December in Marrakesh can still be warm and sunny, making it the perfect destination for people who don’t particularly enjoy the stifling summer temperatures.
If you want to avoid the huge crowds of tourists, you might prefer the months of December and January.
It’s worth noting that there is a possibility of more rain during the winter months, and evenings can be chilly, but packing the right clothing will ensure that you still have a wonderful experience.
In Gueliz and Hivenage, modern hotels and apartments have heating.
In the medina, riads have air conditioning and will supply their guests with extra warm blankets.
Wearing light layers and carrying a lightweight weatherproof jacket and umbrella will make visiting the city’s attractions more enjoyable.
I went in December, and it was still sunny most days, turning chillier after sunset.
I still had a brilliant time and found that vendors in the souks were easier to haggle with because of fewer tourists.
I even managed to bag a few really good deals to take home with me.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Another thing worth mentioning is that the price of flights and accommodation are significantly cheaper too.
Regarding day excursions, the Atlas mountains do get snow, so if you’re considering a day trip to Ourika Valley or Imlil, check if travel is safe before booking.
The train to Casablanca is operational, and buses to Essaouira still run, so that’s an alternative day trip if it’s too dangerous or cold to go hiking in the more remote areas.
I was pleasantly surprised at how often I was able to sit outside and people watch in Jamaa El Fna in December.
Some days were bright and sunny, and some were cloudy with marginally cooler temperatures.
I never felt cold and was able to walk around the medina comfortably.
Marrakech in December/image by Freebird Tracey.
Some of the restaurants I visited, such as The Clock in the Kasbah, had roaring fires during the evenings, creating a nice cosy atmosphere.
Occasionally, Marrakech can experience more rainfall than usual, so this is something to bear in mind.
If you don’t want to get caught out, take an umbrella out with you or a lightweight jacket.
There is still plenty to see and do, so don’t be too upset if you’re caught in a storm.
Tailor your itinerary to suit the climate and keep an eye on the weather forecast daily.
There are so many exciting museums such as the Museum of Photography and Berber Carpet Museum to keep you entertained.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
I would definitely go again during winter.
It helped me to cope with the gloomy grey days in the UK and broke up the long winter.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
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A fixed price store in the Kasbah selling everything.
If you are fed up with haggling every time you want to buy something, there is a fixed price store in the Kasbah called Dar Bouchaib.
Here, you will find everything that’s for sale in the souks but at a fixed price.
The perfumed oils are of a very high quality, and you can create your own signature fragrance by blending several oils together.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
On the ground floor, there are ceramics, jewellery, clothing, footwear, bags, souvenirs, and much more.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
On the first floor, exquisite furniture, mirrors, Berber rugs, and other beautiful handmade pieces to furnish your home with.
They also ship worldwide.
The staff are incredibly helpful, and you can wander around the shop leisurely without any pressure to buy.
The store is huge and worth visiting just to see the craftsmanship and detail that’s gone into creating the furniture and mirrors on the upper floor.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The Kasbah is a 15 – to 20-minute walk from the main square with plenty of interesting shops and good restaurants along the way.
Here, you will find the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.
Dar Bouchaib can be found on;
Rue de La Kasbah,
Marrakech 40000.
Opening times are;
Daily from 9.00 am until 8.30 pm.
Bank holiday hours may differ.
Although part of visiting Marrakech is to enjoy shopping in the souks, sometimes haggling and knowing how much you should be paying for something can become slightly stressful.
Dar Bouchaib is a relaxed shopping experience with everything under one roof.
The prices are fixed and reflect what you should be paying for each item.
There is also a massive selection of wonderful Berber rugs for sale in the store.
Make it part of your visit to the Kasbah area.
You won’t be disappointed.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Dar Bouchaib is a few steps away from Krepchy.
If you’re sightseeing in the kasbah, I would recommend taking a look around this impressive store.
You may find something interesting to take home with you.
What every female should know before arriving in the red city.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I would say that Marrakech is perfectly safe for women who travel alone..
The overall crime rate is relatively low, and most female travellers have a wonderful experience.
However, there are certain things to consider to help you feel confident and fit into Moroccan society.
Women in Marrakech dress modestly.
How you want to be treated will depend on how you present yourself.
Although Marrakech is a Muslim city, it is quite liberal and used to tourists, but showing too much flesh would be considered inappropriate.
