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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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 renowned for its bustling markets and is a popular purchasing destination. The city has numerous traditional markets, known as souks, that sell various products, including textiles, leather, pottery, jewelry, and spices. The Jemaa el-Fnaa square is the most famous market in Marrakech. It is a lively location to shop and explore. Visitors can also find modern shopping complexes and boutique stores in the city.
What should I buy in Marrakech?
Marrakech is an ideal destination for purchasing traditional and unique items. You can find a variety of articles, including:
– Handwoven rugs and carpets, offering a diversity of sizes, colors, and styles.
– Decorative pottery, including finely crafted ceramic plates, bowls, and tagines.
– Quality leather products such as handbags, belts, and shoes, available in a multitude of patterns and shades.
– Aromatic spices used in local cuisine, such as cumin, paprika, saffron, and Ras el Hanout.
– Pure argan oil and derivative products for hair and skincare.
– Traditional clothing and accessories like kaftans, djellabas, and babouches.
– Metal craftsmanship including lanterns, lamps, and candleholders, all skillfully made by local artisans.
These items represent just a sample of what you can find in Marrakech, a city offering a rich experience of traditional shopping.
What is the main shopping area in Marrakech?
The main shopping district in Marrakech is the medina, especially the souks, a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys filled with stores selling a wide range of goods, including spices, textiles, ceramics, leather goods, jewelry, carpets, and more. Souk Semmarine, Souk Chouari, and Souk Smata are the most well-known souks.
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).