SOUKS OF MARRAKECH : ALL ANSWERS
- citylockma
- Sep 11, 2024
- 6 min read
Updated: May 9
You wander, you get lost, and then you get lost all over again… Welcome to the souks of Marrakech!
Eight centuries of history, life, craftsmanship, and bustling energy that continue to captivate more and more visitors.
A top tourist destination, the souks of Marrakech enchant us… or sometimes overwhelm us, let’s be honest.
Which souks should you visit? What are fair prices? How should you dress to explore them?
All your questions about the Marrakech souks answered right here.
WHICH SOUKS SHOULD YOU VISIT IN MARRAKECH?
In Arabic, a souk refers to a temporary open-air market; Marrakech has 18 of them, historically organized by trades and guilds. A living showcase of Moroccan craftsmanship, the souks of Marrakech welcome visitors every day, typically from 9 AM to 9 PM, except for the Friday break for afternoon prayer.
From the most touristy to the most authentic, the best souk really depends on your travel style. We’ve ranked them to help you find the one that suits you best.
HOW MUCH DO ITEMS COST IN THE MARRAKECH SOUK?
Ah… the famous Marrakech souk, where prices can drop from triple to double, then to the actual value—all in just a few well-played exchanges. But with such flexible pricing, it’s easy to get lost. So, what are the typical asking prices… and how much can you realistically expect to pay for the most common items? Here are our answers to help you see things more clearly.
Small Berber Rug (60x90cm): Listed at 800–1200 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 300–500 MAD
Large Berber Rug (2x3m): Listed at 4000–8000 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 1500–3000 MAD
Babouches (Leather Slippers): Listed at 400–600 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 120–200 MAD (Below that, they’re likely imported from China)
Moroccan Teapot: Listed at 300–600 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 150–250 MAD
Leather Bag: Listed at 600–1200 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 250–500 MAD
Cosmetic Argan Oil (100ml): Listed at 200–250 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 100–150 MAD
Black Soap (250g): Listed at 60–150 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 30–50 MAD
Metal Lantern: Listed at 600–1200 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 200–400 MAD
Spices (100g): Realistic price after negotiation: 30–50 MAD
Woven Straw Pendant Light: Listed at 400–800 MAD / Realistic price after negotiation: 200–300 MAD
✅ These prices can vary depending on the quality, the area of the souk, the season, and of course… your negotiation skills.
HOW TO BARGAIN EFFECTIVELY AT THE SOUK?
At the souk — and honestly, across Morocco — almost everything is negotiable. With a bit of technique and the right attitude, you can often cut the asking price in half, or even more. Here are a few tips to help you haggle like a pro (without the stress):
• Do your homework: check several stalls to get a sense of the real value.
• Let the seller speak first: never throw out a price before hearing theirs.
• Act casual: even if you’ve been searching for that item for two hours, pretend it’s not a big deal.
• Start low: offer less than what you’re willing to pay. The seller will go down, you’ll go up, and you’ll meet in the middle.
• Don’t be afraid to walk away: chances are they’ll call you back with a better deal.
• Buy in bulk: the more you get, the better your chances of getting a discount.
• Stay friendly: patience and humor go a long way — Moroccan sellers love a good laugh.
• Say a few words in Darija: it shows respect and often opens doors to better prices.
• No deal? No problem. Say thank you and walk away. You’ll likely find the same item elsewhere, possibly cheaper.
WHAT IS FORBIDDEN TO BRING BACK FROM MOROCCO?
Some souvenirs may seem harmless… until you reach customs. Here’s what you need to know before packing:
Counterfeits: Not Worth the Risk
Fake branded items (shoes, bags, clothes) are common in the souks, but importing them into Europe is strictly prohibited. Better go for authentic handmade goods like leather babouches.
Cigarettes & Alcohol Limits
From Morocco, you’re allowed per adult : 200 cigarettes (1 carton) - 1L of spirits over 22% or 2L of wine/low-alcohol drinks. Exceeding these limits may lead to confiscation or fines.
Plants & Food Products
Bringing back unprocessed plants, herbs, homemade oils, or artisanal honey is highly regulated to prevent the spread of pests or plant diseases.
Animal Products
Raw animal products (skins, horns, bones) are often restricted for health and environmental reasons.
HOW SHOULD YOU DRESS FOR VISITING THE SOUK?
Marrakech is a major tourist hub, and locals are used to all kinds of outfits. Still, to enjoy your visit fully, it’s best to dress both comfortably and respectfully.
• Stay Comfortable: The souks are hot, busy, and dusty with uneven streets. Light, loose clothing and good walking shoes are essential.
• Respect the Culture: Modest clothing shows respect and helps avoid unwanted attention. Aim for a balance between comfort and cultural sensitivity.
HOW TO FIND YOUR WAY AROUND THE SOUK?
Worried About Getting Lost in the Souks? You Will — and That’s the Magic!
Wandering the souks is a full-on sensory experience. You don’t follow a plan — you follow the scents, the colors, the sounds. It’s not about checking boxes; it’s about getting lost (a little), discovering hidden gems, and letting the medina surprise you.
Here are a few tips to get lost — but in a smart way:
✅ Grab a Souk Map (paper or digital). Street signs are posted about 3 meters high to help you get your bearings.
✅ Stay Connected with pocket WiFi — perfect for families who want to share one connection and navigate with Google Maps when the crowd gets overwhelming. Internet access can be a real game-changer.
✅ Ask Inside Shops, not on the street. Shopkeepers are more likely to give honest directions — some passersby might expect a tip in return.
WHAT ARE THE COMMON SCAMS IN THE MARRAKECH SOUK?
Touts & Fake Guides
Unofficial guides often expect tips or lead you to shops for commissions. Pickpockets also operate in busy areas — leave valuables at City Lock for peace of mind.
Fake “Handmade” Items
Not all souvenirs are authentic. Many are mass-produced or imported. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Paid Directions
Some people offer to guide you, then demand money. Politely decline and ask shopkeepers or use GPS with mobile internet.
Animal Photos
On Jemaa el Fna, handlers may place snakes or monkeys on you, then ask for money. These animals are often mistreated — best to refuse and avoid supporting this.
WHEN TO VISIT THE SOUK ?
Morning: Calm and cooler — perfect for a relaxed stroll, especially with young children. The alleys are quiet and easy to navigate.
Daytime: The souk comes alive in a vibrant mix of locals, tourists, carts, and scooters. Expect crowds and noise — it’s intense but authentic.
Evening: Jemaa el-Fna turns into an open-air show with storytellers, performers, and street food. Magical, but very busy. Note: some medina gates close after midnight.
