Immortalised by Crosby, Stills and Nash and in the film Hideous Kinky, Marrakech is a whirling metropolis of exotic sights, sounds and smells.

Cheap flights to the city have surged in popularity over recent years, with several flight operators running extremely competitive fares to Marrakech from cities across the UK.

Traditions and culture in Marrakech

Islam is the official religion of Morocco and the city resonates with the call to prayer several times a day. This rhythmic chant only adds to the mystical aura of the Red City.

As such, it's important to observe some Islamic traditions. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the Koutuobia Mosque - but can freely roam the picturesque gardens, and to observe Islamic tradition Marrakech is alcohol free.

However, the artistic side of Islam is very much alive in the city and music, dancing and painting prevails.

Food in Marrakech is spicy and colourful. Most restaurant menus consist of tagines (both meat and vegetable), couscous and traditional Harira soup.

Recommended in Marrakech

No Marrakech holiday would be complete without a visit to the bustling Djemma el Fna. The main market square of the city is where all the action takes place. Snake charmers, musicians, dancers and food vendors slowly take over the square as the day progresses.

One of the highlights of a break in Marrakech is spending the day sat on the roof terrace of one of the square's many bars, cafes or restaurants to watch the action unfold below.

In the same vicinity, visitors will find the bustling market stalls known as the souks. These winding alleyways jut off the Djemma el Fna at almost every angle, resembling something from Alice in Wonderland, the streets twist and turn – often leading to the same place.

Getting lost in the souks is a delight, as is sampling the bounty on offer round every bend. Fresh olives, sizzling tagines, scarves, shoes and other trinkets are to be found at bargain prices – just remember to barter.

Weather in Marrakech

Spring and autumn are often cited as the best times to visit this dusty city. The heat can become overbearing in the summer and rather cold during winter.

Summer temperatures can climb above 40 degrees C during the height of summer and drop to around four in January.

Those planning on a trip out of the city and into the desert should also consider taking some warm clothes for the evening, as temperatures in the plains can plummet when the sun goes down.

It's usually best to avoid the city in April, which is sandstorm season.

Destination checklist for Marrakech

The official language in Marrakech, as in the rest of Morocco is Arabic, although French and English are both widely spoken. A holiday guide is a worthwhile investment as it'll usually provide a selection of key Arabic phrases to use when bartering in the markets.

The Moroccan Dirham is the official currency, although there are several banks situated just off the Djemma el Fna where ATM withdrawals can be made and Euros, US Dollars and Sterling can be exchanged at a reasonable rate.

International phone calls will need to use the +212 code and the city is - surprisingly - in the same time zone as the UK.