The colourful city ideal for a winter sun break – with four-hour flights and cheap package holidays

SHIMMERING with colour, Marrakesh is a city with magic and chaos at its heart.

But with its lavish rooftop restaurants and bewildering bazaars, it can be hard to know where to begin.

ShutterstockMarrakesh is a city with magic and chaos[/caption]

GettyKoutoubia Mosque is a gem in the city centre[/caption]

The devastating earthquake in September saw damage to some of its most ancient buildings, including its historic medina, a Unesco World Heritage site.

But repairs are well under way and the city and its inhabitants need tourists back discovering its joy.

WHY SHOULD I GO?

IF you’re looking for a culture shock but don’t want to fly halfway across the world, Marrakesh is just four hours away and delivers both modern flair and ancient wonders.

While the city is enough to keep you busy for a long weekend, it’s also a great base to explore beyond, from Berber villages in the desert to the fabulous beaches of Essaouira, both easily accessible on day trips.

STREETS MADE FOR WALKING?

THE maze of alleyways in the medina and souks are ripe for wandering, but it is easy to lose your way.

The souks are a shopper’s paradise, with carpets, traditional slippers, lotions, spices and jewellery — but a guide will take the stress out of exploring.

You can hire one for three hours for £27pp (see musement.com).

Besides taking you to the best sites and shops, you can get your chaperone to teach you the art of haggling — or ask them to wrangle on your behalf.

If you manage to knock off enough cash, then the guides pay for themselves!

ANYTHING FOR BUCKET LIST?

THE city’s star attraction is the central square of Jemaa el-Fnaa, where there are snake charmers, fortune tellers and mystics.

After dusk, fire-eaters, dancers and musicians perform their nightly shows while pop-up food stalls cook up a storm.

GettyWander Marrakesh’s endless markets[/caption]

GettyPastries, oils and spices are just some of the goods available[/caption]

Also not to be missed is Jardin Majorelle, the former home and garden of fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

For day trips, head into the Agafay Desert to explore a Berber village, just a 40-minute drive from the city.

The Berber families will offer traditional mint tea with plenty of sugar alongside a selection of homemade flatbreads, oils and dips.

WHERE SHOULD I EAT?

MOROCCO is famous for its sizzling tagines and mounds of fragrant couscous.

Many of Marrakesh’s restaurants can now be found on rooftops, offering spectacular views of the city and the Atlas Mountains.

For good-value authentic cuisine, head to Nomad above the bustling spice square of Rahba Lakdima.

It serves traditional Moroccan cuisine with a modern twist.

Think calamari in a ginger, cumin and harissa sauce or tiramisu soaked in honey, almond and argan oil.

For lunch, head to Le Jardin, a little food oasis hidden within the heart of the medina.

Everything about this restaurant is green, zingy and fresh, from the emerald tiles to the giant low-hanging foliage and veggie-packed menu.

I FANCY A DRINK

FOR authentic Moroccan vibes and stand-out design, head to the El Fenn boutique hotel.

Its huge roof terrace has panoramic views of the medina and mixologists on hand to whip up your favourite cocktails.

GettyMorocco is famous for tantalising herbal teas[/caption]

Tucked away in the medina, Cafe Arabe also delivers great value on its rooftop terrace or mosaic-tiled courtyard.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY?

WITHIN walking distance of the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the 5H Kenzi Rose Garden, in the trendy Hivernage district. is an oasis of calm with a stylish, palm tree-lined sun terrace.

Settle down with a cocktail on the loungers by the pool or enjoy a meal at the buffet or restaurants.

There’s also an excellent spa centre with hamam and steam bath.

Rooms are spacious and feature air con and all the normal mod cons.