The 16th century tombs made by Ahmad al-Mansur and mausoleum complex comprises the corpses of around 60 members of the Saadi Dynasty originally from the valley of the Draa River further south in the country. Intriguingly the tombs were only found in 1917.
Author Archives: 31 Best Riads
Menara Gardens
These gardens are at the gates of the Atlas Mountains and are a relaxing oasis outside the Medina. A special place for a sunny day walk.
The Almohad ruler Abdal-Mu’min built the Menara Gardens in XII century but its Pavilion was only built in the XVI century in the Saadi dynasty and renovated in 1869 by the sultan Abderrahmane, that stayed there in the Summer. The area has an artificial lake that is surrounded by olive trees, cypress and orchards with fruit trees.
It has also a small sub-garden with a wide diversity of trees and flowering plants. The Menara Gardens are part of the Medina and an UNESCO World Heritage site since 1985.
Photos of the Menara Gardens in Marrakech
Menara Garden Marrakech: This garden is located 2km from the Djemaa el Fna square and its the Marrakchis people favourite place for a Sunday afternoon walk. These gardens were built in the 12th century but the present construction dates back from the 16th century during the Moroccan Saadi dynasty.
Marrakech Ramparts
Marrakech ramparts and gates make a pleasant exploration while you stay in the city. These walls protect the outside world of the new city, from the endless labyrinths of bazaars and alley ways covering all of the old Medina.
Photos of Marrakech Ramparts
Shopping in Marrakech
Yes, I know, calm down. You’ll be there soon…Marrakech is the perfect place for shopping. Either you’re looking for that perfect exotic carpet, wooden table, head scarf, sandals, pottery, lamps, …, you name it! Marrakech has it! Loose yourself into the thousands of small shops inside the old Medina of Marrakech.
The Souks of Marrakech
The Arabic word “souk” translates for “market”. There are hundreds of miles of market streets inside Marrakech old Medina (city). You can get all type of shops and products as it exists many different markets specialized in different things.
By excellence these souks are the Marrakech shopping district where you can buy almost everything. Explore Marrakech souks to buy carpets, clothes, handicraft, scarves, ceramics and much more.
Koutoubia Mosque
This is probably the most famous and most photographed landmark of Marrakech. Koutoubia mosque was constructed in the 12th century and served as the model for the Giralda of Seville and for the Hassan Tower in Rabat. This Marrakech monument is for sure one of the most emblematic and most representative of the city itself.
Photos of the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech
Marrakech Photos
Marrakech is a fantastic city. A precious travel destination that will make you want to stay several days. Here on this page I share with you, a Marrakech photo gallery so that you can get to know the city better. I made this pictures of Marrakech in early January 2012.
Marrakech photos
Rent a Car Marrakech
Car Hire
Marrakech is the gateway to a region which has benefited from a huge investment in road infrastructure in recent years. New motorways have halved the travel time from Marrakech to Agadir and from Marrakech to Casablanca. Atlas mountain villages previously accessible only by mule have new asphalt roads with that region fast becoming an established destination for road cyclists.
Morocco remains a developing country and care needs to be taken particularly when driving at night. However, for the adventurous independent traveller car hire is an option in way that it would not have been even five years ago.
Pre book your car hire and reserve selected accommodation to create your personal itinerary.
We work with an independent Moroccan owned company, which is based in Marrakech. They currently offer the following rates in Euros.
Compact Chevrolet Aveo/ Dacia Logan or similar
From 1 to 6 days Euros 30 per day
7 days or more Euros 25 per day
Midsize Ford Focus/ Renault Symbol or similar
From 1 to 6 days Euros 35 per day
7 days or more Euros 30 per day
4 by 4 Mitsubishi Pajero or similar
From 1 to 6 days Euros 110 per day
7 days or more Euros 100 per day
Your vehicle can be waiting at Marrakech airport for you on arrival, or it can be delivered to any location in the City of Marrakech at no extra charge. The above prices are based on return to Marrakech at the end of the hire.
One way hire picking up in Marrakech and leaving the car in another City can be arranged for at extra cost:
Casablanca, Agadir, Essouira, Ourzazate Euros 90.
Fes, Meknes Tangier Euros 110
These reasonable rates are valid all year subject to vehicle availability. Basic insurance and local taxes are included with more comprehensive insurance options available.
Morocco Travel Guide Books
The best way to know about Morocco is definitely buying a Morocco Travel Guide Book. On this page you have a selection of guide books about Morocco.
Marrakech Travel Guide Books
The best way to know about Marrakech is definitely buying a Marrakech Travel Guide Book. On this page you have a selection of guide books about Marrakech.
Restaurants in Marrakech 2
GO TO PAGE 1 of « Best Restaurants in Marrakech »
Earth Cafe – Vegetarian Restaurant Marrakech
© Photos Copyright Earth Cafe Marrakech
This is the first vegetarian / vegan restaurant in Marrakech and stands for that perfect healthy food option while in town. Its fully organic produce comes from the restaurant owner farm that you can arrange to visit and enjoy the nice Marrakech country side with amazing view to the Atlas Mountains.
Earth Cafe is located in the Medina on a tiny street inside a traditional riad house, but, renovated to be a colorful and clean energy restaurant with smiling and helpful staff.
31 Best Riads visited this restaurant many many times since it open back in 2007. We fully recommend it for one nice healthy lunch in a good restaurant in Marrakech.
Prices: Mains cost 60 dirhams, Desserts range from 20 to 40 dirhams and fresh squeezed juices from 15 to 20 dirhams.
*1 Euro = 11.3 Moroccan dirhams, 1 British pound = 12.6 Moroccan dirhams, 1 U.S. dollar = 7.8 Moroccan dirhams.
Earth Cafe – Contacts
- Address: Derb Zawak, Riad Zitoun Kedim, Marrakech Medina, Morocco
- Phone: +212 (0) 660544992
- Phone: +212 (0) 661289409
- Email: earthcafemarrakech@yahoo.com
- Website: www.earthcafemarrakech.com | Earth Cafe
- Info: Open 7 days a week, from 11 am til late everyday.
Aicha Restaurant – Djemaa el Fna Stall Restaurant in Marrakech
© Photos Copyright Aicha Marrakech
Djemaa el Fna is a fascinating world within Marrakech’s active daily life. Aicha number 1 restaurant is one of many restaurant stalls in the most famous square in the world, protected by UNESCO in order to preserve its unique cultural aspect and traditional ambiance with singer, drummers, acrobats, monkeys, snake charmers, street vendors, story tellers and sorcerers.
Aicha is probably the best option of restaurant in the square where you can safely taste several Moroccan delicacies and tasty food with a lively ambiance being yourself right in the middle of the square!
31 Best Riads visited this restaurant countless times since May 2001 and completely recommend it for at least one nice evening in a good restaurant in Marrakech.
Prices: You can eat a whole meal for around 70 Dirhams.
*1 Euro = 11.3 Moroccan dirhams, 1 British pound = 12.6 Moroccan dirhams, 1 U.S. dollar = 7.8 Moroccan dirhams.
Aicha Restaurant – Contacts
- Address: Djemaa el Fna Main Square stall number 1, Marrakech Medina, Morocco
- Website: www.aichamarrakech.com | Aicha Marrakech
- Info: Open 7 days a week, from 11 am til late everyday.
Kanoon – Syrian & Middle Eastern cuisine in Marrakech
To escape from the busy Medina of Marrakech, and, for those living a daily-life in Marrakech, 31 Best Riads invites you to visit this nice Syrian & Middle East restaurant in Marrakech, located on the Marjane hypermarket complex.
This modern restaurant with professional stuff, serves with quality and variety, many Middle Eastern dishes with fresh Moroccan produce.
31 Best Riads visited this restaurant many times in April, May and December 2009 and completely recommend it for at least one nice evening in a good restaurant in Marrakech.
Prices: Starters range from 25 to 45 dirhams; Mains range from 55 to 90 dirhams and Desserts range from 30 to 45 dirhams.
