SHOPPING IN MARRAKESH. WE GUIDE YOU THROUGH THE SOUKS

Surely you know that Marrakesh has one of the most famous markets or souks of the World. In fact, the old city had its origins as a market town as it was in a crossroads for passing caravans.

Nowdays, Marrakesh is a great place for shopping. Around the souks, the trade has blossomed throughout the city and while inside the Medina is more traditional and artisanal, outside, in the new part of the city, we can find luxury and large firms as in any big city in the world. Marrakesh has not escaped from the Globalisation, but inside the Medina, in the souks, nothing has changed much and walking around them, represents a journey into the past..




From the Riad La Belle Epoque we will try to guide you through the maze of the souks of Marrakesh, recommend some shops, guide you in the art of bargaining and encourage you to do not miss one of the biggest attractions of this city. 

Come on, let's go shopping in Marrakech !.

Located in the heart of the city between the Djemaa El Fna and the Ben Youssef Mosque, and scattered along a myriad alleys, the souks or markets presents to us all genres in thousands of stores disregarding the hustle and bustle that surrounds them. These establishments of all types and sizes are crammed next to each other and it would not be unusual to find 100 stores in 100 meters street. They sell everything .......... Staples, slippers and leather, carpets; nuts, oils and cosmetics, jewelry and furniture, tourist souvenirs, fabrics of all kinds ..... It's difficult to think of something that can not be found in the souks of Marrakesh. Many of the shopkeepers are authentic artisans so don´t miss the chance to see in action tanners, carpenters, blacksmiths, jewelers, cobblers, basket weavers and cutlers, manufacturing the goods that will fill the shelves.

And what about the experience of entering in one of these establishments  where after being initially entertained by a smiling shopkeeper who will offer you mint tea. All this kind situation, will change as the time runs. The shopkeeper will try to find out if there is something that catches your attention and he will immediately launch a crazy offer that sometimes quadruple the value of the product. You should not be scared. This is part of the game and if you are really interested, then you must offer your price. Much lower, of course. The shopkeeper will answer you with a sneer, or indifference, but finally he will launch a new price, much lower that the initial one. And  this give and take will continue, perhaps between sips of tea, smiles and notches of displeasure, cold greetings and farewells and new entertainments to retain you inside the shop, a comedy or a drama, or both represented in a frantic minutes of merchant haggling ... and hopefully everything will culminate with a friendly greeting and a bag in your hands containing the desired good.

As the guilds in the Middle Ages, the artisans of the souks are grouped so we will find different markets. We offer you a tour to all of them. Just follow the map.

 To guide us, we leave from the Jemaa El Fna northbound until we reached the street Souk Semmarine. Just before the end of rue Souk Semmarine, a narrow street on the right leads to a small square, Rahba Kedima. And there we'll find the following souks::

1. Place Rahba Kedima: Kedima Rahba Square is home to numerous apothecary stalls selling traditional cosmetics and potions surrounded by wool hats and baskets.

2.Souq Btana: The aromatic Souk Btana where sheepskins are sold ready to be worked.

3. Souq Larzal: wool market in the early morning and in the afternoon perfect to find second hand clothes.


4.Criée Berbère (Souq Joutia Zrabi or Souq bereber) : The Carpets souk, one of the most picturesque with its corridors roofed with reeds. Watch auctions with carpets brought from all parts of the Atlas.


5. Souq El Kebir: All you can imagine, in leather.

6. Souq Fagharine


7. Souq Siyyaghin. The souk of jewelry.


8. Ancient Kissarias: Straight and very narrow streets filled with stalls of cotton, clothing, kaftans and blankets. This place was where the most valuable goods were offered.

9. Souq Smata: Slippers and belts.

10. Marrakech Museum.

11. Ben Youssef´s Madrassa.


12. Ben Youssef´s Mosque.


13. Souq Kimakhine: If you like musical instruments, this is your souk..Here you will find all kinds of instruments. Pay attention to the hand carved lauds.

14. Souq el Bradiia or souk of the jars

15. Souq Haddadine: Blacksmiths souks where you can see how a bicycle ends up being turned into lanterns, amid the pounding of hammers and anvils.

16. Zoco Nahhasin: Brass and Copper.


17. Souq Chouari: Souk of carpenters and basketry with a delicious cedar aroma.



18. Souq Sebbaghine: Dyers souk. The most photogenic. Stroll under hundreds of newly dyed fabrics.

19. Mouassine Mosque.

20. Souq Semmarine: Leather bags, backpacks, jackets, slippers, belts, poufs ...... the aroma is unmistakable. An archway marks the beginning of this souk flanked by shops selling mostly textiles and numerous souvenir products. It is covered by a large iron lattice..


21. Old Slave Market

Additionally we recommend a visit to the following souks:

 

Souq Ableuh: Olives Souk. All kinds of olives and with different dressings. A delight for the palate. Located next to the mosque Quessabine.

