Morocco, a country in North Africa, is home to the lively and colourful city of Marrakesh. Marrakesh, also known as the “Red City”, is a city of contrasts, with its ancient medina and vibrant souks standing in sharp contrast to its modern buildings and elegant hotels. The city has become increasingly popular and desirable as a holiday destination for tourists worldwide – and for good reasons. Visitors to Marrakesh can expect a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells as they absorb the city’s rich culture and history.
Marrakech is an unmissable destination that offers a one-of-a-kind experience of the city’s vibrant energy, bustling nightlife, and authentic daily life shared by locals and tourists alike. Here are some reasons why Marrakesh is a highly desirable destination for holidays and one you must consider at least once in your lifetime.
Marrakesh Culture & History
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Marrakesh is an enchanting city with a diverse and storied cultural heritage that spans centuries. The city’s vibrant medina, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides a glimpse into Moroccan traditions and daily life. It is said that a trip to Marrakesh is only complete with exploring the bustling medina, where you can experience the lively Jemaa el-Fna square, filled with snake charmers, musicians, and henna tattoo artists, among other fascinating attractions. Additionally, the city boasts an array of breathtaking landmarks, such as the Koutoubia Mosque, the Saadian Tombs, the Bahia Palace, the Madrassah of Ben Youssef, and the world-renowned Al Karaouine university. The stunning gardens of Majorelle, El Harti, and Menara are also must-see destinations, each worthy of its own tale from the Arabian Nights.
Delicious Food
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Moroccan cuisine is famous for its exotic spices, flavours, and aromas. Marrakesh has a vibrant food scene with many traditional restaurants and street food vendors offering delicious dishes such as tagine, couscous, and the famous harira soup. The city also has many cafes and rooftop bars where you can enjoy a cup of mint tea while taking in the stunning views of the city. Moroccan cuisine truly reflects the diverse cultures of Arab, Berber, European, and African people. Its unique blend of flavours and spices gives it an unmistakable character that has made it stand out among the world’s best cuisines. Moroccan cuisine embodies its people’s cultural diversity, from the rich and succulent traditional dishes to the spicy flavours that define them.
Beautiful Gardens
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Beautiful gardens in Marrakech are renowned for providing a peaceful break from the bustle of the city. The Majorelle Garden, designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle, features a collection of cacti, exotic plants, and vibrant blue buildings. The Menara Gardens, which stretch back to the 12th century, is built around a sizable reflecting pool and provide stunning views of the Atlas Mountains. Moreover, a big water basin in the middle of the gardens has a fancy pavilion next to it. The pavilion was built in the 19th century, and people like taking pictures of it with the High Atlas Mountains in the background. It’s one of the iconic views and famous symbols of Marrakesh.
A Budget-Friendly Destination
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Marrakesh is a cheap city to spend your holiday. The cost of living in the vibrant city of Marrakesh is half the price of living in Europe. This allows travellers to indulge in their favourite activities with very little concern for their budget. And since you are here, you are in luck! If Marrakesh is on your bucket list and you’re looking for even more affordable accommodations and experiences, we suggest checking out QVI Vacay. QVI Vacay offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly to luxurious riads. Apart from affordable prices, QVI Vacay offers benefits including redeemable nights, special rates plus VIP discounts, coupons and year-end bonus rewards should you become a member. You don’t want to miss out on this to experience the magic of travel without breaking the bank.
Festivals and Celebrations
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There are numerous festivals and celebrations held in Marrakech throughout the year. In Marrakesh, the festivals are made more exciting by bars, theatres, casinos, and shows, as well as by private events held in lush riads in the medina or luxurious villas in the palm grove. One of the most popular is the Marrakech International Film Festival, which attracts filmmakers and celebrities from around the world. Other festivals include the Marrakech Biennale, which exhibits contemporary art from all over Africa, and the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival, which presents traditional music and dance acts.
Visiting the Souks
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In Marrakech’s souks, you can encounter the vibrant hues, exotic scents, and centuries-old customs of Morocco. These dynamic markets are a feast for the senses and represent Morocco’s extensive cultural heritage. Witness skilled artisans at work, crafting unique items passed down through generations. The Bab El Khemis souk is a particular highlight at the city gate because it sells everything from handmade jewellery to antique furniture. Bargaining is anticipated and appreciated, creating a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. A walk through the souks of Marrakech is a memorable adventure that offers a glimpse into daily life and the hidden treasures of Morocco.
Warm Climate
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Marrakech’s beautiful Mediterranean climate makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking to escape harsh winter conditions. The city experiences mild weather even in winter, with an average temperature of 18°C. During the summer, temperatures range from 30°C to 40°C, making it an excellent place for sun-seekers. Marrakech is one of the few destinations where tourists can enjoy sunshine throughout the year. The warm and sunny weather allows visitors to explore the city’s many attractions, from the souks to historical sites such as the Bahia Palace and Koutoubia Mosque. Marrakech’s beautiful weather makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking to enjoy mild temperatures during the winter months and soak up the sun during the summer season.
Adventure Activities
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If you’re looking for adventure, Marrakech has plenty to offer. You can take a hot air balloon ride over the Atlas Mountains, horseback riding in the Palmeraie (palm grove) or take a quad bike tour of the surrounding desert. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Ouzoud Waterfalls or hike in the Atlas Mountains.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or adventure, you’re sure to find it in the vibrant city of Marrakesh. With its warm climate, friendly locals, and easy access to other parts of Morocco, Marrakech is a must-visit destination for any traveller. And with QVI Vacay as your travel companion, you can now book confidently, knowing that you’ll have access to a range of benefits, dedicated customer service, and insider tips on the best places to stay in Marrakech and anywhere in the world.
