More sun, less crowds: Why Marrakech charms in the winter

Written on : 26 July 2024
By : Alexis Steinman

Discover Marrakech in the winter

Are you dreaming of a sunny holiday in the winter without a long flight? With its warm temperatures and mild weather, blue skies, fascinating culture, and beautiful landscapes, Marrakech is the ideal winter destination. Fewer crowds means you'll get to marvel at the amazing sites and wander the bustling souks without many tourists. Whether you come for a long weekend, Christmas, or New Year's, the Red City is sure to captivate you.

Marrakech, Morocco: Weather and temperatures from December to March

Morocco's mild weather and climate make it the perfect destination for an escape from winter's chill. In Marrakech, daytime temperatures range from 18-20°. At night, the temperatures can drop to 5°, so plan to cozy up by the fire on chilly nights. The coldest month is January while temperatures rise in March. What to pack for Marrakech in the winter? Summer clothes and sunscreen for daytime's sunny blue skies. Cooler evenings require a jacket, sweater, or a shawl. Since there can be rain in the winter, be sure to pack a rain jacket too. Indeed, while the weather in December in Marrakech can be dryer, you must be prepared for a bit of rain. And don't forget the swimsuit, for many Villanovo villas have heated swimming pools for lounging in the winter sun.

Must-sees and things to do: December, January, February and March

There are no shortage of things to do in Marrakech in the winter. Plus, you get to enjoy the city without the crowds. The main attractions include the tour of Jardin Majorelle botanical gardens, Koutoubia Mosque, Bahia Palace, and Ben Youssef Madrasa, a 14th-century Islamic college that is an architectural stunner. The souks in the Medina are so jam-packed with treasures you can spend days wandering them. Why not take a day trip to hike the Atlas Mountains or go on a camel ride in the Sahara desert? Both daytimes activities are ideal from December to March when it's not too hot. You might be surprised to learn that Marrakech also offers skiing in the Atlas Mountains for ski enthusiasts. Photographers will love the light this time of year. Head to a rooftop terrace for prime sunset views and night skies.

Best places to stay: Our unique selection of riads and villas

Palmeraie 32

Ideal for large groups, Palmeraie 32 is a sprawling 17-bedroom villa in the gorgeous Palmeraie neighbourhood. Enjoy the large terrace and private garden during the sunny afternoons, while the heated swimming pool, hammam, and living room fireplace will keep you warm on cooler nights. This fully-staffed villa includes a chef, maid, butler and gardener to ensure you have a truly luxury holiday.

Essaada El Majal

In the heart of the Palmeraie, Essaada El Majal is a fully-staffed 4-bedroom villa that is an ideal home base for a relaxing holiday. You'll love the verdant, private garden and palm trees, a beautiful break from gray winter. The tennis court and heated swimming pool will please children and adults alike. Design buffs will appreciate the stylish decor that mirrors Marrakech's great style.

Villa Jacaranda

This luxurious villa is one of the best-kept secrets in the Red City. Villa Jacaranda has been lovingly furnished by its owners so that your family feels right at home. Divided into two houses for privacy, the 11 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms on 3 hectares provide ample space for your family. Luxury travellers adore the magnificent gardens, exceptional house staff and chef, and private swimming pool. What's more, the villa is just 10 minutes from Marrakech's magnificent ramparts.

Food: Moroccan cuisine and specialties

A feast for the senses, Marrakech is a paradise for Moroccan gastronomy. The comforting dishes are ideal for cooler winter evenings: tagine (stews made in a dish with the same name), pastilla, and couscous, which has been designated by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. Traditional pastries are made with almonds and honey, like baghrir, thin Berber pancakes soaked in honey. Restaurants come in every type, from food stalls in the souks to trendy tables. Your Villanovo concierge is happy to make a reservation at one of the best places to eat in Marrakech. Or book a cooking class for you and your loved ones for an intimate experience with Moroccan gastronomy.

Shopping: Winter Souks and Markets

Many people come to Marrakech for its incredible shopping. The colourful souks brim with locally crafted goods, a treasure trove of foodstuffs, clothing, jewellery, and home decor. Home chefs will love the fragrant spices, herbs and argan oil, which is also used for beauty treatments. Leather goods like satchels and babouches slippers and embroidered kaftans also make for wonderful, wearable souvenirs. Since Morocco is a Muslim country, you won't find Christmas lights or decorations in the souks. Yet, many hotels host holiday markets that feature local designers and artisans. Stock up on unique gifts for a memorable holiday for you and your family.

Well-being and R&R: Hammams and spas

For centuries, Moroccans have soaked, scrubbed, and socialised in hammams. Visiting these traditional steam rooms invites you to experience Moroccan culture while pampering yourself. How do the hammams work? You'll lounge in a steam room, lather up with emollient savon noir (black soap), then scrub your skin with a loofah until it is silky soft. For a traditional hammam with Moroccan decor, head to Bains d'Orient and Heritage Spa in the Medina of Marrakech. Ring in the new year right with a decadent argan oil massage at a luxury spa and hammam at a five-star hotel. Whether its your first visit or fourth, hammams and spas are one of the best things to do in Marrakech in the cooler evenings of the winter.

Villanovo in Marrakech: Exceptional holidays and concierge service

Our exclusive collection

Villanovo has a wide choice of exquisite riads and luxury villas in Marrakech. Stay in a villa with a swimming pool, a private chef, house staff, or a hammam to pamper yourselves like the locals do. Feel free to call on our destination specialists to help you choose the perfect villa or riad with all the facilities you need for your stay in December, January, February or March.

Our exclusive riads and villas are located in prime locations across Marrakech. Rent a traditional riad in the Medina or a villa in Palmeraie, Ourika, or the modern neighbourhoods of Hivernage and Gueliz.

A unique experience

Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can focus on your holiday. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, whether you need restaurant reservations, excursion bookings, a private chef, and more. Last but not least? Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel diary for each stay in one of our villas. You'll find all our recommendations and great addresses for restaurants, shops and other experiences to discover in Marrakech.