The Sound Of The Souks

Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech.

by Freebird Tracey.

  • Herboristerie Reda

    A small apothecary in the souks.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There is nothing better than taking the fragrance of Marrakech home with you. For me, it’s a way to relive  the happy experiences of my time there.

    You can find plenty of places in the souks that sell argan oil, perfumes, shampoos, and body wash. The heady fragrance of orange blossom, oud, and jasmine oil entices you to buy something. It’s a constant reminder of your fragrant riad. However, not all argan oil  for sale in the souks will be genuine. There are inferior quality products sold at high prices, so you need to be mindful.

    Argan oil cooperatives are the best places for buying genuine products. However, if you don’t get an opportunity to visit them, where should you go?

    Herboristerie Reda stocks everything, including Argan oil, and the quality of their products is very good. I have purchased many of their perfumed body oils. The products are genuine and reasonably priced.

    The address is 48.Derb Sidi, Boulfdail.Marrakech 40000.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I spent a lot of time testing the oils to see which ones I liked, and I didn’t feel pressured into buying anything. The woman in the shop was called Hanane, and she was helpful and kind. She speaks several languages, and it was a lovely human experience meeting her.

    They stock a large selection of products, including soap, fragrant body creams, perfumed oils, and products for use in a hammam. You can also purchase herbs and spices, including Saffron. They have herbal teas and medicinal ointments. It’s a little apothecary in the souks.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The shop front is used to advertise an annual Gourd Festival. It’s decorated in striking colours with gourds and garlands hanging in the entrance.

    I have bought oils from other retailers in the souks, but it’s not long before the fragrance wears off. The oils from Herboristerie Reda last ages on the  skin and smell amazing.

    Herboristerie Reda is open from 9.00 am until 10.00pm every day.

    This will be my go-to shop for fragrant gardenia and other essential oils from now on. It’s a treasure trove of magic potions in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Things To Do In Marrakech.

    Ideas to help you plan your itinerary.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech is a big city with lots going on. A little organisation before arriving will help you get the most out of your trip. Having an itinerary before visiting Marrakech is useful. A list of places, including the opening times and addresses, will help you plan a stressfree visit.

    There are a number of places to keep you entertained. There are tourist attractions showcasing the historical significance of the city. Excellent day trips to fascinating places, including the Atlantic coast. You can visit interesting museums and learn ancient techniques passed down through generations. There are fun shopping experiences that offer demonstrations on how to make traditional Morroccan rugs and babouches.

    The next few posts are designed to help you choose sightseeing activities. I have included all the places I have visited. I want to give readers an idea of what to expect, including journey times, reviews, and when to visit.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The first time I visited Marrakech, I was unaware of what to expect. I spent 3 days in the main square and shopping in the souks. The time passed quickly, and I went home feeling as though I’d barely scratched the surface. The next time I visited, I had already done some research. I spent 3 days sightseeing, I went on a day trip and spent an evening watching the sunset in Agafay desert. I still had time for shopping in the souks and ate in some excellent restaurants. I returned home happy and satisfied. I realised that Marrakech is so much more than I ever expected. If I had known about the amount of things to do, I would have had a much better experience the first time.

    Read about the activities I have experienced and use the information to create an interesting itinerary. I continually update my blog to include more adventures. I include places to visit for budget conscious travellers, and most activities can be done without taking an official tour. My own experiences have been booked through Get Your Guide or the riad where I’m staying. This gives me peace of mind as a solo female traveller. If I were travelling as a group of friends, I would plan excursions outside of the city independently. I don’t use guides for sightseeing around the medina. However, they are available if you want one.

    Take note of places that may be of interest to you. Decide the most cost-effective way to experience them and plan accordingly. When choosing a tour, check the reviews on Get Your Guide to make sure you’re getting value for money. There are tour operators around the city, but I have never booked through them.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Lastly, Marrakech has a lot to offer, and you will not fit everything into your first visit. Plan a varied trip  that includes places of historical interest such as Bahia Palace or Ben Youssef Madrasa. Visit a couple of museums and at least one excursion out of the city. I also recommend making use of the parks around the city to enjoy some peace and tranquillity. The Souks are dynamic and exciting but limit your time to early morning or later in the evening. The main square comes alive at dusk, leaving the daytime free for other activities.

