our local communal oven where we buy hot, freshly baked bread each day.

Our local hammam in Sidi Ben Slimane, an experience not to be missed. Open from 5am - 11pm daily, for both men and women.

Our local fruit and veg souk sells fresh produce brought to the medina early each morning. By midday most of it has gone, so it pays to shop early!

The local perfumery in Sidi Ben Slimane where Hassan and his team can mix pretty much any perfume at a fraction of the cost. Forget Duty Free, you can get it all here!

There are neighourhood cinemas dotted around the medina, although many of them are now in disrepair or closed. Cinema Marhaba shows mainly Egyptian movies.

A unique shopping and haggling experience that is not to be missed! Essentially, the souks are like a giant, Moroccan flea-market. One can find anything here from spices to babouches (traditional Moroccan slippers) to home appliances. These sometimes 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.

This gallery is owned by fashion-editor-turned-furniture-designer Alessandra Lippini and her partner, Fabrizio Bizzarri. It has become a key shopping destination in Marrakech. Go for the gorgeous wooden furniture, bas-relief panels and local objets d'art. Lippini often works by special commission from interior designers. Appointments are preferred, but there is always someone there to open the door to a casual visitor.

Medersa Ben Youssef Marrakech. Koranic school built around 1570 by Saadian. Built by Sultan Ghalib Al Sa'did Abdellah. One of the most important historic monuments in Marrakech.

The permanent collection depicts scenes of daily life in Morocco in the late 1800s. Definitely on the list for "not to miss"...

The famous main square of Marrakech, featuring snakes, monkeys and delicious fresh orange juice by day, and the famous open air food market by night, along with local entertainment!

The minaret of this 12th century mosque seems to be visible from nearly everywhere in the city. Other than the inspiring tower itself, the mosque has a courtyard, gardens, beautiful arches and a cemetery. Unfortunately, non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the mosque; however the haunting, regular calls-to-prayer originating from within cannot be missed by anyone in the area.

Located in the northeast of the medina, despite the really offensive odour, it's well worth the visit. It's a functioning hotbed of fabric and leather dying. Tours are offered where you'll see the workers plying their trade in odorous vats with dyes of all colours. There are plenty of shops nearby selling the freshly made poufs, bags etc, the rest head to the souks and shops of the city.

This famous souk is filled with craftsmen - carpenters, blacksmiths, potters - antiques, second hand furniture, clothes, you name it you'll find it at Souk el Khemis. Open everyday to everyone.

This 19th century palace boasts a large courtyard, beautiful fountains, tiles, ornate wall-carvings, gardens, and is an excellent spot to find tranquility and marvel at traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. This palace was once home to a harem, but now hosts daily tours. This site is occasionally closed to the public when the royal family’s entourage visits Marrakech.

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.

The Majorelle Garden is a 12 acre botanical garden designed by Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and 1930s and latterly owned by Yves St Laurent.

Incredible "Aladdin's Cave" of fabulous items ranging from keyrings, teapots, leather poufs, light fixtures to candle holders.

Hypermarket closest to the medina, selling pretty much everything except alcohol.

Hidden behind blank-faced double doors, Mustapha Blaoui has a stunning warehouse sized complex of adjoining riads, piled with floor-to-ceiling irresistibles from candlesticks and lanterns to pots and bowls and tables and chairs.

KiFKiF offers a wide range of jewellery, leather, home accessories and various chic and ethnic objects that bring softness, fantasy and joy to your daily life!

Genuine Thai Massage in Marrakech, administered by experienced Thai massage therapists, graduates of the most prestigious massage training schools in Bangkok. A range of traditional Thai massages are on offer, using authentic techniques that are part of the cultural heritage of Thailand. The Zen-like atmosphere, the scent of floral essences, the gentle lighting and soft music combine to create a little piece of Thailand and an invitation to unwind and relax.

Beautifully decorated, opulent spa. Friendly, professional, attentive service. Hammam and massage package generally costs 450 dirhams. Highly recommended.

Make a day of it and combine sunbathing and a delicious lunch with a visit to Beldi's sumptuous Spa - altogether unique, with its garden of aromatic plants and its hammam. A range of massages with essential oils and body scrubs is on offer.

At Hotel Les Jardins de la Koutoubia, non residents can purchase a day pass with access to the pool area. The hotel is located on the edge of place Djemma el Fna, right in the heart of the medina, just a 10 minute walk from Dar Zaman. Poolside service includes food and alcoholic refreshments!

Oasiria was Morocco’s first aquatic theme park, and also a 10-hectare tribute to the refreshingly cool climate provided by the greenery adorning the oasis dunes. There are attractions everywhere you look, including Oasiria Beach, with its islets, rocky ‘shoreline’ and metre-high waves, the Maghreb’s first wave swimming pool, the River Zitoun, half a kilometre long and 4 metres wide, and travelled by buoy, winding through olive trees, beneath lush green arbours and under a rocky waterfall. Restaurants, bars and a tearoom make excellent additions to a complex created with your relaxation in mind. A free shuttle bus departs from the car park behind the Koutoubia Mosque.

