When you think of Marrakech, chances are you picture stunning photos of its bustling Medina. When I visited Marrakech for the first time, I knew I had to explore and stay in the Medina!
Table of Contents
ToggleThe Medina, surrounded by ancient walls, feels alive with vibrant sights, sounds, and smells. It’s sensory overload but in the best way!
Imagine narrow alleyways with no cars, just the occasional donkey cart, motorbike, or bicycle zipping past. It’s an unforgettable experience, but I’ll admit it can feel a bit overwhelming at first.
The Medina is famously maze like, and when we arrived, we had to have our riad manager meet us at the entrance to help us navigate to our hotel. With its clay coloured walls that initially all look the same, it can feel disorienting.
But don’t let that stop you! I’ve got tips to make your visit a breeze. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you’ll find the Medina an exciting and rewarding place to explore, even without a guide!
Here’s your complete Marrakech Medina guide to help you plan your visit.
⏰ Short on time?
Where to stay in the Medina
– Riad Bab Tilila
– Riad Selouane
– Riad Ecila
Things to Do in the Medina
– Explore the Souks
– Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa
– Marvel at the Koutoubia Mosque
– Relax at Le Jardin Secret
– Shop for Spices
– See Bahia Palace
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Where to Stay in the Marrakech Medina
If you’re visiting Marrakech, I highly recommend staying in the Medina even if it’s just for part of your trip. The Medina offers a unique experience where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Since it’s car-free, you’ll wander through narrow streets lined with colourful shops, traditional riads, and historic landmarks.
We stayed at Riad Selouane, and it was incredible. The riad provided a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets, with its traditional Moroccan decor making it feel like a hidden gem.
Many riads in the Medina feature beautiful courtyards, and some even have swimming pools or rooftop terraces for enjoying the view.
- You’ll be close to the action, with major sights and markets within walking distance.
- Staying in a riad combines Moroccan hospitality with stunning design.
- You’ll immerse yourself in Marrakech’s vibrant culture.
- It’s the best way to experience authentic Moroccan accommodation
Where did I Stayed in Marrakech
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at Riad Selouane in Marrakech.
Where to Stay in Marrakech
🏨 Riad Bab Tilila – Traditional stay in the heart of Marrakech
🏨 Riad Selouane – Cozy oasis with stunning décor
🏨 Riad Ecila – Experience traditional Moroccan elegance
Things to Do in the Marrakech Medina
The souks (markets) are one of the Medina’s main attractions. You’ll find everything from handwoven rugs and spices to handcrafted lanterns and leather goods. It’s a shopper’s paradise, and bartering is part of the experience (more on that later).
This bustling square is the heart of the Medina. During the day, you’ll see juice vendors, snake charmers, and performers. At night, the square transforms into an open-air food market with stalls serving tagines, grilled meats, and Moroccan desserts.
It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible!
While non Muslims can’t enter the mosque, the Koutoubia Mosque is a must see for its stunning architecture and towering minaret, visible from all over Marrakech.
Need a break from the chaos? Le Jardin Secret is a peaceful garden oasis tucked away in the Medina. It’s a serene spot to unwind and take in traditional Moroccan landscaping.
The Medina is famous for its vibrant spice markets, where you can stock up on saffron, turmeric, and ras el hanout. It’s the perfect place to pick up edible souvenirs.
Although technically outside the Medina walls, the Bahia Palace is just a short walk away. Its intricate mosaics and grand courtyards make it well worth a visit.
👉 Check out this guided tours of Bahia Palace


Places to Eat and Drink in the Medina
Food is an essential part of the Medina experience. You’ll find rooftop restaurants, hidden food spots, and plenty of traditional Moroccan dishes to try. Here are some favourites.
Nomad: A modern twist on Moroccan cuisine with a rooftop offering stunning Medina views.
Le Jardin: A green oasis serving a mix of Moroccan and international dishes.
Café Clock: Known for its camel burger, this café blends Moroccan and Western flavours.
Street Food at Jemaa el-Fnaa: Don’t miss the grilled meats, fresh orange juice, and sweet pastries at the square.

Bartering in the Marrakech Medina
Bartering is an essential part of shopping in the Medina. At first, it might feel awkward, but once you get the hang of it, it’s actually fun!
Bartering Tips
- Start at half the offered price and negotiate from there.
- Be polite but firm. Bartering is part of the culture.
- If the seller accepts your price, it’s considered polite to buy the item.


Tips for Navigating the Marrakech Medina
The Medina can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors, but these tips will help make your experience smoother:
Stay Connected: I used an eSIM to stay connected, which made navigating with Google Maps much easier. It also gave me peace of mind knowing I could look up information or message friends if needed.
Bring Cash: Most vendors only accept cash, so have enough on hand in small denominations.
Handle Persistent Locals Politely: If someone offers unsolicited help, a firm but polite “no, thank you” works well.
Prepare to Barter: Approach bartering with a smile and don’t hesitate to negotiate.
Download Offline Maps: Having offline maps or Google Maps saved is a lifesaver in the Medina’s maze-like streets.
Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly and be mindful of cultural norms, especially near religious sites.

Guide or No Guide?
If navigating the Medina feels intimidating, hiring a guide can be a great option. A guide can help you discover hidden gems, avoid scams, and learn about Marrakech’s history. However, with tools like Google Maps and an eSIM, exploring on your own is entirely doable and rewarding.
Day trips we recommend from Marrakech
🐻 Discover Marrakech’s natural wonders! Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike & Boat Trip
🚙 Adventure in the desert! Lunch in Agafay Desert with Quad Ride
🎈 Take to the skies! Marrakech Balloon Flight with Berber Breakfast
✨ Dine under the stars! Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride with Dinner
FAQs About the Marrakech Medina
Yes! Staying in the Medina immerses you in the city’s vibrant culture and history. Plus, the riads offer an authentic Moroccan experience.
Yes, the Medina is generally safe for tourists. Just stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
While Marrakech’s Medina is the most famous, many travellers find the Medina of Fez to be the most beautiful due to its rich history and intricate architecture.
The Medina is car-free, so you’ll walk most of the time. For longer distances, locals use donkeys or carts to transport goods.
PIN THIS PAGE FOR LATER


Add comment