*1 Euro = 11.3 Moroccan dirhams, 1 British pound = 12.6 Moroccan dirhams, 1 U.S. dollar = 7.8 Moroccan dirhams.
Kanoon – Contacts
- Address: Route de Casablanca, Marjane complex, Marrakech, Morocco
- Phone: +212 (0) 524290101
- Info: Open 7 days a week. Take away. Open lunches and diners.
GO TO PAGE 1 of « Best Restaurants in Marrakech »
Best Places to see in Marrakech
Marrakech Museum
This marvelous museum inside the 19th century Dar Menebhi Palace is a must while in the city. You have lots of classical Andalusian architecture to enjoy, plus, several artists and art spread in many off the palace’s rooms. You can get a 3 pass ticket to 2 other monuments near the museum, including the Ben Youssef Madrasa.
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Gueliz, the New City of Marrakech
Marrakech is divided into 2 sections, the new city (called Gueliz) and the old city (called Medina). Gueliz is an exotic modern city with shops and restaurants, a place you can go for an interesting after lunch walk.
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Church of Saints Martyrs in Marrakech
Visiting the Marrakech church in Gueliz is a must. This colonial French style of church makes an interesting visit while in Marrakech, as it stands right near a big mosque. The simple and humble church interior makes from this church one of Marrakech most relaxed places.
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Bab Debbagh Leather Tanneries in Marrakech
For those curious to visit the place where the leather is processed, you can visit Bab Debbagh district for 2 or 3 places where you can check it out. You can visit them by yourself and you do not need a guide. If you wish to pay, an explanation of the whole process is always an extra.
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Moulay Hfid Weaving Association in Marrakech
This is the place where you can watch real craftsmen working on fabrics. Moulay Hfid Weaving Association specializes in traditional Moroccan weaving of carpets, blankets, bed shits, bed and table covers, scarves, slippers, djellabas and gandoras and is located on the 2nd floor of the Foundouk Moulay Hfid that is an old 18th century Moroccan caravanserai, on the Essebtiyne district inside the old Medina.
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Foundation Dar Bellarj in Marrakech
This art foundation locates inside a Moroccan Riad house, is a very nice place with temporary Art Exhibits showing several media such as painting, video installation and sculpture. You can actually drink a delicious mint tea in their small and relaxed “tea room”. The central courtyard is amazing. Foundation Dar Bellarj is located right after the Ben Youssef Madrasa.
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Maison Tiskiwin and African Crafts Museum in Marrakech
The Maison Tiskiwin for African Arts & Crafts at Bert Flint Museum is a place not to be missed. Inside Maison Tiskiwin you can walk through a private art collection of the Dutch anthropologist Bert Flint. The museum features pieces of art and crafts from the ancient Sijilmassa trail connecting Morocco in cities like Marrakech and Rissani, to Timbuktu in Mali.
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Fruits vendors around the city of Marrakech
Who doesn’t love fresh juice fruit? Morocco is very rich in fruit variety and prices are really cheap. You can get your vitamins back buying lots of fruit from the numberless fruit vendors around the old Medina. Fruit is the perfect companion while walking around the markets shopping.
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Riad Cinnamon
Riad Cinnamon is a beautifully restored merchants’ house located in a quiet residential area in the heart of Marrakech Medina, just to the north of the famous souks and close to the renowned Marrakech museum.
Riad Cinnamon in Marrakech has a fantastic ground floor patio with dipping pool for your to enjoy and have a great time during your holidays in Morocco.
The patio courtyard has comfortable seating areas in which to have breakfast, take tea or just enjoy the peace and tranquility of this oasis in the vibrant Medina. You can even book a delicious three course Moroccan dinner to be waiting for you on the night of your arrival.
Photo gallery of Riad Cinnamon in Marrakech
Contacts of Riad Cinnamon
9 Derb el Hajra, El Baroudiyine District
Marrakech Medina – Morocco
Phone
+44 207 193 7357
contact@hipmarrakech.com
20% discount for on-line bookings
Hotel l’Heure d’Été
Beautiful Marrakech hotel with a familial ambiance and prices starting from 40 euros a night for 2 persons, this cute riad hotel offers one of the best value for money in the Medina of Marrakech. One minute away from the famous Jemaa El Fna Square, this hotel in Marrakech is hidden in a quiet and lovely alley. It’s a perfect base to explore all the Marrakech sightseeing.
Hotel L’Heure d’été offers 14 nice rooms with 3 different levels of space and comfort, but all fitted with high quality mattresses, and linen. A professional hammam in-door with a massage room is also a good way to take the most of all the relaxing treatments provided by the attentive staff.
Breakfasts are served on the roof terrace, overlooking the Koutoubia, the Atlas Mountains and all the roofs of the medina. You will also be advised and helped in all the bookings you may require : restaurants, excursions, cooking classes… and many others activities.
Photo gallery of Hotel L´Heure d´Été in Marrakech
Contacts of Hotel L´Heure d´Été
Address
96 Sidi Bouloukat
Marrakech Medina – Morocco
Phone
+212 (0) 524.39.18.84
+212 (0) 524.39.17.27
contact@lheure-dete.com
Website / Bookings
www.lheure-dete.com
Click here: Hotel L´Heure d´Été
Villa Garance
Inside the ramparts of Essaouira, Christine, Marylène and Pierre are happy to welcome you to a beautiful historical house, and to offer you comfort and conviviality in a place with all the authenticity of wealthy souiri family life of former days – the perfect Riad in Essaouira.
Located in a quiet alley at the intersection of the main centers of interest, the guesthouse allows you to alternate visits to the colorful Medina with relaxation on the terrace, which towers above the roofs overlooking the sea, or with massage sessions in our well-being center.
This beautiful riad in Essaouira has ten spacious rooms are arranged around the patio to welcome two or four guests in great comfort.They also have windows opening on to a quiet and bright street.
Contacts of Riad Villa Garance
Address
10 Rue Eddakhil
Essaouira – Morocco
Phone
+212 (0) 524.473.995
+212 (0) 677.541.563
Website / Bookings
www.essaouira-garance.com
Click here: Villa Garance
villa.garance@gmail.com
Photo gallery of Riad Villa Garance in Essaouira
What to Do in Morocco
Camel Trekking in Morocco
Morocco is the perfect country to enjoy a Camel Trekking activity in Sahara Desert. Moroccan Sahara is vast and spreads along the center-East part of the country in regions such as Merzouga, Zagora and Mhamid – to further southern regions in Moroccan Western Sahara.
Camel Trekking in Morocco is easy and prices change depending on the service you’re paying and the quality your getting.
Camel Trekking activities are usually for Sun rise and Sun set but can also be extended to a desert trip, sleeping on a nomad camp/oasis in the middle of the dunes.
Most hotels around Erg Chebbi Dunes (Merzouga) provide this service from a price ranging from 30 to 50 Euros per person, camel and camel man included.
Mountain Hiking in Morocco
More than 30% of Moroccan territory is mountainous. The huge Atlas Mountain Range divides into 4 parts in Morocco: Middle Atlas, High Atlas, and Anti-Atlas.
The highest Atlas Mountains peak is the Toubkal with an altitude of 4,167 meters (13,671 feet), located just south of Marrakesh. The Atlas Mountains separate the Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines from the Sahara Desert.
Mountain Hiking in Morocco is a fascinating activity and you can enjoy the country’s magnificent nature, and interact with the local population of the Atlas Mountains that are mainly from Berbers origin.
Bird Watching in Morocco
Morocco’s vast untouched countryside makes the perfect place to enjoy nature at its best. Unique places and rare birds can be seen along few regions and Morocco offers great opportunities for birdwatching.
Most common birds you’ll see in Morocco are: Lesser Kestrels, Black Kites, Egyptian Vultures, Short-toed Eagles, Hen Harriers, Ospreys, Booted Eagles Hobbies, Montagu’s Harrier, Black Shouldered Kite, Desert Sparrow, Stilts, Plovers, Knots, Sanderlings, Stints, Sandpipers, Gulls, Terns, greater Flamingos, African March Owl, Bald Ibis, Slender-billed Curlew, Moussier’s Redstar and much more.