Souq Kchacha: Nuts souk. Hundreds of stalls of nuts, dates and delicious fruits from around the country. Perfect for a brief stop and recharge on the go.

Souq Cherratine: Souk of skins and fur. Highlights are the handcrafted riding chairs. It is at the end of Rue Souk El Kebir, past the Kissarias.

The souks are usually open daily from 9.00 to 19.00 and closed on Friday mornings.

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You may wonder what you can find in the souks of Marrakech ...

Almost everything, and as the most typical products are often artisanal you will witness its process. Among these are the following:

 - Traditional Moroccan Lamps & Mirrors: Made with leather, brass, copper, wrought iron. There´s no material which can not turn into a beautiful lamp or lantern.

 - Leather items: slippers, poufs, bags, small furnitures, belts, jackets, all made using ancient techniques.

 - Textiles: Highlights are the rugs of all sizes, colors and, of course, prices. But there are also beautiful chilabas and scarves.

- Metal Objects: From teapots or plattres to wall sconces. Also look for the magnificent glass tea sets..

- Wooden objects: beautiful carved boxes and furniture of all types and sizes. Very famous chess boards

 - Ceramics: Tagines and kitchenware, tableware and containers will add a touch of color and exoticism to your table.

 - Baskets and Hats: Stop for a while and watch the women weaving these utensils.

 - Gastronomic products:  Delicious dates, olives, spices of all kinds and color, honey and almond sweets, nuts ..... give a touch of color and scent to the stalls selling these products.

-Cosmetics and Herbalists:  In Marrakech there is a huge variety of healthy food stores and pharmacies offering traditional remedy for all kind of diseases. Very famous is the Argan oil, fundamental in the Berber culture. Cultivated for centuries for culinary and cosmetic uses, the Argan oil is rich in natural ingredients that play an important role in cell renewal and regeneration. (Works perfectly on wrinkles and dry skin, reduces visible marks left by pimples or chickenpox, and other skin injuries such as burns or irritation) is also used for the care of the scalp restoring shine to the hair through its highly nutritional capacity and strengthens the nails. Finally it is also used to relieve joint pains and is very popular for body massages..

You can see a sample of these products in the website http://artesania-marroqui.com/, an online shop where you can buy conveniently from home countless items produced in Morocco.

 

If you go shopping in Marrakech, then you won´t have to stay within the Medina and souks. In the Nouvelle Ville or new city, you will find luxury shops and all kind of franchises such as Gucci, Zara or Mango. In Gueliz, there are many  designer shops where you will find beautiful bags from leading brands at a bargain price (although probably without label).In fact, many  leather firms have their factories in Morocco.


Most of those stores have fixed prices and credit cards are accepted so if you do not have much time to argue a price, this is your shooping area
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If you are planning to come  to Marrakech and do some shopping we invite you to have a look to the following lines where we list some of our favorite stores:

Mustapha Blaoui: Ali Baba's cave without the 40 thieves (unless you find the  prices exorbitant). A huge door gives access to this warehouse full of treasures where you will find everything from giant chandeliers and carpets to all types of furniture.

Address: 142-4 Rue Bab Doukkala Medina
Hours: 09: 00-20: 00

Cooperative Artisanale Femmes de Marrakech: Women artisans cooperative where you will find everything from wooden bowls to tea sets, carpets, leather slippers and all the most typical souvenirs.

Address: 67, Souq Kchachbia

Hours: 9:30-12:3 & 14:30-18:30

Abdellatif Instruments: Admire hundreds of lutes and stringed instruments hanging on the walls of this small establishment. Hopefully you'll hear a musician playing one of them.This is one of the places to visit to musicians around the world.

Address: 86, Kchachbia souk, near the souk Haddadine
Hours: 09: 30-18: 00

Jamade: Colorful pottery and jewelry store with Berber handmade designs mixed with modern, original and fixed price products.

Address: 1 Plaçe Douar Graoua corner rue Riad Zitoun el-Jadid
Hours: 10 -13.30 & 15.30-19.30

 
Atelier Moro: Or Marrakesh´s best kept secret. This fashion shop is next to the Mouassine fountain, hidden behind a green door. Access by a narrow staircase to this cave full of treasures.

Address: 114 Place of Mouassine

Closed on Friday
 

Masroure Abdillah: This artisan works wool like anybody else making shoes, ornaments, bags and all sorts of gadgets. .

Address: 53, Souk Lebbadine

Carpets Ben Rahal: Carpets of high quality at a fixed price. Perfect if you want the rug of your dreams without having to haggle or feeling cheated.

Address: 28, Rue de la Liberte.
Hours: 09: 30-13: 30 & 15: 30-19: 00 Monday-Saturday

Mademoiselle Ibtissam's Original Design: For tableware, linens, and everything you could need in your table. Products of the highest quality and original designs at bargain prices. A colorfull show.

www.original-design-mrk.com

Address : 47, Place des Ferblantiers.

