Marrakech
When Time slows, and Colors speak
our complete local guide to the Red City — history, culture, food, tips & tours.
HIGHLIGHTS OF MARRAKECH – “The Must-Sees”
🕒 Hours: 09:00–00:00
🎟️ Ticket: Free entry
🕒 Hours: Daily, 09:00–17:00
🎟️ Ticket: 70 MAD (~6.50€)
🕒 Hours: Exterior view anytime
🎟️ Ticket: Free (no entry for non-Muslims inside)
🕒 Hours: Daily, 08:30–18:00
🎟️ Ticket: Garden: 150 MAD (~14€) Museum: +50 MAD (~4.50€)
🕒 Hours: Daily, 09:00–17:00
🎟️ Ticket: 70 MAD (~6.50€)
🕒 Hours: Daily, 09:00–17:00
🎟️ Ticket: 70 MAD (~6.50€)
NEIGHBORHOODS YOU NEED TO KNOW
MEDINA
The heart of old Marrakech — maze-like souks, donkey carts, shouting vendors, the scent of spices and leather. You’re stepping back centuries here.
Gueliz
Chic cafés, French-style boulevards, and contemporary art galleries. This is modern Marrakech — laid-back, arty, and full of espresso-sipping locals.
Hivernage
Luxury hotels, rooftop bars, casinos, and palm-lined streets. Hivernage is where Marrakech goes glam after dark.
Palmeraie
An oasis just outside the city, dotted with palm groves, camel rides, and luxury desert villas. A peaceful escape from the medina madness.
Eat like a Local in Marrakech
Shopping in the Souks of Marrakech
Marrakech’s souks are more than just markets — they’re a living museum of Moroccan craftsmanship. Get ready to haggle, discover rare finds, and bring a piece of the city home with you.
Tip: Always test the wiring if it’s for export.
Tip: Real leather has a natural scent and matte finish.
Tip: Real saffron is dry and light, not dark or oily.
Tip: Flip it — real carpets have hand-knotted irregular backs.
Safety, Scams & Cultural Tips
Stay smart, stay respectful, and enjoy Marrakech with confidence.
Avoiding Tourist Traps
- Fake guides: Never follow someone randomly offering help in the streets. Use official guides only.
- Taxis: Always ask to use the meter (“compteur”) or agree on the price before entering.
Solo Travel — Especially for Women
- Dress modestly (covered shoulders/knees).
- Avoid walking alone late at night in deserted alleys.
- Ignore catcalls — don’t engage. Stay confident and keep walking.
- Book women-friendly riads or guesthouses.
What Not to Say or Do
- Avoid public displays of affection.
- Don’t take photos of locals without asking (especially women and shopkeepers).
- Don’t enter mosques unless they’re open to non-Muslims (like the Koutoubia is not).
How to Say “No” Politely
“Baraka” — That’s enough
Say it with a hand gesture (open palm downward)
Walk confidently away, don’t stop
Emergency Numbers
Police: 📞 19
Ambulance: 📞 15
Firefighters: 📞 15
Tourist Assistance (ONMT): 📞 +212 537 67 30 30
Police & Tourist Help
- If harassed or scammed, ask shop owners or your riad to call them.
- Tourist police usually speak some English and French.
Fake Guides – How to Deal
- If you feel unsafe, walk into a shop or riad and ask for help.
- Report persistent scammers to your accommodation or the police.