The site of the wall surrounding the old town is really quite impressive. It is easy to drive in and out of the old town without taking much notice, but spend a few minutes walking by the wall and you can imagine the effort it took to build in the first place - some nice carvings in some places too. It would be quite an impressive walk to follow it all the way round - one that we did not do!!
We found that we enjoyed being in the old medina during the day, but the cafes and restaurants in the Gueliz area in the evening are really great. Very nice food at generally good prices.
The mosque really is quite simple in design but has such a draw. From one side it overlooks a very busy road and the entrance to the Djemma el Fna square and on the other some very beautiful and peaceful gardens. The history is very interesting and well worth arranging to have a local guide walk you around this area, plus the square and souks as you learn so much more. It also provides a great landmark when you are walking up and down Mohamed V avenue.
We spent most of one evening in the square on our first night in Marrakech. It was great fun watching some of the entertainers and then sampling some nice spicy food cooked on skewers over open flames. Cheap and cheerful and good fun!
This really is shopping with a difference. You can easily idle away a good half a day in the Souks, with so many things to see and sample. Get ready for each shopkeeper to say 'hello, please look' but apart from that there are no heavy sales pitches. Stop, look, ask questions and pick up a few bargains. Don't be scared to haggle as it is expected and easy. It is easy to get lost in the Souks but that really is part of the fun!
Just got back today from 4 days in Marrakech and still buzzing. We loved the old town medina for walking around during the day, for sight seeing and people watching. The street cafes in the new town are also very enjoyable with mint tea and moroccan cakes being served, whilst life passes by. A great mix of the old world with the new stylish restaurants and clubs - great place and good value.