In the midst of an age-old olive grove and scented with the fragance of its rose garden, this magnificent property is an invitation to serenity and peace of mind. Relax with friends around the immense swimming pool, savour one of the specialities served in the imaginatively decorated restaurant, organise the party of your dreams, a thousand guests strong, or simply lie back and enjoy in the sumptuous Spa - altogether unique, with its garden of aromatic plants and its hammam. A range of massages with essential oils and body scrubs is on offer, along with other relaxation sessions on the solarium, with the Atlas Mountains making a majestic background.

Located in the Palmeraie of Marrakech, Nikki Beach creates an unrivaled beach club-theme lounge in the middle of a desert palm oasis. The space is built around a free-form swimming pool with tented cabana beds and outdoor bar vibrating in sets of electronic lounge music fresh from the latest Nikki Beach CD compilation. The crowd is chicer than you'll find in Miami or Mexico, alluding to the refinement of Marrakech as well and the mannered temperament of Morocco in general. The look of Nikki Beach is duplicated throughout the world, a signature all-white theme of daybeds and loungers arranged amongst crafty tables and platforms where people get up and dance away the afternoon in boozy bliss. A Nikki Beach food menu of sashimi platters and lights salads that won't give you a swimsuit pooch, as well as a cocktail menu of Champagnes and Rosé that fuels the late-afternoon dance party that unfolds on any given day.

The fabulous Mamounia now offers a day pass to non residents which includes pool and lunch. Worth it for the experience.

Possibly Pacha Marrakech is the most exotic of all the Pacha clubs in the world. It is open all day long and from midday on, you may relax laying in the hammacs by the swimming pool while enjoying the dj, the sun, the cocktails, a Sunday Brunch or any of the exclusive restaurants. In Restaurant Jana try their tasty Morrocan recipes, and in Crystal, enjoy the delicious Mediterranean cuisine. When the sun sets, night time starts at Pacha Marrakech with more cocktails, live music and tapas in the elegant Chill-Out, decorated in reds and gold obtaining an always-desired atmosphere, the fusion between eastern and western cultures. Later on, a selection of the best international DJs, the impressive sound system, the lighting and the magical crowd, invoke the Pacha spirit.

At weekends Theatro offers some seriously good times, with live drummers, sexy dancers on the stage and some pretty good house music. It can also become seriously packed.

Palais Jad Mahal is a complex of bar with live band music, restaurant, and downstairs there's the dance space "Silver". It's located beside the roundabout just across from the Mamounia.

For post-dinner drinks, funky music in a gorgeous setting, resplendent with black and red tadelakt walls and a slinky grand staircase littered with pink rose petals. Well-heeled Marrakech comes here to play, with expensive drinks and a ritzy clientele. Interesting as an experience of modern Morocco at its most Westernised and fashion-conscious.

So Night Lounge is the innovation of the Sofitel Hotel, offering four different ambiances in one place.

Silver is the club attached to the bar, lounge and restaurant of Palais Jad Mahal. It's located downstairs. Frequented by a select clientele, the decor is stylish and sound and light equipment are modern. Dancers and stage shows.

Hip spot to relax in middle of souks. Full bar on the roof terrace, tasty Italian and Moroccan dishes.

Les Jardins de la Koutoubia is a must. So close to the madness of the main square, yet one step across the threshold onto the deep pile carpet, and you'll find yourself transported to another place. The Piano Bar serves great cocktails to accompanying music each evening.

A stunning addition to the restaurants surrounding the main square, Le Salama is also a great place for an apperitif.

Ravishing and regal, La Mamounia hotel is set in royal gardens, styled with Moorish opulence, and as sensuous as a seraglio. Aware that its guests (Winston Churchill was a fan) expect the best, the legendary den of decadence recruited luxury-lifestyle luminaries including Jacques Garcia and Olivia Giacobetti for its recent refurbishment, and world-class chefs to captain its restaurants.

KechMara is bright and breezy – and distinctly retro – with a determinedly European aesthetic, (retro chairs on the pavement outside, Finnish designer chairs inside, abstract artworks on the walls) and serves affordable and tasty European and Moroccan food.

French, chic, colonial style restaurant serving French a la carte bistro meals, set in the old post office in Gueliz. Equally great for a coffee, drink or dinner. Good food, reasonably priced.

The closest taxi stand/vehicle access is 200 metres or a 2 minute walk from Dar Zaman.

Regular trains to anywhere north of Marrakech!

Supratours is one of two national bus companies that offer cost efficient transport options to Essouira, Agadir, Merzouga, Tanger...

