Marrakech souks: map, specialities and haggling tips

Updated on October 1, 2026

The souks of Marrakech form the largest traditional market in Morocco: a maze of lanes, partly covered, stretching north of Jemaa el-Fna square to the area around the Ben Youssef Madrasa. Historically, each souk was reserved for one trade or type of goods (leather, carpets, metalwork, pottery); this division still roughly exists, even though souvenir shops have spread everywhere. The main artery is Souk Semmarine, which starts from the north side of the square. Halfway along, it forks: on the right, Rahba Kedima, the square of spices and herbalists; on the left, Souk Attarine, which leads towards the Mouassine district. Further north are the ironworkers of Souk Haddadine, the leather workers of Souk Cherratine and, near the Mouassine mosque, the dyers' lane. Prices are not displayed: you haggle almost everywhere.

Highlights

Souk Semmarine

A wide covered street starting from Jemaa el-Fna square, it is the gateway to the souks and the busiest part. The first shops sell pastries and pottery, followed by fabrics, kaftans, babouche slippers, jewellery and leather poufs. It makes a good landmark: if in doubt, head back to this street to find the square again.

Rahba Kedima, the spice square

This small triangular square once hosted auctions (wool, carpets, weapons). Today it has woven baskets, hats, natural perfumes and, above all, herbalists' stalls selling spices, black soap, kohl and medicinal plants. Several cafés have terraces overlooking the square.

Souk Haddadine, the ironworkers' souk

In the northern part of the souks, this quieter area belongs to the blacksmiths: you can still watch iron being shaped by hand. The workshops make pierced lanterns and lamps, grilles, doors and small furniture. This is where hanging lanterns make the best photos; ask before photographing a craftsman.

Dyers, leather and carpets

Near the Mouassine mosque and fountain, the dyers' souk (Souk Sebbaghine) hangs skeins of wool and silk dyed indigo, saffron or red above the lane to dry. Souk Cherratine specialises in leather (bags, belts, wallets), Souk Smata in babouches and belts, and the Criée Berbère in Berber carpets.

Infos pratiques

Tips

Take time to compare several shops before making an offer, and only name a price if you are ready to buy. To get an idea of prices, the Ensemble Artisanal on avenue Mohammed V sells crafts at fixed prices. An offered tea does not commit you to anything; a smiling "no thank you" ("la, shukran") is enough to decline. Ignore young men who offer to guide you or claim a street is closed: these fake guides take a commission on your purchases and then ask for money. Official guides wear a badge with their photo. Keep your phone and wallet in a closed pocket in the crowds.

How to get there

Marrakech medina, north of Jemaa el-Fna square. On foot: the main entrance, Souk Semmarine, opens directly onto the north side of the square. By taxi: get dropped at the edge of Jemaa el-Fna square, as the souk lanes are closed to cars. Motorbikes do ride through them: stay alert and keep to the right.