Morocco’s imperial city is a place of myth: take a tour of its busy streets and you’ll be seduced by snake charmers, hypnotic music and the scent of rare spices. Luxurious guesthouses with complete with spas, therapists and butlers cater to the every need of guests, while the central medina presents all the sightseeing opportunities you could possibly wish for. If you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, here’s a sample of the pleasures that await you.

Djemma el Fna: Located in the heart of old Marrakech, the Djemma el Fna is a large central square which acts as the starting point for many sightseeing tours. Arrive after midday and you’ll see jugglers, local musicians and snake charmers plying their trades, and it’s a great place to pick up fresh local produce to snack on at any time of the day. The jostle and bustle of Djemma el Fna is great fun, but be wary of pickpockets and thieves – it’s worth taking out travel insurance before you leave for your trip with an independent provider like Go Travel.

Saadian Tombs: The tombs of the Saadian dynasty are one of the most spectacular sights in the country. Built by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour in the 17th century, they are wonderfully preserved examples of ancient architecture and mosaic art. If you want to beat the rush, make sure you arrive as early as possible.

The souqs: These undercover markets are at the heart of Marrakech’s tourist trade, selling everything from handicrafts to live chickens. You’ll find the stalls compartmentalised by trade – so butchers are grouped together, as are jewellers, spice merchants, metal workers, and so on. If you want to pick up good deals on souvenirs, make sure you practice bartering before hitting the markets. 

Museum of Moroccan Arts: If you’re keen to learn more about Morocco’s artistic culture, take a trip to the Palais Dar Si Said which contains one of the most comprehensive displays of ancient and modern Moroccan art. You will find jewellery, costumes, weapons and ceramics, well classified and displayed against the background of a grand and beautiful palace.

Finally, it’s well worth using Marrakech as a base from which to explore the surrounding area. See olive orchards, green oases and mud-brick villages, and don’t miss a trip to the beautiful Ourika Valley one hour’s drive south of the city. It’s a great chance to study a foreign culture and discover one of the most beautiful areas of the world.