MOROCCO

Marrakech is a vibrant city in Morocco, situated in the west of the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. The city is famous for its bustling markets, known as souks, beautiful gardens and delicious food. Marrakech has always been a place we love, ever since our first visit in 2016. We have stayed All Inclusive in a hotel and a few times in a Riad. Jax has been with us on one of the trips (well 2 as I was pregnant with him for one) does that count? 

If you love all things food, the hustle and bustle of street life, vibrant colours and gorgeous weather then I think Marrakech could well be for you. Keep reading on and we will give you all tips and tricks to make your visit as memorable and as cheap possible.

 

Why We Love It​ - Quite simply there is just so much to do, the weather is amazing and the food is incredible and it is a relatively cheap place to visit. With the flight time being only 3hrs 40 minutes from London its a great flight to test the waters with the little ones. Flights are relatively cheap too, you can pick flights up (date dependent) for around £30 - £50 per person return 

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The Medina​ - The historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must. El Fna Square is a bustling hub of activity in Marrakech, Morocco. It's a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city, as it offers a unique and authentic experience of Moroccan culture. The square is surrounded by food stalls, souvenir shops, and street performers. As the sun sets, the square transforms into a magical place, with storytellers, musicians, and snake charmers entertaining the crowds. It's truly a sensory overload

 

Where To Stay -​ It depends on what you want to get out of your trip to Marrakech. If you want to be right in the centre of it all then a Riad is where you will want to stay as they will give you that authentic Moroccan experience. These traditional houses with interior courtyards have been converted into charming guesthouses, offering a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Many Riads also feature rooftop terraces or even a little plunge pool. 

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We have stayed at Le Riad Berbere and El Kennaria both equally as good but both offer something different to each other. We always stay Bed & Breakfast as it makes sense to have breakfast covered off to start the day of exploring. We stayed at Le Riad Berbere in 2016 and it had a nice little plunge pool and lots a cats around - it was nestled right in the heart of the Soukes so was tricky to find but it was stunning there. El Kennaria we stayed in 2022 and this Riad is situated just off the square, is relatively easy to find but is busy. There is no pool but the terrace is stunning and this is one of the only places where you can chill and smoke Shisha, they also have a pool table and usually some sort of live traditional music. ​​​

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Most recently we stayed Riad Palmier and it was simply stunning. It was located around 10 minutes walk from the main Medina square, 250 yards from El Badi Palace and 800 yards from Bahia Palace. The Riad hosted a lovely pool in the middle of court yard and our booking came with a nice breakfast each morning. From our door of our bedroom you could see the Stalks nesting on the pillars of Badi Palace, such a wonderful site. There are lots of lovely places to eat near by too and there is still lots going on. As soon as the doors close, the Riad is so peaceful and tranquil, we would highly recommend staying here. 

 

We have also stayed All Inclusive at a hotel Aqua Fun Club which was good, not the best by any means and not something we would do in Marrakech again. The hotel is located around 20 minutes from the Medina and the hotel offers a shuttle service - like most hotels. Hotel offers everything you would expect from a low-level All Inclusive Hotel. The bonus with this hotel is that there is a water park onsite that you have free access too as well. 

Cost of your accommodation will really depend on what you want from it. El Kennaria was the cheapest of them all and actually probably the best located Riad. You could easily spend as much or as little as you want. 

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What To Do - There is so much to do in Marrakech so I have put together a list of all the things we have done as a family.

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• Walking Tours - we have done a walking tour and booked via AirB&B Experience - doing this you will get a local person doing the guide who will have first hand knowledge of the area. These tours will usually cost you around £15 per adult, kids are usually free or at a reduced rate - we didn't pay for Jax. Having a local guide is fantastic, they will take you down all the nooks and crannies, show you things you will never see or find on your own and give you so much local knowledge you won't know what to do with it all - we highly recommend a Marrakech Walking Tour.

