Explore Marrakech Medina: Private Tour Including Bahia Palace Visit

Marrakech , Morocco

Explore Marrakech Medina: Private Tour Including Bahia Palace Visit

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About this experience

Navigate Marrakech’s labyrinthine medina and visit other city highlights with a local guide on this half-day walking tour. Visit the Grand Bahia Palace and hear fascinating stories of sultans and slaves from your guide. Head into the medina to sample some freshly baked bread and finally, admire photographs of Marrakech from a century ago and learn more about the city’s rich culture at the Photography Museum of Marrakech.

Available options

Private Tour

What's included

Visit Djemaa El-Fna, an iconic Marrakech treasure

Join Friendly Local English-speaking guide

Taste of freshly baked bread at a local bakery

Visit Palais de Bahia and its gardens (Entrance Fee Included)

Discover photographs of Marrakech at the Photography museum (Entrance Fee Included)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Destination of all magic, Jamaâ El Fna square tells through its storytellers, dancers, water sellers and snake charmers, the history of Morocco yesterday and today while subjugating its visitors by its charm that starts in the morning and still only reaches its peak in the evening

Bahia Palace is considered one of the grand palaces of the Moroccan city of Marrakech, or what is called the Red City. Created by Minister Ahmed bin Musa, in the 19th century, to commemorate the name of his wife, “Bahia”, and today it is an artistic masterpiece dating from the splendor of Moroccan architecture of Andalusian character which overflows with its civilizational manifestations, in particular What you tell about the secrets of ancient history.

Located next to the mosque of the Kasbah, the Saadian tombs are one of the only vestiges remaining from the Saadian dynasty which reigned on the golden age of Marrakech between 1524 to 1659. At the beginning of the 18th century, Sultan Moulay Ismaïl indeed decided to remove all traces of the magnificence of this dynasty by asking for the destruction of all the remaining vestiges. However, he did not dare to commit the sacrilege to destroy their graves and ordered that the entrance to the necropolis be walled up.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Additional food and drinks

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

36 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.6

23 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

All the stops you make on this tour are 100% local, which means the local community directly benefits from the tour.

You visit the culturally important Jemaa el-Fna Square, listed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Your tour includes entrence fees to Palais De Bahia and the Photography Museum, which helps to maintain the sites and preserve local cultural heritage.

This is a child-friendly tour. Children under the age of 6 are permitted to join this tour free of charge.

Meeting point

Café France, Place Djemaa El Fna, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco.
Directions: Walk through the main entrance to Djemaa El-Fna and you will see Café France on the right-hand side of the square. Make sure you find the official Urban Adventures tour guide

Important notes

Dress Code
A conservative dress code is recommended in Morocco. Men and women should keep their upper body (especially shoulders, chest and midriff) as well as their knees covered at all times as a sign of respect to the local culture.
Wearing shorts is not recommended.

Additional Information
We reserve the right to change both the route and places visited within the tour. Food inclusions are subject to change, dependent on availability on the day.

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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.