Medina, Marrakech guide

Getting lost in the Medina’s narrow, winding streets is one of the best ways to discover the neighbourhood. Begin early in the day at Souk El Attarine before the crowds build, then follow the scent of spices to Souk Semmarine. See skeins of bright wool hang overhead around Souk Sebbaghine. And don’t miss Rahba Kedima, where apothecaries sell herbs, oils and traditional remedies.

Tucked behind unassuming doors, Marrakech’s historic bathhouses still form part of daily life. Hammam Mouassine offers a peek into centuries-old cleansing and wellness rituals beneath vaulted, steam-filled rooms. Book a private hammam experience for a luxurious pamper session, or see a more authentic side at a public hammam. Just don’t forget your soap, towel, slippers and swimsuit.

The Medina is home to some of Marrakech’s most important mosques. The Koutoubia Mosque and its 12th-century minaret dominate the skyline — non-Muslims can’t go inside, but the exterior and gardens are perfect for wandering. Next to the Ben Youssef Mosque, you’ll find the centuries-old Medersa Ben Youssef, a UNESCO-listed former Quranic school famous for its marble, tiling and striking courtyard.

The central Jemaa el-Fnaa square is always buzzing with performers like musicians, snake charmers and storytellers. For a quieter activity, escape the crowds with a visit to the tranquil Le Jardin Secret, a 19th-century palace with traditional Islamic gardens. Travelling with young foodies? Join a hands-on cooking class at the Moroccan Culinary Art Museum, set in an 18th-century palace.

Step inside Dar El Bacha palace, home to the Museum of Confluences, to explore art and exhibits celebrating Morocco’s diverse heritage. And discover more of Marrakech’s past through 19th- and 20th-century photographs at Maison de la Photographie. When you’re ready to sniff the best-smelling museum in the Medina, stop by the Musée du Parfum to learn about Morocco’s long tradition of perfumery.

As evening falls, Jemaa el-Fnaa transforms into one of the city’s liveliest dining spots, its stalls sizzling with spicy merguez sausages, tagines and harira soup. Don’t miss Mechoui Alley for slow-roasted lamb cooked in underground ovens. For a swankier dining experience, you’ll find some of the best restaurants in the Medina tucked inside a traditional riad — houses with garden courtyards.

After dark, the Medina shifts gears as drummers, storytellers and street performers turn Jemaa el-Fnaa into a festival of sound and light. Rooftop terraces glow with lanterns, many serving mint tea rather than alcohol, which is limited to licensed venues. For a quieter evening, retreat to a riad bar above the lively streets.

Lose yourself in the Medina’s souks, where narrow alleys brim with colour and the scent of spice. Stalls spill over with handwoven rugs, brass lanterns and leather goods — and haggling is all part of the experience. If you’re looking for a calmer browse, visit Ensemble Artisanal, a government-run cooperative selling authentic crafts at fixed, fair prices.

Every summer, El Badi Palace’s courtyard hosts the National Festival of Popular Arts, a celebration of Morocco’s diverse arts heritage through dance, music and folkloric performances. During Eid al-Fitr, the Medina area comes alive with prayers at the Koutoubia Mosque, lively street celebrations and market stalls selling sweet fried ‘chebakia’ biscuits and almond-filled ‘briouat’ pastries.