Hours  09:30-12:30 & 14:30-19:30

Creations Pneumatiques: Admire the creations of this recycling master craftsman

Address 110 Rue Riad Zitoun el-Kedim

Hours 07:00-10:00


Herboriste Avicenne: Ancient Herbalistl with shelves full of oils, fragrances, all kinds of herbs and spices.
Address: 113, Rahba Lakdima Souk Laghzel 172-174

L’Art du Bain Savonnerie Artisanale: Original bath products with a fixed price. A perfect gift if you have little room in your luggage.

www.lartdubain.com

Address: Souq Lebbadine, next to Souk Sebbaghine

Hours  9:30-19:30

L’Art du Bois: Beautiful kitchen utensils made ​​from olive wood.
Address: 37, Souk el Kebir

 Akbar Delights: Boutique for the wealthy. Everything and the best ..... and expensive, of course. .
www.akbardelights.com
Address: Place Bab Fteuh
Hours 10.00-13.00 / 15.00-19.30; closed on Mondays

 
Aya's Marrakech: For celebrities. It is said that here is where Sarah Jessica Parker buys their caftans.
http://www.ayasmarrakech.com/

Address: 11 Bis, Derb Jdid Bab Mellah,


About Prices and the art of haggling

Welcome to the paradise of haggling. Moroccan people have this art in their blood and they can not imagine to close any deal without doing it ......This is Morocco, the cost of living and prices are cheaper than in Europe or North America, so for them, tourists are presupposed to have their pockets full of dollars or euros and they must take advantage of that.  If we add that most tourists are not used to bargaining, and they tend to close deals too soon it is not surprising that the deal ends up being a lucrative activity for the vendor.

You shouldn´t miss the experience of haggling during your stay in Marrakech. It´s  fun and a perfect exercise of self-control, patience and gestural strategy. It is an art that is learned and improved with practice and time. Good not only for your pocket but also for your self-esteem. You could even say that at the end, you will love the objects obtained in the transaction, and you will always remeber how them ended in your hands. We will give you some tips to close a good deal:

If in your walks around the souks you get too close to any stall or you show too much interest on anything, the seller will greet you immediately in your language (making you wonder how do they know where are you from) . If you are not interested at all, it is better to let him know since the beginning. If you are not sure, keep on looking. Of course, at that time, without realizing it, you will be subject to a sympathetic questioning about your origins, your football team, even about your family situation .... And surprisingly you will end up answering to everything.
 . 

If something catches your eye and you want to know the price, ask for it and stoically endure the first price the vendor will launch ..... Take it easy, it's just the way it is, this first price will be the triple of the one you're willing to pay. If you are interested on buying the item, cast a price well below (a quarter of the initial one will be reasonable). The seller will respond either with a smile or with face of disinterest, or even angry. It depends on the role he wants to play at that time. The best thing is to do the same and if it helps, act like your favorite actor or actress. Have fun, without being disrespectful and only if you are really interested in buying at a reasonable price. You will see that after a period of time the price will be lower, but just a little bit. It is his turn, don´t rush him and be patient.

Once  is your turn again, you must consider the percentage of his discount. If it is very low, be tenacious and offer a lower price. If his first bet is very high, yours must be much lower.

The best strategy is to fix in your mind a target and offer little by little a higher price, do not rush or you will loose the battle.

Finally you will get close to your ideal price and the deal will be closed.

Ideally you will never pay more than half of the initial price and in case the vendor resists to lower the price, just leave the shop...he will run after you asking for a new opportunity or not, it will depends on the margin...Nobody wants to loose money.

And now, that you know all these tips, why don´t you practice your haggling skills while shopping in Marrakech? You will enjoy it, that´s for sure.

 

25 THINGS YOU MUST DO IN MARRAKESH

The Medina of Marrakesh is UNESCO World Heritage since 1985 and is one of the most attractive destinations in the world and one of the most visited places in Morocco.

From Riad La Belle Epoque we suggest 25 essential things to do during your visit to Marrakech. 

 Let´s go and see:

1.  WALK AROUND DJEMMA EL FNA SQUARE

Undoubtedly the emblem of this city, "The Place" (square), as everyone knows it, is the best known place of Marrakesh. Being in the heart of the Medina, is busy daily and visited by thousands of people and is the meeting and leisure point of the inhabitants of the city and visitors from the rest of the World.  

His visit is a must and not only because the square itself is architecturally interesting, a big space with no high buildings surrounding it, but for the people and customs that populate it.

Surrounded by cafes and restaurants with superb terraces, is the perfect spot for the contemplation of life flowing through the square. Located next to the bazaar where you can find almost anything that can be bought, the Square have their own schedules and if in the morning it is populated by freshly squeezed orange juice stalls , in the afternoon they become in stalls of olives, nuts and dates, and with the arrival of tourists and locals passing by it begins to fill with a mix of interesting characters: Storytellers, water carriers, snake charmers, dancers, fortune tellers, letter writers,, dentists, all of them sharing the same space . By the end of the afternoon dozens of restaurants-bars identified by numbers,  open their doors to visitors for delight of locals and foreigners,.