    Of course, you can always come back to this fascinating city if you don’t manage to see everything.

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  • The Kasbah.

    Visiting an authentic district of Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is located in the southern part of Marrakech and is considered the jewel of the old city.

    The Kasbah is a quieter part of Marrakech, with fewer tourists than the medina. Staying in the Kasbah, you feel totally immersed in the culture of Marrakech as you rub shoulders with the friendly locals. There are plenty of shops, including a large fixed price store called Dar Bouchaib, selling everything you will find in the souks.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is home to popular tourist attractions like the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.There are a number of good restaurants in the area, many with rooftop terraces to catch the sunset.

    Zeitoune Cafe is a lovely restaurant for a spot of lunch. It’s in a strategic position and overlooks the mosque, making it a nice place to take a break from sightseeing in the area. The Kasbah mosque is the second largest mosque in Marrakech and is also referred to as ‘The Golden Apple Mosque’ it has a minaret reaching 80 metres tall. I enjoyed sitting on colourful cushions outside Zeitoune Cafe with the view of the mosque in front of me. It was a nice way to spend some time in the sunshine people watching.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The kasbah is a 20-minute leisurely walk from the main square with plenty to see along the way. There are plenty of shops selling all kinds of stuff, including spices, jewellery, clothing and perfumes.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    In the kasbah, there is a  range of budget and high-end accommodation. I stayed at Riad Hikaya and had a really positive experience. The luxurious five-star hotel La Sultana is also in the Kasbah.

    The Kasbah is a quieter neighbourhood than the medina. Parts of it are pedestrianised, and there is less traffic, making it feel less chaotic than the medina. The locals go about their daily business of buying bread, selling clothes,and feeding stray cats. It’s a typical scene of everyday life inside the ochre walls.

    The Kasbah has a slower pace of life, and it’s a lot less stressful than the touristy side of Marrakech.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is the historical citadel in Marrakesh with fortified walls. The narrow, winding alleyways make it an exciting place to visit, with their signature red colour glowing in different hues at certain times of the day.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The famous Bab Agnaou gate provides entry into the Kasbah, and out of the 19 gates around the medina, it’s one of the most ornate. The King’s Palace is also situated inside the walls of the fortress. Therefore, the whole area is heavily guarded, making it a safe place for visiting with children.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Kasbah is home to the Clock restaurant with its legendary camel burgers and storytelling evenings. Also, the Kasbah Cafe is a popular place for lunch and dinner. Krepchy does a fantastic breakfast, and the prices are very reasonable. I highly recommend the waffles. There are a few good coffee shops selling decent coffee, such as the popular Nos Nos.

    To return from the medina, consider taking a tuk-tuk if the weather is hot. It’s quite an adventure as you rattle along the bumpy streets back into the Kasbah.

    Tinsmiths Square and the Jewish quarter known as the Mellah are not far from the Kasbah, and there are plenty of things to see and great places to eat in both areas.

    Taxis can pick you up from your accommodation but they may struggle in some of the narrower streets. There is also a taxi rank close to the roundabout near Tinsmiths Square.

    Spending an hour or two in this historical area of Marrakech will add value to your visit. The locals are very friendly, and it’s a pleasure getting the opportunity to sit and chat with them.

    I would recommend staying in the kasbah if you prefer a quieter, more authentic experience of Marrakech. It’s further out from the madness of the busy souks and a more relaxed environment.

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  • Place Des Ferblantiers.

    Visiting Tinsmiths Square in the Mellah.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Tinsmiths Square is located to the south of Jamaa El Fna. It is within the Mellah, the oldest Jewish quarter of Marrakech. This quieter area of Marrakech is often overlooked by tourists.

    It is here that skilled artisans make their wares to sell using traditional methods passed down through generations. Beautifully crafted jewellery, lamps, and traditional daggers made from copper and tinplate are skillfully handcrafted in this fascinating area of the city.

    Tinsmiths Square presents a calmer alternative to Jamaa El Fna with palm trees lining the pedestrian friendly walkway. It connects the old Jewish district with the Muslim quarter.

