Exploring the Enchanting City of Marrakech with Friends

A Day of Discovery and Delight in Marrakech

Today in Marrakech was a vibrant tapestry of history, art, and culinary delights. From exploring the remnants of a grand palace to immersing ourselves in the rich collections of a local museum, every moment was filled with the city's unique charm and energy. It was a day of contrasts, blending the ancient with the modern, the serene with the bustling, and the simple with the luxurious.

Our day began, as it has each morning, with a delightful breakfast at the TUI BLUE Medina Gardens – Adults Only – All Inclusive. The hotel's buffet never disappoints, offering a wide array of options to fuel our adventures. After a leisurely meal, Lena and I set out to explore the historical wonders of Marrakech, leaving Sofia to enjoy the hotel's kids club for a bit. It's a win-win: she has fun, and we get some adult time.


Experience a luxurious adults-only retreat in Marrakesh with all-inclusive amenities, stunning gardens, and proximity to iconic attractions.

Our first stop was the El Badi Palace. What an experience! The palace, built in the late 16th century by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur to celebrate his victory over the Portuguese, was once a symbol of immense wealth and power. Today, only ruins remain, but they whisper tales of a glorious past. As we wandered through the vast courtyard, I tried to imagine the palace in its prime, adorned with gold, turquoise, and crystal. It's fascinating how much history can be gleaned from what's left behind.


Discover El Badi Palace in Marrakech, a historical landmark embodying the splendor of the Saadian dynasty and a must-see for culture enthusiasts.

The scale of El Badi is truly impressive. The palace once boasted over 350 opulent rooms, sprawling gardens, and a grand pool. Although stripped of its treasures in the 17th century, the remnants still offer a glimpse into the Saadian dynasty's architectural prowess. We explored the dungeons beneath the palace, a chilling reminder of its past. It’s amazing to think that this palace was constructed over a 25-year period, with materials sourced from all over the world. The name “Badi,” meaning “The Incomparable,” certainly lived up to the Sultan's vision.

The ruins of El Badi Palace are a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of power and beauty.

After soaking in the history of El Badi, we made our way to the Marrakech Museum, housed in the magnificent Mnebhi Palace. The contrast between the ruined palace and the beautifully preserved Mnebhi Palace was striking. Built in the late 19th century, the palace itself is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, featuring a stunning central courtyard with cedar archways, stained-glass windows, and intricate mosaic tilework. The museum's collection showcases a diverse array of traditional and contemporary Moroccan art, providing a comprehensive overview of the country's rich cultural heritage. I was particularly drawn to the exhibits of Berber jewelry and pottery from Fez.


Immerse yourself in the artistic wonders of the Marrakech Museum, where Moroccan culture and creativity come to life.

The Marrakech Museum offered a serene escape from the bustling streets of the Medina. The architecture alone is worth the visit, with its blend of Islamic and Moroccan styles. The central courtyard, once a riad garden, is now paved and roofed over, creating a tranquil space centered around fountains and surrounded by galleries adorned with colorful zellij tilework. It's a place where you can truly appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of Moroccan artisans. Lena was captivated by the chandeliers that hung above, casting a warm light on the intricate details of the palace.

By lunchtime, we were ready for a culinary adventure. We chose La Table Ocre - Restaurant Marocain for lunch, enticed by its promise of authentic Moroccan cuisine. And it did not disappoint! The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We started with a selection of traditional Moroccan salads, bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. For our main courses, I opted for a tagine with chicken and preserved lemons, while Lena chose the couscous with vegetables. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, showcasing the aromatic spices and delicate flavors that define Moroccan cuisine. I was especially impressed with the tagine, the chicken was tender and flavorful, and the preserved lemons added a delightful tanginess. Lena raved about her couscous, which was light, fluffy, and packed with vegetables.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at La Table Ocre in Marrakech's Medina Mall - where tradition meets taste.

After lunch, we decided to explore the Medina's vibrant shops. Our destination: Max & Jan Medina, a concept store known for its unique blend of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship and contemporary design. The store is a treasure trove of stylish clothing, home accessories, and unique souvenirs. As we stepped inside, we were immediately drawn to the eclectic collection of clothing, which beautifully combined traditional Moroccan elements with modern fashion trends. The store's vibrant colors and textures reflected the rich cultural heritage of the region, creating an inviting ambiance.


Explore the vibrant fashion scene at Max & Jan Medina, where unique clothing and accessories meet Moroccan craftsmanship.

Max & Jan Medina is more than just a store; it's an experience. The design duo, Max Scharl and Jan Pauwels, have created a space that celebrates Moroccan culture with a modern twist. The store occupies a 300-year-old historic building, once part of the mayor of Marrakech's palace, adding to its charm and allure. We browsed through the three floors of their vast collection, admiring the chic items inspired by Moroccan culture. I found a beautiful striped indigo djellaba that I know Lena will look amazing in. We also picked up a few unique accessories to take home as souvenirs.

Before dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to drinks at SKY-BAR, a rooftop bar offering stunning views of the city. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over Marrakech, we sipped on refreshing cocktails and soaked in the magical atmosphere. The SKY-BAR provided a perfect vantage point to admire the city's skyline, with the Koutoubia Mosque's minaret standing tall against the horizon. The bar had a comfortable and relaxed vibe, with friendly staff and a great selection of drinks.


Experience Marrakech's nightlife at SKY-BAR, where stunning views and delicious cocktails create unforgettable moments.

For dinner, we had reservations at La Mamounia, an iconic hotel renowned for its luxurious ambiance and exquisite cuisine. The hotel itself is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, with lush gardens, intricate mosaics, and opulent interiors. Dining at La Mamounia was an experience in itself. The restaurant's elegant setting and impeccable service created a memorable evening. We started with a selection of Moroccan appetizers, followed by a traditional tagine for me and a seafood dish for Lena. The food was exceptional, showcasing the finest ingredients and culinary techniques. The flavors were rich and complex, and the presentation was impeccable. La Mamounia truly lived up to its reputation as one of Marrakech's finest dining destinations. I felt transported to another world as I savored the exquisite flavors and aromas of Moroccan cuisine. The ambiance was magical, with soft lighting, live music, and attentive staff. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery.


Experience unmatched luxury at La Mamounia in Marrakesh – where timeless elegance meets vibrant culture.

As the evening drew to a close, we returned to the TUI BLUE Medina Gardens, feeling grateful for the day's adventures. Marrakech had once again captivated us with its beauty, history, and vibrant culture. As I reflect on the day, I am struck by the contrasts that define this city: the ancient and the modern, the serene and the bustling, the simple and the luxurious. It is a city that engages all the senses, leaving a lasting impression on the soul.

Tomorrow, we're venturing out of the city for a tour of the Atlas Mountains. I'm excited to see a different side of Morocco and experience the natural beauty of the region. I've heard the views are breathtaking, and I'm looking forward to escaping the hustle and bustle of Marrakech for a day. We'll be having lunch at Un déjeuner a Marrakech and dinner at Chez Ali - Fantasia Marrakech, so I'm excited to try some new restaurants as well. I am also looking forward to relaxing at the GARDEN LOUNGE after a long day of exploring.

Goodnight from Marrakech!