Marrakech does not offer a lot of activities geared specifically towards children; however, its loud and busy atmosphere is enough of a distraction in itself. Coupled with the entertainment in the main square and quiet parks, the city will always keep the attention of little ones.

Djemaa El Fna (Jemaa-el-Fna)
This square is Marrakech’s heart and soul and many of the city’s best attractions are a short walk from here. Kids will be captivated by the many performers in the square, ranging from storytellers and comedians to musicians, dancers, acrobats, drummers and fortune tellers. Nearby restaurants are ideal for grabbing a cool drink and watching the scene.

El Badi Palace
Another place that might be fun for the little ones to see is El Badi Palace, which dates from 1578. Originally, the 360 rooms were opulently decorated in marble, gold, onyx, ivory, cedar wood and semi-precious stones. However, when the capital was moved to Méknes in 1696 the palace was stripped of its valuables. In their place are hundreds of nesting storks. The palace is also used as the main venue for the National Festival of Popular Arts.

Parks and gardens
If kids get overwhelmed by the sights, sounds and smells of the city, it can be relaxing to cool them off at one of the many local parks. There are several lush public and private gardens surrounding the busier areas and you won’t have to look far to find one. A good one to try is the privately owned Majorelle Garden and Museum of Islamic Art, which was created in the 1920s by French artists Jacques and Louis Majorelle. The immaculately groomed gardens are dazzling with their cool pools, giant cacti, as well as coconut, bamboo and banana trees. The Majorelles’ former studio now houses the Museum of Islamic Art. For more information, call +044 301 852 or visit www.jardinmajorelle.com.

Sa’adian Tombs
Best for older children, the creepy and fascinating Sa’adian Tombs are one of the most frequently visited sights in Marrakech. There are over one hundred mosaic-decorated graves scattered around the garden area and the interior of the building is as stunningly decorated as the tombs. Over 65 members of the Sa’adian royal family are buried here. For more information, call +044 389 192.

Marrakech is rich with culture, and if you haven’t seen enough just walking around the city, you’ll do well to visit the many museums and galleries. It is also possible to visit the grounds which surround the many mosques; however, non-Muslims are not permitted to go enter the buildings.

Bert Flint Museum
This museum showcases basket works, jewellery, textiles, costumes, arms, carpets, furniture, musical instruments and more – all complied by collector Bert Flint, a Dutch historian. The boutique museum is charming in its own right and you’ll find another part of the museum housed in Agadir.

Dar Si Saïd Museum
If you are interested in Moroccan art, a visit to the Dar Si Saïd museum is a must. Here you can view some of the fine masterpieces such as of handcrafted silver and Berber jewellery, intricate chests, and a massive collection of carpets. There are also displays of ancient pottery and leatherworks. The charming tiled courtyards of the museum are highlighted by fountains carved of pink marble and decorated with mosaics in turquoise, green and white. Those who want to learn more about the museum can call: +044 44 24 64.

Djemaa El Fna (Jemaa-el-Fna)
It’s said that the main square of Marrakech has changed little since medieval times. Every night, you’ll find this area packed with street entertainers, from snake charmers and acrobats, to storytellers and musicians. Take in all the culture from a rooftop restaurant and be sure to sample the local cuisine served by the many food vendors down below.

Islamic Art Museum
Located in the stunning Majorelle Gardens, the Islamic Art Museum is loaded with tapestries, jewellery, marriage curtains, fabrics, manuscripts and much more. The building which houses the museum dates from the 1920s and the gardens surrounding it are maintained and owned by Yves Saint Laurent. After taking in the displays in the museum, you’ll definitely want to stroll around the gardens, which feature crystal clear ponds, banana trees, coconut palms and lots of birds.

Museum of Marrakech
This museum is located inside the stunning Dar M’Nebhi Palace, one of the most appealing structures in the city. Inside, you’ll find equally mesmerising displays of photography, paintings and ceramics. A massive courtyard adds to the beauty of the experience. For more information, call: +044 390 911/912.

Museum of the Friends of Marrakech
The Museum of the Friends of Marrakech is situated in a 19^th century riad that has been spectacularly restored. Works by Marrakech artists is presented through expositions of jewellery, ceramics, clothing and manuscripts. There are also temporary contemporary art expositions that change on a regular basis

Souks
Souks, or markets, in Marrakech are well known throughout the world. You can absorb more culture after a morning in a souk than you might after a week of visiting museums. These are great places to interact with local people and it’s best to keep your sense of humour and bargain well for what you want. The main souks are just off Djemaa El Fna (Jemaa-el-Fna). Step right in and get lost along the alleyways of goods which range from carpets and brassware, to jewellery and clothing. The coverings and the coolness of the stone houses surrounding the souks make them a good place to hide from the sun.

