Marrakech is undoubtedly one of the ultimate city break destinations. Where else is filled with so much exoticism and mystery and yet can be reached in less than four hours from the UK? Picture this: you're slowly making your way through the sprawling labyrinthine alleys that make up Marrakech's famous souq, all hope of finding your way back seems lost, but it doesn’t matter because you’re too absorbed in soaking up everything around you. This will become a theme during your 48 hours in Marrakech, as this city is a sensory overload. Street vendors spout their merry manifestos from every direction and the atmosphere is punctured by mingling aromas. Incense, leather, spices and unknown fragrances fill your nostrils as you wind your way past craftsmen, snake charmers and soothsayers. Anyone hoping for muted tones and unassuming sophistication is either never leaving the hotel or has boarded the wrong flight. So whether you’re visiting the city on a whistlestop weekend trip or as part of a wider Morocco itinerary, read on for our ideal way to spend 48 hours in Marrakech…
Day One
Late Morning
Your 48 hours in Marrakech begin once you touch down on an early morning flight from the UK. After settling into your charming riad and enjoying a fresh mint tea, the tummy is probably a rumblin', so stay and enjoy an early lunch (lamb tagine anyone?) while soaking up some much-needed sun. And relax...
Afternoon
Head out to explore the historic district of the city, the Medina. A guided tour on foot or bike is a great introduction to the hustle and bustle, or you can simply wander through the streets, going with the flow of everyday Moroccan life. Keen shoppers head straight to the souq where you'll be in seventh heaven as you haggle with street vendors over all manner of things - rugs, shoes, leather bags, teapots, spices and much, much more. It's a city that demands you dive straight in and embrace your surroundings.
Evening
As dusk approaches, head down to the Djemaa El-Fna, which comes to life in the evening. Locals and tourists alike are entertained by acrobats, musicians and storytellers. Get in among the thick of it and walk around or watch in awe from the numerous café balconies dotted around. Food stalls pop up all over the place selling weird and wonderful delicacies - for all you adventurous foodies, try the spleen kebabs and goat heads.
Day Two
Morning
Gastronomic globetrotters step this way because you’re off to a cookery class. We’re firm believers that the way to the heart of a country is through its collective stomach; you can learn as much about the culture, history and tradition of a place from its food as you can at any museum. Mastering a couple of signature local dishes (maybe not the spleen kebabs, though) and adding them to your dinner party repertoire will help you look terribly cultured and well-travelled to your friends. Bonus. There are numerous great cookery classes and it's a great way to spend a morning when you only have 48 hours in Marrakech.
Midday
After enjoying an early lunch post-cookery class (created by the hottest new chefs on the block – yourselves), you’ll head back to your riad to digest your lunch with a mint tea. Soak up some midday sunshine (or snooze in the shade) as you enjoy spectacular views of the Atlas Mountains from the rooftop of your riad.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon exploring Le Jardin Majorelle, an oasis of exotic plant life, shady walkways and bubbling streams and pools. Wander through the brightly coloured geometric buildings and catch some respite from the sun. Afterwards – if you’ve got the energy – head to the Yves Saint Laurent Museum to admire the designer’s famous creations, located just a short walk away from the gardens.
Evening
No 48 hours in Marrakech would be complete without a traditional Moroccan hammam experience. Let your stresses melt away as you soak and unwind in the hot steam before being scrubbed squeaky clean. You’ll leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated (and not to mention smelling great). It’s your final night in Marrakech, so it’s time to sample one of the city’s many restaurants. Guess what? Tagine’s on the menu again.
