Exploring the vibrant medina of Old Marrakesh was one of the most rewarding parts of my trip. From lively squares filled with classic Marrakesh scenes to quiet corners steeped in history, the day unfolded with a perfect mix of culture, craftsmanship, food, and architecture. With our Marrakesh guide Soufiane guiding the group (A 10 Day Moroccan Adventure with Kim Larkin Adventures), each stop revealed a different layer of the city, making Marrakesh feel both vibrant and surprisingly easy to enjoy.
Discovering the Medina of Old Marrakesh
As we made our way from Riad Siwan Marrakesh, I was enthralled. The medina of Old Marrakesh quickly became my favorite of the trip. Stepping into the main square - with snake charmers, musicians, and vendors filling the open space - felt like walking straight into every classic image I’d ever had of Marrakesh, but in the most lively and real way.
I loved wandering the lanes, taking in the colors, sounds, and energy without feeling overwhelmed. Unlike Fes, where the medina felt dense and intense, Marrakesh felt open, comfortable, and easy to navigate.
Soufiane, led us not only through the heart of the medina but also toward the upscale “Beverly Hills” area of Marrakesh and eventually to Dar El Bacha, the Musée des Confluences – a beautifully restored palace that added a quiet, elegant contrast to the bustle outside.
The blend of vibrancy, walkability, and moments of calm made Marrakesh the medina where I felt most at ease and genuinely happy to explore.
Dar El Bacha: Museum of Confluences Marrakech
Dar El Bacha, the Musée des Confluences in Marrakesh, was one of the most beautiful places I visited in the city. The palace, once the home of the Pasha of Marrakesh, was impeccably restored, with detailed tilework, carved cedar ceilings, and serene courtyards that felt worlds away from the busy medina outside.
As I walked through the rooms, I learned how the museum brings together influences from different cultures, religions, and periods of Moroccan history, which is why it’s called the “Museum of Confluences.”
The space had a calm, refined atmosphere that encouraged me to slow down and take in the craftsmanship around me. It was a welcome contrast to the lively streets nearby and helped round out my understanding of Marrakesh’s layered cultural identity.
Bacha Coffee
Bacha Coffee was busy the moment we walked in, and Melanie was set on buying gifts and picking out some coffee to bring home. I liked the look of the place right away and knew I wanted to buy something for myself too.
The shop was packed, with people slowly shuffling forward as they studied the shelves and tried to get the attention of the staff. It felt a bit chaotic, but in a way that made sense for a popular spot. I asked the staff about different coffees and tried to figure out what would actually work for me rather than just buying something because it looked nice. When I noticed a box of single-serve packets with a variety of roasts and flavors, I knew it was the right choice. It felt practical, easy to pack, and a good way to sample what Bacha Coffee had to offer.
Leather Home
As Soufiane continued guiding us through the medina, we stopped at a shop called Leather Home, another place known for its handmade goods. I really enjoyed watching the leather cobbler demonstration at the front of the store.
The craftsman worked quickly but skillfully, carving and shaping the leather with tools that looked simple but clearly required a lot of experience to use well. While the rest of the group moved from shelf to shelf, I took my time walking around and taking in the different styles of bags, shoes, and accessories. I tried on a couple of pairs of shoes just to see how they felt, but nothing really stood out to me enough to buy.
Then, almost immediately after stepping deeper into the shop, I spotted a deep brown camel-hide bag on display. The color was rich, and the surface had been carved by hand with a knife, giving it a texture and uniqueness that set it apart from everything else in the room. I kept circling back to it, and that’s when I knew it was the piece I actually wanted. Negotiating the price took a little back and forth, but we eventually settled on an amount that felt fair for both of us. Walking out of the shop with that bag felt genuinely satisfying – not just because it was a beautiful item, but because it was something I chose intentionally and felt connected to.
Atay Cafe
After a full morning exploring the alleys of Marrakesh with Soufiane, our group stopped for lunch at Atay Cafe, a spot that immediately drew me in with its scents and relaxed atmosphere. The meal, enjoyed from a rooftop overlooking Marrakesh, was a memorable and welcome break in the middle of the day.
Madrasa Ben Youssef
After lunch, we made our way to Madrasa Ben Youssef, one of the most historically significant sites in Marrakesh. Originally founded in the 14th century and later rebuilt in the 1500s, the madrasa once served as the largest Islamic college in North Africa, where students lived and studied the Qur’an in small dormitory-style rooms surrounding a central courtyard.
Today, it stands as a beautifully restored monument to Moroccan architecture, with its carved cedar ceilings, intricate stucco work, and stunning zellige tile patterns. Walking through the quiet halls and peeking into the tiny rooms gave me a glimpse of what student life might have been like centuries ago. The space now functions as a museum rather than a school. I found it absolutely gorgeous.
Herbalism: A Herbal Experience
Our visit to Herbalism: A Herbal Experience was a great chance to explore Morocco’s world of spices and natural products. The shop offered high quality spices, oils, and traditional items like black soap at reasonable prices, and it was easy to see why people stock up here. I enjoyed learning about the different blends and uses, and I picked out spices to bring home as gifts for my friends Matt and Ray as a thank you for hosting me in Rochester after my trip. It felt good to choose something meaningful and practical that also carried a little piece of Morocco with it.
By the time we wrapped up the day, I understood why Marrakesh is such a beloved destination. The medina felt welcoming and accessible, the historical sites were stunning, and each stop added something meaningful to the experience. And it’s rare to meet someone as incredibly helpful, kind, and attentive as Soufiane. Not only is he wicked funny with sharp jokes and quick wit – he’s also incredibly knowledgeable. His guidance shaped the entire day, and Marrakesh quickly became a place I felt comfortable, curious, and genuinely happy to explore.
Insiders Morocco with Soufiane Adnane
Marrakesh, Morocco
