Marrakech Travel Guide

Marrakech Shopping

Shopping in Marrakech is a world-famous travel experience. From the bustling labyrinth of the souks (an area of market stalls) to hand-crafted pottery, contemporary art, couture kaftans and priceless antiques, Marrakech is a treasure-trove of exotic goods.

From the souks, shoppers can purchase anything from traditional (leather slippers) to magical potions; while La Porte d''Or is home to some invaluable antiques. The biggest souk in Marrakech is adjacent to the Djemaa El-Fna, while in Gueliz, Intensite Nomade sells trendy kaftans and contemporary art is available from the Matisse Art Gallery. The Gueliz area also hosts some very upmarket, boutique-style outlets. Akkal, in Sidi Ghanem, is renowned for its beautiful, hand-crafted pottery. Other popular souvenirs from Marrakech include ''cactus silk'', spices, camel leather goods, and cashmere shawls.

In the souks, bargaining is essential (asking prices may be 5 times what the salesman will eventually take), and the attention of shop owners or staff can be overwhelming. When shopping in the medina with a tourist guide, his commission will be added to the price of the goods purchased. Most small shops are closed on Friday afternoons and on Sundays; the big bazaars are open everyday. Many shops close in August. There is no provision for tourists to reclaim any sales tax or VAT from goods purchased in Morocco.