Marrakech is a place of colour. Of terracotta tagines, of dusty tracks and the vibrant blue of the Jardin Majorelle. It’s a place brimming with energy but also – if you choose wisely – a place of calm, where the sun nearly always shines and luxury comes at a reasonable price.
Since Yves Saint Laurent laid down roots in the 60s, it has attracted a class of creatives concerned with great design. Whether enjoying the mayhem of the medina or Guéliz’s emerging bar and restaurant scene, here is The Blend’s guide to Marrakech.
Stay
In Palmeraie, a tranquil palm-lined neighbourhood to the north of the Medina, you’ll find J’nane Rumi. Opened in 2025, the artists’ retreat is a former private residence designed by Tunisian architect Charles Boccara, transformed into a live-in gallery. The eleven-room hotel is the perfect spot to inspire creative thought and unclutter the mind. Relax by the pool, lounge in a hammock in the immaculate gardens or eat a selection of small bites at the restaurant, headed up by Dutch chef Karin Gaasterland (formerly of El Fenn). Inside, the hotel’s design-forward credentials are on full display. Works by Moroccan artists such as Mous Lamrabat and Margaux Derhy adorn the perfectly curated and colourful walls. For an extra special stay, book the annexe.
Book at jnanerumi.com
Visit
When fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent first visited Marrakech in the 60s, he instantly fell in love. Over 60 years later, it feels fitting that the city has a museum dedicated to his life and work. Architectural buffs will marvel at the Studio KO-designed building and its impressive entranceway. Inside, the museum comprises a 400 sq m permanent exhibition space designed by Christophe Martin, a temporary exhibition space, a research library with over 6,000 volumes, a 150-seat auditorium, and a bookstore and terrace café. Located next door is the vibrant Jardin Majorelle, which Saint Laurent saved from closure in the '60s. Go early to avoid the crowds.
Eat
Sahbi Sahbi, Gueliz
The women-led Sahbi Sahbi is one of Guéliz’s buzziest addresses – and its most aesthetically pleasing. The restaurant is another project by Parisian architects, Studio KO, and its ethos is to spotlight the female cooks behind much of Morocco’s traditional food. At the heart of Sahbi Sahbi is an open kitchen, where chefs prepare charmoula prawns in sizzling tagines and a selection of tasting salads made from purslane, tomato and pumpkin. Go for modern Moroccan food done well.
Book in at sahbisahbi.com
Drink
Pétanque social club
Behind an unmarked door in Guéliz, you’ll find another of the city’s hottest hangouts. The latest venture from pioneering restaurateur Kamal Laftimi, creator of beloved Marrakech venues Le Jardin, Café des Epices and Nomad, PSC is a revival of a 1930s pétanque club. Inside its walled garden, sip cocktails (and throw boules) in a bustling courtyard and outdoor bar. Inside, vintage furniture – including revamped 1970s chairs from famed hotel La Mamounia – are paired with objets from local artisans.
Revive
1112 Marrakech Tea House
A haven in the midst of the medina, 1112 is a former riad lovingly turned into a teahouse, restaurant and museum. Serving twelve types of tea in a heavenly orange-blossom-scented courtyard, it offers a moment of respite during a day of shopping in the souks. Be sure to visit the roof.