Marrakech: Ben Youssef Madrasa, Le Jardin Secret and Souks Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step into the vibrant soul of Marrakech on this guided walking tour with an expert local guide. Explore the ornate Ben Youssef Medersa, the serene Le Jardin Secret, and the maze-like UNESCO-listed medina. Wander colorful souks where artisans craft pottery, leather goods, and jewelry, savor the scent of exotic spices, and uncover hidden gems most visitors miss. Ideal for culture lovers, families with children and travelers seeking an authentic Moroccan experience.
* Uncover the architectural wonders of the Medersa Ben Youssef, a Quranic school.
* Find serenity in Le Jardin Secret, a oasis of palaces and gardens in the medina.
* Deepen your understanding of the rich history and culture of the famous red city.
* Immerse yourself in the exotic scents, sights, and sounds of the vibrant Medina.
* Explore Djemaa El Fna Square with its lively markets, brimming with local goods
Available options
Shared Group Tour in English
Shared Walking Tour in English: Join this small group tour, led by an experienced and licensed English-speaking-guide. Starting at Café de France in Djemaa.
Private Tour in French
Private Walking Tour in French: Choose a private tour in French for a personalised tour. Starts at your Riad in the Medina or at Café de France in Djemaa.<br/>Pickup included
Shared Group Tour in French
Group Walking Tour in French: Join this small group tour, led by an experienced and licensed English-speaking-guide. Starting at Café de France in Djemaa.
Private Tour in English
Private Tour in English: Opt for a private tour in English for a personalised tour. Starts at your Riad in the Medina or at Café de France in Djemaa.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private or small-group walking tour (depending on option selected)
Hotel pickup from your riad within the Medina (private option only)
Personalized service and insider tips
Licensed, experienced local tour guide
Free time to explore each monument at your own pace
Skip-the-line access to monuments
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Discover Marrakech’s cultural treasures on this guided walking tour, blending the city’s rich heritage with its vibrant present. Meet your local guide for a warm welcome, an introduction to the day’s highlights, and insider tips before venturing into the medina’s maze of history, artistry, and color.
2
Your journey begins at Ben Youssef Medersa, a 16th-century Quranic school admired for its elaborate zellij tilework, carved cedarwood, and intricate stucco. Once home to 800 students, it stands as one of Morocco’s most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture.
3
From here, we make our way to Souk Semmarine, one of the medina’s main thoroughfares, lined with richly embroidered garments, vibrant textiles, and handcrafted leather goods. This bustling artery offers a glimpse into Marrakech’s traditional commerce and craftsmanship.
4
A short walk away lies Souk El Attarine, where the air is filled with the warm aromas of spices, traditional perfumes, and natural beauty products. Here, you’ll discover how fragrant blends are created and learn about Morocco’s age-old cosmetic traditions.
5
Stop 5
Then, we weave through the winding alleys of the UNESCO-listed Medina, alive with vibrant colors, rich scents, and hidden gems. Every corner reveals something new—from handmade textiles and jewelry to glimpses of daily life—before we step inside hidden artisan workshops, where master craftsmen shape pottery, engrave intricate metal designs, and carve fine wooden pieces using skills passed down through generations.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Along the way, we uncover the role of traditional hammams and communal ovens—cornerstones of Moroccan culture. When possible, we’ll step inside a communal oven to see how locals bake their bread, using age-old methods that have endured through generations.
7
Finally, we make our way to the Secret Garden, a serene retreat dating back to the Saadian era. Here, we’ll discover the ingenious khettara—an underground water channel system designed to reduce evaporation and sustain the medina for centuries. Stroll through the restored Islamic garden, where geometric patterns, flowing fountains, and lush greenery beautifully embody the harmony between Moroccan nature and architecture.
8
Stop 8
We conclude with lasting impressions of Marrakech—a city where architectural beauty, vibrant markets, and living traditions blend into an unforgettable experience.
What's not included
Entry Tickets to Le Jardin Secret: 100 MAD per adult
Entry Tickets to Medrassa Ben Youssef: 50 MAD per adult
Transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Shared Group Walking Tour: 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