Whilst you’re not expecting to adopt the hijab, you will certainly be regarded favourably if you dress slightly more conservatively.
Long, silk, or cotton dresses are perfect and keep you cool at the same time.
Palazzo trousers are comfortable and elegant.
I wore turbans, and I loved that my hair was tucked away, keeping me from feeling too hot whilst feeling sophisticated.
Many tourists wear the same style of clothing that they would back at home, so it’s really a matter of choice.
I would certainly encourage dressing appropriately if you’re visiting religious sites, though.
It’s a matter of respect.
You’ll notice how happy a small gesture like this makes the locals happy.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The people in Marrakesh are friendly and hospitable.
There may be situations where you will be asked if you need help to find your riad or the main square.
Simply decline the offer politely and go about your business.
Stand your ground when negotiating a price for something. Show you are confident and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy.
Some men may cat call or make comments, which may feel slightly intrusive.
Ignore them and move away. If anyone follows you, find a shop vendor or restaurant to sit in or threaten to find a police officer.
It’s rare that this happens, though, and police are everywhere around Marrakech, making sure that tourists are not hassled.
Knowing a few words in Arabic or French is always useful.
‘Non merci’ or ‘La Shukran’ for ‘no thank you’ will automatically bring a smile to the locals’ faces.
On the whole, I have never felt uncomfortable as a solo female traveller in Marrakech.
There are plenty of us about wandering through the souks and enjoying the tourist hot-spots.
Consider using a tour guide or joining a guided tour of the medina if you’re slightly anxious about exploring by yourself or if it’s your first time.
There are night tours, street food tours, and registered guides for visiting the local attractions.
Marrakech is a great place to visit as a solo female traveller if you treat it the same way as you would any other country wandering around by yourself.
In some ways, I would consider it safer than some European countries.
Most local people can’t wait to tell you all about their fascinating city.
Educate yourself on the cultural norms and differences and respect the local customs and traditions, and you will be perfectly safe.
You could carry a personal alarm with you if it helps you to feel less vulnerable.
Overall, you will feel perfectly safe.
Marrakech is very touristic, and there’s always crowds of people around.
Just be extra vigilant in busy, congested areas with your belongings.
The same way you would be anywhere else in the world.
Relax and trust that the people of Marrakech are friendly, kind, and caring.
Marrakech is a safe place for travellers with a relatively low crime rate, but scams can happen.
Like any other destination, there are several things to be mindful of as a first-time visitor to the red city.
There are a few potential scams that visitors for the first time to Marrakech should know about.
.The road is closed.
This is a regular scam that can leave tourists confused.
You’re trying to locate your riad or a point of interest, and someone (usually a young male) tells you that the road ahead is closed.
He asks you your destination and offers to escort you via an alternative route.
Before you know it, you’re wandering endlessly through the souks until you arrive at his friends shop.
You’re still lost, and now you’re being offered mint tea whilst his friend brings out a multitude of exotic spices or rugs.
The male who took you there gets a commission for safely delivering you there.
Slightly more if you buy.
If you’re approached in this way, a firm no thank you or La shoukran usually does the trick.
If he is very persistent, head to a nearest trader, and ask their advice about whether the road is closed or not.
Make your boundaries clear but remain polite and try not to get too impatient.
It can be difficult if you’re tired or overwhelmed, but showing your weakness will only show how vulnerable you are feeling, and you may become a target for more opportunists.
. I can take you to your riad.
When you first arrive in the medina, you are faced with a maze of alleyways and tunnels.
Often, your riad will be tucked away inside the souks or down one of these alleyways, hidden from view.
A tourist who looks as though they’re lost will invite the so-called ‘ helpful guide’ to your side who can show you exactly where you need to go.
He will escort you, taking the long route to your riad, and then demand a payment from you.
He may become quite persistent and insult you if you refuse to cough up.
I was taken off guard seconds away from my riad.
A young male basically nudged me along the narrow alleyway shoulder to shoulder. He demanded a payment, holding his hand out as I knocked on the door of my riad.
I told him I wasn’t lost and knew where I was going and that I hadn’t requested his help. He was quite cross with me and began insulting me in Arabic.
I stood my ground and ignored him until, eventually, the door opened, and I was let inside my riad.
This can feel somewhat intimidating, but don’t give in.
There are occasions when friendly locals really do want to genuinely help you find your way, and you will be grateful for their knowledge of the area.
