Cultural Adventure in Marrakech with Friends

First Impressions of Marrakech

The air is thick with the scent of spices, the sounds of a thousand conversations blend into a vibrant hum, and the sights…oh, the sights! My first day in Marrakech was a complete sensory overload in the best possible way. It's a city that grabs you by the senses and refuses to let go, pulling you into its ancient heart. I'm so excited to share my adventures with you!

Our journey began with a flight from Stuttgart to Marrakech. Traveling with friends always adds an extra layer of fun, and this time was no exception. The flight was smooth, and the anticipation built with every mile we covered. As a textile artist, I was particularly excited to see the vibrant colors and intricate patterns that Moroccan art is known for. I have always been inspired by the designs of my homeland, Turkiye, and I was eager to see how Moroccan artistry would compare and contrast. I was also looking forward to sharing this experience with my husband, Hans, even if he couldn't make it this time due to his work as an automotive engineer. He always appreciates hearing about my travels and seeing the photos I take, and I know he'll enjoy living vicariously through my blog posts.

After settling into our Riad Nouhal, a beautiful and tranquil haven, we ventured out to explore the city.


Experience the charm of Marrakesh at Riad Nouhal, a serene oasis offering luxury amenities, local cuisine, and a unique cultural escape.

Our first stop was the iconic Koutoubia Mosque.

Koutoubia Mosque: A Towering Start

The Koutoubia Mosque is an imposing structure, a testament to the city's rich Islamic heritage. Its minaret, a towering 77-meter-high beacon, is visible from almost anywhere in Marrakech. Built in the 12th century, the mosque is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the city's history and culture. The name 'Koutoubia' comes from the Arabic word for booksellers, a nod to the area's past as a bustling marketplace for manuscripts. It was fascinating to learn that this very minaret served as inspiration for the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat!

As a non-Muslim, I couldn't enter the mosque itself, but I spent a considerable amount of time admiring its exterior. The pink stone walls, adorned with intricate floral motifs, were bathed in the warm afternoon light. The gardens surrounding the mosque provided a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. I imagined the thousands of worshippers who have gathered here over the centuries, their prayers echoing through the grand courtyard. The air was filled with a sense of peace and reverence, a reminder of the enduring power of faith.


Explore the iconic Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, a stunning symbol of Islamic architecture and a cultural landmark of Morocco.

Dar Cherifa: A Delicious Dive into Moroccan Cuisine

For breakfast, we had planned to visit Dar Cherifa. Nestled within the labyrinthine alleyways of the Medina, finding it felt like discovering a hidden treasure. The restaurant is housed in what is said to be the oldest riad in Marrakech, a 500-year-old building that has been beautifully restored. Stepping inside was like entering another world. The candle-lit courtyard, surrounded by orange pillars and intricate archways, created a magical and intimate atmosphere. A rose petal fountain added to the charm, and the traditional Moroccan decor transported me back in time.

The food was as delightful as the ambiance. I savored every bite of their famous couscous, which was, without a doubt, the best I've ever tasted. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the skill of the chefs and the quality of the ingredients. I decided to indulge in dessert, ordering the crème brûlée, which was heavenly. Dar Cherifa is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience, a journey into the heart of Moroccan culture and cuisine.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Dar Cherifa in Marrakech's charming Medina – where tradition meets culinary artistry.

Marrakech is a city that awakens the senses, inviting you to lose yourself in its vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and flavors.

Jemaa el-Fnaa: The Heartbeat of Marrakech

Next on our itinerary was Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square of Marrakech and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This place is the true heart of the city, a vibrant hub of activity that comes alive in the late afternoon and evening. As we approached the square, the sounds grew louder, the crowds thicker, and the atmosphere more electric. It was a sensory explosion!

During the day, Jemaa el-Fnaa is a bustling marketplace, with vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to traditional medicines and fresh orange juice. But as the sun begins to set, the square transforms into an open-air theater. Storytellers, musicians, dancers, and performers of all kinds gather to entertain the crowds. Snake charmers play their hypnotic tunes, drawing cobras from their baskets. Monkey trainers lead their furry companions through acrobatic feats. And food stalls fill the air with the tantalizing aromas of Moroccan delicacies.

I was mesmerized by the energy of the square. It was a chaotic, frenetic, and utterly captivating scene. I watched a storyteller captivate a crowd with his animated gestures and expressive voice. Although I didn't understand the words, I could feel the emotion in his performance. I listened to the hypnotic rhythms of the Berber musicians, their drums and flutes creating a mesmerizing soundtrack to the evening. I even braved a taste of the local street food, savoring the spicy flavors of a grilled kebab.


Discover the enchanting Jemaa el-Fnaa, a cultural landmark in Marrakesh offering a vibrant market and unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

Jemaa el-Fnaa is more than just a square; it's a living, breathing entity, a testament to the enduring power of Moroccan culture and tradition. It is a place where the past and present collide, where ancient customs and modern life coexist in perfect harmony. It's no wonder UNESCO recognized its importance in preserving the oral traditions of storytelling, music, and folk art.