• Hot Air Balloon Ride - this is a real bucket list moment or at least it was for us. This was a little pricey but we knew that before we went and we saved to make sure we had enough to do it. For the 3 of us this cost around £350. We booked it via our Riad and for the price you get picked up around 3.30am. You will get driven to the location and you can watch the balloons being inflated (they are HUGE and I know that seems obvious but they really are). You will then hop into your basket and get ready for take off where you will hover and glide 2000 feet above the ground whilst watching the sun rise from behind the Atlas Mountains. After the flight you have breakfast (local foods) and get your flight certificate. If you are lucky like us... maybe you will get engaged up there - yep Oli asked me to Marry him 2000 feet in the air soaring by the Atlas Mountains at sunrise how blinking special is that - obvs I said yes! This was probably one of the best experiences we have given Jax to date, he loved it (as did we) and it was worth every single penny. 

• Camel Ride - this was fun. Another trip we booked via AirB&B Experience. None of us had ever done this before and it was actually pretty cheap around £15 per person and Jax was free. Again with this you get transportation out to the Atlas Mountains, a guide to trek with you and your camel, traditional headgear and mint tea for after the walk. This was a lovely experience for all of us, we really enjoyed this one. 

• Oasiria Water Park - this is a gorgeous hidden gem that I had never heard of before until I started doing some research into things to do in Marrakech with kids and it was a FAB find. This water park is like no other, set in green lush tranquil gardens, it was so quiet when we went that you could get on every slide without a second to wait. There is a kids pirate ship, kids pool, kids water slides, a lazy river, rock climbing wall, wave pool - the list is endless. There is a free shuttle bus that picks you up just outside the Medina and drops you back off at various times throughout the day. Entry is around £13 per child and around £21 per adult. The food there is also reasonably priced

• ​Inara Luxury Camp - set in the heart of the Agafay desert, Inara Luxury Camp is simply stunning. We were kindly gifted a day trip here and it is one we will never forget. We were picked up at the Medina and driven in 4x4 out to the Agafay desert to the camp. Upon arrival we were met with a gorgeous oasis, luxury tents, an infinity pool with a backdrop of the Atlas Mountains surrounded by desert. With the sun beating down and drinks and snacks flowing we had the most incredible day. We also had an incredible BBQ lunch with a bottle of wine. You can either choose to relax in the sun by the pool, take a camel ride or hire a quad bike for a couple of hours. You can also spend the night in one of their luxury air conditioned tents. I can image the stars out night in the desert will be absolutely fantastic and a wonderful experience. 

• Rainbow Steps - Also set in the heart of the Agafay Desert so you will want to combine this with a trip to a camp or quad bike tour. These steps are incredible and a great "instagram" opportunity. The steps are painted like a rainbow and take you up a hill to a cafe at the very top. We wouldn't recommend staying to eat or drink up here because it is very expensive (£4 for a can of coke) but the view is worth the climb to the top.

• Cooking Class - This is such a wonderful family activity to do, Jax absolutely loved this one - he was 6 at the time and really got stuck in. This activity was also kindly gifted to us but our views are our own as we were not paid for the experience. Again we were picked up at the Medina and driven in a 4x4 out to the Agafay desert, we had no clue where we were going, it didn't look like there was much around until we were met with these huge walls  and behind the gate was the most incredible garden kitchen just in the middle of no where. We had arrived at "Cook With Chef Tarik" where we were greeted by Chef Tarik himself and his colleagues. We spent the morning with Fatima who was fantastic. The experience started by putting on our aprons and meeting some of the team, we then sat down and tried a few variations of the world renowned moroccan mint tea and learnt the history and the importance of the mint tea and the sugar they use to sweeten it. We then set about our cooking class, preparing all the veggies and spices whilst being taught everything about the Tagine. We prepped and cooked Chicken, Lamb and Vegetable Tagines and we also made Cous Cous from scratch. Once our Tagine was ready they were cooked over open coals and whilst cooking we were able to walk around the grounds and enjoy everything it has to offer before tucking into our creations. The food was absolutely delicious. Once the experience was drawing to an end we were all presented with a certificate each. Fatima was absolutely wonderful, she was brilliant with Jax and was so warm and welcoming we still chat to her on Instagram now. You can read more about our cooking experience here

