Tranquil Spaces, Noisy Streets: A Foodies Marrakesh Story
In November this year, I took a solo trip to Marrakesh and stayed in a beautiful riad called Riad Le Pèlerin. It felt effortlessly calm and tranquil, with a large open-plan courtyard filled with tropical plants swaying gently in the air. In the mornings, you could hear birdsong, and as the day unfolded, the gradual shift in noise from the bustling medina streets outside.What moved me the most about Marrakesh was this feeling of constant contrast—the rhythm between noise and stillness, the rush of the souks set against unexpected pockets of peace and natural beauty. All of it threading effortlessly through each other.
Where I Stayed: Riad Le Pèlerin
Le Pèlerin is tucked away in the cobbled streets of the medina and, like so much of Marrakesh’s beauty, feels like a secret. Hidden behind unassuming doors, you’ll find warm, dreamy interiors and quiet corners to reflect on the day. The riad felt like a gentle retreat: intimate, open, and breezy, with a beautiful breakfast and very accommodating staff. I would definitely recommend it.
What I Ate (and What I’d Do Differently)
Not everywhere fits into the glossy, curated vibe we often see online—those cool spots with perfect lighting and trending dishes. I spent hours before my trip researching where to eat, looking for somewhere special that might inspire my own cooking when I got home.
Some places I loved and will mention here. But honestly, many of the places that are popular on Instagram didn’t reflect the spirit of the city I was walking through. They felt disconnected from the texture, soul, and quiet intensity of Marrakesh itself.
What struck me more than anything was the aftermath of the recent earthquake. The city bears its scars openly. You see buildings torn apart, their foundations exposed like quiet testimonies of all they’ve held. Labourers move with purpose and power, pushing heavy wheelbarrows through the streets, carrying on with resilience and strength. It made you pause.
As someone journeying through—a visitor, not a local—I felt the weight of being present in a place that’s rebuilding itself. There’s something sacred in witnessing that. A kind of beauty in the brokenness, in watching how people adapt, carry on, and keep building. Events happen that change everything. It made me reflect on how we move through the world as guests in other people’s stories.
My Advice: Embrace Local Flavors and Stories
If I could give one piece of advice, it’s this: go beyond the Instagram reel. Ask yourself about the lives behind the places you eat in. Think about the women serving you, the young men who are expert artisans, the families whose stories run deeper than any photo can tell. Honour that. Carry it with you. Let it reshape how you see beauty—and how you dream.
Don’t miss out on the street food. The medina has snack bars, food trucks, and food stalls on nearly every corner. Airbnb experiences offer a wide range of guides and tours. Try local. Learn the histories behind each dish and eatery.
Cooking Class: A Joyful Ending
I signed up for a cooking course on my last day—admittedly a little last-minute. If I were to go again, I think I’d take more time to consider my options. But the course I joined, run by Flavours of Marrakesh, was such a joyful experience.
There’s always a bit of awkwardness when people from all walks of life come together to cook, but it quickly gave way to warmth and connection. The hosts were a lovely family of women who even helped me organise a lift to the airport after the class (which saved me some stress!).
The experience felt incredibly generous, and, in my opinion, was excellent value for money. More than anything, I loved hearing their personal stories—glimpses into everyday lives rooted deeply in the place they call home.
One for Next Time: Amal non profit
Something I would love to try on my next visit is a cooking course run by Amal. Amal is a non-profit organisation in Marrakesh that helps disadvantaged women gain work experience by training them in Moroccan food. They run courses and their own restaurant. The food looks incredible, and the mission behind it is inspiring.
Favourite Food Spots
L’mida: A little rooftop café in the heart of the medina, offering Moroccan fusion cuisine with a contemporary twist. Tucked down a small alleyway, it’s easy to miss—but worth it.
NOMAD: A modern Moroccan restaurant with a strong focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their rooftop view of the medina is stunning.
La Famille: Possibly my favourite. I’ll probably write more on this place another time, but for now, it’s so worth a mention. Tucked away in the busy Jemaa el-Fna district, it’s run by a small team of elegant, no-nonsense women. The café serves gorgeous cakes, tarts, and salads in a tranquil garden-like space. There’s a warm, open kitchen where you can watch the magic happen—busy hands crafting each dish with care and determination.
Favourite Outfit of the Moment?
A light blue LilySilk top paired with a Na-kd dress—long, airy, and deeply impractical… but a whimsical moment nonetheless. Perfect for the up-and-down temperatures of Marrakesh.
Somewhere Special: Le Jardin Secret
Nestled in the heart of the medina is Le Jardin Secret — a garden that might just be one of the most peaceful and tranquil places I’ve ever visited. Towering palm trees and lush, established plants surround you in every direction, offering shade and serenity. The gentle trickle of water from the fountains fills the space with a soothing rhythm, softening the sounds of the city beyond the walls. It feels like a hidden oasis — the perfect spot to spend a quiet morning or take a slow, golden-hour stroll.
What Was It Like to Travel Solo?
I’ve travelled solo a few times—probably not always in the most sensible way. I’m naturally curious and adventurous; I love being immersed in new surroundings. But practically speaking, travelling alone as a woman does come with certain realities.
Yes, I was catcalled a lot. Yes, I walked down roads that didn’t feel entirely safe and realised too late I should have turned back. If I were to do it again, I’d be wiser about where I wandered.
If I could offer advice to any woman considering solo travel, it would be this: stay practical. I often pretend to be more confident than I feel. I walk with purpose—even when I don’t know exactly where I’m going. If I sense someone following me, I pause, pretend to check my phone, and wait. If they pass, I move on cautiously. If not, I turn around look them in the eye to let them know I am aware something is off and I move into a public, tourist-populated space, connect to the WIFI and make sure i’m comfortable about how to get back to my hotel.
That’s just what’s worked for me. Everyone has different experiences. If these things feel overwhelming, bring your girlfriends, partners, connect with other solo travelers online and avoid the stress and enjoy the beauty together.
Favourite Things About Marrakesh
The colour. Marrakesh felt so different to home—vibrant, warm, and bold. I loved the contrast between public and private life. Many of the most beautiful spaces—like the riads—are hidden behind modest doors. Inside, you find calm, quiet, and serenity. And the markets—the noise, the rhythm, the sheer abundance of fresh produce. There’s a pulse to life there. The smell of spices, the colours of fruit, the heat of the sun—it’s all beautiful, alive
Final Takeaways
Marrakesh is a city that stays with you. Through colour, sound, and feeling, it lingers. A striking dance between chaos and stillness, soul and silence. I hope this post inspires your own journey. Whether you're planning a trip or simply dreaming of one, I hope these reflections spark something in you. And if you’re a solo traveller with a bit of wanderlust—I hope this gives you some ideas of what’s possible.
Let me know if you’ve been to Marrakesh or if you have favourite hidden gems—I’d love to hear. And if you’re thinking of going solo, I hope this gives you the encouragement to go for it.