Christmas and New Year in Marrakech

26 Oct Christmas and New Year in Marrakech

There are many wonderful times to visit Marrakech; in the spring – when the sun shines all day, every day – or in the middle of summer when late night alfresco dining is magical under a star-filled sky. But one of best times of year to visit Marrakech is over Christmas and New Year because not only is the sun still shining but there are plenty of things to see and do.

December and January see mild temperatures keep Marrakech warm enough to walk around in without a coat or scarf – though don’t be alarmed if locals are wrapped up! Take a stroll around the souks in the Medina and enjoy haggling with smiling sellers for special blends of spices or colourfully painted tagine dishes. Extend your search for a bargain into the famous El-Fna Jemaa Market, but if you’d rather soak up the hustle and bustle from afar we recommend picking a nearby cafe where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan tea from a rooftop terrace which has a great view of all the action.

Of course, the city isn’t immune to Christmas celebrations thanks to its multicultural make-up, so if you do celebrate Christmas you can attend Christian church services at the Protestant or Catholic churches in Gueliz. Furthermore, Marrakech’s more international restaurants, bars and nightclubs will also be hosting special festive themed menus and events so you can also celebrate Christmas and the coming of a new year in style.

That said, thanks to Morocco being a traditionally Muslim country, if you’re keen to avoid the chaos and commercialism of Christmas this year you can indulge in a little escapism in Marrakech. When staying at Riad 72 there are many ways to take it very easy; relax with a hammam spa, read a book on our sun terrace and enjoy an intimate and delicious dining experience at La Table du Riad.

And if you want to escape not just Christmas but the city too, you could consider an excursion to the Atlas Mountains or a day trip to the beach in beautiful Essaouira. We’d be happy to help you organise this as part of your stay at Riad 72.