Especially after a long flight.
However, this is a common problem and can become irritating, to say the least, if you have luggage with you.
Marrakech has a good police presence, and, in the worst case scenario, threatening persistent hangers on with that often does the trick.
Most will back off before it gets to that situation, though.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
.Over inflated prices for tourists.
There is a price for the attractions around the medina for tourists and a price for Moroccan residents.
This happens in many countries nowadays and you can’t protest much about it.
On the other hand, prices for street food and things you might wish to purchase in the souks are often much higher than they should be.
Learn to bargain with the salesperson, try dropping around 25%, and eventually, the pair of you will reach a price you’re both happy with.
Haggling is an art form, and it takes time to feel confident, but it’s a way of life in Marrakesh and can be quite a rewarding experience when you think you’ve managed to buy something for a fair price.
If you’re not happy, shop around. There are plenty of places selling the same goods around the souks.
There are also fixed price stores such as Dar Bouchaib in the kasbah.
. Gambling games in Jamaa El Fna.
During the evening, when the square comes to life, there are a few pockets of entertainment where gambling games take place.
These are scams that involve the winners working with the person in charge of the game.
They impersonate curious onlookers and ask to take part. They win, and a prize is exchanged.
These are not genuine participants, and the likelihood of you winning a cash prize is virtually nil.
. Unofficial tour guides.
Some tourists mentioned being approached by unofficial tour guides whilst visiting some of the attractions around the medina.
Males who begin by asking where you’re from, then following you around telling you a brief history of the place.
After some time, they ask you for a fee.
If you want a genuine tour guide, check the website of the attraction you’re visiting or consider booking an activity through Get Your Guide.
Booking. Com also offers attractions with a guided tour and transport.
Payment is upfront, and the guides are very friendly and knowledgeable.
Marrakech is an amazing destination with so much to see and do.
I have pointed out a few negative aspects that you should be aware of.
You may not experience any of these things.
I have been incredibly lucky with taxi drivers who often get a bad press for inflating prices.
I have had some positive experiences with taxis and felt very safe whilst travelling back to my hotel in a remote area.
Generally, the locals are very friendly, and tourists are made to feel very welcome.
There are the occasional poor people in Marrakech who see tourists as financially secure with more money than sense.
My advice is to make your boundaries clear from the start.
Get yourself some data by buying an Orange SIM for negotiating your way around the medina, and learn a few words of Arabic or French to help you to say no thank you.
Like anywhere else in the world, keep your wits about you in crowded places, and stay calm.
Smoothies can be found everywhere in Marrakesh. They are one of the healthiest, most vibrant, refreshing drinks in the medina.
Using the freshest fruit from the local market and packed with nutritional goodness, smoothies are the perfect start to the day.
There is no shortage of exotic fruits and vegetables in Marrakech.
The markets are alive with colour.
I regularly go for detoxifying smoothies for their positive health benefits and as a pick me up after a long, hot day exploring the medina.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Literally, everything goes into making a perfect smoothie, and in Marrakech, they seem to have perfected the art.
Fresh fruit, dried nuts, spiralina, cucumber, avocado, berries, banana, and spinach are just some of the healthy ingredients that are blended together to make the perfect smoothie.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Fresh juice is also a popular choice amongst tourists who need something to quench their thirst in the hot African sun.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is tangy and exhilarating.
Served with fresh mint, it’s both aromatic and a real taste sensation.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Orange juice made from freshly picked oranges off the trees around the medina is a breakfast staple.
It is sunshine in a glass.
Mixed fruit juice is a favourite sold by the vendors in the main square.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
My absolute favourite is the freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.
It is a refreshing tonic and gives me a boost of energy.
I was flagging in the heat during a hike around Ouzoud Waterfall, and pomegranate juice instantly hit the spot.
I felt revitalised again..
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The fruit juice vendors in the main square call you over to sample their mango and pineapple juice.
They use carefully crafted banter to draw you towards them with many competing for business.
They have a selection of exotic fruits to try, and it’s exciting watching them make it for you.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
There are a few places I can recommend where you can enjoy a refreshing juice or healthy smoothie..
Pikala Cafe has an excellent choice, and it’s a great little spot.
I have written a separate post about Pikala Cafe.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Le Ferme Medina.
Henna Art Cafe.
