While Marrakech’s apple shisha-scented charms are many, nothing beats getting out of the city and into the serene hush of the Atlas Mountains. Peppered with sleepy honey-hued Berber villages and traversed by crystal clear streams, it’s a hiker’s paradise. If it’s soaring views you want, wind your way up to north Africa’s highest peak, Mount Toubkal, a two-hour drive from Marrakech. Stop off to admire the impressively symmetrical Moorish arches of the 12th-century Tin Mal mosque on the way.

Morocco’s glimmering Atlantic coast has much to offer thrill-seekers and sun-worshippers alike. Less than three hours’ drive west of Marrakech are the broad shores of Essaouira Beach. While the water can be fresh, its golden sweep of sand is popular among locals, and there’s plenty to do, from kite surfing and riding a camel to enjoying a steaming tajine in one of the shore-side restaurants. A three-hour scenic drive south along the coast is the popular resort city of Agadir. Its 10km stretch of powdery sands makes this a compelling beach destination.

Rent a car with Avis in Marrakech to explore the vibrant city, as well as the stunning deserts, beaches and mountains beyond it.

A grand city of sumptuous Moorish splendour, Marrakech’s era as Morocco’s imperial capital is well-documented in its spectacular palaces, sumptuous riads and the soaring 77m minaret of its Koutoubia Mosque. The broad, derelict sweep of El Badi Palace, built in 1578, contrasts starkly with the 19th-century Bahia Palace—all cool tiled floors, balmy courtyards and pristine gardens—but both offer a glimpse of the city’s affluent history.

For a full flavour of life in modern Marrakech, head to the drama of Jemaa el-Fnaa at sunset. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic market square explodes with the hot hustle of merchants, snake charmers, acrobats, story tellers and musicians, just as it has done for centuries. Dip into the colourful maze of its adjoining souk to browse an overwhelming array of spices, tapestries, jewellery, carvings and trinkets. Be prepared to haggle for your wares—it’s all part of the fun.

When all that saturated colour and noise gets a bit too much, duck in for a traditional hammam. Treatments range from a thorough soak and scrub at a public bathhouse to a more sophisticated, rose-scented sauna and massage at a luxury spa, depending on your tastes. Unwind afterwards with a soothing tisane of fresh mint tea.

Frequent renters get upgraded – and additional days for free – by signing up for Avis Preferred loyalty benefits.

The moment you arrive, we’ve got you covered. Whether you fancy a cute compact for an urban jaunt, an elegant saloon for a business trip or a spacious people carrier for a family holiday, your perfect vehicle awaits.

We’ll pack all the extras you need to get the most from your venture – from sat nav and super-fast mobile Wi-Fi, to our tailored range of child seats.  And, you don’t have to drive full-circle: why not make the most of one way car hire? 

Simply choose a date and time and we’ll prepare your quality hire car.