Shopping in Marrakech: A Traveler’s Delight

Shopping in Marrakech is one of the Moroccan capitals for shopping and handicrafts.

The vast majority of products typical of Marrakech are of artisanal origin. It is possible to see the production process in the same kiosks where the products are sold.

We are now witnessing the development of a new type of Moroccan handicraft that combines traditional and modern designs with unique creations of high quality in a contemporary style. This city is the main center of design and production.

Shopping in Marrakech

Shopping experience in Marrakesh

Marrakech, the Red City, is one of the most famous travel destinations in Morocco, and your visit to this enchanting city would not be complete without experiencing the shopping in its marvelous markets. Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most important commercial and artisanal cities, where you can find a diverse range of traditional art and crafts products.

The open markets in Marrakech, like Jemaa el-Fna Square, beautifully reflect the city’s cultural heritage. Here, you can purchase a variety of products such as exquisite carpets, silver jewelry, traditional Moroccan clothing like djellabas and kaftans, and many handmade crafts like ceramics and pottery.

Shopping in Marrakech can be an exciting and enjoyable experience, but visitors should remember some tips. For example, you can try your bargaining skills to get good deals, and it’s always preferable to negotiate politely and respectfully.

After a thrilling day of shopping in Marrakech, you can enjoy a cup of traditional Moroccan tea in one of the small cafes and relax in its charming atmosphere. Overall, shopping in Marrakech is a unique experience that blends Moroccan culture, art, and traditions, and it’s an activity that every visitor to this wonderful city should try.

Types of handicrafts in Marrakech

leather goods

Shopping in Marrakech

There are abundant supplies of shoes, bags, puffs, shoes, jackets and other objects. The variety is wide.

In the capital alone, there are 56,000 leather artisans in 21 traditional tanneries in the process of being restored.

Highlight the Souk El Kebir for leather goods, the Sbata souk for slippers and belts, and the Cherratine souk, where we can find handmade saddles.

fabrics

fabrics 

in Marrakech

In Marrakech, you can find rugs from all areas of Morocco but especially from the Haus and Atlas regions.

If you do not intend to buy any rug, you must clarify it from the first moment. Otherwise, very uncomfortable situations may arise caused by the insistent sellers.

Apart from the rugs, the Djellabas, the Kaftans and party dresses are typical.

Embroidery

Embroidery

The dark blue embroideries of Fez and Marrakech are the most common. These works are executed with great skill, mainly using silk threads of different colors. They are used in tablecloths, caftans, Moroccan evening dresses etc.

In the Larval souk, wool and used clothing market.

metal objects and jewelry

traditional Moroccan lamps

The traditional Moroccan lamps and objects made of silver and copper are fascinating and decorative, such as the standard trays.

The metal is also used in chandeliers, latticework and mirror frames.

We can find various trays, mirrors, teapots, etc.

The creative alpaca is an alloy of copper and nickel discovered in 1819 in Marrakech. Designers have found an incredibly innovative use for it: hammered, polished, engraved, it is used to make boxes, plates, mirror frames, jewelry, trays, etc.

Easy to fabricate and weld, its gleaming silvery appearance blends wonderfully with other materials traditionally used by craftsmen: wood, copper, trimmings or ceramics.

The city’s jewels are usually finely carved gold motifs, primarily flowers, adorned with precious stones, emeralds, diamonds, garnets and rubies. Be careful because many gems are imported from Asia, and the silver may not be very pure in the Amazighs.

Marrakech markets

Marrakech markets

Explore Souk Haddadine for Lampshades and Lanterns

At Souk Haddadine, you’ll find a diverse selection of lampshades, including modern chandelier styles and charming chandelier-style ceiling pendants. As you wander through the market, you’ll come across bamboo shades and encounter friendly store owners who might even beckon tourists into their shops. Marrakech boasts numerous lamp stores, so be sure to opt for Moroccan-style lamp shade designs.

Souk Belaarif – A Hub for Modern Consumer Goods

In Marrakech’s Souk Belaarif, you’ll encounter jewelers hailing from diverse backgrounds, some with over two decades of experience crafting exquisite jewelry. The artisans here predominantly work with silver and semi-precious stones, offering a vast collection of antique and unique Moroccan jewelry. Each souk specializes in specific types of jewelry, making it an ideal place to explore and discover stunning art pieces and handicrafts. While bargaining can be challenging, don’t hesitate to negotiate for better prices to secure the best deals.

Souk Kchacha – Dates, Nuts, and Fresh Fruits

Morocco proudly produces its own food, including fresh seasonal fruits and delectable dates. Bringing your girlfriend here is a treat, as Moroccan dates are a traditional delight and make for a unique date outing.

Souk Haddadine – Ironware, Ceramics, and Pottery

The styles and colors of pottery vary from region to region, with Safi and Fez being renowned for their blue and white ceramics. Moroccan pottery is celebrated for its intricate geometric, arabesque, and captivating patterns, making the markets a treasure trove of ceramics in various hues, shapes, and sizes.

Souk Siyyaghin – Necklaces and Trinkets

The most striking silver jewelry pieces are crafted by both local artisans and foreign traders. Souks like Tiznit’s silver market and Taroudant offer a wide array of jewelry options, from chunky necklaces to delicate trinkets, tribal adornments, pendants, ethnic necklaces, and Moroccan gems. Morocco may not be the cheapest destination, but its jewelry selection is unparalleled.

