Wondering what to buy in Marrakech? The souks of the old medina are one of the best places in North Africa to shop for crafts. Rugs, lamps, leather, spices and silver fill hundreds of small shops. However, the choice can feel overwhelming on your first visit. This guide explains what to buy in Marrakech, where to find each item and how to pay a fair price.
Where to Shop in the Marrakech Souks
The souks start on the north side of Jemaa el Fna, the main square. From there, Souk Semmarine leads into a maze of covered lanes. In fact, each lane has its own trade, so it helps to know the names. For example, Souk Haddadine is the blacksmiths’ lane, while Rahba Kedima is the old spice square. Also, the dyers’ souk hangs fresh wool to dry above the street.
Whatever you choose, prices are rarely written down. Instead, the seller names a price and you make an offer. Because of this, it pays to look around before you buy.
What to Buy in Marrakech: The Best Souvenirs
Here is what to buy in Marrakech, item by item. Each one is made in Morocco, and many are made by hand.
Home and Decor
1. Berber rugs. Rugs are the classic answer to what to buy in Marrakech. Thick Beni Ourain rugs are cream with dark lines. In contrast, flat kilims from the Atlas are light and colorful. Most rug shops will fold or roll your rug, and many can ship it home. Learn more about the Berber weavers before you go.
2. Lanterns and metalwork. Metal lanterns with cut-out patterns throw beautiful shadows at night. Also, look for brass trays, tea pots and mirror frames. Best of all, smaller lanterns are easy to pack, so they make good gifts.
3. Ceramics. Painted bowls, plates and tagines come in every color. However, decorative tagines are not always safe for cooking. So ask the seller if the glaze is food-safe.
4. A mint tea set. A silver-colored tea pot and a few painted glasses bring Moroccan hospitality home. Moreover, they are light and not too expensive, which makes them a smart choice of what to buy in Marrakech for friends.
Beauty and Food
5. Argan oil. Argan oil comes from the nuts of the argan tree in the southwest. For the best quality, buy from a women’s cooperative or a trusted shop. Read about the women behind Morocco’s argan oil cooperatives to learn how it is made.
6. Spices. On a small budget, spices are an easy answer to what to buy in Marrakech. For instance, ras el hanout, cumin and paprika are cheap and smell wonderful. Saffron is also sold everywhere, but fake saffron is common. Therefore, buy it from a busy spice shop and check that the threads are deep red.
7. Natural cosmetics. Black soap, ghassoul clay and rose water are part of every hammam visit. In addition, they are small and easy to carry home.
Leather, Clothes and Jewelry
8. Leather goods. For example, babouche slippers, bags and poufs are sold all over the medina. Generally, good leather should smell of leather, not chemicals. If you love leather, also visit the tanneries of Fes. See our guide to Fes.
9. Scarves and clothes. First, light cotton scarves are useful for the sun and the desert. Similarly, a djellaba or a kaftan makes a beautiful souvenir. Read what to wear in the Sahara desert if you are heading south.
10. Silver jewelry. Berber silver, amber beads and the hand-shaped khamsa are popular. Our guide to the Hand of Fatima in Morocco explains what the symbol means.
How to Haggle When You Buy in Marrakech
Haggling is normal in the souks, and it is meant to be friendly. Here are a few simple rules.
- First, ask the price and take your time. There is no need to answer quickly.
- Then make a first offer of about half, and meet somewhere in the middle.
- Above all, stay calm and smile. A good haggle is a conversation, not a fight.
- If the price feels too high, thank the seller and walk away politely.
- Once you agree on a price, you should buy. Changing your mind after that is rude.
For more customs in the souk, read our guide to Moroccan etiquette.
Paying for What You Buy in Marrakech
Most small shops take cash only, and they prefer Moroccan dirhams. In contrast, larger rug and furniture shops often accept cards. So carry small notes for small items. Our guide to cash in Morocco explains where to get dirhams.
Shipping Bigger Items Home
Fortunately, many rug and furniture shops can ship your purchase. Before you pay, ask for the full price including shipping and insurance. Also, ask for a written receipt with the description of the item. Finally, check your own country’s customs rules for large purchases.
When to Shop in Marrakech
Mornings are the calmest time to decide what to buy in Marrakech. By late afternoon, however, the lanes get busy. After shopping, rest with a mint tea, then visit the square at night. For more ideas, see our guide to activities in Marrakech. If you have an evening free, also read things to do in Agafay Desert.
Shopping is also part of our longer tours. For example, the 7-day cultural and heritage tour visits the souks of Marrakech and Fes. Our day trips from Marrakech can include craft cooperatives on the way.
Need a Hand in the Souks?
Send us a message on WhatsApp at +212 609 490 681 or use the contact page. Tell us your dates and what you want to see. After that, we will send you a plan and a price.
Want a local guide for the Marrakech souks?
Message us on WhatsAppWhat to Buy in Marrakech: FAQ
What is the best thing to buy in Marrakech?
Rugs, argan oil, lanterns and leather are the most popular. For small gifts, spices and tea glasses work well.
What to buy in Marrakech on a small budget?
Spices, black soap, tea glasses, scarves and small lanterns are cheap and easy to pack.
Is it cheaper to buy in Marrakech or Fes?
Prices are similar. However, Fes is famous for leather and ceramics, while Marrakech has the widest choice in one place.
Can I pay by card in the souks?
Some bigger shops take cards. However, most small shops take cash only.
How much should I offer when haggling?
Many travelers start at about half of the first price and meet in the middle.
Can shops ship rugs abroad?
Yes. In fact, many rug shops ship worldwide. Ask for the total price with shipping and a written receipt.
Navigate Morocco is a team from the Sahara desert who work as a family, as our ancestors did. We will be glad to help you plan your time in Marrakech.
More Navigate Morocco guides: tipping in Morocco, is Marrakech worth visiting, El Badi Palace, the Moroccan food guide, riad vs hotel, Essaouira, 7 days in Morocco.
