One of my favourite cities in the world, Marrakech is a place that draws you in. Its captivating atmosphere of different sounds, smells and colours awakens all of your senses. It leaves you disoriented and removed from your comfort zone, but very much alive and awake in ways you never are at home. Marrakech is a hub of history and culture with the most fascinating Islamic architecture. Marrakech Menara Airport is an international airport located 5km southwest of the town making it quick and rather inexpensive to get to your accommodation.
To find the best flights, I recommend searching on Skyscanner. To get to your accommodation best is to have a pre-booked transfer where a driver will wait for you with your name on the card. You can organise this through your hotel or book a taxi on booking. I would suggest getting a quote from your accommodation and comparing the prices. It runs from 6am until However, if you are going to be taking the bus from the airport, I found a very detailed guide written by somebody else which you can read here.
If I was to recommend only one neighbourhood, then the Medina would be it. The Medina is where you will see the most culture and will have plenty of time to soak up the charming atmosphere. Some riads will have a small swimming pool in the courtyard, but more often than not they are there just for decorations purposes.
It has a mini swimming pool and a terrace for the ultimate relaxation. Dar Assiya mid-range β also located in the Medina and a 10min walk from Jemaa El-Fna square, this stylish riad has a stunning interior with a traditional Moroccan atmosphere. It has a mini swimming pool and a terrace that offers views of the Koutoubia mosque. La Mamounia luxury β this one is a little bit outside the Medina, a 15min walk from Jemaa El-Fna, but it offers nothing else but ultimate luxury. Nestled amongst century-old olive trees and lush fruit trees, La Mamounia has a rich Moroccan decor, marble bathrooms, full spa service and a large outdoor swimming pool.
Gueliz has a slightly European feel to it. My recommendations: Hotel Almas budget β located in the centre of Gueliz and 30min walk or 7min by taxi from the Medina, this hotel has spacious rooms decorated with a combination of traditional Moroccan style and contemporary design.
