The Marrakech souks and Medina tour starts in Marrakech’s iconic Djemaa el-Fna. Originally, this vast square was a place of public execution and meant “assembly of the dead”. It is now the central meeting point and home to storytellers, astrologers, snake charmer, acrobats and toe-tapping Gnaoua troupes. It sits at the heart of the Marrakech Medina, the old walled part of the city. You’ll return here later, but first, you’ll head into the narrow alleyways that lead off from the square into what is known as the souks (or souqs).
Each area of the souk, by and large, sells something different. Furthermore, your guide will lead you through at your own pace. You begin with Souk Semmarine, which used to be the main textile souk but has now diversified. You can see a wide range of goods for sale, such as lamps, pottery, brass, belts and bags all on display.
Next, you arrive at Rahba Kedima Square. Notably, basket-weavers ply their trade here, and you can also see colourful rugs on display. You might also see some of the medicinal stalls selling frightful objects such as snails, dried scorpions and leeches. Apparently, snails are excellent to stave off wrinkles! Stop for mint tea in the Café des Epices where you can take stock and watch the world go by.
You have now arrived at the Central Souks. Each souk specialises in a particular craft. These include Souk Larzal (wool), Souk Btana (Sheepskins), Souk Zrabia (Carpets), Souk Des Bijoutieiers (Jewellery), Souk Des Cherratine (Leather), Souk Des Babouches (Slippers), Souk Haddadine (Blacksmiths), Souk Chaouari (Carpenters), Souk Teinturies (Dyers), Souk Des Chaudronniers (Coppersmiths). Your guide is on hand to point out various tidbits of interest along your way.
Dip out of the souks for a stop at Le Jardin Secret. This traditional medina garden contains a soothing canopy of palms and banana trees set within a 17th-century riad courtyard. Head up the tower for stunning views over the Medina.
Turning south, you reach Mouassine Fountain, built in the 16th century by Abdallah el Ghalib and is also one of the 80 original medina fountains.
We tend to suggest doing this tour in the afternoon so that you can remerge into the Djemaa el-Fna when spice-infused clouds bellow from the lantern-lit grills. Above all, the Marrakech Souks and Medina Tour is a perfect first taste of Morocco.
Morocco in Style: A Luxury Adventure is quite simply the most stylish way to see this incredible country. You’ll stay at the most iconic hotels, and by taking a private helicopter, delve deep into Morocco’s hidden interior.
This private family holiday in Morocco is packed with experiences your children will adore. Morocco is the closest destination that will allow your children to immerse themselves in a different culture.
This comprehensive private tour of Morocco brings together the sights and sounds of this fantastic destination, and the chance to discover more than the well-trodden paths around Marrakech.
There is something impossibly romantic in delving into the great dunes of the Saharan Desert. Nights under canvas, sunsets and camel rides; experiences that undoubtedly make you feel like you have escaped.
A trekking holiday in the Atlas Mountains allows you to walk through timeless Moroccan Berber villages and along dramatic scenic valleys overlooked by the towering peaks. You’ll be staying in the best possible lodges and boutique hotels.
Explore the bustling souks of Marrakech, the breathtaking scenic beauty and Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains and the sleepy fishing town of Essaouira. In short, this brief taste of Morocco is an ideal first visit to this vibrant country.
Fez and Marrakech are undeniably Morocco’s most iconic and evocative cities, packed with all the magical charm that makes Morocco so mesmerising. This itinerary allows you an immersive experience of both, and additionally, some gentle R&R in the mountains to conclude your trip.
Combine the bustling souks of colourful Marrakech before experiencing the timeless Berber culture and stunning views in the High Atlas Mountains.
Marrakech makes for a beautiful long weekend from any European city. With five days, you will have plenty of time to both explore and relax. The weather is perfect in the winter, and you can also immerse yourself in a fascinating culture.
We arrange totally bespoke trips and design an itinerary that is designed around you. You may have seen a suggested itinerary that we can base your plans around, or we can start with a blank sheet and paper and design something from scratch. You can leave a phone number and suggest a time to call you back, and we can also arrange to do this during the evenings or at weekends if you are busy during the daytime. We can also meet up with you in you fancy a coffee and are based in and around London.