La Mamounia
A classic that was a favourite among celebrities such as Audrey Hepburn and Ernest Hemingway, the Mamounia has recently undergone a vast refurbishment project. Completely restored and redecorated by Jacques Garcia, the hotel is the quintessence of luxury. Cool lounges and rich velvets provide the perfect setting to disconnect.
Riad Abracadabra
One of the most delightful riads in the whole city, this charming eight-room hotel is run by a Spanish couple. Just 150 metres from the famous Jemaa el Fna square, it boasts an excellent restaurant and visitors are made to feel completely at home.
Le TobsilA benchmark among Marrakesh restaurants. Located in the labyrinthine Medina – the old town – it takes a little finding, but is well worth the effort because of the generous portions of fine cuisine served in a pleasant atmosphere.
Dar CherifaThis literary café-gallery is one of the pillars of the artistic essence of Marrakesh. Its location is unique as it is set inside one of the oldest riads Marrakesh, and decorated in fine wood paneling and stucco. It hosts permanent exhibitions of photography and contemporary art.
Dar Yacout The favourite restaurant of King Mohamed VI, the private rooms of the Dar Yacout are decorated in true Moroccan style. The service is impeccable and the food delicious.
Mouassine District
No visitor to Marrakesh should leave without strolling through this unique district of the Medina, the old fortified city. Here you will find the most fashionable shops and galleries.
Place des Epices
Place des Epices – 'spice square' – is without a doubt, the most colourful square in the city, and the heady mix of fragrances and perfumes is indescribable. Visitors and locals rub shoulders in a kind of organised chaos. Among the many stalls you will discover lotions, potions and spices to cure any ill.
Terrasse PanoramiqueLocated in Jamaa el Fna square, this terrace offers the finest views of the best African sunsets. The name sums it up – 'the panoramic terrace' – although fails to mention the delights of the mint tea served here.
Royal Golf Club
For golf lovers, the Marrakesh Royal Golf Club – the oldest in Africa – offers the chance to play at any time of year thanks to the shade of huge eucalyptus trees.
Majorelle Garden
In Gueliz, the new part of the city built by the French in the Thirties. The garden was acquired by Yves San Laurent in the Sixties and he reorganised and redesigned it taking his inspiration from a sensual and exotic style. The result is not to be missed.