Written by Emma Brode

Welcome to Marrakech, a mesmerizing city at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains that has captivated travelers for centuries. With its terracotta-hued buildings, hand-decorated tiles, jaw-dropping riads, and colorful textiles, Marrakech leaves a lasting impression. Its visual and sensory assets make it a haven for design devotees and color aficionados—but that doesn’t mean it should be reduced to being just an Instagram backdrop. Delve beneath the city’s stunning exteriors to discover a unique Berber and Arab culture that values tradition and warm hospitality. Go beyond the storied Medina and infamous Jemaa el-Fna square to find its modern district of Guéliz with tree-lined boulevards, chic cafes, art galleries, and upscale boutiques that reflect the city’s dynamic and evolving spirit. Whether you’re exploring the lush gardens of Majorelle, savoring a traditional Moroccan feast in a riad, or exploring the surrounding stone deserts, Marrakech invites you to experience its unique blend of culture, design, and innovation.

We’ve gathered intel from our own Marrakech tours to share an insider’s guide to the Red City that also includes exclusive recommendations from ECT Marrakech Expert, Kelley Mullarkey and local tour guide, Radouane Afaadas, plus tips from friends of ECT, interior designer and founder of Jnane Tamsna, Meryanne Loum-Martin, and ECT members Kayla Doris and writer Emma Brode to curate a list of insider recommendations for eating, drinking, shopping, and sightseeing your way through the city.

Stay

Check into Rosemary, an intimate riad nestled in one of Marrakech’s oldest neighborhoods. Thoughtfully designed by lifestyle brand LRNCE, the retreat celebrates local craftsmanship and art. Every detail, from the hand-carved cedar wood door to the terrazzo tiles in the courtyard and hand-painted plates in the kitchen, reflects the designer’s hands-on approach. Take a dip in the courtyard pool, unwind in the rosemary-scented hammam, enjoy the sun on the rooftop terrace, sketch in the serene courtyard, or savor a candle-lit supper under the stars. With five distinct and beautifully appointed rooms and suites, this intimate riad offers the perfect space, time, and tranquility to enjoy it all.

Also included in the guide:

• A private riad that features three beautifully designed suites restored by local artisans, a heated emerald pool, pizza oven, outdoor bed, hammock, and tropical shower.

• An affordable riad with stunning rooms, a peaceful rooftop, and communal breakfast served in a quiet courtyard

Drink

Hailed as the hottest nocturnal ticket in town, Petanque Social Club in Guéliz unites music, drinks, and art in a former 1930s pétanque club. Under the helm of Kamal Laftimi, the restaurateur behind NOMAD and Le Jardin, the space has been transformed into a nostalgic Art Deco vision of velvet curtains, crystal chandeliers, mirrored balls, patterned sofas, and a candlelit courtyard. It’s the perfect place to lean back in a leather lounge chair with a Sidecar in hand.

Also included in the guide:

• A “fantastic cocktail bar” recommended by Morocco expert Kelley Mullarkey

• An unforgettable desert drinking spot to enjoy starlit drinks

Eat

“The best meal of my trip was at Le Slimana,” says ECT Clubhouse member Kayla Doris. “It’s newly opened and we only found it because our guide told us about it. I tried a local dish that had layers of thin pastry baked with chicken, caramelized onions and toasted almonds and I highly recommend. I also really loved the pistachio creme brulee—it’s enormous, so would recommend sharing it,” advises Kayla. Located in a contemporary, brightly colored riad with a rooftop in the Medina, the restaurant also offers a traditional Moroccan tea time with mint tea and pastries.

Also included in the guide:

• A convivial and contemporary restaurant serving classic Moroccan fare in Gueliz

• A Michelin-starred that draws inspiration from the legendary Silk Road, offering visually stunning plates that honor their ancestral origins

• An intimate courtyard of orange pillars, intricately carved archways, and a rose petal fountain that provide a romantic setting for a traditional dinner

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