La Famille (vegetarian restaurant)
All offer comfortable, attractive surroundings for a peaceful break from sightseeing and a pleasant way to get some vitamin C.
There are also plenty of rooftop restaurants around the main square to enjoy a well-deserved rest whilst sipping a refreshing cold juice or fruit smoothie and watching the action from above.
Sugarcane juice is widely available around the medina, also.
It is important to stay hydrated whilst out and about in the medina.
The temperature is very warm and humid.
I can not underestimate the power of a bottle of water, and you should always carry one with you, but for a healthy, refreshing treat, consider trying some of the wonderful juices and smoothies also.
The vitamins and minerals are necessary to function for the hectic, busy schedule you may have planned.
Remember, there may still be a high sugar content, so moderation is key.
A useful guide for choosing the correct clothing for your trip.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech can get very hot in summer, and temperatures can exeed 40° Celsius.
Even the cooler months can feel warm and humid, especially walking around the busy souks and popular points of interest.
Marrakech is also a conservative city with a majority Muslim population.
The locals are extremely hospitable, but respect is a big thing in Marrakech.
So, what should you wear to feel comfortable yet still appear respectable?
For female visitors, I would suggest palazzo trousers.
These are flowing and elegant, keeping you nice and cool.
They pair well with smart cotton blouses and can be worn underneath a silk kimono, adding a touch of glamour.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Lightweight cotton or linen trousers also look smart, and neutral colours give a sophisticated, modest appearance.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Silk (including recycled sari silk) maxi dresses are very versatile and keep you cool. They can be worn with a drawstring sari petticoat underneath for modesty if the dress is sheer.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Linen is perfect and always looks polished.
It may get slightly creased, so I would suggest bringing along a portable steamer. They’re a life-saver and take up very little space in your suitcase.
However, most accommodations have an ironing and laundry service at your disposal.
Cotton tee-shirts and blouses are ideal and can look very flattering with the right accessories.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Yoga pants are also perfect for a day exploring.
They are loose fitting and comfortable.
Headscarves are fashionable and can be used as a head covering whilst visiting some of the religious sights or as a convenient wrap around for covering your shoulders.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I like to wear turbans to cover my locs.
They keep my head and neck cool, and at the same time, I feel well put together.
Silk scarves roll up really small and fit perfectly in your bag.
They are versatile and can be used as a hair tie, head covering, or pretty accessory.
Marrakech is definitely more liberal than other morroccan cities. However, exposing too much flesh is definitely frowned upon.
You may attract unwanted attention from both males and females, spoiling your overall experience by making you feel self-conscious.
How you present yourself will determine the kind of experience you have in Marrakesh.
In your hotel or riad, it’s perfectly acceptable to wear shorts and swimwear for sunbathing, so pack those items of clothing also.
Males can wear knee-length shorts with linen or cotton short-sleeved shirts to look smart yet casual.
Many high-end restaurants won’t accept men wearing sandals, but smart leather sliders are deemed acceptable.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Linen or cotton long trousers for men are ideal and keep the body cool.
Men’s clothing is definitely more liberal than females.
They don’t invite the same attention but are still expected to dress for the occasion when visiting certain establishments.
I wouldn’t advise a male to walk around without a shirt on.
That is best left for beach holidays..
So, to summarise, staying smartly dressed whilst comfortable is the only thing men need to consider.
On the other hand, women are expected to respect the cultural norms of the country unless they’re going to the clubs in the Gueliz or Hivenage part of Marrakech.
It’s acceptable to dress more provocatively if you’re having a night out there.
You can still look and feel good in appropriate clothing.
It’s about choosing nice accessories to elevate your outfit.
Marrakech has no shortage of beautiful jewellery and handbags.
Regarding footwear, there is a lot of walking around the medina, so comfortable footwear is certainly essential.
Trainers, pumps, or sandals are all acceptable.
A little tip I found useful is to take a couple of outfits in my travel bag, and once I arrived, I bought the rest of my clothing in the souks.
It wasn’t too expensive, and I felt as if I blended in with the locals better.
I enjoyed wearing the traditional Moroccan dresses, kaftans, and djellabas.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Finally, I have never needed to take a warm coat to Marrakech.
Depending on the season and whether you plan a trip into the Atlas mountains or not, a lightweight weatherproof jacket is enough
I usually take a shawl or cardigan, and it’s always been sufficient for cooler evenings.
