Marrakech: Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Souk & Medina Guided Tour

Itinerary

1. 1

   Step 1 (15 min)

   The Koutoubia Mosque, the city's largest mosque, derives its name from its historical association with bookshops and booksellers. Following a traditional Almohad architectural style, its tower is adorned with four copper globes. Miniature replicas of the mosque are widely sold in Morocco, attesting to its popularity.

2. 2

   Step 2 (15 min)

   Then, pause at the Kasbah, a historic neighbourhood that served as a fortified royal district. Its narrow streets and traditional architecture offer a glimpse into the life and heritage of the city’s past. Nearby, admire Bab Agnaou, a grand 12th-century gateway with intricate stone carvings, historically serving as the royal entrance to the Kasbah.

3. 3

   Step 3 (45 min)

   The Saadian Tombs, dating from the time of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur, house the remains of about sixty members of the Sa’adi Dynasty. Rediscovered in 1917 and carefully restored, these tombs have become a prominent attraction in Marrakech, serving as the final resting place for members of the dynasty from the Dra’a Valley beyond the high Atlas Mountains.

4. 4

   Step 4 (45 min)

   El Bahia Palace, “the palace of the beautiful” was built for Ahmed Ibn Moussa between 1894 and 1900 in the then-popular Alaoui style. There are 160 different rooms in the palace around little courtyards, which were, according to rumour, chiefly occupied, by an increasing number of concubines. The beautiful decorations are stucco panels, zellij decorations, tiled floors, carved cedar ceilings, shiny marble finishes (a special Marrakesh finish called tadelakt and used in all the city's riads’ bathrooms) and painted ceilings. The palace is surrounded by an eight-hectare garden.

5. 5

   Step 5 (30 min)

   The bustling souks are the heart of Marrakesh, offering an array of traditional Moroccan handicrafts, spices, medicinal remedies, and local entertainment. Visitors can find iconic items like babouches, leather goods, garments, pottery, tajine dishes, and silver jewellery. Bargaining is a common practice, adding a sense of fun and excitement to the shopping experience.

6. 6

   Step 6 (15 min)

   End your journey immersed in the essence of Marrakech, where architectural marvels, vibrant markets, and a rich cultural heritage come together to create unforgettable memories of a truly unique experience.