M – Magical Marrakesh #A2ZChallenge

Magical Marrakesh

Everything about Marrakech Tourism is magical and mystical. Today I embark on the quest to discover unique things to do in Marrakech in this blog post. Marrakesh comes from the words amur and kush, which means Land of God. it is the fourth largest city of the Kingdom of Morocco, after Casablanca, Fez, and Tangier. Travelers often term Marrakesh is Morocco’s most intoxicating city. From old city walls, crumbling palaces to noisy souks, Marrakesh is unique in every way. This typical ambiance lends it a distinct character, different from most African and European travel destinations. Read further to discover the most unique things to do in Marrakech and bag your bags to go…

How to get to Magical Marrakech

Marrakech Menara Airport is the international airport in Morocco. It is one of North Africa’s busiest airports, managing almost 3 million passengers yearly. Currently, 33 flights flying from Mumbai to Marrakesh.  The biggest airlines flying are Qatar Airways flights,  Air France flights, British Airways.

Visa Formalities

Indian tourists who wish to travel to Morocco need to apply for a visa can find all information for types of visa on their online portal. You will need to possess a valid passport with six-month validity. You must provide proof of confirmed hotel reservation, flight bookings and travel itinerary for the entire duration of your stay in Morocco  In case a tourist wants to stay for more than 90 days in Morocco, you will require a resident permit for that.

 

Top Ten Unique Things To Do In Marrakech

 

1.Koutoubia Mosque

Admire the tallest towering minaret is definitely on the cards. This biggest mosque in Marrakech has been built in the Thirteenth Century. The strange fact is that minaret is square unlike most of many traditional circular minarets in Islamic countries.

This minaret is visible from nearly 30 kilometers away, captures the eye and dominates the skyline. You can hear the religious call to prayer from the mosque five times every day. You can admire this tall outstanding Landmark from outside as entry is only available to Muslims. One of the top unique things to do in Marrakech.

2. El Badi Palace

The famed Bahia Place is a palace decorated by the Grand Vizier Si Moussa in the 1860s.  Just 8 hectares of the palace and 150 rooms are open to the public to see. There is little remaining of the excellent craftsmanship that was in place here however it retains the essence of an important landmark. This ornate palace and gardens date back to the 1800 century. It’s a nice place to wander about in the sun and to know more about Moroccan history.

3. Saadian Tombs

These beautifully decorated tombs comprising 60 members of the Saadi Dynasty were only discovered in 1917 and have become a massive attraction for tourists after the restoration work undertaken by the Beaux-arts service. The architecture and carvings throughout but mainly in the main tomb were mind-blowing! Saadien’s tombs are close by to the El Badi Palace.

4. Medina

This first site you will want to visit is the Medina.  If you want to have a full-on Marrakech experience, then it is the medina where you should spend most of your time. This place is a huge labyrinth filled with of color, aroma, beautiful people moving about and much much more. Be rest assured you may get lost easily. There is an array of wares by the Moroccan craftsman in woodcraft, weaving, tanning, and metalwork, just to name a few. Expect to bargain, and aim to settle for around half the price first mentioned.

5. Majorelle Gardens

This pretty, well-kept garden of Yves Saint Laurent called Majorelle Gardens. Opened in 2001 and one of the big tourist attractions in Marrakech. A stunning creation that reflects the beauty of paradise in this life on earth. Take plenty of selfies and pictures to post on Instagram.

6. Stay in a Riad

It’s easy to just book a hotel in Marrakech but nothing beats the feeling of staying in a Riad – a traditional Moroccan house within the Medina (Old City). You must check into a Riad, even if it is only for a day to familiarise yourself with Moroccan culture. Expect walls embellished with traditional Moroccan rugs, shelves adorned with ethnic glassware, and breakfasts served in intimate central courtyards. Seems like a lot of fun and one of the really unique things to do in Marrakech.

7. Take a Calèche Ride

The Caleche is a horse-driven cart and probably an interesting way to see the city. Marrakech is filled with drivers trying to persuade tourists to hop onto their a horse-drawn carriage. Bargain before you take the ride.

8. Enjoy Street Food

Food will surely be the highlight of a trip to Marrakech – it’s cheap and cheerful, fab and finger-licking good.  Sample Moroccan delicacies like tagine, couscous, kebabs, and Harira soup at local restaurants. Mint tea is the national drink of Morocco! You’ll most likely be sipping plenty when you’re in town. Try tea with Moroccan sweetmeats. Freshly squeezed orange juice in the streets is a super treat.

9. Head Over to the Marrakech Museum

Every country you visit, one visit to their museum is a must. The Marrakesh Museum has a fabulous collection of modern and traditional Moroccan art and objects of historical relevance.

10. Hot Air Balloon ride

If time and pocket strings permit to take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. The one-hour flight soars above the foothills of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains letting you admire the splendid colors of the countryside.

Still more time on hand? Marrakech is loaded with heritage with a number of sites of interests to visit including the Bahia Palace,  Ben Youssef Madrasa. Or just pamper yourself with the plush Moroccan hammam relaxing exfoliation and mud mask. A trip to Marrakech will be complete with a visit to the bustling Djemaa el-Fna square.

Moroccan people are warm and the food is delicious. This mélange makes Marrakech stand out. Here’s your guide on what to expect in Magical Marrakesh. Happy Travel Plans ahead. 

I  wrote this post for letter M, BlogChatter #A2ZChallenge  Here is my previous post  L – Limitless Ladakh