Contrasts of Morocco: Magnificent Marrakech to Coastal Essaouira

Day 1  Marrakech  
Arrive into the buzzing city of Marrakech, teeming with colour and intrigue with its fascinating history, beautiful architecture and incredible medina. Settle into your hotel, a traditional Riad with ornate architecture for an authentic stay just outside the hustle and bustle. This evening, stroll the tiny laneways of the medina, admiring spices, crafts and delicious local delicacies.  

Day 2  Marrakech  
Discover the city highlights with a private tour of Marrakech, exploring the colourful souks, El Badi Palace ruins, grand Bahia Palace and the stunning Koutoubia Mosque. Finish at the atmospheric Djemaa el Fna Square, the beating heart of the city.  

Day 3  Marrakech  
Enjoy a day at leisure to continue exploring at your own pace. Perhaps beat the crowds and visit the peaceful Marjorelle Gardens in the morning. An exquisite garden located in the Ville Nouvelle district which offers a relaxed ambience, home to wide boulevards, trendy galleries and leafy parks. Afterwards, visit the ornate Medersa Ben Youssef, another example of the city’s incredible architecture or perhaps spend more time in the lively medina. After all your city adventures, the perfect way to unwind is in a traditional hammam.  

Day 4  Marrakech to Essaouira  
Leave Marrakech behind on a private transfer to the coast. Essaouira is a delightful port town with Mediterranean influences, a bustling medina, charming harbour and a long, beautiful stretch of sandy beach. After settling into your hotel, spend the afternoon meandering the historic medina, browsing shops filled with local crafts and colourful ceramics and walk along the neighbouring city walls as you admire the stunning coastline, watching the sun set over the Atlantic from the Sea Bastion.

Day 5  Essaouira  
This morning, enjoy a private tour with a local guide at hand, taking you through the winding lanes exploring spice souk’s, galleries and more. Relax with the rest of the day to explore at your own leisure.

Days 6-8  Essaouira  
Widely considered one of the country’s best beach resorts for its long beach and abundant sunshine, spend your days soaking up the glorious sun, unwinding with a good book. Essaouira’s windy conditions make it ideal for sports such as windsurfing, so why not pick up an exciting lesson or two. When you’re not resting on the beach, wander to the historic harbour to see the local fishermen bring in the day’s catch and try one of the delicious fresh seafood restaurants. Long known as an artistic hub, Essaouira’s streets are lined with interesting boutiques and art galleries to shop and admire, as well as a number of museums. Just a short drive south from the medina, the landscape transitions to wide sandy dunes, perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures. Enjoy these days to slow down, breathe in the fresh Atlantic air and experience Essaouira’s laidback charm.  

Day 9  Fly home