• Ourika Valley - The Ourika Valley, nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco, is a place of striking beauty and tranquility. A mere 30KM south of Marrakech, the valley offers a serene escape from the bustling city life, with its lush landscapes, traditional Berber villages, and breathtaking mountain views. If you hire a driver they will take you here. All along the river it is dotted with little cafes on the road & you can cross the road and walk down the steps to the river where all the cafes will have tables and cushions to sit on right on the waters edge. When you arrive ask your driver to take you all the way past the first lot of cafes as these are filled with tourists, we drove around 30 minutes past all of these cafes and found a really small quite cafe and it was perfect. We only stopped for some mint tea and to just enjoy the river. Despite its proximity to Marrakech, the Ourika Valley remains relatively untouched by mass tourism, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more authentic and peaceful experience in Morocco. 

• Bahia Palace - The Bahia Palace, located in the heart of Marrakech, is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture and design. Built in the late 19th century by Si Moussa is a wonderful place to experience some real history. Entrance fee for adults is around 70MAD (about £5.50) and children under 12 are 30MAD (about £2.35). The palace is beautiful and really easy to get too. This is a great place to go paired with El Badi Palace as you really don't need too long in these places and can combine to two over a few hours

• El Badi Palace - Once one of the grandest royal palaces in Morocco, now stands as a striking, albeit ruined, testament to the opulence of the Saadian dynasty. Located in the heart of Marrakesh, the palace was built by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur in the late 16th century. We booked the entrance only tickets but you can get a guided tour. Regular entry is around 70MAD as well. 

• Jardin Majorelle - Also known as YSL Gardens: Step through the vibrant blue gates into a serene oasis of exotic plants, palms and water features. Wander the colourful paths and explore the Berber Museum, all while enjoying a peaceful escape from the cities bustle. Just hop on the number 12 bus from the Medina to get there. Make sure you book your tickets in advance with your time slot as you won't be allowed entry otherwise. 

• Sunset from Grand Balcon Cafe Glacier - There are several places to watch the sun setting over the Medina, but we think this is one of the best places, but get there early - probably 2 hours before the sunset so you grab a seat right along the edge to watch the bustle of the square below you. In order to access the roof at sunset you need to purchase something, they have a drinks fridge at the top so just grab a can of Fanta or bottle of water, pay and head out to the viewing area. Be warned it gets VERY busy here, but the view is totally worth it. 

• Bacha Coffee - This is an interesting one because it is possibly one of the most Instagrammable coffee shops, it is beautiful inside but the wait is long. There is a queue you need to get into to even set foot inside where Bacha Coffee is located (which is inside the museum), once you are in you then need to get your name onto the waiting list to get into the actual Coffee Shop / Cafe with waiting times of up to 2 hours. We didn't do this, what we did do though was ask if we could take a look at the menu inside & they agreed, we went in, took some photos and left. Don't get me wrong it is beautiful inside but I am not sure if it would be worth the 2 hour+ wait to even get a seat. I believe from what I have read online though, if you go first thing in the morning, you will be able to get in a lot quicker. You can go into their shop though (once you have queued in the long queue to get into that part) and the museum that is there. You do need to pay to get inside which is around 10MAD (79p).

