Quick answer: The Marrakech souks are a maze of specialised markets north of Jemaa el-Fna: spices, leather, lanterns, rugs, ceramics and argan products. Haggling is expected – start around a third to half of the first price, stay friendly and walk away if the price is not right. Fixed-price cooperatives are good for comparison.
Shopping in the Marrakech souks is an experience in itself: the smell of cedar and leather, the colours of lanterns and spices, and the art of negotiation over mint tea. Here is our local guide.
The main souks
- Souk Semmarine – the main covered street from Jemaa el-Fna, with textiles and souvenirs.
- Rahba Kedima (Spice Square) – spices, herbs, baskets and rooftop cafés.
- Souk Haddadine – blacksmiths and metal lanterns.
- Souk des Teinturiers – dyers with skeins of coloured wool.
- Souk Cherratine – leather goods and babouches.
- Criée Berbère – the old carpet auction area.
What to buy
- Berber rugs and kilims.
- Brass and metal lanterns.
- Leather bags and babouche slippers.
- Ceramics and tagine pots (from Safi and Fez).
- Argan oil and natural cosmetics (prefer women’s cooperatives).
- Spices: ras el hanout, saffron, cumin.
- Thuya wood boxes, teapots and tea glasses.
How to haggle politely
- Look around first; don’t show too much interest in one item.
- Ask the price and counter with about a third to half.
- Negotiate with a smile – it is a social game, not a fight.
- Decide your maximum in advance.
- If you are not happy, thank the seller and leave; often they call you back.
- Once you agree a price, buy – backing out is impolite.
Avoiding traps
- “Guides” who lead you to a specific shop receive commission.
- Saffron and argan can be diluted – buy from reputable sellers.
- Big purchases like rugs: ask about shipping and get a receipt.
- Compare with fixed-price shops such as the Ensemble Artisanal.
Shop with a local
A licensed guide can take you to honest workshops and explain craftsmanship – see our private guided tour of Marrakech. After shopping, enjoy an evening show like Chez Ali or read 3 days in Marrakech and money tips.
Tours related to this guide
- Private Guided Tour Of Marrakech – Discover The Imperial City
- Private Marrakech City Transfers
- Chez Ali The Arab Horse Fantasy
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Frequently asked questions
How much should I haggle in the Marrakech souks?
Start at roughly a third to half of the first price and meet somewhere in the middle. Prices vary, so compare several shops first.
What is the best thing to buy in Marrakech?
Popular buys are Berber rugs, brass lanterns, leather goods, ceramics, argan oil and spices.
Are the souks of Marrakech safe?
Yes, but they are crowded. Keep valuables safe, ignore unofficial guides and agree prices before buying.
When are the Marrakech souks open?
Most shops open from around 9–10 am to 7–8 pm; some close on Friday around midday prayers.
Written by the Todo Marruecos Tours travel team, local tour operators based in Morocco. Last updated: September 2026.