Exploring the colorful souks (markets) of Marrakesh, Morocco, is a quintessential part of visiting the city.

The iconic souks, located in the UNESCO-listed medina, showcase traditional Moroccan crafts like Berber carpets, ornate lanterns and handmade zellige (tiles), offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the city’s daily life and cultural heritage.

Dating to the foundation of Marrakesh in the 11th century, the souks have been an integral part of the city’s cultural and economic fabric for centuries.

During the Middle Ages, Marrakesh became a powerful trading center at the crossroads of trade routes that connected Africa, the Middle East and Europe. Jmaa el-Fna, the main square in Marrakesh, hosted a steady stream of traders with caravans laden with wares, fostering a rich exchange of international goods and diverse cultural influences, which created a lasting impact on the city’s crafts, cuisine and architecture. 

As Marrakesh developed into a political and cultural center and the demand for luxury goods rose, the souks expanded with stalls and workshops filling the maze of narrow streets and alleys that branch off from Jmaa el-Fnaa square.

Today, Marrakesh has thousands of artisans who learn their craft in centuries-old guilds that preserve traditional methods. Organized by specialty, there are separate souks for jewelry, textiles, leather, metalwork, spices and more.

We take travelers on private, insider-led tours of the souks to browse for high-quality local products and observe artisans in their workshops.

Moroccan crafts are renowned for their high quality and vivid, intricate designs that represent a fascinating blend of influences—including Berber, Arabic and Andalusian elements—that reflect the city’s multicultural past.

Some of our favorite traditional crafts to shop for in the souks include high-quality pottery, intricate zellige tiles, Berber carpets, inlaid furniture, silver tea ware, tooled leather goods and ornate Moroccan lanterns.

We also enjoy looking for exquisite Moroccan kaftans, a garment traditionally worn for special occasions that features wide sleeves and intricate embroidery with distinctive regional design variations.

Leather Moroccan babouche, handstitched open-back slippers in vibrant colors, are a wonderful piece of Moroccan craftsmanship to take home.

More than just a commercial hub, the medieval souks are still central to daily life in Marrakesh, with locals gathering to socialize and buy daily goods.

Bartering is still practiced, and many of our travelers enjoy participating for the cultural experience.

We also take travelers to artisan cooperatives and upscale boutiques and antique shops in Gueliz, a modern district of Marrakesh known for its Art Deco architecture, French influences and significant cultural sites like the Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. 

Contact Artisans of Leisure to begin planning a private Morocco tour featuring the souks of Marrakesh and other cultural highlights of the medina as well as other favorite destinations in Marrakesh for shopping and cultural touring.