• Le Jardin Secret - in the heart of the Soukes, yes, really in the heart of the soukes behind its discreet doors lies a tranquil oasis of lush greenery, shaded pathways, and beautifully restored Islamic architecture. Once a private palace, the gardens now offer families a peaceful escape from the bustle of Marrakech’s souks. Kids will love exploring the winding paths and spotting the fountains, while parents can soak up the calm atmosphere and intricate tilework. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, recharge, and experience a different side of the city. We loved it here and couldn't believe these gardens are right in the middle of all the bustle of the outside world. Entrance is 100MAD (£8.23) , Kids 12-24 80MAD (£6.59) and to go up the tower (which we would highly recommend) its an extra 40MAD (£3.29)

• Medersa Ben Youssef - Stepping into Medersa Ben Youssef feels like stepping back through centuries of history. Once the largest Islamic college in North Africa, it’s a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship, intricate zellij tiles, carved cedarwood, and Arabic calligraphy on every wall. Wandering through the tiny student cells gives you a real sense of how life must have been here, with hundreds of scholars living and studying under one roof. The central courtyard, with its reflecting pool, is simply breathtaking and a photographer’s dream. For families, it’s a brilliant place to spark curiosity, kids can imagine what life was like for students their age hundreds of years ago, while parents can admire the artistry and sense of peace hidden in the heart of the Medina. We opted for the Audio guide but it really isn't needed, I would probably save the money on this and just wander around and read the signs. Entrance (without audio guide) is 50MAD. Audioguide is more and you will need to leave some form of photo deposit per headset) 

• Palais Dar Soukkar - If you’re looking for a night out in Marrakech that’s more than just dinner, Palais Dar Soukkar is the place. Housed in a beautifully restored sugar factory, it combines Moroccan charm with a real sense of occasion. The atmosphere is electric, think live music, dancers, and incredible performances that keep you entertained between courses. The food is just as impressive, with traditional Moroccan dishes alongside international options, making it easy for everyone to enjoy. We loved how it wasn’t just a meal but an experience, something you’ll still be talking about long after the night ends. For families with older kids, it’s a fun way to soak up Marrakech nightlife in a safe and memorable setting. Palais Dar Soukkar is around 10-15 minute drive from the Medina so you will need to get a taxi there and back (unless you have your own car). Alcohol is available here, but at a premium. This is not a cheap night out by any means with the set menus setting you back around 600MAD (£49.60) per person. You can buy alcohol here but again it comes at a premium and the cheapest bottle of wine will set you back around 600MAD too. A bottle of Evian water was roughly 100MAD (£8.27). 

• Marajah Spa - The spa is a little out of town, but if you get the number 12 bus (same bus as you will get to Jardin Marjorelle) you can get off practically outside the Spa. The treatments here are really lovely, the atmosphere is very relaxing and the ladies are very experienced, you will certainly leave here feeling pampered and relaxed. We opted for The Royal treatment which cost 760MAD (£62.83) for a 2 hour treatment session. They also cater for kids and have kids packages too, however, we went without Jax so unable to comment on the kids side of it. 

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Marrakech With Kids​ - Jax absolutely loved Marrakech (well Morocco in fact). He still talks about it a lot and asks to go back there - probably more so because we love it but still it helps that he enjoyed it too. We had absolutely no concerns taking him to Marrakech with us, we have never felt unsafe there in fact, we probably feel more safe there than walking around London. The locals love him, chat to him, pat him on the head, give him a high-five and even give him little trinket gifts and Jax fully embraces it too - he is not shy or afraid of others. There is plenty of things to do there for the kids, however, we ALWAYS take playing cards with us especially when we stop for food and let Jax have downtime whilst we are doing this. The majority of things to do in Marrakech will be child friendly or tailored to support the fact you have children so you and the children do not miss out, if they are unable to cater to your needs you will be told. 

The weather is hot and the sun is strong out there, be mindful when you plan to go. We have been in May, July and October and July was by far the hottest. Jax coped well in the May heat but remember to apply lots of suncream and take a hat for them.

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Getting About​ - Getting about is easy, you walk everywhere. Be ready to put in the steps. The Soukes are HUGE and you will get lost (several times) but don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it, everyone is willing to offer you directions or even show you the way - just toss them a Dirham or two and you will be grand. 

