Marrakech is one of the most exotic and beloved cities in the world and a veritable paradise for Instagrammers. The architecture, the fairytale ambiance, the explosion of sounds and smells and colors, all come together to create the perfect setting for stunning pictures. Here are some great spots to unleash your creativity.
Madrasa Ben Youssef
This ancient Islamic school is a gem of Moroccan architecture, with its magnificent zellij (mosaic tilework) of various colors and geometric shapes adorning the walls. Don’t miss the traditional basin in the main courtyard, offering the possibility to catch reflections in the water.
Jardin Majorelle
The garden is an oasis filled with exotic plants, palm trees and pools of lotus flowers and fishes, created in the 1920s by French painter Jacques Majorelle and magnificently restored by the late designer Yves Saint Laurent. It is definitely a must-see, and the vibrant colors, especially the Majorelle blue, make it the perfect venue for photography.
City rooftops
Marrakech is known for its astonishing sunset colors. For the perfect rooftop to admire the sunset and take some pics, head to Jemaa el-Fnaa square, surrounded by restaurants and cafés with rooftop terraces. The panoramic view from above is simply stunning and worth a shot or two.
Doors and riads
The medina is full of gorgeously colorful doors of various sizes, many of them leading to charming riads, traditional Moroccan houses that in some cases have been converted to hotels.
And let’s not forget the beautiful gates piercing the walls of the medina: Bab Agnaou is one of the most spectacular, with its stone-carved decoration from the Almohad period.
Palais Bahia
This masterpiece of Moroccan architecture built by the grand vizier of Sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman and enlarged by his son at the turn of the 20th century will give you a glimpse of the lifestyle of Moroccan nobility. The grand courtyard is covered with zellij, and surrounded by a gallery of carved wooden columns. Word of advice: visit early in the morning to take your pictures in peace.
Palmeraie
The oasis known for its eponymous palm trees boasts more than 100,000 palm trees spread on 54 square miles (140 km2), and is especially magical right before sunset. The area has some luxury hotels like Nikki Beach, as well as golf courses and swimming pools. The rich and famous love visiting the idyllic setting, and so will you.
Souks
Get lost in the bustling souks (markets) in the heart of the medina, and enjoy the sounds, smells and vibrant colors. It’s the best place to check out the Moroccan daily life, and catch the rays of light piercing the alleyways, ideal for some Instagram magic. Important tip: ask people beforehand if they are willing to be photographed.
Agafay Desert
Head out of the city and check out some desert vistas, only thirty minutes away from Marrakech. The arid landscape includes some rocky terrain, as well as sand dunes that will remind you of the Sahara. The area has luxury glamping opportunities, and if you wait for sunset, you’re in for some unforgettable moments and pictures.
Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
Perfectly situated close to the medina, the Four Seasons Resort is a fabulous retreat surrounded by Moorish gardens and reflecting pools, with 141 apartments and suites, some with private pools. The hotel boasts two pools, one for adults only, as well as three restaurants, so you can choose between Moroccan, traditional Lebanese, and Italian cuisine. And of course, there’s a spa where you can relax from all the hustle and bustle of the city, and enjoy the steamy hammams, plunge pools, indoor-outdoor treatment rooms, and traditional Moroccan spa rituals.
