Marrakech Old City Exploration: Guided Tour of Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef
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Marrakesh
Explore the historic Marrakech Old City on a guided tour, visiting iconic landmarks like Bahia Palace and Ben Youssef Medersa. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history, architecture, and local culture.
Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Koutoubia Mosque - Introduction to Marrakech & visit its most symbolic monument, standing on a sacred site that dates back to the 12th century (visit from the outside only/limited access) and discovery of the foundations of the city from the 11th century (see Marrakech’s first road and defensive gate).
  • Mellah - Discover the Jewish quarter and learn more about Morocco’s Jewish heritage. Walk through the colourful spice markets.
  • Bahia Palace - Complete tour of the only real palace open to visitors. Wander throughout its residential riads and official function areas. Discover the decorative arts, learn about the legends behind their origins as well as the impact on modern Moroccan culture/society.
  • Ben Youssef Madrasa - Visit this religious site, Marrakech’s 16th-century Coranic school (medersa or madrasa) unique with its Arabo-Islamic style patio, the holy prayer hall, ablutions hall, and rooms that once housed up to 900 students. Learn more about local Muslim practices as well as the traditional education system.
  • Museum of Marrakesh - Visit Marrakech’s most splendid private riad composed of a breathtaking patio with fountains, guesthouse and private hammam. This 19th century palace was the home of a notable’s family. Includes a rich exposition of rare Moroccan artefacts ranging from pottery, jewellery clothing/embroidery to modern art pieces & traditional weapons. This allows a glimpse into the refined lifestyle of wealthy and powerful elites. (Also known as Dar Mnebhi or Fondation Omar Benjelloun)
  • Souk Semmarine - Walk through the old city (or medina’s) most prestigious souk & greatest source of temptation. A showcase for the best local artisans and most skilled craftsmen. See where many renown international artists and designers have been coming for decades to awaken their inspiration.
  • Jemaa el-Fnaa - End at Marrakesh’s UNESCO World Heritage site unique for its oral & immaterial culture personified by street artists such as storytellers, folk troops & many more.
What's Included
  • Priority skip-the-line entrance to Bahia Palace, Medersa Ben Youssef, and Museum of Marrakech
  • Expert licensed tour guide fluent in English and French
  • Complimentary bottled water
What's Not Included
  • Tips and gratuities
Additional Information

Meet at the Koutoubia mosque, discover a monumental 12th-century architectural wonder & discuss with your guide the origins of this legendary city. Walk to the Jewish quarter & explore the Bahia Palace; city’s most famous sight once home to the kingdom’s effective ruler & his harem in the 1800s.

Stroll the gardens, patios, fountains, and reception rooms of this massive complex. See up close the zelij mosaics, carved stucco with Arabic inscriptions, geometric patterns & arabesques. Wander across authentic neighbourhoods/markets where locals live and shop towards the Ben Youssef Medersa, a masterpiece of Arabo-Islamic art.

Tour the Maghreb’s largest Islamic college during the 1500s. Visit the prayer hall, ablutions room, student quarters & courtyard. Then visit the nearby Museum of Marrakech; the most elegant private riad. Enjoy its breathtaking patio, salons, and baths. Time to see & exchange about displayed cultural artefacts. Finish at the Jemaa el-Fna Square, UNESCO heritage site.

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
Location
Kubba Fatima Zohra
Meet at the little white mausoleum dome sitting at the foot of the Koutoubia Mosque tower. Located on the Mohamed 5th Boulevard. Your tour guide wearing an official badge with a red & green ribbon will be waiting for your at the reserved/scheduled time.
Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
5.0
(1 Rating)
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U5631fwkarenp
May 3, 2024
Fantastic!!!! - Youssef could not be more Helpful as a guide. His English is excellent and he takes you around the street food market at your own pace. You really will have an amazing experience. With Youseff you’re in safe hands. He has personally selected safe stalls to eat at. His knowledge of Marrakesh is outstanding and delivery is clear and concise. We couldn’t recommend Youssef enough.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 10 guests
1 Adult
May 2024
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