KiteSurf in Morocco
Moroccan Atlantic Coast offers great beaches for relaxations and great environment for extreme sports such as Windsurf and Kitesurf. This sport that uses the wind to pull a rider through the water on a small surfboard or a kiteboard need specific places where the wind is strong.
Morocco offers 2 or 3 great places with wind year round where you can kitesurf. Moroccan most well known kitesurfing destinations are Essaouira (about 180KM West from Marrakech) and Dakhla (1490KM South of Marrakech in Moroccan Western Sahara).
Skiing and Snow Board in Morocco
Large part of the Moroccan territory is actually mountains above 1000 meters, so, as expected you can find several Winter activities resorts and facilities.
Most well known ski resorts in Morocco are Oukaimeden (80KM south of Marrakech), Azrou and Ifrane (around 420KM north-east of Marrakech). The resorts with better facilities are located around Ifrane, where you can also enjoy magnificent nature surrounded by cedar forests inside a Natural Park.
ATV – Moto Quad in Morocco
For those looking for some speed in machines, there are plenty of nature to ride ATV’s. Best destinations are in south Morocco near places like Ouarzazate, Zagora and Merzouga, where gorgeous oases, palm groves and desert dunes give you the unique possibility of exploring the country riding quad motorbikes. Around Marrakech there are also some nice places to quad ride. It’s not hard to find specialized companies offering quad excursions or quad rental in Morocco.
Marrakech
Marrakech, the most well known of
the Moroccan Imperial Cites, stage of unique history and impressive architecture.
Marrakech delights its visitors with endless street markets, palaces, museums and an contagious night life.
Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is called the capital of South Morocco. Located just 200km of Marrakech, but you’ll need to cross the mighty High Atlas Mountains to reach it. This is the perfect place to enjoy oases, incredible casbahs and it’s cinema studios. World Heritage Ait ben Haddou is located just 30km away from Ouarzazate city center.
Essaouira
without doubt the most laid back of the Moroccan coastal cities, Essaouira offers you an incredible old district full of fancy restaurant with live music. The old fortress dates back from the 15th century built by order of D. Manuel the King of Portugal.
Erg Chebbi Dunes
Moroccan Sahara offers outstanding landscapes, unique experiences and activities. Erg Chebbi is a jewel in terms of best destination in the world. These piece of dunes located about 800km south-east of Marrakech, close to the Algerian border make it possible for you to indulge yourself into a different world and be amazed by its beauty.
Nkob
Imagine a village made of huge mud brick casbahs, surrounded by endless palm groves and the impressive Saghrou Mountains.
Nkob is the heart of the Ait Atta Berber tribes of south Morocco. Experience a different Morocco along Amazigh people, maybe a 2 days excursion into the mountain?
Fez
Fez is probably the most impressive of the Imperial Cities of Morocco. It’s old city has the most well preserved medieval districts of the whole Arab world and a visit to this city makes you travel centuries back in history, through tiny streets and ancient caravanserai’s.
Rabat
Rabat is the capital of the Kingdom of Morocco. Although forgotten by most travelers, Rabat does have many interesting monuments, market streets and a authentic Moroccan old medina. Don’t forget to visit Chellah, the Mohamed 5th Mausoleum and Sale.
Volubilis Roman Ruins
World Heritage since 1997, Volubilis is just 1 hour drive from Meknes. Volubilis features the best preserved Roman ruins in this part of Africa. If you’re into history and enjoy this type of archaeological sits, Volubilis will make you love this enormous place full of palaces, roman-baths and houses, etc. Volubilis was an important Roman town and was the administrative center of the Roman Africa province of Mauritania Tingitana.
Sand Board in Morocco
Something unique and exotic for those already used to snowboard, but this time, with sand dunes as scenario. Moroccan Sahara Desert offers plenty of sand dunes but not all have enough height in order to take your sport into an extreme, so, try Erg Chebbi dunes in Errachidia region aside Merzouga village (around 650km south-east of Marrakech).
How to get to Morocco
![]() Major airlines fly to Morocco and already several low budget air lines fly to Marrakesh airport: Vueling (flying from Spain), Easy Jet (flying from England) and Atlas Blue (flying from France and Germany). The ferry-boat company FRS in Tarifa get you from Spain to Morocco in just 35 minutes of a comfortable journey through the Gibraltar strait. These boats to Morocco can take car, motorbikes, trucks and 4WD’s. |
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Travel Morocco by Airplane, Buy Ticket Morocco, Airplane to Morocco
Major airlines fly to Morocco and already several low budget air lines fly to Marrakesh airport: Vueling, Easy Jet and Atlas Blue.
In Morocco you have several International airports: Casablanca, Tangier, Rabat, Marrakesh, Fez, Agadir and Ouarzazate. Most of them fly to destinations such as England, France, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Holland, Italy, etc. If you’re flying from outside Europe and want to get a cheaper flight, we advice you to switch flights in order to get a best deal as usually direct flights from outside Europe to Morocco are more expensive than a flight change in Madrid for example.
Low Budget Airlines Morocco
Easy Jet:
Flies out of cities like London, Paris, Madrid and Barcelona to Marrakech. Price ranges from 50 Euros to 200 Euros per flight round-trip ticket. Price depends of season and available seats. Booking in advance usually gets you the best deals.
Easy Jet Website: Easy Jet | www.easyjet.com
Atlas Blue:
This is a subsidiary company of Royal Air Maroc. Connects European cities such as Paris and Madrid to Marrakech, Casablanca and Agadir.
Atlas Blue Website: Atlas Blue | www.atlas-blue.com
Travel Morocco by Car – Ferry Boat from Spain
Getting your car into Africa is as easy as driving it into any other country in Europe. Tarifa Port in south Spain is the perfect connection to Tangier city, where you can easily start your journey in Morocco.
FRS company offers good quality 35 minutes ferry-boat trips from Tarifa to Tangier where you can easily make all passport procedures inside de boat. Every 2 hours there are boat trips, starting at 9am and ending at 11pm (please visit FRS website for accurate information as there might be seasonal schedule change).
Ticket Price Ferry-Boat Spain to Morocco
- Adult 1 way = 37 Euros
- Child (3-12 years) 1 way = 20 Euros
- Car up to 6 m length 1 way = 93 Euros
- Caravan 1 way = 143 Euros
- Motorbike 1 way = 31 Euros
FRS Ferry-boat Website: Ferry Boat to Morocco | www.frs.es
Travel Morocco by Train
It’s very simple to travel in Morocco using trains. Trains run from the coastal line from Tangier south to Marrakech
Ticket Price Train Marrakech to Tangier / Tangier to Marrakech
You can chose to travel in 2 beds wagon, 4 bed wagon, 1st class seat or 2nd class seat.
- 1st Class seat = 310 Dirhams (31 Euros)
- 2nd Class seat = 205 Dirhams (20 Euros)
- Couchette 4 beds in the room (only night train) = 350 Dirhams (35 Euros)
Train Schedules Marrakech – Tanger
4 trains per day. Only the night train is direct trip, all other trains must be connected.
- 05h00m – 15h25m | Change at CASA VOYAGEURS
- 09h00m – 18h45m | Change in Sidi Kacem
- 13h00m – 22h35m | Change at CASA VOYAGEURS
- 21h00m – 07h25m | Direct train
Train Schedules Tanger – Marrakech
4 trains per day. Only the night train is direct trip, all other trains must be connected.
- 08h00m – 18h05mn| Change at CASA VOYAGEURS
- 11h00mn – 20h05mn| Change in Sidi Kacem
- 14h00mn – 00h00mn| Change at CASA VOYAGEURS
- 21h05mn – 08h05mn| Direct train
Photos of Morocco
Photos of Morocco, Morocco Photos
Touched by Marrakech, Image Voyage into the Red City, Photo Book
31BEST proudly presents its first photography book. After a few years making photos of Marrakesh, 31BEST invests in offering an excellent quality photo book of Marrakech.