    Tinsmiths Square is a vibrant area with lots of spice shops, cafes, and restaurants with rooftop terraces. Shops sell intricately carved items made in small workshops. There are several benches around the square to sit and take in the sights and sounds and a fountain in the centre. Fun games occasionally take place, and the square also hosts events.

    Cats roam freely across the square and are a popular sight, lazing in the plant pots and flower beds. Sometimes, they are quite cheeky and make themselves comfortable on tourist’s laps.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Place des Ferblantiers is close to popular sightseeing spots like The Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace, and The Saadian Tombs. The Kasbah is just a short walk away.

    I love Tinsmiths Square. There are some great cafes and restaurants and I have bought some interesting souvenirs here. There is a great vibe, and the pace is much more relaxed than in the densely packed medina.

    Video by Freebird Tracey.

    I was spoilt for choice with all the fragrant spice shops in the square selling everything from eucalyptus to argan oil. The friendly vendors happily educate you on what each remedy is used for and what the different types of tea are good for. Browsing leisurely around the spice shops is an explosion of colour and pungent aromas.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    If you want a slower, less touristic place to spend a few hours, don’t miss out on visiting Tinsmiths Square. There are a few budget restaurants, and Medina Mall, which is home to the popular Fluffys dessert cafe, is close to the square.

    Tinsmiths Square is an exciting area of Marrakech, and you can get taxis from the taxi rank near the roundabout to get to other areas of the city from here.

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  • The Spice Square.

    Visit the apothecary of Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The Spice Square, also known as Rahba Kedima, is a smaller market, less densely packed with tourists. It is located at the end of Souk Semmarine and a five minute walk from Jamaa El Fna.

    It is here that you will find a wonderful selection of spices, including saffron, cumin, and turmeric. The spices are beautifully displayed in pyramids around the square, and the air is fragrant with the scent of incense. There are dried herbs, oils, potions, dried tea, and the traditional Moroccan lip stain.

    The Spice Square is the traditional apothecary of Marrakech and a treasure trove of Moroccan culture.

    In the Spice Square, you will also find hand woven baskets,  straw hats, baby tortoises, and shops selling Amazigh jewellery ,Tuareg leather amulets and beautiful throws and wall hangings. It is a vibrant, colourful market with a less frantic pace than Jamaa El Fna.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Spice Square is home to popular restaurants like Cafe Des Espices and Nomad, a well-known restaurant amongst tourists who flock to watch the setting sun from the rooftop terrace.

    The Spice Square is not far from the Medersa Ben Youseff and Marrakech museum, so it’s ideal for making it part of your day when visiting both of these attractions.

    Until the 20th century, Rahba Kedima was the cities grain market and the place where slaves were sold. It is now the epicentre of the medina where you can pick up the famous Moroccan spice blend ras el hanout and watch the spice sellers who come down from the mountain villages at 4.00 in the afternoon to sell their trade. The smells and colours are heady, as friendly vendors demonstrate the benefits of eucalyptus and other herbal remedies to the tourists.

    The Spice Square is a photogenic place where you will be met with a glimpse of trading traditions from the past. It’s the perfect balance between a bustling market experience and a relaxed, more laid-back atmosphere.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    As you meander your way through the busy Semmarine souk, it suddenly opens up to this feast of exotic colours that seem to appear out of nowhere. You will be greeted by a display of tantalising and pungent aromas that have become the essence of Marrakech.

    There are a few budget cafes around the spice square that are ideal spots for a pot of mint tea whilst sitting in the sunshine absorbing this sensual experience.

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  • Bahia Palace.

    One of the most visited attractions in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Bahia Palace is a 19th-century palace in Marrakesh. It’s definitely a must-see if you’re visiting the city, as it is quite spectacular.

    The word Bahia means  ‘brilliance’ in Arabic, a reflection of the splendour of Islamic architecture and art. The rooms inside the Bahia Palace are beautifully decorated with sculpted stucco, zellige tiles, paintings, and mosaics to capture the essence and skill of divine craftsmanship. The intricately carved cedar wood ceilings are a testimony to the beauty and precision involved in the creation of such a spectacular palace.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The huge courtyard is one of the focal points of Bahia Palace. It is rather grand and very spacious with a fountain in the centre and intricate zellige tile work typical of Morroccan design and culture. All the doors open out into it.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are approximately 150 rooms organised around multiple internal courtyards and riad gardens. The palace covers around two hectares.