You can eat everything, from fish brought from the nearby Atlantic coast or salads with the best products of the orchards that surround Marrakesh, to the typical dishes of Moroccan cuisine: Tagines, couscous, lamb head or delicious snails.

Please indulge yourself with a delicious orange juice in the morning and get lost between the characters that populate this singular place.

2. SPEND SOME MONEY IN THE SOUKS AND LEARN A LITTLE BIT OF THE ART OF BARGAINING

 
It is impossible to visit Marrakesh ignoring the souks. Around the square and scattered throughout the Medina, the souks are the raison d'être of Marrakesh. The number of stores is overwhelming and in them, you will find all sort of things. Each of the souks is oriented to a type of product, and as if it were medieval guilds,the craftsmen tend to cluster. Thus we will find an area for spices, another for blacksmiths and another one where dominates the sound of the chisel, another where you can get the basic ingredients to cast magical spells, an leather products area, carpets, lamps and mixed with them and almost in every corner, stalls full of slippers, tagines, and baskets among other souvenirs

The most searched products in the souks are bags and leather articles, rugs, spices and nuts and argan oil, widely used as a cosmetic but can also be used as a culinary spice. Fabrics, leather and metal objects are the typical handicrafts presents in everywhere.

Spectacular and worth the visit, are the Place des Epices or The Street of Carpets, not to mention blacksmiths  market.

The souks are in an adaptation process and although years ago his visit was fascinating, it was very comun the harassment. Today everything has become much more relaxed, with no pressure and many shops have even displayed their prices on the goods they are selling. Obviously the haggling continues and is an experience you can not miss. If you take it slow and with respect, you will find it as a fun and rewarding activity. Our advice is not to show too much interest in a product and keep in mind that although Morocco is a cheap country a handmade product has its work behind and there´s always a minimum price below which the artisan will never sell it. Anyway the first price they will launch will be between two and three times what we should pay.
A shop where you can find everything with excellent quality is Mustapha Blaoui 142-144 Bab Doukkala, Marrakech (00 212 524 385 240).

This shop is hidden behind huge double doors lacking number or other indication, near Riad la Belle Epoque. As we crossed the threshold, it is as if we enter into Aladdin's cave. Hundreds of beautiful carpets lining the walls and dozens of huge lamps hanging from the ceiling, certainly not for a standard house, but worth to visit. Furniture of all kinds and a varied crafts are presented to us in a labyrinthine network of corridors and rooms of different sizes. The friendly staff will help you to find what you want and if you finally find something and you can afford to pay it, they can even send it back home, with and extra cost, of course.

To buy souvenirs to friends and family back home, for those of you without bargaining skills and without time, we recommend the Artisan Center (Kasbah 7 Derb Baissi Kasbah (+212 5 24 38 18 53). Open daily from 8.30 am-7pm). It's the closest thing to a mall in Marrakesh and here you will find slippers, tallines, ceramic tea sets, leather bags, rugs, jewelry and T-shirts made ​​in China .... almost everything. A little more expensive than in the souk but for sure you will save time.


If once at home you have forgotten something or this item that you love do not fit into your bag, do not worry, in the online shop Artesanía Marroquí you can always buy your favorite Morrocan handicraft. They have a wide range of products brought from Morocco and it is easy to find what you want.

At Riad La Belle Epoque we always recommend a guided tour of the souks at the beginning of your stay. It is a rewarding experience that will provide a totally different picture of the Medina, and it will also serve to learn how to navigation around the maze of streets and alleys, basic to your later walks around the city. The visit with accredited guide costs 100 €/group all day or  50€/group for half day.

Let us know if you are interested and we'll inform you about this tours.

3. FOLLOW THE SINGING OF THE MUEZZIN IN THE KOUTOUBIA MOSQUE

The minaret of the Koutoubia, is the symbol of Marrakesh and it is visible from many parts of the city. This is not because of its hight (only 70 meters) but by the city ordinance that prohibits to build any building higher than a palm tree.

Its figure reminds us of the Giralda in Seville, built on the same architectural style inspired by the Koutoubia, and the surroundings are very pleasant and  indifferent to the bustle of the nearby square.

The visit to non-Muslims is not allowed, but it's worth to walk around it and rest while the muezzin intones his prayers from the top of the minaret.

4. LEARN ABOUT ISLAMIC CULTURE IN BEN YOUSSEF´S MADRASA

Northeast of the square you can see the Mosque and the Ben Youssef Madrasa.

A madrassa is a Koranic school where students memorizes the Quran.
 