Marrakech is a fascinating city and a photogenic paradise for professional and amateur photographers. This ancient city, full of history and packed with amazing monuments, marvelous palaces and beautiful gardens. Marrakech old city called Medina is a fantastic get away to make that unique photo you were looking for. Touched by Marrakech is a 35 pages – Harcover Photo Book of Marrakech in Morocco.
Check out our new Marrakech BOOK, click here: Photo Book Marrakech.
Monuments in Marrakech
Marrakech is a fascinating travel destination. There are many books that will explain you what to do and what to see during your visit to Marrakech, but, 31 BEST will give you a quick insight on the city best Monuments, Museums, Gardens, Sightseeing & Activites.
All the information on this page is non-commercial and is done by the 31 BEST author concerning his personal experience of Marrakech in Morocco. This page is in constant update so come back for new Marrakech attractions. Hope you enjoy the information and I wish you all the best for your travel. Welcome to Marrakech – Have Fun!
List of Monuments in Marrakech
Please also visit also section of Marrakech Monuments to see photos and information about all these monuments in Marrakech. Thank you.
- Koutoubia Mosque
- Bahia Palace
- El Badi Palace
- Marrakech Ramparts
- Gate of the Gnaoua
- Majorelle Garden
- La Menara Gardens
- Agdal Garden
- Saadian Tombs
- Madrassa Ben Youssef
Video of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square in Marrakech
Restaurants in Marrakech 1
Marrakech is the perfect destination to experience several different restaurant options and taste the varied and exotic cuisine Marrakech has to offer. Either you’ll looking for the normal Moroccan street food or the chic-classic restaurant, Marrakech offers you all the possibilities.
Morocco is well known for its fine cuisine and exotic flavours. 31 Best Riads made it possible to gather information and actually try some of Marrakech best restaurants options in terms of food and best restaurant service.
This page is totally non-commercial and none of the restaurants listed below have any knowledge of these articles. This page is a Marrakech Restaurants Review from a personal point of view, to escape many of the existing websites on the Internet made up with a commercial intention. So, have fun in Marrakech and enjoy your meal, we hope you enjoy these restaurants as much as we did and that you have a great time while in Morocco!
Best Restaurants in Marrakech – Part 1 of 2
GO TO PAGE 2 of « Best Restaurants in Marrakech »
Cafe Arabe – Moroccan & Italian Restaurant Marrakech
© Photos Copyright Cafe Arabe Marrakech
This fine restaurant located inside the old Medina of Marrakech makes the perfect end to a busy day along Marrakech endless markets. Cafe Arabe mixes Moroccan & Italian cuisine in a nicely decorated restaurant while there is also a lounge-bar-restaurant on the terrace.
31 Best Riads visited this restaurant in December 2009 and completely recommend it for at least one nice evening in a good restaurant in Marrakech.
Prices: Starters range from 90 to 100 dirhams; Mains range from 90 to 160 dirhams and Desserts cost 80 dirhams.
*1 Euro = 11.3 Moroccan dirhams, 1 British pound = 12.6 Moroccan dirhams, 1 U.S. dollar = 7.8 Moroccan dirhams.
Cafe Arabe – Contacts
- Address: 184, Rue Mouassine, Marrakech Medina, Morocco
- Phone: +212 (0) 524429728
- Fax : +212 (0) 524429725
- Email: info@cafearabe.com
- Website: www.cafearabe.com | Cafe Arabe
- Info: Lunches and diners from Monday to Sunday.
Les Jardins de Bala – Fine Indian Restaurant Marrakech
© Photos Copyright Jardins de la Koutoubia Marrakech
Part of the famous 5 star hotel called Les Jardins de la Koutoubia, this lovely restaurant serves food from India, on a stunning roof-top view over the largest mosque in Marrakech, the Koutoubia.
This luxurious restaurant serves you in perfection and you will be delighted with some tasty food and why not a fresh mango lassi? This is the perfect spot for a romantic diner or just a place to get away from Marrakech intense ambiance.
31 Best Riads visited this restaurant in December 2009 and recommends it for a good escape from the Moroccan gastronomy inside an exotic restaurant in Marrakech.
Prices: Starters range from 40 to 90 dirhams; Mains range from 100 to 230 dirhams and Desserts range from 80 to 120 dirhams.
*1 Euro = 11.3 Moroccan dirhams, 1 British pound = 12.6 Moroccan dirhams, 1 U.S. dollar = 7.8 Moroccan dirhams.
Les Jardins de Bala – Contacts
- Address: Hôtel Les Jardins de La Koutoubia, 26 Rue de la Koutoubia, Marrakech Medina, Morocco
- Phone: +212 (0) 524388800
- Email: hoteljardinkoutoubia@menara.ma
- Website: www.lesjardinsdelakoutoubia.com | Jardins de Bala
- Info: Lunches and diners from Monday to Sunday.
Mama Ti Lee – Fine Creative Cuisine & Private Cocktail Restaurant Marrakech
© Photos Copyright Mama Ti Lee Marrakech
Mama Ti Lee is a private compulsory booking restaurant inside Marrakech old Medina, created by the French owner Cécile Marot, a French chef that lives in town for a couple of years now.
The whole restaurant is a private space, extremely well decorated with an adorable terrace. Cécile, Barbara and Simon are perfect host and create a very exquisite range of tasty dishes, blending French chic with exotic flavors from all over the world.
31 Best Riads visited this restaurant in April 2009 and completely recommend it for at least one nice evening in a good restaurant in Marrakech.
Prices: Starters range from 90 to 100 dirhams ; Mains range from 90 to 160 dirhams and Desserts cost 80 dirhams.
*1 Euro = 11.3 Moroccan dirhams, 1 British pound = 12.6 Moroccan dirhams, 1 U.S. dollar = 7.8 Moroccan dirhams.
Mama Ti Lee – Contacts
- Address: Derb la Arsa N°13, Riad Zitoun Jdid, Marrakech Medina, Morocco
- Phone: +212 (0) 524381752
- Email: mamatilee@yahoo.fr
- Website: http://mamatilee.blogspot.com/ | Mama Ti Lee
- Info: Lunches and diners under compulsory phone reservation.
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Curiosities About Morocco
Morocco is an exotic country located in North-west part of the African Continent. It’s cultural diversity and cultural richness makes from Morocco one of the most interesting countries to visit.
Morocco is the perfect country to spend from 1, to 2 weeks, but also due to its huge territorial extension and cultural / natural diversity, creates the possibility of traveling for a full month, or, just coming back again in several holidays in Morocco.
Morocco is a Monarchy; King of Morocco
Morocco is a Constitutional monarchy and its present King Mohammed 6th was born in August 1963 and ascended to the throne in July 1999 after the death of his father King Hassan 2nd of Morocco.
Snow in Morocco; The Atlas Mountains
Snow is a normal thing in Morocco, extending from the northern regions in the Rif Mountains and going further south to all the extent of the Atlas Mountains. Jebel Toubkal is a mountain peak in southwestern Morocco, located in the Toubkal National Park. At 4,167 meters, it is the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains and in North Africa. Many times during the year crossing from Marrakech south to Ouarzazate is impossible during a couple of days due to bad weather and snow storms.
Europe and Africa separated by 8.8 miles; Strait of Gibraltar
Morocco and Spain are separated by a small water passage that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. This passage is called the Strait of Gibraltar.
Europe and Africa are separated by 7.7 nautical miles (14.24 km or 8.8 miles) of ocean at the strait’s narrowest point. Ferry-Boats cross between the two continents every day in as little as 35 minutes from the Spanish town of Tarifa to the Moroccan town of Tangier. North Africa is very close to Europe.
Berbers are the Original Moroccan People; Berbers in Morocco
Morocco has been inhabited by Berbers for at least the last 5000 years. The Arabs conquered the territory that would become Morocco in the 7th and 11th centuries. Berbers are 70% of the whole population and speak a different language than Arabic state language.
