The City of Contrasts and Colors♥︎
Marrakech is a city that overwhelms and fascinates at the same time. From the busy medina and endless souks to hidden riads and quiet courtyards, every corner feels alive in its own way. It’s a place full of contrasts, where chaos and calm exist side by side, and where getting lost often leads to the most memorable moments.
from hidden gems to must-see places
Marrakech is located in western Morocco, in North Africa, at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. It sits roughly in the central-southern part of the country, about 240 km south of Casablanca and around 3 hours from the Atlantic coast.
The city lies on a flat plain surrounded by mountains in the distance, which creates this striking contrast between the busy, warm city and the dramatic natural landscapes nearby. Because of its location, Marrakech is often seen as a gateway to both the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, making it one of the most important travel hubs in Morocco.
Marrakech is one of the easiest cities in Morocco to reach, especially from Europe but also from the US. Thanks to its international airport and good connections across the country, getting here is straightforward whether you’re arriving by plane, train, bus, or even ferry combined with a road trip.
The easiest way to reach Marrakech is by flying into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). There are direct flights from many European cities like London, Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam, and more but also some from the US. From the airport, it’s only about 15-20 minutes to the city center by taxi.
If you’re already in Morocco, the train is a comfortable and reliable option. Marrakech is well connected with cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Fes. The trains are affordable, fairly modern, and a relaxed way to travel through the country.
Long-distance buses are another popular option, especially with companies like CTM or Supratours. They connect Marrakech with almost all major cities and even smaller towns. It’s usually cheaper than the train, but the journey can take a bit longer.
If you’re coming from southern Spain, you can take a ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar (for example from Tarifa or Algeciras to Tangier) and continue your journey by car or train down to Marrakech. This is a great option if you’re doing a longer road trip through Morocco.
However, the journey from Tangier to Marrakech by car takes around 6 hours.
Arriving by Car in Marrakech!?
If you’re driving to Marrakech, be prepared for hectic and sometimes chaotic traffic. It’s still manageable, though. You should definitely park outside the Medina (i.e., outside the city center). There are plenty of good, large, and fairly inexpensive parking options around the city.
When we travel, we always save the best places we discover from hidden viewpoints and cozy cafés to beautiful beaches and must-see spots. To make trip planning easier, we created interactive travel maps with all our favorite locations in one place. Simply open the map and explore the places we personally visited.
Note: The buttons and images above link to our interactive travel maps hosted on Rexby, where you can explore all saved locations in detail. Thanks for your support friends!
Jardin Majorelle is one of the most iconic places in Marrakech, known for its vibrant blue buildings, exotic plants, and peaceful garden paths. It’s a beautiful contrast to the busy energy of the city and feels almost like a quiet escape once you step inside.
We’d definitely recommend visiting early in the morning, when it’s less crowded and the light is especially nice for photos. It’s also important to book your time slot in advance, as entry is limited and tickets often sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
The Yves Saint Laurent Museum is one of Marrakech’s most modern and elegant cultural spots, dedicated to the life and work of the legendary fashion designer. The building itself is already worth a visit, with its clean lines, warm textures, and beautiful architectural details that reflect both Morocco and Saint Laurent’s world.
Inside, you’ll find carefully curated exhibitions of his designs, sketches, and inspirations. It’s a calm, inspiring contrast to the busy streets of Marrakech and a great stop if you’re interested in art, fashion, or architecture.
The Santuari de Cura sits atop the Puig de Randa, a hill located about 30 km from Palma in central Mallorca. Unlike the dramatic peaks of the Tramuntana, this hill rises gently from the surrounding countryside, offering a peaceful retreat and sweeping panoramic views of the island, including the plains below and the distant coastline.
You can reach Santuari de Cura by car via winding but accessible roads, or for a more active adventure, by hiking up the well-marked trail from the base of the hill. Either way, the journey rewards you with one of Mallorca’s most tranquil and picturesque spots, a true hidden gem.
Nice to know: There is also a nice hotel and restaurant, cafe and bar with great views.
The mountain village of Fornalutx on Mallorca is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. It is located in the Serra de Tramuntana region, about four kilometers from Sóller. The village, with its beautifully restored stone houses and stairways, is now home to around 700 people and is a popular destination for locals and tourists, with numerous charming restaurants inviting you to stop by.