Winter in Marrakech is better suited to layers.
A trip to Agafay desert can get very blustery whilst watching the sunset in the open air.
A thin thermal skin worn underneath a long dress or trousers is usually enough to protect from the drop in temperature.
I wore long sleeved tee-shirts underneath my dresses during the evenings.
A comfortable hoodie can also be useful.
Keeping your eyes on the weather forecast before travelling will also help you to plan accordingly for your trip.
So, to summarise,
Wearing comfortable clothing suitable for a day exploring the medina and tourist hot spots is the most important thing to consider.
You will walk a lot, and it can get humid.
To discourage unwanted attention and negative vibes from the locals, female travellers should refrain from dressing too provocatively.
Unless they’re in the bars and clubs, which are more liberally minded.
Choosing natural fibres is the best way to stay cool, and long, loose-fitting garments are ideal because they look modest and feminine.
Lastly, don’t forget to bring the sunscreen.
You don’t want to walk around looking like a lobster.
There is everything that you could possibly dream of buying in the wonderful souks of Marrakech.
As you meander through the maze of colourful alleyways, be prepared for a complete assault on the senses.
From beautiful jewellery to exotic spices, leather shoes and bags, to Morroccan lamps and ceramics.
It’s all here crammed into narrow alleyways and calling out to be bought and taken back home with you.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The skilled craftsmanship is astonishing, and you can find areas dedicated to making and selling different things.
There is a separate place for leather goods, a place where metal workers make beautiful Moroccan lamps and metal sculptures.
An area where wooden things are handmade and rug weaving is demonstrated.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
It’s a lovely experience watching the locals make their goods to sell, and there is also the opportunity to have a go at making things yourself, such as a pair of babouche shoes.
Berber rugs hang proudly around the medina. Each colour and pattern is a feast for the eyes.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Argan oil and morroccan black soap, orange blossom oil, and gardenia float on the gentle breeze.
The smell is so fragrant in the souks.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Wooden boxes ornately decorated with mother of pearl, chess sets, and traditional toys tempt you for the perfect souvenir to take back for your family and friends.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The soft furnishings such as cushion covers made from cactus silk are eye-catching and colourful.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Then there’s the nuts, sweets, and pastries for sale.
Moroccan sweets are a delicacy, and you’ll find yourself spoilt for choice.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The medicinal herbs and spices are a cacophony of colours and fragrances.
Fresh olives with a hint of spice pop with colour.
Paintings and prints of traditional Morroccan doors, Amazigh people and camels crossing the Sahara desert.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
For people who love to shop until they drop like I do, Marrakech is an absolute delight.
It’s not all fun and laughs, though.
The souks are incredibly busy with tourists.
You also have to dodge motorcycles, donkeys, and vendors with carts.
You can expect to get lost, but that’s all part of the experience.
No one went into the souks and was never heard from again…
So, fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy every minute.
It’s unforgettable.
It will invoke the spirit of camel caravans and ancient trade routes from centuries ago in you.
A way to fully delve into the wonderful culture of Marrakech.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Here are a few helpful tips to help you enjoy the souks.
First of all, pace yourself.
The souks are very busy and can feel slightly chaotic at times, especially in the heat.
Stop for a drink and rehydrate.
Rest for a while, and try a spot of lunch on a rooftop cafe. There are plenty inside the souks.
Be prepared to haggle. It may seem daunting at first, but you’ll soon get the hang of it.
Stay vigilant, and keep your wits about you.
Marrakech is a safe city, but pick pocketing can happen just like anywhere else in the world.
In crowded, narrow streets, keep your possessions safe in a closed bag at the front of your body.
If you’re lost, look for signs above your head pointing you back to Jamaa El Fna.
Having an orange sim is useful but may not always work in the denser parts of the souks.
If you need help, ask a shop vendor. They’re usually more than happy to help you.
Don’t be tempted to accept directions from locals who may lead you to a friend or family members’ shop so that they can get commission if you buy something.
You may struggle to get away, and you may find yourself seated and drinking mint tea before you know it.
Take time to shop around and walk away if you don’t think you’re being offered a fair price.
You will usually find yourself being called back, and a realistic price can often be reached.
If not, the same items will most likely be found on sale elsewhere in the souks.
Exercise patience.
Remember, this is someone’s livelihood, and it’s a different culture to what you may be used to.