    In 1956, when Morocco gained independence from the French, the palace became the residence of King Hassan II until it was later transferred to the Moroccan Ministry of Culture to serve as a cultural icon and tourist attraction. Bahia Palace has now become one of the most significant landmarks and tourist destinations in Marrakech, attracting 1000s of visitors.

    If you’re planning a visit, it is advisable to book tickets as queues can be extremely long. They cost 70 dirhams at the time of writing, and the palace is open between 8.00am-5.00pm daily.

    The gardens surrounding the palace are also impressive, with orange trees lining the route to the entrance. It’s worth having a wander around them after seeing the interior.

    I would suggest arriving as close to opening time as you possibly can to avoid the crowds. That way, you can spend time reading about the history of the palace before it becomes too busy, and you also have a better chance to capture a few photos of the internal chambers and exquisitely decorated rooms.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    If you’re visiting marrakech, the Bahia Palace will give you a good understanding of both Moroccan and Islamic culture and the architecture, art and craftsmanship that defines it.

    If you enjoy looking at Islamic architecture, you should also visit Badi Palace and the Saadian tombs in the Kasbah area of the city.

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  • The Saadian Tombs.

    A testimony to the opulence of the Saadian dynasty.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    One of the most popular tourist attractions in Marrakesh is the Saadian tombs.

    The Saadian tombs have become a historical landmark dating back as far as the late sixteenth century. Built by the Saadian dynasty, they house the mausoleums of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansour and his family.

    The  mixture of Spanish and Moorish architecture is really impressive, with detailed stucco work, intricate mosaic tiles, and Italian Carrara marble.The main mausoleum is quite remarkable, with beautifully decorated ceilings and columns and there are usually very long queues waiting to see it. The Saadian tombs are very decadent with a mixture of Morroccan, Andalusian, and European styles, showcasing the wealth of the Saadian dynasty.

    I recommend arriving early around opening time to avoid waiting too long to see the main mausoleum. Tourists can wait for over an hour in the heat, so make sure you have a bottle of water handy just in case.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Saadian Tombs were hidden for centuries. They were spotted through aerial photography and are now one of the most visited tourist attractions in Marrakesh.

    Housing over 100 tombs with beautiful zellige tiles and marble columns, this royal necropolis was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour to honour his ancestors. The chamber of 12 columns is where the tombs of Ahmed al- Mansour and his successors are laid to rest. In the gardens lie the tombs of soldiers and servants. There is a smaller  tranquil chamber, which is called the Chamber of Three Niches.

    The Saadian Tombs are an example of Moroccos’ rich history and culture. They are in close proximity to El Badi Palace and Bahia Palace. Both are worth a visit if your you’re interested in Islamic art and architecture.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Saadian Tombs are in the Kasbah next to the mosque, and the opening times are 9.00 am until 5.00pm daily. The price of entry at the time of writing is 100 dirhams.

    The Kasbah is located to the south of the medina.

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  • El Badi Palace.

    The ruins of an extravagant palace from the Saadian dynasty.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    El Badi Palace was built in 1578 by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansour of the Saadian dynasty. The palace was built to showcase the considerable wealth of the Saadian dynasty and was a prime example of Islamic architecture and exquisite craftsmanship.

    Using both Moroccan and European influences, the palace was beautifully decorated with intricate mosaic tiles, marble arches, and ornate carvings. There were 300 rooms decorated in gold, turquoise, and crystal. It was also home to the sultans harem, which included over 500 women.

    When Meknes became the new capital city, the palace was completely stripped of all its materials and transported there to create a new palace.  After the death of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansour in 1603, the palace fell into neglect. Now, only the ruins remain.

    El Badi is worth a visit if you want to learn about the history of Marrakech and the elite who ruled centuries ago.There is an interesting exhibition area containing the Almoravid Minbar, which is the finely decorated pulpit that once  stood inside the Koutoubia Mosque. The area also hosts temporary art and cultural exhibitions. There are underground chambers that contain information and photographs about the history of the palace.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Unfortunately, the palace was badly damaged during the earthquake in 2023, and renovations have taken place to repair the cracks in the walls. It’s still a tranquil place to visit, and the huge courtyard feels very calm and peaceful. The storks nesting on top of the towers give it a mystical atmosphere.

