Moroccan souks are some of the most vibrant markets in the world, filled with handmade crafts, spices and lanterns. Shopping in them is part of the experience, and with a little preparation you can bargain confidently and bring home authentic pieces at a fair price.
At a glance
- Best souks
- Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira, Rabat's Rue des Consuls
- Typical bargaining
- Start at a third to a half of the first price
- Payment
- Cash, in small notes
- Tip
- Check prices in a fixed-price craft shop first
What to buy
- Rugs and textiles: Beni Ourain wool rugs, flat-woven kilims, colourful Boucherouite rugs made from recycled fabric.
- Leather goods: babouche slippers, bags and poufs, particularly in Fes and Marrakech.
- Argan oil: choose cooperatives; cosmetic oil is pale, culinary oil is roasted and darker. Amlou is a delicious argan, almond and honey spread.
- Spices and tea: ras el hanout, cumin, saffron and mint tea. Buy saffron from reputable sellers, as fake saffron is common.
- Ceramics and tagines: Fes blue pottery and Safi ceramics. Check whether a tagine is meant for cooking or decoration.
- Metalwork and lanterns: brass and copper lamps, trays and teapots.
- Jewellery: Amazigh silver, often with enamel, coral and amber.
- Wood: thuya wood boxes, a speciality of Essaouira.
How to bargain
- Know the value. Visit a fixed-price government craft centre (an Ensemble Artisanal) to see typical prices.
- Greet and chat. Take your time, accept tea if offered, and be friendly.
- Counter with a low but reasonable price. Many travellers start at roughly a third to a half of the first price.
- Be ready to walk away. Politeness and patience often bring the price down.
- Never bargain unless you intend to buy. Once a price is agreed, it is considered a commitment.
Avoiding scams and pressure
- Guides often take commissions from shops, which raises the price. Visit shops on your own.
- Be careful with claims such as “antique” or “handmade”; ask how it was made.
- Inspect goods carefully, check rugs on both sides and compare sellers.
- For large purchases such as rugs, ask about shipping and insurance, and get a receipt.
The best markets
- Marrakech: the souks north of Jemaa el-Fna are huge, with specialised streets for leather, metalwork and spices.
- Fes: the medina's craft quarters, including tanneries and brass workers.
- Essaouira: relaxed and less pushy, with good woodwork and art.
- Rabat: Rue des Consuls for rugs and crafts, with lower pressure.
For more on crafts see our culture guide, and for safety see Morocco travel tips.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I bargain in Moroccan souks?
Start at roughly a third to a half of the first price and settle somewhere in between. Prices vary by item and shop.
What are the best souvenirs from Morocco?
Rugs, leather slippers and bags, argan oil, spices, ceramics, lanterns and silver jewellery.
Can I pay by card in souks?
Some shops accept cards, particularly for larger purchases, but cash is the norm. Carry small notes.