Jemaa el-Fnaa stands as the heart of Marrakech, and it's home to a plethora of shopping opportunities. Exploring Marrakech on foot will undoubtedly lead you to this bustling square.
Here, you can shop for souvenirs, savor a refreshing grapefruit juice for 10 MAD or orange juice for 4 MAD (ensure they're not diluted with water or opt for bottled water), take a leisurely carriage ride, and be captivated by the mesmerizing performances of musicians, acrobats, dancers, snake charmers, fortune tellers, and storytellers. The diversity of entertainment on display is truly remarkable.
Jemaa el-Fnaa is also known for its knack for enticing more money from tourists. As evening descends, the square transforms into an extraordinary food court, where you can sample various dishes, meats, fruits, and sweets, all at very reasonable prices. However, it's customary to haggle, and the final price typically settles at around 2-2.5 times lower than the initially advertised price.
No matter your planned itinerary for exploring Marrakech, you'll find yourself returning to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square time and time again. Locals often say that on certain days, every single person in the city passes through this mystical place.
Don't forget to include the following stops in your Marrakech hiking itinerary:
- Ben Yusef Madrasa: This is North Africa's largest religious school. Explore the intricately designed courtyard and take a glimpse into the tiny cells. Admission is 50 MAD, and for 60 MAD, you can purchase a combined ticket for both the madrasa and the art museum.
- Hamams: Experience the local baths with optional massages (typically around 300 MAD, including a scrub, plus a tip for the masseur).
- Bahia Palace: Discover the historic palace where viziers resided with their extensive families (entrance fee - 12 MAD).
- Majorelle Gardens: Visit the gardens that house a diverse collection of rare plants from different continents, as well as the art museum on the premises. Entrance to the garden is 40 MAD, and the museum entrance is 20 MAD.
When planning your travel itineraries, remember not to confine yourself solely to Marrakech, as your stay in Morocco offers opportunities to explore beyond.