Wages are not very high for most people in Marrakesh, and tourists with money to spend are fair game for boosting the take-home salary of most vendors.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Although the souks can often feel overwhelming, they are an unforgettable shopping experience.
You will be dazzled by the number of weird and wonderful items on display.
The sights, sounds, and smells will stay with you a long time after you leave this fascinating city.
Helpful ideas if you want to visit Marrakech on a shoestring.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Visiting Marrakech doesn’t have to break the bank
In fact, Morrocco is a relatively cheap country to visit in comparison to many others.
It’s all about careful planning and putting together the right itinerary for your trip before you go.
I have compiled a few ideas and suggestions to help you enjoy your trip without having to spend a ridiculous amount of cash.
1.
Book your flight early.
The earlier you book, the cheaper it is. Download an airline app and keep an eye on the cost of flights. Book out of season when it’s less busy.
2.
If you book your accommodation directly through the riad or hotel, it is often much cheaper.
3.
Use public transport in Marrakech. The buses are an excellent way to get a taste of local life. They are extremely cheap and reliable. The price is set, and you will avoid being privy to scams from the local taxi drivers.
4.
Marrakech is a bustling metropolis with so much going on around the main square. Consider spending time with a pot of traditional mint tea and observing the spectacle from a rooftop. You won’t be disappointed. The sights, sounds, and smells will keep you entertained for ages.
5.
Visit the wonderful Koutoubia Mosque gardens. The mosque is out of bounds for non Muslims. However, the gardens are absolutely delightful and free to visit. Consider picking up a few delicious snacks such as Baclava cake and a sugar cane juice and sitting in the beautiful garden. Despite its proximity to the chaos of Jamaa El Fna, it is peaceful. It’s especially lovely during the evening when the lights come on.
6.
There are plenty of excellent cafes and restaurants which are great value for money.
Henna Art Cafe is superb and has a very pretty interior( see my separate article about Henna Art Cafe). I have eaten here numerous times and highly recommend the food.
Cafe des Espices is also excellent if you’re prepared to wait for seating. The views are great from the rooftop, and I particularly love their choice of salads.
Street food is another option and very popular amongst tourists. Check how busy places are to get an idea of the quality of food being served.
Consider trying the delicious sweets and pastries for sale inside the souks.
7.
Try a public hammam.
I have a separate post describing what a hammam is, and it’s a must do if you’re visiting Marrakech.
Public baths are very cheap in comparison to the more upmarket ones and the best way to experience the local culture.
You can purchase black soap and other essentials for taking in with you in the souks for pennies.
8.
Visit the souks. This is by far the most exciting part of any trip to Marrakech.
Experience the colour and the lively atmosphere as people haggle with the locals for a bargain.
You may get lost in the maze, but that’s all part of the fun. You will find your way out eventually.
There are souks for many different things, and you will see incredible artisans at work crafting all kinds of things.
9.
Visit the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter, and see the Bab Mellah spice market. It’s an assault on the senses discovering all the different spices and their fragrances. You may be offered mint tea whilst you are given a lesson on what each spice is used for. It’s very educational, and to purchase a couple of things is fairly cheap.
10.
Walk around the Kasbah. This is where you will experience the more authentic part of Marrakech. There are more locals here and they are very friendly. It’s a way to feel the more authentic side of Marrakech, and there are some nice spots to grab a coffee and people watch.
11.
Visit Cyber Parc, Arsat Moulay Abdeslam. This is a very well maintained place with beautiful native trees and plants. Relax for an hour or so in this peaceful environment away from the chaotic busy medina. Listen to the birds singing and read the interesting facts dotted about here and there.
12.
Take a 25-minute walk or the number 16 bus from the medina to Gueliz. Wonder around the upmarket boutiques and stores on Mohammed V Avenue and see how modernity and ancient coexist in harmony together in Marrakech.
13.
Spend some time in Tinsmiths Square. This is a less touristic square than Jamaa El Fnaa, and there is plenty to see going on. There are budget friendly cafes and restaurants and plenty of souvenir shops.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Marrakech is a walkable city, and you can spend many an hour wandering about discovering what makes Marrakech so magical.
It’s a destination that is great for everyone, including those on a tight budget.
With some careful planning, you can put together an exciting itinerary and have a truly wonderful experience.
Sounds Of The Souks 