Marrakech: Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Souk & Medina Guided Tour
Description
Embark on a captivating journey led by your knowledgeable local guide as you delve into Marrakech's rich tapestry of iconic landmarks. Marvel at the intricate beauty of Bahia Palace, pay homage to history at the Saadian Tombs, and admire the grandeur of the Koutoubia Mosque. Immerse yourself in the bustling medina, a haven of exotic sights and sounds, and experience the lively atmosphere of Jemaa el-Fna Square. • Explore Djemaa El Fna square with its vibrant markets full of souvenirs & goods • Uncover the architectural wonders of the Koutoubia Mosque & the Saadian Tombs • Admire the stunning decorations and lush interiors of El Bahia Palace • Immerse yourself in rich history, culture & architecture that define Marrakech
Tour Options
Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Not suitable for people with mobility impairments
Reviews(221)
Our guided tour with Najem was great. He shared a bit of Moroccan history so we could get a better feel for the country and its culture. He guided us through the city's monuments and alleys, speaking in clear English
Excellent tour, knowledgeable guide, good pace. Would recommend
Mohamed is an exceptional guide. He is attentive, a good listener, and very engaging. He involved my 9-year-old daughter. We were a group of about 10 people and took our time. We know the good spots thanks to him as well. I highly recommend him 🙏
Great tour guide, informative and congenial. Four hours is just about right time wise. Remember to bring water, very hot in August.
Loved our guide, and he made an effort to interact on a personal level and make us all comfortable.
Pleasant and fun tour thanks to our guide Youness, who was friendly and helpful. Nice tour of the city, visiting the main spots but without too many heavy explanations. Value for money I would say is excellent. Recommended!
It was informative and easy walking. Our guide was very knowledgeable and answered all our questions.
This was a really fun excursion with an excellent and knowledgeable guide Mo who made the tour memorable.
The guide was knowledgeable, however the sites (Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs) were not particularly interesting. As far as the tour of the Souk and Medina were concerned I do not really recollect that we were shown anything. We were taken to a Herboristerie, not mentioned as part of the Tour, and were subjected to a 30 minute sales pitch - which as it happens was not so bad as there was A/C in the shop.
Great tour of the old city with a very knowledgeable guide
