How to enjoy Marrakech on a budget.
Visiting Marrakech doesn’t have to break the bank.
Morrocco is a relatively cheap country to visit. It’s all about careful planning and putting together the right itinerary 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 terrace. 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 beforehand, such as Baclava cake and sugar cane juice and sitting in the beautiful garden. Despite its proximity to the chaos of Jamaa El Fna, it is a peaceful environment. 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. I have eaten here numerous times and highly recommend the food. Terrace Bakchich in the souks is another budget friendly restaurant cafe with excellent food. Trying the 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. The spleen sandwich is a traditional meal in Marrakech served by street vendors. Also consider trying the delicious sweets and pastries for sale inside the souks.
7.
Try a public hammam. 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 essential oils in the souks for pennies. You will need your own towel in public hammams.
8.
Visit the souks. This is by far the most exciting part of any trip to Marrakech. Experience the vibrant colour and the lively atmosphere as people haggle with the locals for a bargain. You may get lost in the maze of alleyways, but that’s all part of the fun. There are souks for different things like leather goods and metalwork, 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.
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. There are some nice spots to grab a smoothie, and the shops are slightly cheaper here.
11.
Visit Cyber Park. 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 that are dotted around the park.
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.
14.
Admire the beautiful Islamic craftsmanship in the medina. There are stunning examples of intricately carved wooden doors and 19 impressive entrances into the medina, including Bab Agnaou, Bab Doukala, and Bab El Khemis. Some date back as far as the Almohad dynasty. It’s a perfect photo opportunity.
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 that doesn’t need to cost much.
The Sound Of The Souks 