Marrakech is a unique blend of old and new

The stereotypical view of Marrakech is a bustling, colourful metropolis full of traders and street entertainers.

Anybody who has visited the city's thriving souks during a Morocco holiday will confirm that this is true - but it only tells half of the story.

Tourism officials in the north African country have insisted that while travellers love to join the huge crowds that roam the various city centre market stalls, there is also a quieter side to Marrakech.

They are particularly keen to highlight Gueliz, which is the most modern part of the city and has a multitude of luxury shops for people to explore if the souks seem like too much hassle. There is also a cosmopolitan café culture in this part of town.

One of the main features of Marrakech is its diversity, with old architecture being accompanied by new-builds, which makes for a stunning skyline that emphasises the contrast between old and new.

"Marrakech is a city full of life and enthusiasm as its omnipresent dynamism shows," a tourism representative noted.