Rahba Qedima – Moroccan Fashion

At Rahba Qedima, you’ll find a range of intricately embroidered clothing, handwoven rugs, and thick woolen carpets. Pay attention to quality, design, and pricing, as these factors can vary significantly. For an authentic experience, consider visiting the Middle Atlas towns of Azrou and Khenifra, as regional influences shape the attire of Moroccan people. Among the diverse clothing options, you’ll discover the traditional Moroccan long, loose-fitting unisex outer robe with full sleeves.

Souk Ableuh – Herbs and Spices

Indulge in the classic blend of aromatic spices essential for Moroccan stews and grilling. Four key spices are fundamental to many tagines and stews, and you can explore a variety of flavors used throughout Moroccan cuisine. Spices play a defining role in authentic Moroccan cooking, enhancing the flavor and taste of dishes.

Souk Semmarine – A Haven for Footwear

Souk Semmarine offers a wide selection of Moroccan shoes for men, women, and children, all meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans following time-honored traditions. From running shoes to stylish options that pair well with long skirts, Moroccan footwear can be both practical and beautiful. Travelers from the West might find themselves spoilt for choice, with women typically opting for sandals or loafers.

Where to Buy

Marrakech is a big market, so defining the most commercial areas is tricky.

Medina of Marrakech

Medina of Marrakech

It is one of the best areas to get lost and be immersed in the middle ages, as in the thousand and one nights.

Featured areas

Featured areas in marrakech

Close to the Jemaa el Fna square is the Semmarine souk, where you can buy things. Morocco has a wide range of handmade goods: baskets, the most delicious pastries, and the most traditional slippers or djellabas.

In the Rahba Kedima square, close to the court, shops and stalls with hides, skins, rugs, etc., open very early.

Among the vendors of tapestries is Chez Abdelmalik in Rahba Kedima, which has an Ali Baba vibe but a well-run international shipping service.

Take advantage of the souks of the dyers, Sebagine, Haddadine, brass and coppersmiths Nhhasin, and carpenters, Chouari, while you are in the city. We can see how iron and dye are made in the workshops and outside.

The obligation in this area is HAGGING; it is the sport of every tourist. Remember that they will ask you twice what they are willing to leave you or the product’s value.

Outside the Medina of Marrakech

Outside the Medina of Marrakech

It is exciting to approach the Central Market of Mohammed V Avenue, next to the central square in the northern part of Jemaa el Fna.

In this market, you can find everything from jewelry, fabrics, leather, clothing, books, perfumes, carpets, and spices, among many other wonders. It is an excellent place to shop for handicrafts and admire the spectacular flower and fruit stalls.

In the souk area, the hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; it remains open seven days a week—the other stores in other neighborhoods close on Sundays.

If you want to buy clothes in European-style shops with fixed prices, you should visit the Gueliz area where the shops are. Some of the most expensive stores in the city are on Avenida de Mohamed V; there are also apartments and businesses there. The former Gueliz market is now a residential and commercial complex called Carre Eden. H&M and Starbucks are among the stores there. The Carrefour Market.

The “Artisan Assembly” is exciting near Mohamed V Avenue, next to the Koutoubia Mosque. There are fixed prices, and everything is cleaner and more organized.

If you want luxury and modernity, go through the Sidi Ghanem neighborhood and exit towards Safi, where contemporary designers meet.

Au Plaisir des Yeux at 179 Bd is a good place for metal objects like traditional tea services. Mohamed V.

There is a modern hypermarket of the Marjane chain on Agadir road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Marrakech good for shopping?

Marrakech is famous for its busy shops and is a popular place to buy things. Many traditional shops in the city called souks sell a wide range of goods, such as clothes, leather, pottery, jewelry, and spices. The most well-known market in Marrakech is in the Jemaa el-Fnaa square. It’s a busy place to shop and look around. The city also has new shopping centers and small shops that people can visit.

What should I buy in Marrakech?

Marrakech is a great place to buy traditional and one-of-a-kind things. There are many items to choose from, such as:

  • Rugs and carpets made by hand come in many sizes, colors, and styles.
  • Pottery is used for decoration, such as plates, bowls, and tagines, and is made of fine ceramics.
  • Handbags, belts, shoes, and other high-quality leather goods are in various designs and colors.
  • Cumin, paprika, saffron, and Ras el Hanout are aromatic spices used in Moroccan food.
  • Pure argan oil and hair and skin care items made from it.
  • Unique clothes and decorations, like babouches, djellabas, and kaftans.
  • Lanterns, lamps, and candleholders are made of metal, all fully made by local artists.

This is just a small selection of the things you can find in Marrakech, a city with many traditional shops.

What is the main shopping area in Marrakech?

The medina, especially the souks, is the best place to shop in Marrakech. The souks are a maze of small streets and alleys full of shops selling everything from spices and textiles to ceramics, jewelry, carpets, and more. The most well-known souks are Souk Chouari, Souk Smata, and Souk Salam.

What is the famous market in Marrakech called?

Jemaa el-Fnaa is the name of the popular market in Marrakech. It is a large square and marketplace in Marrakech’s medina (old town).

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