Hip Marrakesh: more than medinas to admire these days in Moroccan city
Boutiques, art spaces and now the Yves Saint Laurent museum have expanded the appeal of Marrakesh; here’s what to look for in the historic city’s style revival
Marrakesh has long been an exotic tourist destination, but Morocco’s fourth-largest city has a lot more to offer than bustling bazaars, bowls of tagine and endless photo opportunities.
Mushrooming boutiques and art spaces, and designers like rising fashion star Amine Bendriouich reveal an unexpectedly hip side to the historic city.
Old Marrakesh always had the colour and madness of souks, the mosaic-tiled walls and welcoming spaces of its riads, the traditional Moroccan houses and palaces with interior gardens and courtyards. Travellers would haggle at stalls for jewellery or slippers, and crowd into the famous Medina Jemaa el Fna.
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The latest attraction in Marrakesh’s chic rejuvenation is the Yves Saint Laurent museum, opened in October. The late fashion designer was obsessed with the city, and the museum is a must for fashion fans.
Serving a wave of wealthier visitors are five-star hotels like the stunning Amanjena, just 20 minutes’ drive from the old town and offering sanctuary from the city hustle. You can dip into modern Moroccan culture at chic hotspots like El Fenn Riad, or artsy, conceptual hang-out Riad Yima.
Bendriouich champions eclectic, unisex fashion.
