Do’s
Sleep in a Riad
There are plenty of beautiful riads in the middle of the Souk, hidden treasures in the narrow streets in the old part of Marrakech. For example, Riad Dar Alsaad – a small riad with only five rooms. It has a beautiful patio and terrace, where you can enjoy free tea all day and a tasty breakfast in the morning.
Riad Dar Alsaad, Quartier Riad Laarouss, Derb el bakkal n°11, Marrakech Médina, +33 6 87 21 13 33
Enjoy the typical Moroccan food
You definitely have to try the typical Moroccan food; tajines, couscous, fresh fish and lamb chops. On the street you can buy cheap food and drinks on-the-go. Go to Le Jardin or Nomad for an amazing dinner experience or enjoy your dinner at Jemaa El Fnaa, a famous big square with plenty of food stands.
Le Jardin, 32, Souk El jeld. Sidi Abdelaziz, Marrakech Médina, +212 (0) 5 24 37 82 95
Nomad, 1 Derb Aarjan, Marrakech Medina, +212 5 24 38 16 09
Jemaa El Fnaa, Derb Chtouka, Marrakesh +212 627-286740
Buy a lot and haggle
At the Souk you can buy many treasures, like carpets, leather bags, jewelry, shoes and much more. The only thing you have to do is to haggle. If you’re successful, you’ll get items 50 percent cheaper than they were originally.
Dont’s
Do not exchange money at the airport
Exchanging money at the airport is a very bad idea. Although they say ‘No commission’, they use a different exchange rate than the banks in Morocco. It’s a good idea to exchange your money at a bank in Morocco, where you can get cash for a reasonable exchange rate.
Do not accept directions from strangers
The owners of many riads will all tell you to not accept directions from strangers, as they always want money. When you are lost, just ask a police officer.
Do not think everything you will come across in the markets is of high quality
Although it is difficult to tell the difference between all the treasures in the Souk, be aware of what you buy. Sometimes the leather is mixed with natural or even chemical fabrics but will be passed of as high quality material.