For lunch, we decided to try Nomad Marrakech. This modern Moroccan restaurant is known for its innovative cuisine and stylish rooftop terrace. The menu features traditional Moroccan dishes with a contemporary twist, using fresh, local ingredients. I was particularly intrigued by the contemporary Moroccan tagines and the freshly prepared salads with local ingredients. The rooftop terrace offered stunning views of the Medina, providing a perfect backdrop for our meal. Unfortunately, Nomad doesn't serve alcohol, but we enjoyed refreshing drinks as we savored the delicious food and soaked in the atmosphere.


Discover exquisite Moroccan flavors at Nomad Marrakech - where tradition meets modernity in every dish.

Souk Semmarine: A Shopper's Paradise

No trip to Marrakech would be complete without a visit to the souks, the traditional markets that wind their way through the heart of the Medina. We ventured into Souk Semmarine, the main artery of the Marrakech souks, a labyrinthine network of narrow alleys filled with colorful stalls. The souks are a shopper's paradise, offering everything from spices and textiles to leather goods and jewelry.

As a textile artist, I was particularly drawn to the vibrant fabrics and intricate designs. I spent hours browsing the stalls, admiring the handwoven rugs, the embroidered kaftans, and the colorful scarves. I even haggled for a beautiful Berber rug, a souvenir that will remind me of my time in Marrakech. The key to shopping in the souks is to embrace the art of negotiation. It's a game, a dance between buyer and seller, and it's all part of the experience.


Discover the vibrant Souk Semmarine in Marrakesh – a bustling market brimming with unique crafts, spices, and the essence of Moroccan culture.

Souk Semmarine is a feast for the senses, a vibrant tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells. The air is thick with the aroma of spices, the colors of the textiles are dazzling, and the sounds of the vendors hawking their wares create a constant buzz. It's a place where you can lose yourself for hours, discovering hidden treasures and immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Marrakech.

Bahia Palace: A Glimpse into Royal Splendor

Our final stop of the day was the Bahia Palace, a 19th-century palace that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Moroccan elite. Built by Si Moussa, the grand vizier of Sultan Hassan I, the palace is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, with intricate mosaics, carved stucco, and lush gardens. The name "Bahia" means "brilliance" or "beauty," and the palace certainly lives up to its name.

As I wandered through the palace's many courtyards and chambers, I was struck by the attention to detail. The walls were adorned with intricate geometric patterns and Arabic inscriptions. The floors were paved with marble and zellij tiles, creating a kaleidoscope of colors. The cedar-wood ceilings were painted with vibrant floral designs, adding to the palace's overall sense of elegance and sophistication.


Discover the beauty of Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, an exquisite historical landmark showcasing Moroccan architecture and lush gardens.

The Bahia Palace is a testament to the skill and artistry of Moroccan craftsmen. It's a place where you can imagine the lavish parties and royal gatherings that once took place within its walls. The palace also has a fascinating history; after the vizier died, the Sultan had all the contents of the lavish building stripped and moved to his own palace! Despite being empty of furniture, it is still a must see!

Le Salama Sky-bar: A Rooftop Finale

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Le Salama Sky-bar, a rooftop bar that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Located on the 7th floor, this stylish bar provides a perfect vantage point to watch the sunset over Marrakech. I enjoyed a creative cocktail as I gazed out at the city's skyline, the minarets and rooftops silhouetted against the fiery sky. The atmosphere was relaxed and chic, a perfect way to end our first day in Marrakech.


Discover the enchanting Le Salama Sky-bar in Marrakech, where stunning views meet exquisite Moroccan cuisine and a vibrant social atmosphere.

For dinner, Le Salama offers world flavors with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. They put a new twist on Moroccan dishes, serving everything from seafood to meats and vegetarian options. As the evening went on, the bar came alive with music, from funk and soul to jazz, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.

Today, April 15, 2025, also marks the start of GITEX Africa 2025, a major technology event taking place in Marrakech. It's exciting to see the city embracing innovation and technology while still preserving its rich cultural heritage. There's also the ON MARCHE Festival, a contemporary dance festival, running since April 7, and the Hassan II Tennis Grand Prix, which recently ended on April 6. Marrakech is truly a city that offers something for everyone.

As I reflect on my first day in Marrakech, I am filled with a sense of wonder and excitement. This city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and beauty, and I can't wait to explore more of it. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Madrasa Ben Youssef, Maison de la Photographie, and Le Jardin Secret. I am particularly excited about Maison de la Photographie, as I am eager to see the photographic history of Morocco. I'm also looking forward to trying L'mida Marrakech for lunch and Dar Zellij for dinner, and perhaps ending the day at Chesterfield Pub.

Until then, I bid you goodnight from Marrakech, a city that has already captured my heart.