Summary
It is a common misconception that one has to spend significantly to enjoy a visit to Marrakesh: you can discover affordable accommodations and enjoy satisfying meals at medina pavement cafés and street vendors.
However, incidental expenses can accumulate – that enticing restaurant you feel compelled to visit, those exquisite lanterns you wish to bring home, that elegant kaftan you spotted in the souq. It is reassuring to know that numerous complimentary activities exist that will help you maintain your budget while enriching your experience of this vibrant city.
1. Join the carnival at Djemaa El Fna
Dining establishments begin to set up in the primary square of Marrakesh’s medina, Djemaa El Fna, around 5pm daily. As twilight descends and smoke wafts from the grills, patrons start to gather and explore the food stalls, making their dining decisions amidst a festive atmosphere. Between meals, stroll around the perimeter of the food stalls to discover entertainers – gnaoua performers adorned in vibrant silks and seashell-decorated fezzes playing three-stringed guembris, along with acrobatic displays; men impersonating belly dancers, swaying their hips and playfully tossing their veils as the audience reacts joyfully; musicians singing nostalgically about their mountain villages. It is entirely free to observe, although it is customary to offer a small tip of a few dirhams for photography.
Local tip: A more diverse array of entertainers can be found on weekends, when boxers and comedians also join the vibrant mix of performers.
2. Free concerts to rock the kasbah
Visit Cafe Clock in the kasbah for their complimentary evening concerts. On Mondays and Fridays, enjoy soothing oud music, featuring the classical Arabian lute with 11 strings. Anything goes during the jam session on Wednesdays, where you can either pick an instrument from their collection or bring your own – although clapping along remains an equally enjoyable option. All performances commence at 7pm.
3. Keep the old tradition of storytelling alive
While the tradition of storytellers at Djemaa El Fna has diminished, visitors can still partake in this ancient art in Marrakesh. Attend free events at The World Storytelling Cafe, a cozy vegan restaurant located near the Ben Youssef Medersa, where you can savor stories alongside delectable tapas. Alternatively, make your way to Cafe Clock at 7pm on Thursdays for their complimentary storytelling sessions conducted in English and Darija (Moroccan Arabic).
4. Watch artisans at work
The Ensemble Artisanal, situated near Djemaa El Fna, offers an excellent opportunity to observe artisans as they skillfully carve wood, weave textiles, craft leather goods, create jewelry, and paint ceramics. This government-sponsored showroom showcases a diverse range of traditional Moroccan crafts. If you choose to make a purchase, you will find fixed prices that are generally lower than those in the souq.
5. Be inspired by top designers
Marrakesh is celebrated for its exceptional contemporary design often featured in top decor publications. Gain inspiration for incorporating the Moroccan aesthetic into your home by exploring the finest interior designers, including unique pieces from Studio Augustine, stylish linens at Corinne Bensimon’s Maison, stunning rugs at Soufiane Zarib, and exquisite lanterns at Maison Blaoui.
Local tip: At Soufiane Zarib on Ave El Glaoui in the Bab Doukkala neighborhood, be prepared to knock on the significant front door for entry.
6. Visit the tanneries
Make your way to the end of Rue Bab El Debbagh towards the tanneries tucked against the city walls. Although a few opportunists may attempt to offer guided tours for a fee, entering is free of charge. You will witness artisans working in the pits, washing and soaking hides to produce the renowned soft leather used in bags and jackets. As you return, consider visiting La Clinique du Ballon at no. 68, where Kamal Boukentar continues his family tradition of crafting leather soccer balls.
Local tip: Plan your visit for the morning prior to the sun intensifying the tanning odors.
7. Saunter round the art galleries in Gueliz
Venture to the Ville Nouvelle (new city) district of Gueliz, where you will find numerous avant-garde art galleries, many situated within architecturally significant art deco buildings. Entry to all of these exhibitions is complimentary. Comptoir des Mines is one such gallery, showcasing contemporary works by Moroccan and other African artists across three levels, while also displaying large installations next door. Be sure not to overlook Passage Ghandouri at 61 Ave Yougoslavie, a compact shopping arcade filled with galleries featuring everything from stunning bronze lanterns to cutting-edge fashion items, contemporary photography, and mixed media artworks.
Planning tip: Follow the “Gueliz Art and Art Deco Walk” in Pocket Marrakesh to make the most of your visit to the Gueliz galleries.
This article was first published Mar 10, 2021 and updated Dec 7, 2023.
