Market Tour & Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech

Marrakech , Morocco

Market Tour & Traditional Moroccan Cooking Class in Marrakech

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(1 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Meet your host Manuela and walk together to the Mellah market, a beautiful old market in a Jewish area of Marrakech bustling with activity. It is a major source of spices, food, meat, flowers and other goods. Manuela will talk about Morocco’s rich history while you walk around and buy a few ingredients for your cooking class.

Back at Manuela's riad, you will learn to make a traditional Moroccan appetizer, main dish and dessert in a hands-on cooking class with Aicha. Manuela's riad is traditionally decorated with Moroccan arts and crafts and has a beautiful garden area and terrace. Possible dished you might learn are a starter of briouat (a sweet or savory puff pastry) or zaalouk (salad of cooked aubergine and tomatoes), a traditional tajine (which can be vegetarian or meat or fish-based) or pastilla (Moroccan meat pie), and a traditional Moroccan dessert like cigars with cinnamon and apples or briouate chocolat.

Available options

Market, cooking and lunch

Market tour, cooking class and lunch with your host Manuela

Market, cooking and dinner

Market tour, cooking class and dinner with your host Manuela

What's included

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Private homecooked meal

Private market tour and cooking class with your host Manuela

Gratuities

What you'll see

Manuela is originally Italian and has been a part of the travel industry for many years. She moved to Morocco with her family and bought a beautiful riad (a traditional Moroccan-style home built around an open courtyard) in an old Jewish neighborhood.

Aicha is the chef at the riad and hosts together with Manuela. Aicha comes from a traditional Moroccan family and learned to cook from her mother and grandmother from scratch using only fresh and local ingredients. Aicha only speaks Moroccan and Manuela will help translate.

Notes: Manuela can offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten free and halal meals on request. The riad is also used as a guest house, so you might see other guests during your experience. However, your experience will remain private.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Menu may vary depending on the season

If any travelers in your party have any allergies, dietary restrictions or cooking preferences please advise at time of booking

Vegetarian and vegan option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Private, personalized experience

Meeting point

Please meet Manuela at the riad then you will walk together to the Mellah Market. Please check the 'Before you go' section on your voucher for the exact address, the above only offers neighbourhood details, and not the exact address. That can be found in your ticket upon booking confirmation

Important notes

Local contact information: If you need assistance, please contact your host Manuela at +212 (0) 524386631, or by email at info@monriad.net

Address: N4 Derb Lahbass - Riad Zitoun lakdim, Marrakech, Morocco 4000

Meeting Instructions: Meet Manuela at her home. Here is a Google maps link to her location: https://goo.gl/maps/gPBGtxmASfS2. Her home is a two-minute walk from the parking of the prefecture, in front of Hammam Ziani.

Notes: If you have any specific dietary requirements and have not provided this information upon checkout, please contact and inform your Traveling Spoon host at least 48 hours in advance via their email or phone listed above in your voucher
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Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with locals, in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. Contact us at reservations@travelingspoon.com if you have general questions about our services. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.

We hope you have a meaningful experience and look forward to hearing about it!

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.