Weekender: Marrakech, Morocco

It can be hot, dusty and a bit of a culture shock, but Marrakech – almost on the tip of North Africa – is an assault on the senses you don't want to miss thanks to its unique mix of Arabic, Moorish, French and Berber heritage.

Headline attraction
The Djemaa el-Fna square in the centre of the medina (old town) is the heart of the city and the scene of an astounding carnival every night. It's bustling during the day too, but at dusk the Djemaa el-Fna comes alive with a riot of food stalls, orange juice vendors, snake charmers, henna artists, acrobats and apothecaries.

Best of the rest
Start with the spectacle of the Djemaa el-Fna, then head into the souks. You may get lost but that's all part of the fun. Once inside you'll be able to haggle for a one-of-a-kind Moroccan carpet, some bejewelled babouches (leather slippers), colourful scarves or bags of spices. Marrakech is a shoppers' paradise and even though you'll pay a pretty penny for quality stuff, it's still a fraction of the cost of home.

For landmarks there's the Palais el-Badi, the city's most famous palace, and the Koutoubia – a towering minaret that dominates the Djemaa el-Fna. Reward your efforts with a soak in one of the cities many hammams (baths).

Chow down and enjoy the local tipple
It’s all about tagine, the name of both the slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew, usually served with couscous, and the conical dish that's used to cook it. The restaurants lining the Djemaa el-Fna are geared towards tourists, but try Argana (on the north side of the square) for a pleasant meal and a killer view.

Sweet, strong mint tea, known locally as Berber whiskey, is the ubiquitous slurp of the city. You'll be offered it everywhere and it's considered bad form to refuse. You'll find alcohol at bars outside the medina.

Need to know

When to go: It's roasting in summer and bitterly cold in winter, so spring or autumn are the best seasons to visit.

Getting there: There are direct flights to Marrakech from London.

Going out: Morocco is a Muslim country but alcohol is available. You’ll pay around 30 MAD for a pint.

Money: Morocco Dirhams - Check out Currency Converter for the latest rates

Language: Arabic or French, but English is widely spoken.