Morocco is a big country; Tanger to La Gouira
From the northern border in Tangier to the most southern border at Bir Gandus, you have to drive about 2800km (1740 miles). Morocco has a total area of 446,550 km2 (172,414 sq mi), which is almost double of the United Kingdom. Morocco borders Algeria to the east and Mauritania to the south. Also borders Spain to the north with an water border through the Strait of Gibraltar and land borders with the small Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla.
Monkeys in Morocco; Barbary Macaque
Morocco has an indigenous species of monkey. The Barbary Macaque is a macaque found in the Atlas Mountains of Algeria and Morocco and in Gibraltar.
The Barbary Macaque is a gregarious monkey, forming mixed groups of several females and males. This monkey is yellowish-brown to gray with lighter undersides, growing to a maximum size of 75 cm (30 in) and 13 kg (29 lb).
You can visit these monkeys freely on the wild near Azrou in the Middle Atlas Mountains.
World Heritage Sites in Morocco, UNESCO Sites Morocco
Moroccan rich history and geographic importance gathered several gorgeous sites included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
All the World Heritage Sites in Morocco are very well preserved and offer exquisite cultural visits within amazing spaces of ancient history, impressive architecture and strong cultural aspects still maintained or recently renovated.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Morocco
Section under construction, more information will be added soon…Please come back later.
- 1981 Medina of Fes
- 1985 Medina of Marrakesh
- 1987 Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou in Ouarzazate
- 1996 Historic City of Meknes
- 1997 Archaeological Volubilis near Meknes
- 1997 Medina of Tétouan
- 2001 Medina of Essaouira (formerly Mogador)
- 2004 Portuguese City of Mazagan (El Jadida)
Morocco and Tourism, Moroccan Government, His Majesty the King Mohammed VI
Morocco is a fascinating country.
You’ll be amazed how diverse it can get and how incredibly safe it is. Morocco stands, nowadays, for one of the most promising tourist destinations in the world.
Moroccan government is quite open to the west and its people are well known for their sympathy and practice religion in a smoother way than in many other Muslim countries.
It seems religion, to Moroccans, is not even an issue and usually only comes up in conversation when westerners actually speak about it.
King Mohamed VI is the “father” of modern Morocco, and his visible efforts to improve the country conditions are notable all over the territory.
Morocco diversity on travel destinations is enormous and you can travel from the beach to the desert on the same day for example. Therefor, Morocco is the perfect exotic holidays destination.
Cities in Morocco, Moroccan Cities
Morocco is a big country and with a population passing 30 million people, there are many big cities mostly in the north, the center and on the coast with cities as Casablanca, Rabat, Fez and Marrakech.
The south, passing the Atlas Mountains tend to be less populated and with smaller cities like Ouarzazate and Errachidia.
Morocco biggest cities
- Casablanca 3 million people
- Rabat 1.6 million people
- Fez 950.000 people
- Marrakech 830.000 people
- Agadir 680.000 people
- Tangier 670.000 people
- Meknes 540.000 people
- Oujda 400.000 people
- Kenitra 350.000 people
- Tetouan 320.000 people
Learn Moroccan Arabic
The Arabic language is a Semitic language that differs from region to region within Arabic speaking countries and the Official language of 25 countries. Arabic cans usually be separated into three main variants: Classical Arabic, Modern Standard Arabic and Dialectal Arabic.
In Morocco, although official government communications and other public medias use Modern Standard Arabic, the language spoken by Moroccans is called Moroccan Arabic, or, also known as Darija.
This language is quite different from the Modern Standard Arabic and can be quite hard to express yourself on the streets if you don’t know some words in Moroccan Darija. To learn French is also a good idea, just at least a few words to get you through while in the country.
On these following pages, 31BEST will try to give you a glimpse of what Darija language is all about hoping you can practice it next time you visit Morocco. We will try to teach you the basic words of Moroccan Arabic, plus, we will teach how to write Arabic.
Learn how to write Arabic with us with a step-by-step guide to Write Arabic.
Moroccan Arabic Vocabulary Lesson (Sound)
This video offers a Moroccan Arabic vocabulary lesson which contains 160 most commonly used words in different topics such as: numbers, colors, phrases, nature, questions and much more. Try to memorize all of them, because they’re all important.
Learn How to Write Arabic
To know how to write in Arabic you need to know the Arabic Alphabet. Knowing the Arabic Alphabet is not hard but you need some instructions. Learn how to write in Arabic and quickly learn how to read in Arabic with this simple tutorial.
Quick information on the Arabic Alphabet
- The Arabic alphabet has 28 letters;
- The Arabic alphabet is written from right to left (the English alphabet is written from left to right);
- Each letter has four ways to be written: single letter, letter initial position of word, letter medium position, letter final position;
- Each letter connects to the next with the exceptions of “D”, the “DH”, the “A”, the “R”, “Z”, and “U”;
Question 1: What do you mean some letters connect and others don’t?
While writing in Arabic, some letters don’t stay attached to the following letter inside the word. Like per example the word BAB in Arabic means DOOR in English. The letter B connects to A, but A doesn’t connect to B. So for first lesson you have letters B + A, see below please.
Lesson 1: Writing Arabic – Word DOOR – BÂB
Letter A in Arabic
As you can notice, you have one A, two AA and three AAA. As you see, letters don’t really touch each other. So, this is what I meant by saying that some letter don’t connect to the following one.
Letter B in Arabic
Letter B, BB and BBB. You can notice that letters do connect and touch each other while writing, contrary to the letter A.
Word DOOR – BÂB in Arabic
Please remember that the Arabic alphabet is written from right to left. Here you can notice that B connects to A; A doesn’t connect to B and then, the last B alone, to finish the word BÂB – DOOR in Arabic. The letter  is a long sound of A. So you almost read it like doubling the sound of A. BAAB = BÂB. Simple.
Lesson 2: Writing Arabic – Word HEART – QALB
Letter Q in Arabic
Letter Q, QQ and QQQ. This specific letter as a very distinct sound. The letter Q in Arabic is one of the most difficult in the Arabic Alphabet. You have to say Q but coming from the throat and almost choking.
Letter L in Arabic
Letter L, LL and LLL. This letter in Arabic has the same sound as the L in English. Nothing difficult.
Word HEART – QALB in Arabic
Please remember that the Arabic alphabet is written from right to left. Here you can notice that that all letters connect to each other. Q connects to L; and L connects to B to finish the word QALB – HEART in Arabic.
Lesson 3: Writing Arabic – Phrase DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH? – WASH KAT-HDAR B-LANGLIZIA?
Word WASH – DO (as in DO YOU) in Arabic
Letters W + A + SH
Letter W or U in Arabic
Letter W, WW and WWW. As you see, letters don’t really touch each other. So, again another example of a letter don’t connect to the following one. Very important to know about this letter is that it sometimes takes the sound of W and sometime the sound of U. This is what we call in Arabic teaching, a semi-vowel; a letter with the characteristic of being a consonant and a vowel.
Letter A in Arabic
One A, two AA and three AAA. As you see, letters don’t touch each other.
Letter SH in Arabic
Letter SH, SHSH and SHSH. This letter in Arabic has the same sound as the CH in English but without the T (as you know that CH in English is read TCH. Hum, yes! Try to SHHHH! like you want to someone to shut up, that sh is the one from the letter SH in Arabic.
To be continue soon… Please add this page to your favorites and come back later.