Built in the fourteenth century, Ben Youssef´s Madrasa was the most important religious school in Morocco, accommodating up to 900 students. It was destroyed and later rebuilt by the Saadian, who provided a larger sample of art and architecture. This Madrasa is a beautiful building decorated with mosaics, delicate carved paneled walls and ceilings. and hosts some of the finest examples of Moroccan´s architecture and art. Its visit is really fast and in it you will see a large courtyard with a central pool for ablutions, a prayer room in which you will see the most exuberant decorations, and some cells.

Nearby is the Museum of Marrakesh and the Kouba. You can buy a combined ticket for the three monuments that costs 60 dirhams

Place Ben Youssef.

Visiting hours: Open daily from 9:00 to 18:00.

Price: 60 dirhams for the three monuments



5. VISIT THE SAADIAN TOMBS

The Saadian tombs in Marrakesh date from the time of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur (1578-1603). The tombs were discovered in 1917 and were restored by the Fine Arts Services.

Flanking the south side of the Kasbah´s Mosque, the place is probably the most visited monument in Marrakesh. This is an old walled garden with a mausoleum where are buried six members of the Saadi Dynasty.

The focus is on the three pavilions built during the reign of Sultan Ahmed Saadi El-Mansour.

The first on the left is the prayer hall, which has numerous tombs, mainly from eighteenth century Alawite rulers. Next to it there are three tombs surrounded by a dozen of marble columns, known as the Hall of the twelve columns . The central tomb is Ahmed El-Mansour´s, flanked by his son and grandson. The third pavilion has Andalusian style entrance doors .

Outside the building there is a garden with the graves of soldiers and servants.

Rue de la Kasbah, Bab Agnaou (no phone). Opening 8.30-11.45, 2.30-17: 45 daily.

Admission is only 10 dirham.

6.- TRAVEL IN TIME AND VISIT MARRAKESH´S PHOTOGRAPHY MUSEUM 

One of the curiosities of Marrakesh is the Museum of Photography which is located inside a Riad located in the rear of the Museum of Marrakesh .

It is a shame that this museum is so little known and visited because in here you will find a superb exhibition of old photographs of Marrakesh and Morocco. The collection contains about 3500 samples of beautiful images during  the late XIX century and beginning of the XX

In addition, the exhibition features one hundred original photographs of the first photographers installed in Morocco.

Every Friday afternoon, from 19:30 to 21:00 there is a projection of a period film.

This is an amazing place for lovers of Morocco, Marrakesh and photography ... HIGHLY RECOMMENDED place. Visit it and you will get inspired to portray the daily life of this photogenic city.

La Maison de la Photographie - 09.00-19.00 hours - entry 40 dh - 46 rue Ahal Fès

7. DISCOVER A HIDDEN CORNER IN MARRAKESH : THE TANNERY

If we want to get into the medieval Marrakesh, it is a must to visit the tannery quarter who have been doing their job in this place since the founding of the city.

With hundreds of tanks filled with wasted liquids to cure animal skins, the stench can be overwhelming, so it is advisable to get in the nose a few mint leaves that can be arranged at the entrance.

The process for treating skin has remained the same for centuries. First, the skin is placed in a pool with lime with to remove the animal's hair. Then it is introduced into another tank full of pigeon droppings, which acts as a natural ammonia while young men jump and hit the skin. Finally it is immersed in water with flour to give texture to the skin. When the desired texture is achieved, washing and tanning is made by hand.

It's not easy to find the place as it is located a few hundred meters from the souks, so we recommend hiring a guide to explain to us the handmade process and what we're seeing. Besides being one of the most representative postcards Marrakesh, the focus is on living the show organized by the tanners while performing this hard work. Perhaps seeing their work will help us to better consider the work it takes to make a simple slippers.

8. BE AN ARCHAEOLOGIST FOR A DAY AT THE PALACE BADI

The Badi Palace in Marrakesh, known in his time as "The Incomparable", was built in the late sixteenth century by Sultan Saadi Ahmed al-Mansur to celebrate his victory over the Portuguese army in 1578 in the battle known as the Battle of the Three Kings. According to the chroniclers of the time, it was the wonder of the Muslim world. It was built  from 1578 to 1603 with the richest materials to decorate its 300 rooms. Today only a vast esplanade remains, planted with orange trees and surrounded by high walls, as in 1696, the Sultan Moulay Ismail Alawi demolished in its pursuit of materials with which was raised the new capital in Meknes. The plans of this jewel of Islamic art were influenced by the Alhambra in Granada. 

Inside the Palace, the minbar (pulpit) of Koutoubia, carved during the twelfth century by craftsmen from Córdoba in cedar wood and inlaid with marquetry and small deeds done in gold and silver is on display.

Do not forget to climb the walls to enjoy spectacular views of Marrakesh..


9. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CITY AT THE MUSEUM OF MARRAKESH

Come on, you must visit this museum where you will find some curiosities about Marrakesh.

