Flying into Beautiful Marrakech

What Flights Arrive in Marrakech?

The Marrakesh Menara Airport is the main international hub of this landlocked city. If coming from Europe, there are many cities that fly direct, including Lisbon, Lyon, Copenhagen, Barcelona, and Vienna.  The easiest way to arrive in Marrakech is to go through a large city in Europe, such as Madrid, London or Paris. Airlines that will take you there are British Airways, Air France, Air Berlin, Germania, Ryanair, and Vueling, among others.

Some small cities offer seasonal service into Marrakech. There are also options for some chartered flights out of places like Istanbul and Berlin.

How Do I Get To and From the Marrakech Airport?

For the most seamless experience, book a hotel that offers an included shuttle either complimentary or for a small fee. There are plenty of taxis and private cars available at the airport, but bartering can be hectic when it gets busy.

If the hotel does not have a shuttle, approach the taxi stand first to agree on a price for your ride. Pick a tourist-centered company instead of a local one, which may cost more but they specialize in taking guests to popular hotels and destinations. These choices are only a few dollars, as the city center is only six miles away. However, prices do go up in the evening and rides become more scarce at night. There is car rental options available at the airport too.

What hotels are in Marrakech?

Some people choose to do homestays while in Marrakech, but the most popular options are hotels downtown and in the old city. Standard rooms will often have canopied beds and access to pretty Moroccan tiled courtyards. There is not as many chain hotels in Medina, the old part of town, but Riad Jomana and Riad Idra are solid options. For accommodations in Marrakech proper, choose the Dellarosa Hotel Suites and Spa as a comfortable base.

There are no hotels located next to the airport, but many can be reached in a matter of minutes by car. Most hotels can be booked advanced online, which is advisable in case of a surge in pricing or lack of availability. The best art about Marrakech accommodations is most good places are under $100 a night, offering all the latest amenities and superb location. Many expats and Western-friendly locals run hotels in town and have outfitted their establishments with creature comforts to suit clientele, such as air conditioning.

What other Cities are Nearby to Explore?

There are a couple fun places to check out if there is extra time on a trip to Marrakech. Surrounded by craggy peaks, many people opt to hike the Atlas Mountains or take a balloon ride over the range. Others will journey to the port city of Essaouira for the day to see the coast and a change of scenery. The picturesque Ouzoud waterfalls are also nearby and can be a dramatic backdrop for an afternoon of hiking.

What Else Should I Know About Marrakech?

Once you’ve reached town from the airport, there are several more options to consider for transportation. Caleches are horse drawn carriages and reserved for the very brave who want to experience a real local way to travel. Petit taxis are beige in color while grand taxis are often brand name cars and much more comfortable. Those willing to conquer the streets can rent motorcycles, bikes and scoots to navigate traffic.

Embrace the chaos of Marrakech and discover the spirit of the streets. Dive head first into the crazy marketplaces, honor the local artisans and sip hot tea in cozy cafés. From the old town of Medina to the modern outskirts of Gueliz and Hivernage, Marrakech does a good job blending together old and new in all aspects of life.