Marrakech-Safi
Marrakech
The Red City at the foot of the Atlas.
Marrakech at a glance
- Region
- Marrakech-Safi
- Province or prefecture
- Marrakech (prefecture)
- Status
- Regional capital
- Population
- 928,850 (2014 census)
- Area
- Not available
- Elevation
- 466 m
- Coordinates
- 31.630, -7.981
- Postal code
- 40000
- Phone area code
- +212 524
- Time zone
- Africa/Casablanca (see note on Ramadan)
- Local names
- Marrakech (French) · مراكش (Arabic)
- Best time to visit
- March to May and October to November
Population is from the 2014 census (HCP) and is being updated. Climate figures are indicative regional profiles. Confirm details with official sources before relying on them.
About Marrakech
Marrakech is known for the Jemaa el-Fna square, the souks, riads, palaces and gardens, all set against the High Atlas mountains.
History
Founded in the 11th century by the Almoravids, Marrakech became an imperial capital under the Almohads, Saadians and later dynasties, and gave Morocco its name in several European languages.
Things to see in Marrakech
- Jemaa el-Fna square
- Koutoubia Mosque
- Bahia Palace
- Saadian Tombs
- Majorelle Garden
- Ben Youssef Madrasa
UNESCO World Heritage: Medina of Marrakesh (1985).
Climate and best time to visit
Hot semi-arid. Hot, dry summers and mild winters with cool nights. Rain is light and falls mostly between November and April.
Best time to visit: March to May and October to November. Indicative regional profile.
Getting to Marrakech
- By air
- Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), about 6 km from the centre.
- By train
- Marrakech station, with direct trains to Casablanca and Rabat.
- By bus
- CTM, Supratours and regional bus companies serve most routes; grand taxis cover shorter hops. Check current schedules.
- By road
- Reached by national roads and, on many routes, the motorway network. Check road conditions in winter, especially in mountain areas.
Economy
Tourism and hospitality are dominant, along with crafts, services and surrounding agriculture.
Food and drink
Tangia, mechoui, tagines and evening food stalls on Jemaa el-Fna.
Festivals and events
Marrakech International Film Festival and several art and music events are held through the year.
Where to stay
Marrakech has a full range of accommodation, from international hotels to guesthouses and, in historic quarters, traditional riads and dars. Staying inside or near the old town makes it easier to explore on foot.