The Museum of Marrakesh, next to the Ben Youssef Madrasa, is housed in a magnificent palace of the late nineteenth century, typical representation of the Moorish art and has been transformed into a private museum where you will find all kinds of cultural activities.

This museum has organized since 1995 only non-permanent exhibitions of contemporary Moroccan art or cultural heritage. Downstairs hammered copper objects, arms and Berber jewelry and clothing are displayed..

The first floor lounge has a Spanish-Moorish decor and cedar furniture.

The museum also organizes and hosts various events such as concerts, theater and dance performances, film screenings, seminars, study days and workshops.

Open daily from 9:00 to 18: 30, entry costs 30 dirham. Remember the ticket also serves to visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa.

10. TASTE THE BEST TEA OF THE WORLD.

Morocco is known for being a major consumer of tea. The tea arrived quite recently to this land and spread rapidly becoming its national drink.

In Morocco, tea is made with a lot of sugar and mint leaves making it the delicious mint tea. If you want to know how to do and where you can taste it, we invite you to visit our previous post

On your journey around Morocco, you will drink many Moroccan mint teas and of course if you come to Marrakesh and stay with us, probably, the first will be in the Riad La Belle Epoque.

11. DRINK A COCKTAIL ON A TERRACE


Although alcohol is not very popular in Muslim culture and it is not easy to get a license for sale, do not forget that Marrakesh, with its Medina, is one of the main tourist centers in Africa which means a lot of money, so every day new establishments ask for a license to sell alcohol inside and outside the Medina. A few years ago alcohol was consumed inside these establishments with license, but eventually the customs are being relaxed and nowadays you can find many places where you can have a sip on the terrace. Moreover many of them are on top of buildings which makes them perfect viewpoints for watching the sunset or relax with great views.

Gueliz area, outside the Medina is the most interesting place to go to bars or terraces. The street atmosphere is excellent, and you can find here a endless variety of bars where you can enjoy a drink. Our favorite is the bar in the Le Marrakech Hotel.

If you are looking for a chill out, you should go to  Mooi,  with live music, happy hour and all you can expect from the most fashionable bar in town.

In Mohammed V Avenue and vicinity very recommended terraces can be found, as Le Mirador which is located on the 7th floor of Hotel La Renaissance with breathtaking views. In this area Le Petit Poucet, Café-bar l' Escale or Café Atlas worth a visit.

In Casablanca Avenue, Cafe Oued is a small complex of three different ambiances, perfect to enjoy a drink in peace. 

 Inside the Medina. the highlights are Café Arabe with its elegant terrace that invites us to spend cocktail nights while watching the Atlas Mountains and Kosybar, also with a magnificent terrace and live music.

The jewel of the crown, Le Bar Churchill is inside La Mamounia hotel. Sumptuousness and James Bond style dress code, this is one of the most iconic and unique city bars. This is your place if you like jazz, exclusive ambiance and you have enough money in your wallet.

Of course, within the Medina you have many terraces with great views, but most of them do not serve alcohol.

Our favorite is the Cafe des Epices in the square with the same name.

12. INDULGE YOURSELF WITH A LUXURY DINNER

 In Marrakesh, the culinary offer has exploded in recent years. There is something for every taste and every budget and Moroccan cuisine has variety and nice taste.

We have published a post where you can have a look to the best restaurants in town.

If you are traveling with low budget or you simply prefer cheaper options, the go to Jemaa El Fna square. Dozens of stalls are open every night with a wide selection of Moroccan gastronomy.

Close to Riad La Belle Epoque there are few good restaurants. Ask us and we will be delighted to help you in your reservation.



13. BE CAPTIVATED BY THE BELLY DANCE

It is said that the French soldiers of Bonaparte, during the invasion of Egypt, were impressed when they saw the sensual belly dancing performance and at first, they mistook the dancers with prostitutes. Oriental dance has an aphrodisiac and exciting power that leaves no one indifferent. Originally from Lebanon, it has spread throughout the Arab world and we can see this show in many places inside and outside the Medina.

One of the most famous is Comptoir Darna, but you can find it in other restaurants like Jad Mahal , Le Marrakechi  or Le Tanjia 

14. ENJOY MARRAKESH´S MAGICAL NIGHTS

It's Saturday night. You just go to the dance floor illuminated by flashes of neon. A cosmopolitan crowd dance African rhythms mixed with hits you know. Around you, beautiful people, coming from all corners of the world. Maybe even some famous actor is close to you. The luxury and aesthetics of the place strikes you and you wonder where you are...... You are in Marrakesh ..... is that possible? The night in Marrakesh will  surprise you, that's for sure.

There is little we can add to the post we published about the night in Marrakesh. We invite you to take a look at our post about it (la marcha en Marrakech)  and plan what will be your next party. The options are endless and here we summarize our favorites. Pacha, Teatro .... are names that you will not forget easily after a night in one of these discos.




