Three hours by plane from Paris, the Ochre City is a crossroads of colors, flavors, and intense sensations.
For the show
1. Jemaa el-Fna Square
Why? Snake charmers, barkers, Gnawa musicians, street vendors, tooth pullers, monkey trainers, orange juice sellers, storytellers and griots, itinerant merchants, stalls offering typical street food... As soon as the sun sets, the whole world gathers here. If Marrakech is a living spectacle, Jemaa el-Fna Square is its open-air epicenter.
For whom? For the curious, the hungry, the budding photographers, the atmosphere hunters...
Where? Place Jemaa el-Fna, Medina
For local cuisine
2. Sahbi Sahbi
Why? Among the plethora of excellent Marrakchi restaurants, this address stands out for the authenticity that emanates from the plates: beef shank tagines, lamb tanjias and white beans cooked in the fireplace, pastillas, briouates... Particularity: in the center of the room stands the kitchen, run solely by women, the dadas.
For whom? Young couples in search of an authentic dinner.
Where? 37, bd El Mansour Eddahbi, Guéliz
For iconic pieces
3. The Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Why? From the 1957 cocktail dress to the safari jacket, from the tuxedo to the blue jumpsuit worn by Betty Catroux, the impeccably restored and showcased creations offer a deep dive into the master's universe. And it is several decades of elegance that parade before dazzled eyes.
For whom? For fashion lovers, but fortunately, not only.
Where? Rue Yves Saint Laurent, Guéliz
For a taste of the sweet life
4. The Italian by Jean-Georges, at La Mamounia
Why? In a refined setting, this starred establishment led by Alsatian Jean-Georges Vongerichten transcends trends. All of Marrakech can rush there to enjoy a simple mozzarella pizza, that's to say.
For whom? A chic and affluent clientele who wish to entertain themselves with a burrata.
Where? La Mamounia, av Bab Jdid, Guéliz
For local crafts
5. Mustapha Blaoui
Why? Pottery, fabrics, lamps, carved furniture... You can find almost anything at Mustapha Blaoui's, the man who, for thirty years, has helped to promote traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. An ideal place to find a souvenir that tells a story.
For whom? Lovers of decor in search of a unique piece.
Where? 144, Arset Aouzal, Dar el Bacha
For an exceptional coffee
6. The Bacha Coffee
Why? At the heart of the Confluences Museum, this is indeed the temple of coffee, coming from Nicaragua, Yemen, the Ethiopian highlands, or the volcanic slopes of Hawaii. We savor it slowly and with respect, between a mille-feuille, a raspberry-cinnamon croissant, or a small pot of vanilla-chantilly.
For whom? For lovers of roasted beans, and the dessert carts that come with them.
Where? Dar El Bacha, route Sidi Abdelaziz, Medina
For the street méchoui
7. At Lamine Hadj Mustapha's
Why? In méchoui or tanjia, here, the star is lamb, where each piece is roasted or simmered to perfection. Enjoy the ballet of the butcher boys as they move from stall to stall carrying steaming cardboard plates. And, of course, not hesitate to eat with your fingers.
For whom? For locals or tourists who are not deterred by jostling and crowds.
Where? Derb Semmarine, Mouassine
For antique jewelry
8. The World of Arts and Adornment
Why? At the heart of a true architectural masterpiece, the history of the world's jewelry heritage thru an incredible collection of jewels, some dating back to the 13th century. More than 3,000 pieces are gathered there by collectors Marlène and Paolo Gallone.
For whom? For enthusiasts of ancient art.
Where? 39-40, Ksibat Nhass, Kasbah
For the color
9. The Majorelle Gardens
Why? This iconic botanical garden, designed by Jacques Majorelle and bought by Pierre Bergé and Yves Saint Laurent, houses an impressive collection of exotic plants and Islamic art. And then that very particular blue, to which Majorelle gave his name, still turns heads, doesn't it?
For whom? For all those who wish, for a time, to escape the tumult of the medina.
Where? Rue Yves Saint Laurent, Guéliz
For the sunset
10. Dar Dar Rooftop
Why? Provided you can find a table on the 3rd floor, this is one of the most beautiful spots in Marrakech to enjoy the sunset over the Koutoubia Mosque, with the Atlas Mountains in the background. Festive atmosphere, music, and cocktails in unison.
For whom? Trendy tourists and the golden youth of Marrakech.
Where? 4, Riad Zitoun Lakdim, Medina
For the historical heritage
11. The Saadian Tombs
Why? Between the 16th and 17th centuries, the prestigious Saadian dynasty bestowed its wealth and most beautiful buildings upon the Ochre City. These historical mausoleums in the heart of the medina, including that of the sultan... read more