The serious spices and aromas of Moroccan cuisine are sure to get your mouth watering. The food is sensuous and succulent, with heavy use of spices and fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as the best in fish and meats.

Couscous is a well known favourite served with meat and vegetables; while mechoui, lamb roasted on a spit, is also popular. You’ll do well to try pastilla, a delicate pastry most usually filled with pigeon meat and almonds. Another typical Moroccan dish is Tajine, a delicious meat stew.

For those eating on the run, don’t be afraid to visit one of the many stalls around the city selling kebabs served with a spicy sauce. The delicious Moroccan pastries are a popular dessert and come in many flavours including honey, almond, raisins or sesame.

Mint tea is found everywhere and you’re sure to be offered some during your stay. Hotel restaurants often serve French cuisine as well as some Moroccan dishes and you’ll also find many other restaurants offering a good selection of Italian and Spanish cuisine as well. Many places specialise in three-course fixed menus that are inexpensive and allow you to sample a few dishes.

Alcohol laws are liberal for non-Muslim visitors and tourist areas like those in Marrakech will have bars open late into the night. Locally produced wines, beers and mineral waters are very tasty and incredibly good value for money. Besides bars, there are plenty of casinos and discos, along with nightclubs offering belly dancing.

Note that restaurant prices are subject to 19 per cent VAT (Value Added Tax) and the more upmarket restaurants tack on a service charge 10-15 per cent. If the service charge is not included, you are expected to tip 10-15 per cent.

There is plenty of good shopping to be had in Marrakech, especially at the souks. Special buys include leather, copperware, silver, silk or cotton garments and wool rugs, carpets and blankets. You’ll find souks leading away from the northern edge of Djemaa El Fna (Jemaa-el-Fna). You should always bargain to around one-third of the asking price.

Another good place to shop is the government-run Ensemble Artisanal, which is located near the Koutoubia Mosque. This tiny shopping mall and craft training centre sells high-quality goods at reasonable, fixed prices. If you have your heart set on buying a carpet, you should check out Bazaar Chichoua and Souk des Ksous. If you’re in the market for a camel, visit the Marrakech Souk of Camels on Thursdays.

The warm climate of Marrakech makes it quite suitable for some outdoor activities. If you tire of walking around mosques and museums, you’ll do well to enjoy a flight over the city or a round of golf. You can also try trekking or even some winter sports at the nearby mountain ranges.

Golf
King Hassan II was an internationally ranked golfer, which had a great impact on the country and made the sport very popular. Lovers of golf can enjoy the 18-hole par 72 Marrakech Royal Golf Club with its breathtaking position at the foot of the Atlas Mountains, or take your balls to the Palmeraie Golf Club in the centre of the city or to the Amelkis Golf Club.

Hiking and trekking
There are plenty of tour operators in Marrakech offering a variety of treks including guided horse trekking in the mountains as well as camping trips. The ascent of Jebel Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak, is one of the most popular adventures. The Toubkal area is an hour’s drive from Marrakech with the start from the village of Imlil. It’s possible to trek all year round, but the best time is from April to October.

Horseback riding and camel riding
Marrakech has a riding club and can arrange pony treks in the Middle Atlas. It’s also possible to travel by combination of mule and skiing (known as mule-skiing) from February to April. Camel riding is also available in the Atlas Mountains. For more information, you should contact the Moroccan Ministry of Tourism or the Moroccan National Tourist Office.

Microlight flights
There’s nothing like seeing Marrakech from the sky. Microlight flights are available from Marrakech's Microlight School, on the outskirts of the city. You will be flown over the surrounding area, including the stunning foothills of the Atlas Mountains, at a height of between 300 and 500 feet. It’s also possible to get some hands-on experience.

Skiing
About 70km from Marrakech, you will find some good skiing at Ifrane in the Middle Atlas and Oukaïden in the High Atlas. Oukaïden is Morocco’s best ski resort and you can combine a visit here with a trip to Ourika, famous for its donkey market. It’s best to arrange a trip with one of the local tour companies in Marrakech rather than find your own way.