Quick Basic Moroccan Arabic VocabularyGood morning – Sabah alkhair |
Moroccan Darija, Why to learn it?The word “Darija” itself means dialect. Darija is the Moroccan Arabic, and it is a dialect spoken in Arab areas of Morocco, and, spoken both by Arabs and Berbers. In Moroccan non-Arab regions, many people especially older man or women do not know any language but Berber. In general, Berbers know Moroccan darija but Arabs do not know Berber. Moroccan Arabic is grammatically simpler, and, has a much more limited vocabulary compared to the classical Arabic. It has also integrated a lot of words from Berber, French, Spanish and Portuguese. The Moroccan Arabic has a pronunciation that is mostly intelligible and non-understood to other speakers of the Arab area of the Middle East, but it is usually understandable among other North African dialects in Moroccan, Algeria and in some cases in Tunisia. Moroccan Arabic is highly influenced by Berber pronunciation. |
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Quick Basic Moroccan Arabic Phrases
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Countries that speak Arabic as Official LanguageAfghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Chad, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Israel, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and Yemen. |
Quick Basic Moroccan Arabic Vocabulary, English Arabic Vocabulary
English | Moroccan Arabic |
How are you? | ![]() |
Good luck | ![]() |
I’m fine | ![]() |
Happy new year | ![]() |
How’s it going? | ![]() |
Is everything good? | ![]() |
Nice to meet you | ![]() |
Please | ![]() |
Thank you very much | ![]() |
You are welcome | ![]() |
What is your name? | ![]() |
Where are you going? | ![]() |
Can you help me? | ![]() |
Sorry | ![]() |
Good morning | ![]() |
Good evening | ![]() |
Good night (when going to sleep) | ![]() |
No, thank you | ![]() |
Bye | ![]() |
How are you? | ![]() |
Take care of yourself (like in see you next time) | ![]() |
What is your job? | ![]() |
Where are you from? | ![]() |
Map of Marrakech Attractions
31 Best Riad features a personal Google Map of Marrakech with special selected monuments, restaurants, streets, shops and hidden sites that only we know about.
Marrakech has a considerable number of monuments, palaces, gardens and museums around it’s old city. Between many, the most well known are:
Djemaa El-Fna Square, Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, The souks (markets), Marrakech Museum, Emsemble Artisanal, Majorelle Gardens, Menara Gardens, Dar Si Said Museum, Ben Youssef Madrassa, Bahia Palace, el Badi Palace, Dar Tiskiwin, Foundation Dar Bellarj, Criée Berbère Square, the Almoravid Qoubba, the leather Tanneries and Foundouk Moulay Hfid Textile Factory.
On this page you can navigate on this Marrakech Map and watch movies, see pictures and discover Marrakech by your own. You can zoom in and zoom out, and click on the icons that will pop-out a photo / video and title.
Map of Marrakech, Photos & Videos, Marrakech Attractions
View Marrakech Monuments in a larger map
Note: This page is in constant update and everyday we insert new marks on this interactive map. You can zoom in and zoom out, and click on the icons that will pop-out a photo and title. With this map of Marrakech you can easily get a better idea of the city and its main attractions. Enjoy Marrakech!
About 31Best Riad
31 Best Riad Marrakesh is an online guide that offers travelers accommodation information in Marrakesh, Morocco. Independently created, 31 Best Riad Marrakesh is a registered trademark of Hipmarrakech.com Ltd a UK company.
31 Best Riad Marrakesh features a wide variety of Guest Houses, and offers Riad owners a wider Internet visibility. Launched in December 2006, 31best-riad-marrakesh.com has empowered travelers to get detailed information about where to stay in Marrakesh.
Our full terms and conditions are available here: http://www.hipmarrakech.com/booking-terms.php
Contact Us by Email
If you have any question about Marrakech or Morocco, please don’t hesitate to contact us. If you have any questions regarding how to advertise your business here, please send us en email to contact [at] hipmarrakech.com . Thank you.
The 31 BEST RIAD MARRAKESH site’s original emphasis and it’s current strength is showcasing a variety of Riad’s – traditional residences for Morocco’s old-elite. These Riads are now available to tourists to rent out. 31-Best-Riad-Marrakesh brings together a wide variety of Riads form all over Morocco. The site lists each Riad with complete information on the number of people accommodated, the different suites available, and a complete lists of services and amenities provided.
Join our supporters and friends online. Share your thoughts, pictures and ideas about Marrakesh.
Basic French Vocabulary
French is a Romance language official in 29 countries around the world. A few words in French are very useful to know while you travel to Marrakech and in Morocco. French is the most spoken western language around the country so you will probably want to quickly have a revision or just learn a few words that can get you through some occasions easily.
French is the administrative language and is commonly used in Morocco. France’s colonial history between the 17th and 20th centuries, made the French language being introduced to America, Africa, Polynesia, and the Caribbean.
Quick Basic French vocabularyBonjour – Good Morning |
Quick French/Moroccan HistoryDuring several years Morocco was upon French rule, which means that Morocco actually was France, just being another region of a vast Empire – The French Empire. France started to show a strong interest in Morocco as early as 1830. During the Agadir Crisis in 1911, Britain supported France, and, Morocco became a French protectorate so that is why this the implement of the French language in Morocco. The Treaty of Fez signed on March 30, 1912, made Morocco a important protectorate of France in north Africa. Morocco recovered its political independence on March 2nd, 1956 and on April 7th France officially relinquished its protectorate. 1956 was a very important year for all Moroccans as they gained their independence back. |
Learn French: 145 minutes to learn French
Quick Basic French Vocabulary
- I want this please – Je veux ça s’il vous plait.
- How much does it cost – Combien ça coûte.
- Where is the main square please – Où est la place principale s’il vous plait.
- Can you please help me? – Pouvez-vous m’aider s’il vous plait?
- I must to go to my hotel - Je dois aller à mon hôtel.
- I don’t want to be here, please let me go – Je ne veux pas être ici, laisse moi partir s’il vous plait.
Quick Basic French Verbs: Present
Quick Basic French Vocabulary
- I want this please – Je veux ça s’il vous plait.
- How much does it cost – Combien ça coûte.
- Where is the main square please – Où est la place principale s’il vous plait.
- Can you please help me? – Pouvez-vous m’aider s’il vous plait?
- I must to go to my hotel - Je dois aller à mon hôtel.
- I don’t want to be here, please let me go – Je ne veux pas être ici, laisse moi partir s’il vous plait.
Quick Basic French Verbs: Present
If you want to learn the Past and Future conjugation of these verbs in French.
Verbe Faire/Verb to do | Verbe Avoir/Verb to have | Verbe Être/Verb to be | Verbe Aller/Verb to go | Verbe Vouloir/Verb to want |
Je fais | J’ai | Je suis | Je vais | Je veux |
Tu fais | Tu as | Tu es | Tu vas | Tu veux |
Il fait | Il a | Il est | Il va | Il veut |
Nous faisons | Nous avons | Nous sommes | Nous allons | Nous voulous |
Vous faites | Vous avez | Vous êtes | Vous allez | Vous voulez |
Ils faisons | Ils ont | Ils sont | Ils vont | Ils veulent |
Countries that speak French as Official Language
Belgium, Benin, Burkina-Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Canada, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, France, Gabon, Guinea, Haiti, Ivory Coast, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Mali, Monaco, Niger, Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Senegal, Seychelles, Switzerland, Togo, Vanuatu.
French Verbs, French Verb Conjugations, Conjugating French Verbs
French verbs are conjugated by isolating the stem of the verb and adding an ending to it, so you can basically identify the root infinitive of the verb by the start of the word itself. Comparing to English, to learn French language is a bit complicated in terms of verb conjugation. This page gives you the Past, Present and Future conjugation of the French verbs: faire / to do; avoir / to do; être / to be; aller / to go; vouloir / to want.
