Top 10 Marrakesh Travel Tips: Medina Survival, Bargaining, and Hidden Riads
“Marrakesh is a place where everything is possible and nothing is as it seems.”
Marrakesh is a sensory overload. The colors are brighter, the smells of spices are sharper, and the noise of the souks is louder. The ancient Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most mesmerizing places on Earth, but for an unprepared traveler, it can be exhausting.
To navigate the "Red City" without getting lost in the maze or falling for common scams, you need a strategy. Here is your survival guide to Marrakesh.
1.
The "Road Closed" Scam
While walking in the Medina, locals might tell you "That street is closed" or "It's a dead end."
The Truth: 99% of the time, the road is open. They are trying to divert you toward a specific shop or offer to "lead" you for a fee.
The Hack: Politely say "No, thank you" and keep walking. Trust your offline map over a stranger's directions.
2.
Use 'Maps.me' Instead of Google Maps
Google Maps often fails in the narrow, tall-walled alleys of the Medina.
The Hack: Download Maps.me. It is far more accurate for the tiny streets of Marrakesh and works perfectly offline. Mark your Riad (hotel) the moment you arrive so you can always find your way back.
3.
Bargaining is a Sport, Not a Choice
In the souks (markets), the first price mentioned is usually 3-4 times higher than the actual price.
The Rule: Never accept the first offer. Smile, start at 30% or 50% of the price, and meet in the middle. If you can't agree, walk away—if they call you back, you’ve reached the real price.
4.
Stay in a Riad (Not a Hotel)
Modern hotels are in the "New City," but the soul of Marrakesh is in a Riad.
The Tip: These are traditional houses with an interior courtyard or pool. From the street, they look like plain mud walls, but inside they are hidden palaces. They offer a quiet sanctuary from the chaos of the city.
5.
Jemaa el-Fna: Photos Cost Money
The main square is full of snake charmers and monkey handlers.
The Warning: If you take a photo of them, they will immediately demand money. If they put a monkey on your shoulder, they will expect a significant tip to take it off. If you don't want to pay, don't point your camera at them.
6.
Tap Water is a No-Go
Do not drink the tap water in Marrakesh.
The Rule: Stick to bottled or filtered water. Also, be careful with ice in cheap street stalls and avoid raw salads if you have a sensitive stomach. Stick to hot Tajine—it’s cooked at high heat and is perfectly safe.
7.
Dress Respectfully
Marrakesh is a tourist hub, but it is still a conservative city.
The Tip: Wearing revealing clothes (short shorts or tank tops) can lead to unwanted attention. Lightweight, loose-fitting linen clothes that cover your shoulders and knees will keep you cool and show respect for the local culture.
8.
Alcohol is Hard to Find (and Expensive)
Morocco is a Muslim country, and alcohol is not served in most local restaurants in the Medina.
The Hack: If you want a drink, head to a hotel rooftop or the Guéliz (New City) district. Prices are high due to taxes, so don't expect a cheap beer.
9.
The Mint Tea Ceremony
Moroccan mint tea (known as "Moroccan Whiskey") is a way of life.
The Ritual: If a shopkeeper offers you tea, it’s a sign of hospitality. It is rude to refuse immediately. Sit down, enjoy the sweet tea, and use it as a moment to relax and observe the city around you.
10.
Fridays are Quiet
Friday is the holy day in Morocco.
The Warning: Many shops in the souks and some museums close on Friday afternoons for prayer. Plan your heavy shopping for other days, and use Friday afternoon for a relaxing spa or "Hamam" visit.
Ready to explore another destination?
Dive into our other Top 10 guides and find your next great location.
