Marrakech, the name in and by itself stirred up images of dreamy nights with exotic foods and drape-y, colorful surroundings, and the soulful sound of a mystical Moroccan singer. Yes, I am Egyptian and none of this is truly exotic to me, but Morocco always held a special place in my heart and a top place in the travel destinations list. The best bit is? It was not disappointing in the tiniest bit, despite the fact that I have set up a rather high bar for it to meet.

However, and that’s a big however right there, there are many, many things I did that I would have done a little differently had I known better. So this article is dedicated to just that: The beauties and wonders of Marrakech and the lessons learned so you be lucky and avoid them if you ever decide to take off to that dreamy land, and you should.

What to See:

– Musee de Marrakech: The museum of Marrakech is small but tells a very brief history of the city. From little tea drinking trinkets all the way to history of weapons used in old Marrakech and old Berber attire, the place is the history of the city in a nutshell and the architecture is also quite the scenery.

Entry costs 60 dirhams, LE 50.

 

 

– Medresset Ben Youssef: This is an old Medressa (Islamic school), dated back to the 14th century and it’s well-kept in terms of architecture and original design and has been refurbished in 1980 and reopened to public. Like any traditional Medressa, there is a wide open air area in the middle of the building and the students’ rooms overlook the fountain in that area. the architecture is beautiful and every corner screams of art and exquisite craftsmanship. It is said to have hosted 900 students at any given time.

– Roam and shop in the souqs of the old city, around Jamea Il Fna. The streets, in and by themselves are full of secretive wonders in almost every alley and around every corner.

– Le Palais Badie: The palace was built in 1578 and took 25 years to finish. It used to have 360 rooms, a courtyard of 135 meters and a lavish pool decorated with italian marble. What’s left, however, are remnants of a once great palace, so don’t expect a fancy 101 nights castle. It does have the Koutoubia Minabara which is worth the visit so make sure you pay the ticket that includes entry to see it.

Entry to Badie and the Minbara costs 20 dirham, or LE 17.

-Jardin Majorelles: The garden was designed by the French Jacques Majorelle and was bought by Yves Saint-Laurent in 1980. The garden is a rather small one but it’s a good place to get a book and a good ice cream and enjoy the greenery and shaded weather.

Entry costs 50 dirhams, or LE 42.

 

You can safely skip: 

– Tombeaux Saadiens: These are the tombs of the Saadian dynasty. The architecture and intricate tile work of the tombs are impressive, but not anything you will not see in many other places around Morocco. It is often rather crowded so definitely skip it if it is, if you happen to go by it and find it empty, do throw a quick look.

– Le Menara Gardens: It’s not int he heart of the old or new city and there is absolutely nothing to see. A bunch of  trees lining up on both sides of a long passageway and murky water sum up the place. We strongly recommend skipping this one.

– Koutobia Mosque: It is supposed to be one of the most historical mosques in Marrakech, but we could not get inside and the outside of it is not impressive. So if you do get a peak of it, and you definitely will as it stands long in the middle of the old city, consider the visit done.

 

 

Smart shoppers tips:

Hustle: Consider yourself a tourist in Egyptian touristy markets and hustle accordingly. Offer half the price asked and walk away if they insist, trust us, they will call you back.

Don’t fall the the ‘kedima’ old trick: If you’re looking for a tea set, a teapot or even a tray the sellers will tell you it’s old. It’s not. We can guarantee that 90% of the time it’s just dusty and rarely really old.

Don’t buy colored handbags: Leather handbags are beautiful in Morocco but do opt for a natural leather and do not go for any tinted ones. We bought an orange one that ended up ruining a new blouse as the color rubbed off on the very first time worn.

Price guide for popular Marrakech souvenirs:

Medium sized leather satchel bag: 160 dirhams, or LE 135

Brass Teapot: 190 dirhams, or LE 160

Set of 3 glass and brass all purpose jars, 2 small and one medium: 120 dirhams, or LE 100

Leather boots: 275 dirhams, or LE 230

Brass bangles: 10 to 20 dirhams, or LE 8.4 to LE 17.

Editor’s Note: Marrakech enjoys a rather vibrant nightlife. We haven’t personally tried any of their famous clubs and night spots to review it but if a good night out with lively people and vibrant music tickles your fantasy make sure you read this review of Marrakech’s night life.

Other articles in the Guide to Marrakech:

Where to Stay

What to Eat

How to Get there