French Verbs: Past / Passé simple
Verbe Faire/Verb to do | Verbe Avoir/Verb to have | Verbe Être/Verb to be | Verbe Aller/Verb to go | Verbe Vouloir/Verb to want |
Je fis | Je eus | Je fus | Je allai | Je voulus |
Tu fis | Tu eus | Tu fus | Tu allas | Tu voulus |
Il fit | Il eut | Il fut | Il alla | Il voulut |
Nous fîmes | Nous eûmes | Nous fûmes | Nous allâmes | Nous voulûmes |
Vous fîtes | Vous eûtes | Vous fûtes | Vous allâtes | Vous voulûtes |
Ils firent | Ils eurent | Ils furent | Ils allèrent | Ils voulurent |
French Verbs: Present / Présent
Verbe Faire/Verb to do | Verbe Avoir/Verb to have | Verbe Être/Verb to be | Verbe Aller/Verb to go | Verbe Vouloir/Verb to want |
Je fais | J’ai | Je suis | Je vais | Je veux |
Tu fais | Tu as | Tu es | Tu vas | Tu veux |
Il fait | Il a | Il est | Il va | Il veut |
Nous faisons | Nous avons | Nous sommes | Nous allons | Nous voulous |
Vous faites | Vous avez | Vous êtes | Vous allez | Vous voulez |
Ils faisons | Ils ont | Ils sont | Ils vont | Ils veulent |
French Verbs: Future / Futur simple
Verbe Faire/Verb to do | Verbe Avoir/Verb to have | Verbe Être/Verb to be | Verbe Aller/Verb to go | Verbe Vouloir/Verb to want |
Je ferai | Je aurai | Je serai | Je vais | Je voudrai |
Tu feras | Tu auras | Tu seras | Tu vas | Tu voudras |
Il fera | Il aura | Il sera | Il va | Il voudra |
Nous ferons | Nous aurons | Nous serons | Nous allons | Nous voudrons |
Vous ferez | Vous aurez | Vous serez | Vous allez | Vous voudrez |
Ils feront | Ils auront | Ils seront | Ils vont | Ils voudront |
Photos of Marrakech
Morocco is a fascinating country and a photogenic paradise for professional and amateur photographers. Apart from great historical cities, Moroccan vast landscapes and scenery diversity come up together for great photo opportunities.
Like all over Morocco, you will love to make photos of Marrakech and travel around the country for the best pictures possible. One of the most exotic cities to visit and take pictures is definitely Marrakech.
This ancient city, full of history and packed with amazing monuments, marvelous palaces and beautiful gardens. Its old city called Medina is a fantastic get away to make that unique photo you were looking for.
Photos of Marrakech December 2009
Photos of Snake Charmers in Djemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech
Marrakech is well known by its exoticism and somehow a tiny bit of madness on its streets and especially on the famous Djemaa el Fna, Marrakech’s main square inside the old part of the city called “Medina”.
Along with acrobats, snake charmers, orange juice and dried fruit stalls, chained apes, water sellers with traditional leather water-bags and brass cups, and thousands of people wandering around.
Djemaa el Fna square in Marrakech gets a special and unique ambiance and is now under the UNESCO World Heritage protection due to its cultural importance that should be preserved.
Serpents have featured an important role in man’s religions for centuries, and its image of being a dangerous animal somehow makes snake charming a courageous act.
This practice and its earliest evidence come from Ancient Egyptian where charmers there acted as magicians and healers. As a common street perform, snake charming can only be seen in a few number of countries in the world as India, Thailand, Pakistan, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia.
Photos of Saadian Tombs, Marrakech Mausoleum 17th century Saadi Dinasty in Marrakech
Photos of Shopping in Marrakech, Shops and Street Sellers in Marrakech
Photos Gallery of Shopping in Marrakech, What to buy in Marrakech: Handicraft, T-shirts, Dried Fruits, Perfumes, Baskets, Music, Spices and Herbs.
Photos of Bahia Palace 19th century Moroccan Architecture in Marrakech
Marrakech has a lot to offer in terms of sightseeing activities and monuments. The large amount of palaces and gardens spread around the city maintain visitors occupied for several days.
Small photo gallery of Bahia Palace, an excellent example of 19th century Moroccan Architecture right in the heart of the city. The Bahia Palace has a 2 acre (8,000 m2) garden with rooms opening onto several courtyards. The Bahia Palace was built at the end of 19th century by Si Moussa, grand vizier of the sultan.
Photos of Ben Youssef Madrassa, Marrakech Islamic college from 14th Century in Marrakech
Photos of Bert Flint African Arts & Crafts Museum at Maison Tiskiwi in Marrakech
Photos of Dried Fruits Stand nº 26 Djemaa el-Fna Square in Marrakech
Photos of Koutoubia Mosque and Minaret Tower Monument in Marrakech
Photos of Majorelle Botanical Garden owned by Yves Saint-Laurent in Marrakech
Photo Gallery of Majorelle Garden, Marrakesh botanical garden, built by Jacques Majorelle in 1924 and owned by Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Berge.
Photos of Marrakech Museum, 19th century Dar Menebhi Palace in Marrakech
Photos of Palace el-Badi from 1578 Saadian king Ahmad al-Mansur in Marrakech
Photo Gallery of Palace el-Badi from Saadian king Ahmad al-Mansur, built in 1578 in Marrakesh Morocco.
Photos of Oukaimeden Ski Resort near Marrakesh, Atlas Mountains
Photo gallery of Oukaimeden Ski Resort 80km south of Marrakesh, Atlas Mountains in Morocco.
Cameras and photo material in Marrakech
Finding appropriate photo material in Marrakech is not hard, either you check out the shops around Djemaa el Fna for memory cards, extra batteries or even brand new cameras at a convenient price, or, if you’re looking for something more professional you can try to look at Gueliz new district outside the old city walls. Marjane supermarket can be also a great place to get a digital camera. Already around the Jemaa el Fna square you can find several shops with many digital cameras and digital memory cards at a nice price.
Some people still shot in film, and for those, you can easily find some shops inside the Medina and around Djemaa el Fna selling Kodak and Fuji films of 24 and 32 photos. APS films are also available in most of the shops on the main square.
The main problem with photography in Marrakech is the developing. You should avoid those photo developing shops at Djemaa el-Fna main square as quality is a concern. You might get bad luck to have your pictures all blurred and with a strange lack of paint or with an ugly white layer.
If you chose to develop your films while in Marrakesh make sure you go Gueliz new district new and find a decent shop, the ones with good photo equipment and quality you’re used to back home.
Morocco Travel Guide
Where is Morocco?
Morocco is located in Northern Africa and its borders Algeria and Mauritania.
One of the most interesting facts about Morocco is that it is the African country closest to the European continent.
Morocco and Spain are separated by the Gibraltar Strait only at a distance of 14 km (8.6 miles) from the areas near Algeciras and Tarifa to Tangier in North Africa.
From south Spain in Tarifa you can look and see Africa and one of the most interesting ways of getting into the country is taking the epic boat from Europe to Africa.
Map of Morocco, Morocco Google Map
The Imperial Cities
During several centuries, Morocco had several different king’s dynasties. Many of them moved the capital from city to city, creating a net of distinct imperial cities.
Although many cities in Morocco actually have Royal palaces, only Marrakech, Fez, Meknes and Rabat were actually chosen to be the capital of the Moroccan Kingdom. If you’re into palaces, monuments and impressive Medinas, all these Morocco Imperial Cities offers great cultural and historical escapades.
World Heritage Sites
Moroccan history is undoubtedly rich and full of peculiar aspects. Spread around the Moroccan territory, you can visit quite well preserved UNESCO locations.
The sites of World Heritage in Morocco are: the Medina of Fes, the Medina of Marrakesh, the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou in Ouarzazate, the Historic City of Meknes, the Archaeological Volubilis, the Medina of Tétouan, the Medina of Essaouira, the Portuguese City of Mazagan.
Marrakesh Information
“Marrakesh is a place of mystery. A destination wanted by all travelers.”
Marrakech stands out on the “once on a life time travel destination” along with other known world cities as Paris in France, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil, Rome in Italy, New York City in USA, Lisbon in Portugal, Istanbul in Turkey, Samarkand in Uzbekistan or Cairo in Egypt. At least once in a lifetime you have to visit Marrakech.
Marrakesh offers a wide choice of activities. If you’re looking for culture, museums and monuments, Marrakech has an outstanding number of well preserved palaces, madrasas and open air museums and gardens.
If you’re traveling for shopping, spa, hammam and massage, disco & nightclubs or fancy restaurants in Marrakech, the city gets you on the move and will keep you busy for a couple of days and nights.