Getting from the airport is pretty straightforward too. Head out of the airport and to the bus stop within the airport grounds and wait for the number 19 bus which will take you right to the Medina - it will take around 30-40 minutes and costs around 50MAD (£4) each (Jax was free) and you can buy your tickets on the bus, the ticket will also be a return so make sure you keep it safe. You can also get a Taxi, will take slightly less time but will cost you 3 x as much around 100 - 150MAD (£12) - we always get the bus where we can as it works out far more cheaper.

 

Food & Drink​ - From traditional Moroccan dishes to international cuisine, there is something for everyone in Marrakech. One of the most popular dishes is tagine, which is a slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices. Tagines are delicious and we would always recommend you try. Lamb, Beef & camel all on offer. Tagine usually comes with couscous, which is another staple in Moroccan cuisine. You will also find lots of food venders around the Medina selling lots of different bites for a very low price we are talking around £2 - £5 to feed 2 people a great sized meal. In addition to the food, Marrakech is also famous for its mint tea, served with lots of sugar this sweet tea is very nice. There are also plenty of stalls selling refreshing freshly squeezed orange juice (our favourite). 

Formal dining is available and some of the best meals going.

• L'Mida - Which is a reservation only restaurant with gorgeous food and stunning views - well worth the visit if you get the chance. The food is on the pricer side for what you can get elsewhere, but the vibe & view makes it worth it. 

• Dar Dar Marrakech -  is also an incredible restaurant just off the square with an incredible rooftop view. This restaurant is booking only and has smart dress code, kids are welcome too. You will be able to book a time slot for your booking and you will be given 2 hours. You can get a choice where you book your table too. We booked our table on the rooftop and booked it for sunset and it was incredible, there was also a DJ on the decks up there too. The food is so delicious but on the pricier side, but you definitely have to experience a restaurant like this in Marrakech if you love to dine out.

• Chez Omar - Street foot at its finest. Located on the edge of the Medina to the right, you will find Chez Omar, who sells something called a "Sandwich Mixte" which is minced meat, with onions, peppers, local spices all mixed together, cooked right in front of you and placed into a bap. They are delicious and for 15MAD (£1.24) you really cannot go wrong. This is one of our favourite on the go snacks 

• Manzah L'Koutoubia - on the edge of the Medina this place boasts stunning views of Koutoubia Mosque - the most iconic landmark in Marrakech. The food here is once again delicious and very reasonable too. The drinks (the mocktails) are not good here, I wouldn't recommend treating yourself to a mocktail and just stick to the usual water, tea or a coke. 

• La Cantine Des Gazelles - This place was hands down one of the best places we have eaten in Marrakech - even beating the expensive "by booking only" restaurants. We had walked past this place so many times and it was always busy so we kept going, but we decided to stop this time, we had to come back after an hour as there were no tables, but it was so worth it. With its striking bright pink decor you can't miss this place just off the media a door or 2 down from Riad El Kennaria. The price was very reasonable, the food was just so delicious and the atmosphere was lovely. 

• Beldi Fusion Kitchen - With more western style food choices and vegan friendly options too, this place is great. The atmosphere is brilliant and it is a great place to come for the sunset if you can get a table on the roof - it does get windy so bring a light jacket if you need too. This place is located near Riad Palmier too so if you are staying there it is worth checking it out. It is also steps away from Bahia Palace. 

• Jad Jamal - This cafe is right near Medersa Ben Youssef and is a great stopping place to grab some mint tea and local Moroccan pastries. Head to the roof as you have amazing views across the Medina and enjoy some down time. up here. We didn't eat off the menu here but the food did look really lovely.

• L'adresse - This cafe and restaurant is located to far left corner if you walk into the Medina from the Koutoubia Mosque. We stopped here for some tea after a busy morning exploring. Again head to the roof as the views back across the Media are lovely and it is a welcome break for the busy square below. Perfect place to sit and watch the world go by. 

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Don't forget Morocco is a dry country so finding a nice cold beer is hard but not impossible - there are 1 or 2 rooftop bars just off the Medina that serve alcohol but this comes at a premium (worth it though after a long day in the sun). If you are All Inclusive in a hotel alcohol is free flowing.​​

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