Bargain Break is our new monthly blog post where we search for the best travel deal available within the next three months. Whether it’s a charming city escape, a relaxing beach getaway, or an adventurous mountain retreat, we’ll find a destination that offers exceptional value. It’s not limited to our Untravelled Paths locations so you can expect surprises from all over!

After much deliberation, this month I’ve gone with Marrakesh in Morocco as our Bargain Break. So take a look and see if you can be tempted… after all you only live once!

Why Visit?

Visiting Marrakesh in October, November, and December offers a delightful escape with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. The city’s vibrant souks, historic palaces, and stunning gardens come alive in the pleasant weather, making it perfect for exploring. Enjoy warm, sunny days and cool evenings, ideal for sipping mint tea in a rooftop café. The winter months also bring cultural festivals, offering a unique glimpse into Moroccan traditions, cuisine, and music without the intense summer heat.

What to Do?

When visiting Marrakesh, explore the bustling souks of the Medina, where you can shop for handmade crafts, spices, and traditional Moroccan goods. Visit the stunning Bahia Palace and the serene Majorelle Garden for a glimpse of the city’s history and beauty. Don’t miss the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square for street food, performers, and local culture. Relax in a traditional hammam, savor delicious Moroccan cuisine, and take a day trip to the nearby Atlas Mountains. If you’re interested in an adventure you could even venture down to the Sahara Desert.

Where to Eat?

A bit of an institution and a must do, an evening at Comptoir Darna in Marrakesh offers an unforgettable dining experience that blends exquisite Moroccan and international cuisine with vibrant entertainment. As you enjoy dishes like tagines and grilled meats, the atmosphere comes alive with belly dancers, live music, and a glamorous ambiance. The candle-lit setting and rich decor create a romantic, exotic vibe. After dinner, head to the lounge for cocktails and continue the evening with more music and dancing under the stars.

Where to Stay

We recommend staying in a central riad (think incredibly glamours B&B!) for the traditional, intimate and often chic experience. The quality of riads is very high in Marrakesh, it’s a competitive market so you can shop around, be directed by the review scores and always find a good deal from as little as 60 Euros a night. One of my favourites is a little more expensive but Riad Dar One offers a serene escape within the bustling Medina. This stylish riad combines traditional Moroccan design with modern comforts, featuring elegant rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a plunge pool. Guests enjoy personalised service, creating a cozy, intimate atmosphere perfect for relaxation and cultural immersion.

Alternatively

If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, relaxing and away from the chaos of the souks then look no further than Kasbah Bab Ourika, which offers a stunning retreat in Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, surrounded by breathtaking views of valleys and rivers. This eco-friendly hotel features beautifully designed rooms, a tranquil pool, and delicious farm-to-table dining. Guests enjoy hiking, cultural excursions, and a peaceful escape, perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers. The rooms can get expensive but the standard rooms are still lovely and offer great value.

Flights

Much hinges on the flight prices when looking for a bargain break and it was a tough choice this month, so much so, I’ve listed the honourable mentions below at the bottom of this post! But ultimately with return London to Marrakesh flights from £35 in October, £41 in November and £37 in December it’s hard to find better value for an adventure and some winter sun. All prices were taken from Skyscanner so do have a look and if you’re not flying from London you can add your local airport and see if it offers similar value. Please note, if you select “flexible dates” and the month you are looking to travel it will show you an overview for the month enabling you to see the best value flights available.

Honourable Mentions

October: Flights to Lisbon from as little as £39 return, Podgorica (Montenegro) from £39 return and Bucharest from as little as £41 return (all from London). All of which offer lovely warm temperatures at that time of year and then the latter two the beautiful, colourful Autumn fall.

November: For Halloween lovers, there are direct flights to Bucharest from London from just £70.

December: London Flights to Bucharest are £46 which offers Christmas Markets, the legend of Dracula, an Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding – all of which can be combined with picturesque medieval towns on our Winter Transylvania Experience. However, arguably the best comparative value is direct flights from London to Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland from £76 return as these are often £200+ and counting.

All prices were taken from Skyscanner so do have a look and if you’re not flying from London you can add your local airport and see if it offers similar value. Please note, if you select “flexible dates” and the month you are looking to travel it will show you an overview for the month enabling you to see the best value flights available.

If you’re interested in Marrakesh but would like us to tailor a trip for you then please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we’d be delighted to assist.

Written by James Chisnall

Last Updated: 12/09/24