    El Badi Palace is situated in the Kasbah district, which is to the south of the city. It is close to the Saadian tombs, an impressive burial site, and another place to visit to get an understanding of the history of Marrakech.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Visiting this once opulent palace, you get a sense of the wealth and grandeur of the Saadian dynasty. There’s a feeling of tranquillity within its walls, and you appreciate its historical significance.

    El Badi Palace is open every day from 9.00am to 5.00pm and costs 100 dirhams to enter.

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  • Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex.

    Visit a fixed price arts and craft centre in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex is a government sponsored initiative for skilled artisans.

    A short walk away from Jamaa El Fna, opposite Cyber Park, is this unique space in Marrakech. Within the complex, you will find artisans creating beautiful artwork, including paintings, rugs, and pottery.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It was established for artisans to teach their work to apprentices, and it’s a more low-key shopping experience than the souks. The best artisans are picked to work here, and there is usually only one or two representing each speciality, unlike in the souks. There are wonderful examples of excellent craft work, including brass and copper crafts, lamps, leather work, musical instruments, and much more..

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Prices are fixed, and all the profit goes to the artisans.

    Shopping in this fascinating area gives you an idea of how much you should be charged for items in the souks. Some things here are slightly pricer, but you don’t have to bargain hard, and it’s a more relaxed shopping experience.

    Within the complex is a simple restaurant for food and drinks. It’s a cute waterhole to take a rest and admire the attractive setting. The tiled surroundings of Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex are very beautiful to look at and complimented by small green areas with plants.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There is also calligraphy available. If you want a gift for someone, consider getting their name in Arabic printed onto a nice postcard.

    I enjoyed spending a couple of hours away from the hectic pace of the medina. The slow rhythmic tapping of skilled artisans at work was a nice change of pace. Watching the ladies demonstrate carpet weaving on a traditional loom was really interesting, and I was also invited to have a go.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex is located on Mohammed V Avenue. It’s about a 6 minute walk from the Jamaa El Fna. The times of opening are 9.30am until 7.00pm, with the exception of Sunday when they close at 2.00pm.

    I found a few lovely paintings to take home with me, which were painted by a local artist and beautifully handcrafted mirrors that caught my eye.

    Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex is a perfect respite from the chaos of the medina and a wonderful spot to pick up a few lovely treasures whilst experiencing the local people showcasing their exceptional skills.

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  • The Museum of Mouassine Music.

    A museum hosting traditional music evenings.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The Mouassine Museum of Music is in the Saadian quarter of the medina. It is housed in a recently restored 16th – 17th century house in the once aristocratic Mouassine area of Marrakech. The upper floor has a small guest room called a douiria. This is a prime example of fine Arab Andalusian architecture. The main room of the douiria is beautifully decorated, with carved stucco featuring geometric patterns and Kufic letter motifs as well as sculpted and painted wooden ceilings.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There are several rooms showcasing the diversity of musical traditions in Morocco. Amazigh music, Jewish tradition, daqqa marrakchia, Gnawa music, and Arab-Andalusian music. The Music Museum contains a wide range of instruments, photographs, and videos. It is a fascinating walk through the musical heritage of Africa and home to some fascinating artefacts.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    After visiting the museum, make your way upstairs to the pretty rooftop terrace where there is a restaurant called the Belvedere Terrace. There are great views of the medina and Atlas Mountains from up there.

    The museum also hosts popular events. Three times a week, there are musical evenings. Mondays, there is an Andalusian music concert. Wednesdays is a concert dedicated to Berber music, and Fridays is traditional gnawa music. These concerts commence between 6 and 7.00pm.The concerts are followed by a traditional tea ceremony. I recommend booking in advance to guarantee a place. They are very popular and fill up quickly.

    The Mouassine Museum of Music is a deep delve into the history and culture of Marrakech. It’s a colourful museum with fascinating exhibits. The price of entry is 80 dirhams and permits entry into the museum of photography also.

    The address is 4,5 Derb El Hammam Marrakech Morocco. It is situated near the southeastern corner of the Mouassine Mosque and the Mouassine fountain.  The area is quite dense, so look for signs or use Google maps to help you locate it.

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