Marrakech: Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, Souk & Medina Guided Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
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
Available options
Private Tour in French
Private Walking Tour: Choose a private tour for a more personalised experience. Your tour will begin at your riad if with the medina of Marrakech.
Private Tour in English
Private Walking Tour: Choose a private tour for a more personalised experience. Your tour will begin at your riad if with the medina of Marrakech.
Shared Walking Tour in English
Shared Group Walking Tour: Join this shared group tour, led by an experienced licensed guide, starting at the Café de France in Djemaa El Fna Square.
Shared Walking Tour in French
Shared Group Tour in French: Join this shared small group tour, led by an experienced and licensed French-speaking guide, starting at the Café de France.
What's included
Private or small-group walking tour (depending on option selected)
Licenced experienced local tour-guide
Hotel pickup within the Medina (if private option selected)
Skip-the-Line access to monuments
Personalized service and insider tips
Free time to explore each monument at your own pace
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
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.
2
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.
3
Stop 3
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.
4
Stop 4
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.
5
Stop 5
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.
6
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.
What's not included
Entry fees to monuments: Bahia Palace: 100 DHS and Saadian Tombs: 100 DHS per adult
Transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
41 reviews
5★
30
4★
7
3★
3
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
42 reviews
5★
40
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
You will meet your guide in front of Cafe de France in the Djemaa El Fna square. The activity provider will contact you a day or two before the tour to confirm arrangements and coordinate with your guide for a seamless start to your experience.
About Marrakech
Marrakech is a vibrant city known for its rich history, bustling souks, and stunning architecture. It offers a blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Jemaa El-Fnaa
Jemaa El-Fnaa is the heart of Marrakech, a bustling square filled with food stalls, entertainers, and souvenir vendors. It's a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences.
Cultural
2-3 hours
Free (food and souvenirs cost extra)
Koutoubia Mosque
The Koutoubia Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Marrakech. Its minaret is a symbol of the city and can be seen from many parts of the medina.
Historical
1 hour
Free (non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque)
Bahia Palace
The Bahia Palace is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, featuring intricate tile work, lush gardens, and beautiful courtyards. It offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past.
Historical
1-2 hours
70 MAD
Majorelle Garden
The Majorelle Garden is a beautiful botanical garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. It features a variety of plants, a striking blue villa, and a museum dedicated to Yves Saint Laurent.
Nature
2-3 hours
70 MAD
Saadian Tombs
The Saadian Tombs are a collection of mausoleums dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. They were discovered in 1917 and offer a fascinating look into the history of Marrakech.
Historical
1 hour
70 MAD
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tagine
A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, named after the earthenware pot it's cooked in.
Main course
Vegetarian options available
Couscous
A dish made with steamed semolina grains, often served with vegetables and meat.
Main course
Vegetarian options available
Pastilla
A savory-sweet pie made with layers of filo pastry, filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, almonds, and powdered sugar.
Main course
Contains nuts
Mint Tea
A traditional Moroccan tea made with green tea and fresh mint leaves, sweetened with sugar.
Drink
Contains caffeine
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Atlas Mountains
Surfing in Essaouira
Quad biking in the desert
Spa treatments
Yoga retreats
Relaxing in a hammam
Exploring the medina
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
The best time to visit Marrakech is during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city. The temperatures are mild, and the crowds are manageable.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: French, Berber languages
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone
GMT+0
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Marrakech is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable taxi services and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- • Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Menara International Airport • 4 km from city center
By train
Marrakech Railway Station
By bus
Marrakech Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Marrakech. They are affordable and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Careem, Heetch
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Medina
Gueliz
Hivernage
Day trips
Atlas Mountains
60 km from Marrakech • Full day
The Atlas Mountains offer stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional Berber villages. It's a great escape from the city for nature lovers.
Ourika Valley
30 km from Marrakech • Half day to full day
The Ourika Valley is known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional Berber houses, and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for day trips from Marrakech.
Essaouira
180 km from Marrakech • Full day to overnight
Essaouira is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic medina, and vibrant arts scene. It's a popular destination for surfing, windsurfing, and relaxation.
Festivals
Marrakech Popular Arts Festival • Every July
Marrakech International Film Festival • Every November/December
Ramadan • Dates vary (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more immersive and informative experience.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Visit the medina early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Bargain politely when shopping in the souks, as prices are often negotiable.
- Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but choose stalls with high turnover.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