If you’re looking for adventure you can do some camel trekking in the beautiful palm groves or engage on a Sahara Desert 4X4 adventure tour in Morocco or go skiing in the Atlas Mountains.
Whatever you desire during your holidays Marrakech makes it possible. Marrakesh endless markets will make you loose the notion of time while you walk around open air street markets (called souks), shopping for exotic and exquisite handicraft.
You’ll have plenty of local shops, workshops with artisans working in loco, and you can buy that so long wanted Moroccan carpet or Moroccan lamp that will so perfectly fit and decorate your house back home.
Marrakech 7 Holy Saints, Patron Saints of Marrakech
Very interesting and somehow unknown fact about Marrakech, is that the city in its imaginary and ancient believes, is protected by seven saints. Although the belief of saints if against the religion of Islam, Morocco falls into this interesting and unique tradition in the Arabic / Islamic world. Below some photos of the Mausoleum of Sidi Youssef Ben Ali, Patron Saint of Marrakech.
Photos of the Mausoleum of Sidi Youssef Ben Ali, Patron Saint of Marrakech.
Photos of the Mausoleum of Sidi Youssef Ben Ali, Patron Saint of Marrakech.
The Seven Patron Saints of Marrakech serve everyday of the week, as for Monday is Sidi es Soheili; for Tuesday: Sidi Youssef Ben Ali; for Wednesday: Qadi Ayad; for Thursday: Sidi Bel Abbes; for Friday: Sidi Ben Slimane el Jazouli; for Saturday: Sidi Abd el Aziz; and finally for Sunday: Moul el Ksour. During the 18th century reign of the Sultan Moulay Ismail, the pilgrimage called ziara was made official and institutionalized. The ziara pilgrimage of the tombs of the Seven Patron Saint of Marrakech brings pilgrims to visit the seven patron saints and meditate each day in one of the mausoleums called zaouias.
Although the visit of the mausoleums of these holy men of Marrakech is closed to non-Muslims, you can always try to go there and respectfully pay your entrance, donating a small contribution to the local guardian, usually a woman (10 Dirhams is enough). Dress conveniently with no shorts, take your shoes out on the entrance (watch out for shoe robbers), and if you’re a woman covering your head is a must. Below some photos of the Mausoleum of Qadi Ayad, Patron Saint of Marrakech.
Photos of the Mausoleum of Qadi Ayad, Patron Saint of Marrakech.
Photos of the Mausoleum of Qadi Ayad, Patron Saint of Marrakech.
Staying in Marrakech, Profiting from an amazing travel destination
While staying on a Riad in Marrakech, ask for a map of Marrakech at the riad reception and loose a couple of minutes trying to understand Marrakech districts and main streets and famous squares. This will help you not getting lost and wander around the old city of Marrakech a little bit more relaxed and enjoying its “chaotic exoticism” with open mind and free for new experiences and sensations.
Make it possible to end your day on a private hammam. Contact your Riad manager in the morning and book a hammam and massage to cease your day in that perfect mood to go to diner with your partner and make a great evening happen.
A massage in Morocco is a great way to know the “hammam” culture that is somehow common also throughout the Middle East, but Moroccan hammam differs from Turkish bath on the ritual and the way people interact inside the hot steam baths and black soap scrubs. An unique experience.
Marrakech has a considerable number of monuments, palaces, gardens and museums around it’s old city. Between many, the most well known are:
Djemaa El-Fna Square, Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, The souks (markets), Marrakech Museum, Emsemble Artisanal, Majorelle Gardens, Menara Gardens, Dar Si Said Museum, Ben Youssef Madrassa, Bahia Palace, el Badi Palace, Dar Tiskiwin, Foundation Dar Bellarj, Criée Berbère Square, the Almoravid Qoubba, the leather Tanneries and Foundouk Moulay Hfid Textile Factory. For a big page with all the destinations / where to go / what to visit in Marrakech, please click here: Marrakech Monuments. Enjoy Marrakech!
What is a Riad
Riads are traditional Moroccan houses located inside old city districts. After being abandoned by rich families a couple of centuries ago while moving to other major Moroccan cities such as Casablanca or Rabat, Riads gained life again when bought by rich Moroccan families or European travelers and investors, and being restored and used as private houses in the late 1970′s.
Riads are not located in the new part of the cities. The old parts of the cities in Morocco are called Medina’s and the newer districts are called “Ville Nouvelle” which were mainly built during the French Rule. The Treaty of Fez signed on 1912 made Morocco a protectorate of France until 1956.
Central Patios of Riads in Marrakech
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Riad Cinnamon Marrakech | Riad Porte Royale, Marrakech | Riad Karmela Marrakech |
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Riad Papillon Marrakech | Riad Les Ammonites, Marrakech | Riad Samsli Marrakech |
What is a Riad?
The subject “What is a Riad” comes to many people’s mind and in fact, many people wonder its origin. The word Riad comes from the Arabian term for garden, “ryad”.
Throughout history Moroccan architecture suffered several external influences, and the architectural concept of Riads seem to come all the way from ancient Roman times and end up being an adaption and modification of the Roman villa. A villa was originally a Roman main residence of many wealthy citizens.
Riads are usually a few stories high, having the main ground floor with a patio and a fountain.
The middle level hold the suites having window view to the lower patio “cloister type” and the upper level holds a terrace usually overseeing the city skyline.
Today, most Riads are used as private guest houses offering exceptional service in truly amazing buildings re-decorated and re-built in a traditional way.
Riads are the perfect escape to bigger hotels and suitable for people that search authenticity and privacy as most Riads offer a very limited number of rooms. Finding a House in Morocco or a Riad in Marrakech can be a big adventure as you have a extensive list of superb offers for Accommodation in Marrakech.
This website gives you an easy insight and selection of the best Riads in Morocco.
Visit a Riad, Virtual Tour of Riads in Marrakech
Riads follow a specific architecture and house structure: Entrance halls, Patios, Corridors, dining areas, rooms, relaxing areas, terrace. We present you many photos of many parts of riads in Marrakech. We hope you enjoy.
Rooms of Riads in Marrakech
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Riad Star Marrakech | Riad Dar Zaman Marrakech | Riad Samsli Marrakech |
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Riad Dar Malak Marrakech | Riad Hikaya Marrakech | Riad Les Ammonites Marrakech |
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Riad Gallery 49 Marrakech | Riad Linda Marrakech | Riad Boussa Marrakech |
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Riad Dar Thania Marrakech | Riad Dari Marrakech | Riad Ariha Marrakech |
Bathrooms of Riads in Marrakech
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Riad Samsli Marrakech | Riad Chi-Chi Marrakech | Riad Mur Akush Marrakech |
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Riad Hikaya Marrakech | Riad Star Marrakech | Riad Cinnamon Marrakech |
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Riad Dar Rocmarra Marrakech | Riad Papillon Marrakech | Riad Dar Thania Marrakech |
Corridors of Riads in Marrakech
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Riad Samsli Marrakech | Riad Linda Marrakech | Riad Chi-Chi Marrakech |
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Riad Laksiba Marrakech | Riad Hikaya Marrakech | Riad Boussa Marrakech |
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Riad Dar Rocmarra Marrakech | Riad Ariha Marrakech | Riad Dar Zaman Marrakech |
Living Rooms of Riads in Marrakech
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Riad Darhani Marrakech | Riad Dar Rocmarra Marrakech | Riad Hikaya Marrakech |
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Riad Dar Thania Marrakech | Riad Gallery 49 Marrakech | Riad Samsli Marrakech |
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Riad Karmela Marrakech | Riad Chi-Chi Marrakech | Riad Boussa Marrakech |
Terraces of Riads in Marrakech
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Riad Star Marrakech | Riad Darhani Marrakech | Riad Hikaya Marrakech |
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Riad Dar Thania Marrakech | Riad Karmela Marrakech | Riad Samsli Marrakech |
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Riad Cinnamon Marrakech | Riad Porte Royale Marrakech | Riad Dar Malak Marrakech |