Just a few hours from the UK, Marrakech awaits with its vibrant souks, desert sunshine, and rich history. Whether you’re flying from London, Manchester, or Bristol, reaching Morocco’s “Red City” is easier than ever thanks to frequent direct flights.
Escape grey skies for warmth and wander through spice-filled markets, tranquil gardens, and ancient palaces, all within a half-day’s travel. Smooth, non-stop services and modern international connections make it simple to begin your Marrakech experience as soon as you land.
The average flight time from major UK airports to Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) is 3–4 hours.
Marrakech Menara Airport is one of Morocco’s busiest and best connected. Several UK airports offer direct services, making it easy for travellers across the country to reach the city without layovers.
Direct flights are available from:
UK citizens don't need a visa for holidays of up to 90 days in Morocco, though your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your arrival date. You’ll also need to complete a short entry card when you arrive.
The Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), is conveniently located around 6km from the city centre, making it a short and inexpensive journey in and around the city, via a range of transport options.
Taxi: Official airport taxis are the quickest option, with fixed fares of around 70–150 MAD (£6–£12) to central Marrakech, depending on the size of the car.
Shuttle or private transfer: Many hotels and resorts offer pre-booked shuttles for door-to-door convenience.
Bus: Local Bus Line 19 runs between the airport and Djemaa el-Fna square. It only takes around 25–30 minutes and costs 30 MAD (£2.40) for a single ticket.
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is a restricted currency, meaning it isn't freely traded outside Morocco and there are regulations on how much you can take in or out of the country. You can still buy up to 2,000 Dirhams in the UK from certain specialist providers, but larger amounts must be exchanged once you arrive.
For the best rates, exchange your money at official Bureaux de Change Offices within the city centre or hotel exchange desks rather than the airport.
The best time to book flights to Marrakech is typically 2–8 months in advance. This period is often referred to as the “Goldilocks window” for booking flights — early enough to avoid last-minute price spikes, but not so far in advance that fares remain higher before airlines adjust pricing. During peak travel seasons, such as Christmas and major holidays, it’s recommended to book earlier. Travellers can often find better value on midweek departures (Tuesday to Thursday) compared to weekends.
The most affordable time to actually fly is during the winter months from November to February, when visitor numbers are lower but temperatures remain mild and pleasant.
While Marrakech is an all-year-round destination, the best time to visit depends on your priorities: spring and autumn provide the most comfortable weather and more frequent routes, though prices tend to be higher, whereas winter is ideal for travellers looking for a more affordable short-haul trip without compromising on good weather.