15. RELAX IN A HAMMAM.

You have been all day walking around the city. Your feet are sore, you've felt the heat and you wish being close to your accommodation to freshen up, wash and take some rest and suddenly you come across a hammam. What are you waiting for? Get in there, this experience is something you can not miss during your stay in Marrakesh. There are hundreds of hammans scattered throughout the city for all budgets.




We have previously published a post with a series of recommendations and a selection of our favorite hammams that we invite you to read and. Do not hesitate to ask at the reception of Riad La Belle Epoque and we will help you to book any of them.

 



16. VISIT US DURING THE CITY CELEBRATIONS

Marrakesh  is well-known in Morocco  for its festivals and folk events. Being the most cosmopolitan and visited city in the country, its cultural agenda is packed with events throughout the year. These are the most important and we encourage you to visit us during the celebration of one of the followings events:

January: Marrakesh Marathon. 

Follow it or participate in this sporting event that runs through the main streets of the city in an environment of 1001 nights .... the public will encourage you so much that maybe you will finish the marathon like on a flying carpet.

 

February: Festival Dakka Marrakchia. Feel the rhythm of the street during the parades and street performances spread throughout the city during the days this ancient traditional music festival is held.

July: Festival National des Arts Populaires. More music, dance and street performances, invade during a few days the streets of Marrakesh in a spectacular showcase of the varied Moroccan folk.

November: Festival International du Film de Marrakech: What about attend to a projection of a Bollywood film in a full Djemaa El Fna? We guarantee you a unique and unforgettable experience.

During these days Marrakesh is packed of film stars and the ambiance of the city is unmissable. 

Throughout the year other events occur and we will  inform you promptly in this blog or in facebook .

17. GET INSPIRED WITH THE GREENERY AT THE MAJORELLE GARDEN.

The Majorelle Garden was designed in 1924 by French artist Jacques Majorelle as a place to be inspired. Lover of botany, he created this garden around his house, with several rooms, surrounded by vegetation.

This garden is a work of art in motion, composed by exotic plants and rare species brought from his travels around the world: cactus, yucca, lilies, nympheas, jasmine, bougainvillea, palm, coconut, banana, and bamboo ... adorned with fountains, water jets, pottery, malls, pergolas ...

In 1937 the artist created a  crisp and clear colour,  ultramarine blue, and he called it the Majorelle blue, using it to paint the walls of his villa, and later the whole garden, open to the public from 1947 to 1962, when it was closed and finally abandoned..

The couturier Yves Saint-Laurent acquired the garden in 1980 restoring and adding large number of plant species.   The entrance is a bit expensive compared to the other attractions of Marrakesh (50 dirhams) but this does not prevent it from being one of the main attractions of Marrakesh. Don´t miss it. 

http://www.jardinmajorelle.com/






18. FEEL LIKE A MARRAKECHI IN THE MENARA GARDENS.
 

If you want to see how the population of Marrakesh enjoys his spare time, walk around the massive  Menara Gardens, located 2 km far from the city. You can get there walking, by taxi or in a calash ride. Get out the Medina crossing the Bab Jadid door and taking the Avenue de la Menara, in less than an hour you will be at the park.

The large pond populated with carps, was created in the twelfth century. It was designed with a system of underground pipes that brings the water from the nearby Atlas permitting to  irrigate the surrounding olive groves and orchards. The system is still used today. The best time to visit these gardens is at dusk and its main point is located in the central area, where the Menara Pavilion can be seen and next to it the huge artificial pond. Perhaps this is one of the most representative photos of Marrakesh and the Atlas view is stunning.

The charm of the the Menara Gardens changes seasonally and in winter and spring, the snow-capped Atlas seems to be closer. In summer, the gardens offers a cool and quiet space to relax or enjoy a picnic along with marrakechíes escaping from the city heat. From November to January you'll witness the olive harvest around the pond.

 Opening hours: Open daily from 8.30 am to 18 pm. Free admission.

 19. ADMIRE THE CONTRAST OF THE NEW CITY OF MARRAKESH

Built during the time of the French protectorate, "the Nouvelle Ville" or new town, offers a contrast to the Medina. The new part is west of the Medina, with its large avenues like Mohamed Mohamed V and VI, packed with shops and international boutiques, fast food restaurants, cafes and terraces for the upper and middle class and where you we will feel very happy if you want to return to the West for a few moments. In fact,  Gueliz has always been chosen by most foreign to reside in Marrakesh area.

There are also large hotels and luxury boutiques in Hivernage area,  south of Gueliz, newer construction in response to the growing touristic demand of Marrakesh.

Besides the striking avenues and luxurious residences that can be seen in this area, other attractions  can be visited nearby the Gueliz like the Royal Theater, or the great palace of congresses which has an imposing facade.

As we mentioned before, in this part of town are located most of nightclubs, bars and restaurants where you can drink alcohol.

20.  WALK AROUND THE CITY WALLS

The Walls of Marrakesh, around the Medina, were  built in the early twelfth century by Yusef Ben Ali, son of the founder of Marrakesh.

