Souk Semmarine
Souk Semmarine forms the main artery of Marrakech's invigorating souks. It will likely be your introduction into Marrakech's (if not Morocco's) vibrant marketplaces, with a constant hive of activity. This popular souk lies to the north of Jamma el-Fnna, stretching from Djemaa el Fna to Ben Youssef Medersa - tuck into local food before navigating this impressive souk on our dedicated food tour. Souvenirs come in all shapes and sizes, from cones of Moroccan spices to traditional Moroccan crafts. Souks are typically open-air markets, but Souk Semmarine is covered by wooden slats, providing shoppers with a little shade for a more comfortable shopping experience.
Souk El Attarine
One of the souks that branches off from Souk Semmarine is Souk El Attarine. Once renowned for its spices and perfumes, today this Marrakech souk is best known for its copper items. At the end of our Best of Morocco tour you'll have time to browse a range of incredible metalwork products, including silver teapots and brass and copper lanterns. It's a vibrant spot to watch local craftsmanship at its finest and pick up a beautiful handcrafted item.
Souk Zrabia
Souk Zrabia has a troubled past - it was used as a slave trading point until 1912. Since then, the souk has transformed itself into a carpet-specialist souk. There are many interesting and intricate designs to choose from and you'll learn about Morocco's communities based on the designs, including Berber and Arab designs. Another aspect that makes Souk Zrabia unique is that it's largely women-run. Go for a late afternoon wander; the souks truly come to life at night - especially during Ramadan - with music and locals socialising.
Souk Chouari
Best for carpentry and woodwork items, Souk Chouari is full of artisan workshops, and is where blacksmiths and metal artisans come to sell their wares. It's also associated with carpentery items, with many goods made of cedar wood. You'll pick up a range of smaller interesting items here, whether wrought-iron or wooden, and while the larger items may be slightly too large for your suitcase, you can still admire the work that has gone into them! Spend a morning stocking up on goods and wares on our Grand Tour of Morocco, before ticking off more major Marrakech attractions.
Souk Smata
Souk Smata is the best place in Marrakech to buy a pair of babouches. These Moroccan slippers are traditionally handmade and feature a variety of styles, patterns and designs, making a stylish yet comfortable fit. While babouche is a French word, it derives from the Arabic word 'babush' meaning slipper. This slip-on shoe became particularly popular during the Ottoman Empire and in 17th century French court fashion. Babouches were originally worn for special occasions, but today they make a great everyday staple - and an easy item to pack in your suitcase! You can find babouches across all sizes, so if you're visiting as a family nobody will feel left out!
Souk des Bijoutiers
Souk des Bijoutiers, located to the right of Souk Kebir, is the best souk in Marrakech for jewelery. Thin gold bracelets dangle from their displays, chunky beaded necklaces adorn colorful boards and stacks of gemstone rings line the tables. Beautiful gold, silver and precious stone jewelery is just one tactical haggle away! Other souks offer cheaper jewelery, but for an excellent quality item, head to Souk des Bijoutiers to see the high-quality artisanal craftsmanship of Marrakech in full flow.
Souk Haddadine
Souk Haddadine in Marrakech is a bustling market known for its skilled blacksmiths and metalwork. Haddadine is an Arabic word meaning 'blacksmiths', so you couldn't be in a better place to buy authentic Moroccan souvenirs! Located near Souk Belaarie, this fascinating spot is brimming with activity, from the heat of the furnaces to the sounds of the hammers at work. You'll typically find larger items here like furnture and chandeliers, but you can also pick up smaller items like lanterns and lampshades. Souk Haddadine has a longstanding legacy in Marrakech; it became renowned for these specialist items as the city evolved as a major trade hub.
While you're exploring the souks, you'll come across plenty of food stalls where you can refuel on local snacks and food, including freshly squeezed orange juice, mouth-watering flatbreads cooked in huge firepits and a range of sugary sweets. It's best to avoid anything with ice or that might have been washed (eg salads) as this can upset western stomachs.
