How we got there…
We flew through Madrid on Iberia!
Why we went…
Morocco has always been high on my list for the culture, architecture, shopping, and food. The fact that they speak French was also appealing.
Where we stayed…
Riad Kheirredine – One of our most favorite hotels of all time! This spectacular and charming Riad is located within the walls of the old town in Marrakesh. We were walking distance from the Medina and the main square. Our hotel provided us with rides to farther sites that we wanted to visit, and also organized tours for us. We loved our multi level family room with two bathrooms. The decorative details in our room and throughout the hotel were magical, and the staff was warm and accommodating.
Where we ate…
Riad Kheirredine – Our hotel had fantastic food and you couldn’t beat the setting. We ate dinner here three times and breakfast every morning. The hotel accommodates dining in several different locations on the property. They have amazing Moroccan food and western dishes as well.
Al Fassia Gueliz – Amazing food in a beautiful and traditionally decorated restaurant. We overindulged and loved that this restaurant is woman owned and operated. The food was delicious, and it was nice to see the more modern side of town.
Limoni – Not far from the Medersa Ben Youssef. We weren’t that hungry, but the food was good and they had both Moroccan and Italian food. The setting is beautiful in a courtyard with lemon trees and beautiful tile.
Cooking Class with Chef Khmisa – Sometimes the best meal of the trip is the one you make yourself. I highly recommend taking a cooking class while in Morocco. The flavors and techniques of cooking are so unique. The experience starts in the local market to buy the food, and then the cooking is done in a family home nearby. Truly a fantastic and very filling way to spend the afternoon and one of our favorite activities in Marrakesh.
M. Bacha – We stopped in to this gorgeous space for a coffee and some juice. It is beautiful. Every element of the design is colorful and interesting.
What we did…
Medina Walking Tour – The medina in Marrakesh is incredible but can be very intimidating. I highly recommend a 1/2 day guided walking tour on the first day you arrive. The labyrinth, that is the Medina, is definitely a place you get lost in. GPS on the narrow and crowded streets isn’t perfect either. Our guide took us to some beautiful and historical spots throughout the Medina and helped us find fantastic stalls for shopping. Marrakesh has some beautiful leathers and woven goods. We purchased a couple belts and some gorgeous pillowcases for a fraction of the price that we would have spent at home.
Ben Youssef Medersa – Located in the heart of the Medina. This is one of the most spectacular buildings. It is also my favorite stop on the Medina 1/2 day tour.
Le Jardin Secret – A beautiful little oasis nestled deep within the Medina.
Bahia Palace – The Bahia Palace is steeped in history and boasts room after room of beautiful design. The tile, ironwork and doorways are spectacular and set the backdrop for gorgeous photos.
El Badi Palace – This 16th century palace ruins are grand and spectacular. Sadly, no tile (my favorite part of Marrakesh), but beautiful none the less and well worth a visit.
Saadian Tombs – This stop was a very pleasant stop and exceeded my expectations. The well-preserved chambers are unbelievably beautiful. The architectural details and tile are really spectacular.
Ourika Valley – I highly recommend this day trip. We loved every activity! Though a bit touristy, the argon oil tour and shop was really interesting. It is such an important export. Also, the views in the valley are spectacular and the hike to the waterfall was really beautiful. We also purchased a small rug from a local weaver which we love. One of the highlights was eating lunch by the river.
Traveling Lyons 