Wandering through the bustling streets of this Moroccan city, I was pleasantly surprised by how much this "best budget-friendly autumn getaway" (deemed by Time Out), had to offer. Marrakech‘s wealth of art galleries, museums, and cultural landmarks, along with a steady, sunny 25C weather, make the North African city an excellent escape for when the end of summer finally sets in Europe. I would be lying, however, if I said it wasn’t the ‘cost-effective’ appeal of the holiday that nudged me towards Marrakech in the first place.
My direct flights to and from London came out to an even £70 despite it being considered ‘peak season’, with round trips as low as £40 available on budget airlines for the next few months. Accommodations in the city include traditional Moroccan riads with sprawling courtyards and stunning interiors, apart from the typical swarm of hostels and hotels - all ridiculously affordable - and the hosts, even more so warm and hospitable. It is at Jemaa el-Fnaa that I spent my first evening in the city.
In the main square, with just as many tourists as there were locals, converge the many sounds of Marrakech. The incredible area sees vendors selling fruit juices, kebabs, and hand-painted crockery and is filled with the sound of street performers, dancers, and mini congregations of traditional ‘Gnawa’ musicians. At the very end of the square, you can find a more quiet corner under the moon and the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque.
Come morning, it .