The main Marrakech bus station. Buses depart for destinations all over Morocco. The more comfortable tourist buses do not depart from here.

Offering two comfortable lounges and a terrace with great views, Souk Kafé offers tea, coffee, juices, salads, tagines, tanjias and other Moroccan specialties right in the middle of the souks.

Wonderfully peaceful, zen 15th century riad café offering fresh juices, light food, amazing couscous and the best orange cake we've ever tasted! Dar Cherifa is a magical, wonderfully restored, 15th 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.

Cafe des epices is a thriving, bustling café literally in the middle of the souks. Serving light snacks and liquid refreshment, it also offers free wi-fi. A great little spot for resting from the mayhem of the souks.

17th century riad serving some of the best Moroccan cuisine in Marrakech. Wonderful terrace for aperitifs, musicians play soft music in the background.

The Yacout is a landmark in Marrakech. Sumptuous and enchanting decor. Highly traditional Moroccan gastronomic cuisine with a menu incorporating an amazing succession of flavours.

Garden restaurant with two large sun terraces, serving Moroccan/French fusion lunch and dinner.

Located on a hidden rooftop terrace, one of the most popular cafés/restaurants in the medina. Comfy booths perfect for lazing away an afternoon, serves tasty local specialties.

Hip spot to relax in middle of souks. Full bar, tasty Italian and Moroccan dishes.

Guided by men in cloaks and a lantern, down a dusty alley, you'll find this chic dining den: a riad eaterie with a cosmopolitan feel, good cocktails and tasty Moroccan/Mediterranean fusion food. One of our favourite restaurants in the northern medina.

Gastronomic Moroccan restaurant in a beautiful setting. Possibly the most delicious food in Marrakech! One not to miss.

High quality a la carte Moroccan cuisine, superbly cooked and full of flavour. Dignified, colonial decor.

Traditional Moroccan restaurant offering various set menu options. Music and belly dancers.

Wave after wave of Moroccan food, a great atmosphere and traditional belly-shaking, foot-stamping gnaoua entertainment. Book well in advance!

Stunning colonial/chic Moroccan a la carte restaurant serving excellent cuisine. Panoramic terrace with great views during the day.

Vegan vegetarian and organic restaurant set in an old riad not far from Djemma el Fna. Comfortable and homey, the menu is delicious, non vegetarians can also enjoy this one.

Le Marrakchi, located opposite the Café de France on the Jemaa el Fna, serves traditional Morrocan dishes on two separate floors. The top floor is the most popular, since it offers superior views across the square. The restaurant itself is distinctly Moroccan, and while not as chic as many other spots around, the atmosphere and décor are in harmony with the timeless traditions of the square below. Tables are strewn with rose petals, there’s dimmed lighting, and oriental dancers make this a venue suited to group conviviality or quiet intimacy. The menu offers above-average traditional dishes – pastillas, tajines, couscous – as well as a few pasta and pizza options, and is very reasonably priced. Another bonus: it’s one of very few places on the square where you can get alcohol.

‘Bô’, pronouned ‘beau’, or ‘beautiful’ in French, means the same as ‘Zin’ – ‘beautiful’ in Arabic. It’s currently the place in Marrakech where beautiful people like to strut their stuff and flaunt their goods, taking over from older dames like Le Comptoir as the place to see and be seen. The restaurant is chic Parisian in style and boasts a comprehensive international menu (French, Italian, Asian, Moroccan) served in an elegant but laid-back interior. The terrace is particularly pleasant, although it’s worth trying to get a spot in the garden. Dim lighting and soft music add to the mood, but as the night wears on the tunes gets louder, belly-dancers emerge from nowhere. With great food and an atmosphere and service to match, Bô-Zin is very much worth the trip out of town.

Eco-friendly Kasbah set on a hill top just 35 minutes from Marrakech offering stunning 360 degrees views of the surrounding countryside. Book in for a night, or stop by for lunch and a relaxing day in Berber country.

Kasbah Angour is a boutique hotel & restaurant in the Atlas Mountains near Marrakech. The Kasbah is perched on a hill-top and has superb panoramic views. A great spot for lunch on a sunny day. Lots of hiking opportunities nearby.

Sir Richard Branson's Moroccan Retreat...a wonderful place to stop off for lunch during a day trip to the mountains.

The Kasbah du Toubkal, just 75km from Marrakech, sits at the foot of Jbel Toubkal, the highest mountain peak in North Africa. Offering stunning views and delicious lunches, it's also Morocco's premier mountain retreat for trekking. An absolute must for anyone visiting Marrakech.

Located in the heart of the Atlas Mountains just 59km from Marrakech, Sel d'Ailleurs offers a peaceful, total immersion in beautiful unspoilt nature. A great destination for a day out from Marrakech, they offer use of the swimming pool, delicious lunches and walks in the local countryside.