Its striking red color changes according to the sunlight.



They extend along nineteen kilometers and served to defend the city. Its high walls, up to eight metres, surround the Medina or old city, which is accessed through several gates of singular beauty. There is a signposted route along the entire wall, allowing to appreciate the details of the doors, also known as Bab. Don´t miss Bab el Jadid, Bab Doukkala or Bab el Khemi.

It is a long walk but it can be done in two days  and gives us an idea of life in this city. 

You will find markets around the doors.




 




21. RIDE A CAMEL IN THE PALM GROVE

With over 100,000 palm trees planted in an area of ​​13,000 hectares, the palm grove of Marrakesh is now the center of a large urban plan that includes residences, luxury hotels and golf courses, but it still remains a mystical place and source of wealth for the city as it wood and dates are obtained here,being in itself an ecosystem that coexists with various orchards.



 

It can be visited by taxi or carriage from the square, a pleasant walk of about 2 hours  and  200-250 dirhams (20-25 €) but the activity that attracts more tourists, is  the camel ride. They are scattered throughout the palm grove and it is a funny experience. Price is negotiable but for about 100 dirham, about 10 €, you can take a walk of reasonable length. If you go by carriage, your driver will be happy to wait in exchange for a tip.


Do you dare?

22. FLY OVER MARRAKESH IN A GLOBE

Marrakesh has a privileged location, situated on the edge of the desert and at the base of the majestic Atlas Mountains. Perhaps this is the reason why several companies  have emerged in recent times offering balloon trips over the city and its surroundings. From 1,990 dirham (about 180 €) per person you can enjoy this wonderful experience for one hour and dazzle you with views of Marrakesh and the Atlas.

http://www.marrakechbyair.com
http://www.cieldafrique.info

23. VIBRATE WITH THE FANTASY SHOW

Fantasy or Powder party is a very interesting show and one of the non-religious manifestations of Moroccan popular tradition that occasionally can be seen for free along the wall on the road to the airport or nearby the palm grove or if you don´t have this chance, you can attend to a dinner show every night at Chez Ali. From € 42 per person including dinner, show and transportation. Obviously the second option lacks the authenticity that would be desirable but if you haven´t seen any Fantasy show on your tour of Morocco, this is your chance. It is very touristic, yes, but worth it.


The Riders are grouped by towns or neighborhoods wearing their best clothes, usually light colored, simple and elegant, topped by a turban and cloak. They ride spectacular Arab horses, superbly decked with trappings of gold or silver and the famous beautifully decorated saddles with a  particular form that require to ride in a forward position, with advanced knee and back heel, thus facilitating balance required for warlike actions.


The horsemen start to gallop in a compact group and suddenly they all shoot their carabiners or mukkahlas synchronously  in the air while they stop their horses in just one foot of ground in a spectacular braking. If the shots sound like if it had been only one, the crowd goes wild and applauds wildly. The smell of gunpowder and horse, with thunderous shots and neighing, create a mixture that will make us vibrate.

24. LEARN TO COOK COUS-COUS

You have got to admit that Moroccan food has captured your attention and you would love to delight your friends back home making a couscous or a lamb tajine. Well it's easier than you think because during your stay in Marrakesh you can do a cooking course.

There are multiple front line restaurants offering one day courses with meal included between 110 € for two people at Maison Mk or 60 € at the Maison Arabe (see more on this in http://riadbelleepoque.blogspot.com.es/2014/09/dinning-in-marrakech-best-11.html)

If you want something more professional there are several cooking schools that offer courses of different duration and price. Ask us and we will gladly help you.



25. STAY AT A RIAD

Riads are traditional Moroccan accommodation and are nothing but traditional houses with all rooms arranged around a central courtyard. They usually have several plants and a rooftop terrace. The vast majority are located inside the Medina and come in all tastes and prices

We are fortunate to have a Riad in the Medina of Marrakesh. Something that took us a lot of effort, sweat and tears and maybe one day we will tell you the story of this space, but what we can say is that after  crossing the threshold of Riad La Belle Epoque you will not feel indifferent. This is corroborated by the vast majority of our visitors as  can be seen on TripAdvisor.

If you stay at a Riad, you will enjoy Moroccan hospitality, feel like a Maharaja for a day, as in a 1001 nights story and somehow go back in time. Staying in a Riad is being away from the noise, the dust, the bustle of the street and to refuge in an oasis of peace. A treat for your senses where relaxation is assured. The easiest way to explore the Moroccan daily life without sacrificing comfort and also a great way to interact with local people as at these small establishments the attention can be much more personal and closer than at a normal hotel.

www.riadbelleepoque.com

From Riad La Belle Epoque  we hope that this guide will help you to organize your stay in Marrakech. Any questions or further clarification, please refer to us through this blog or mail info@riadbelleepoque.com




ENJOY YOUR VISIT TO MARRAKESH!!!!!!