cultural city sightseeing Monuments palaces Souks markets

Guided Medina Tour

Marrakech Old Town

Step back in time and discover the magic of Marrakech with an expert local guide. The medina of Marrakech—a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985—is a living museum of Moroccan history, architecture, and culture waiting to be explored.

Bahia Palace: A Masterpiece of Moroccan Architecture

Built in the late 19th century for Grand Vizier Si Moussa, Bahia Palace ("Palace of the Beautiful") showcases the finest Moroccan craftsmanship. Wander through 160 lavishly decorated rooms surrounding tranquil courtyards, each adorned with intricate zellij tilework, hand-carved stucco, and painted cedarwood ceilings. The eight hectares of gardens provide a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling medina.

Ben Youssef Medersa: Islamic Architecture at Its Finest

This 16th-century Quranic school is one of the largest in North Africa and a masterpiece of Saadian architecture. Step into the serene central courtyard, where generations of students once studied, surrounded by extraordinary geometric patterns, Arabic calligraphy, and delicate carved plasterwork. The attention to detail is simply breathtaking.

The Legendary Souks

Navigate the maze-like souks with confidence, guided by someone who knows every twist and turn. Discover the specialized markets—Souk Semmarine for textiles and leather, Souk El Attarine for spices and perfumes, Souk Haddadine for metalwork. Watch artisans at work using techniques passed down through generations, and learn the art of Moroccan bargaining.

Jemaa el-Fna: The Heart of Marrakech

No visit is complete without experiencing the legendary main square. By day, it hosts orange juice vendors, henna artists, and snake charmers. As evening approaches, it transforms into an open-air restaurant and entertainment venue. Your guide shares the history and traditions that earned this square UNESCO recognition as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage.

Also Worth Seeing

Depending on your interests and tour length, your guide can include:

  • The Saadian Tombs, hidden for centuries until their rediscovery in 1917
  • The historic Mellah (Jewish Quarter) with its unique architecture
  • The tanneries where leather is dyed using ancient methods
  • The Koutoubia Gardens for a peaceful break

Highlights

  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage medina
  • Discover the Ben Youssef Medersa, one of Africa's largest Islamic schools
  • Visit the stunning Bahia Palace with skip-the-line access
  • Navigate the labyrinthine souks with a local expert
  • See the iconic Koutoubia Mosque
  • Experience the energy of Jemaa el-Fna square
  • Learn about Moroccan history, culture, and traditions

Itinerary

9:00 AM

Meet Your Guide

Your certified guide meets you at your accommodation for an introduction to Marrakech's history.

09:30 AM

Ben Youssef Medersa

Visit one of North Africa's largest and most beautiful Quranic schools. Marvel at the exquisite stucco work, zellij mosaics, and carved cedarwood that took decades to complete.

11:00 AM

The Souks

Dive into the heart of the medina—a maze of narrow alleys filled with artisan workshops, spice merchants, and traditional crafts. Your guide helps you navigate and negotiate.

11:45 AM

Bahia Palace

Skip the lines and explore this 19th-century palace with its 160 ornate rooms, stunning courtyards, and eight hectares of gardens featuring intricate zellij tiles and carved cedarwood.

12:15 AM

Koutoubia Mosque

Start at Marrakech's most famous landmark. While non-Muslims cannot enter, your guide shares the fascinating history of this 12th-century masterpiece and its iconic minaret.

13:00 PM

Jemaa el-Fna

End your tour at the famous main square, a UNESCO-recognized space of cultural heritage. Your guide explains the traditions of the storytellers, musicians, and food vendors.

What's Included

  • Licensed Guide (Arabic, English, French, German, Italian, Spanisch)
  • Experience the secrets of Medersa Ben Youssef
  • Skip-the-line entrance to Bahia Palace
  • Guided tour in the souks
  • Visit to historic monuments

Not Included

  • Entrance fees
  • Food and drinks
  • Tips
  • Purchases in the souks

What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered for religious sites)
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Camera
  • Cash for souvenirs and tips
  • Water bottle

Important Information

Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
Accessibility
The medina has uneven surfaces and some steps. Not fully wheelchair accessible. Please contact us for adapted routes.

Each of our suites feature a private bath, reverse airconditioning and luxury beds.

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