The Son Marroig manor house is located between Valldemossa and Deià. It’s a dreamy spot with sea views, a beautiful white gazebo, and a small, charming garden. Right next to Son Marroig is the Sa Foradada restaurant and bar, where you can enjoy stunning views.
Entry to Son Marroig manor house usually costs only a few houses and is a cool stop with fantastic views.
The La Reserva Park nature reserve in southwest Mallorca is located near Puigpunyent and is a fantastic place with plenty of nature, animals, a climbing park and a pool. The park is usually open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and offers a wonderful circular hike where you can enjoy the beautiful flora and fauna. There’s also a small bar with cold drinks and some snacks.
In the middle of the fantastic landscape of the Serra de Tramuntana, located between Deià and Valldemossa, there is a popular destination. Sa Foradada is located next to the Son Marroig and is a peninsula in the sea, with a large hole from where you can admire one of the most beautiful sunsets. The hike down to the rock takes around 45 minutes and starts at the restaurant of the same name, which is highly recommended. However, you should reserve here in advance. Right next to the restaurant there is also a bar with unique views and good drinks … You should also reserve here, as it can be very crowded here, especially in the summer months.
Perched on a hill near the town of Felanitx, the Santuari Sant Salvador is a historic sanctuary offering one of the most spectacular panoramic views on Mallorca. Visitors can explore the monastery, admire the impressive statue of Christ that watches over the island, and take in sweeping vistas stretching across the countryside and down to the sea.
Accessible by car, guided tour or a scenic hike, this sanctuary is both a cultural and spiritual highlight of the island, combining history, architecture, and nature in a single unforgettable experience.
Nice to know: You can also stay overnight here and there is also a small sweet coffee shop where you can have breakfast and get coffee and cake.
Artà is a charming town located in the northeast of Mallorca, known for its authentic Mallorcan atmosphere and rich history. Unlike the bustling tourist hotspots, Artà offers cobbled streets, traditional stone houses, and a vibrant local market that gives visitors a real taste of island life.
Artà is also home to historic churches, artisan shops, and quiet plazas perfect for a coffee or a stroll. The local market takes place every Tuesday morning throughout the year. From approximately 8:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., you can buy local products around the Plaça del Conqueridor and in the surrounding streets.
Located near the town of Andratx in southwest Mallorca, Bodega Terra ión is a modern winery that combines traditional Mallorcan winemaking with innovative techniques. Surrounded by rolling hills and olive groves, the estate produces high-quality wines that reflect the island’s unique terroir.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, guided tours of the vineyards, and stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The minimalist architecture of the winery itself adds a contemporary touch, making it a perfect stop for both wine enthusiasts and those who appreciate beautiful design in natural settings.
Mad Donkey Mallorca is a fun and unique experience located just outside Pollença in northern Mallorca. Visitors can interact with friendly donkeys, enjoy the farm’s relaxed atmosphere, and explore the small café and shop on site.
Perfect for families and anyone looking for a lighthearted day out, Mad Donkey Mallorca combines animal encounters with local snacks and souvenirs. It’s a charming stop to enjoy a slower, more playful side of Mallorca away from the main tourist crowds.
Nestled in the Tramuntana mountains of Mallorca, Orient is a tiny, picturesque village known for its peaceful atmosphere, cobbled streets, and traditional stone houses. This charming hamlet feels untouched by mass tourism and is the perfect starting point for exploring the surrounding natural beauty.
A lovely short walk from the village, you’ll find Es Salt des Freu, a small but stunning waterfall hidden in the lush forest. The hike to the waterfall is serene and refreshing, passing through olive groves and shaded paths. Together, Orient and Es Salt des Freu offer a perfect combination of quiet village life and nature exploration, making them one of Mallorca’s hidden gems.
Portocolom is a picturesque fishing village on the southeast coast of Mallorca, famous for its colorful waterfront houses, tranquil harbor, and authentic island charm. Unlike the more tourist-heavy resorts, Portocolom feels relaxed and local, making it a perfect spot to experience traditional Mallorcan life.
Stroll along the harbor to admire the fishing boats, enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant, or relax with a drink at one of the cafés along the water. The village is also a great starting point for exploring nearby beaches and hidden coves, offering a combination of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.
