Morocco is a fascinating and exotic destination with many different reasons to visit. With a rich and ancient artisan tradition, the temptation of unbridled shopping is everywhere. With many trips to Morocco stamped in my passport, I have crafted the ultimate Morocco shopping guide to help you decide how to spend your money.
Table of Contents
Morocco Shopping Guide
Moroccan crafts are of high quality and contemporary artisans are adapting age-old know-how in order to craft beautiful wares. Indeed, you have the choice between an artisan or a modern shopping experience. Don’t forget to read my guide on how to haggle in Morocco!
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Marrakech is one of the best cities in Morocco for shopping. In order to make the best of your Marrakech holidays , you may want to consider joining a shopping tour. Armed with a Marrakech map, it will also help you get your bearings around the city. You don’t have to buy you do the tour, but you will at least get an idea of where the best shops are and what prices you should expect to pay. Check out the additional information and current tour prices.
In this article, I have selected the best day trips from Marrakech.
Are you interested in viewing the crafting of products? It’s not always easy to find workshops in the medina and you may not be able to just wander in. There is also a tour that will show you around the different crafts and view how they are made. Check out the additional information and current tour prices.
Accommodation in Marrakech
Staying in the heart of Marrakech is the best way to be close to the shopping action. I have highlighted a few hotels in good locations. I do recommend you stay in a riad for a few nights during your holiday in Morocco: Hotel du Tresor, Riad Haraka and Riad Bayti are all reasonably priced options.
Ceramics
Ceramics are a highlight of any shopping experience in Morocco. The bright colours and intricate designs are a fascinating attraction of the Medina, however, there is a long history and tradition of ceramics in Morocco. Practised for thousands of years, the art of ceramics has strong influences from Islamic and Spanish invaders.
You may be familiar with the ubiquitous Moroccan ashtray… Or you would know the design of Moroccan tiles or Moroccan mosaic?
Throughout the markets, the range of styles, colours and shapes can be overwhelming. Mostly, you will find floral and geometric patterns with fine details, deep colours and intricate designs. The objects you can find range from the very small to the very large: Moroccan cookware known as tajine, Moroccan dishware, jars, Moroccan plates, vases, platters, tiles and boxes. The choice often comes down to how much you can carry home.
The main ceramic manufacturing centres are in the cities of Fes and Safi, and those names also refer to typical styles of Moroccan pottery. However, ceramics are available everywhere in Morocco.
The range available in the Medina is of the handmade artisan kind, but contemporary creations are also available in the more upmarket stores, such as the ones in the Rue Majorelle in Marrakech. Ceramics often have that slightly rough and handmade feel, which is part of their charm.
Safi pottery is the most recognisable and is very different from Tamegroute pottery, which is a plain green colour.
Carpets & Rugs
Another ancient tradition of Morocco still passed on from mother to daughter in far-flung villages, is the crafting of rugs. Usually made of wool and carefully knotted or weaved by hand, Moroccan tribal rugs are everywhere and represent a very important part of the Moroccan art of living. There are many sizes and styles, often created by Berber tribes, and a rug can be a wonderful addition to a home. It could be one of your most prized Morocco souvenirs.
Shopping for a Moroccan rug is a careful and considered endeavour though. It will likely take you to the heart of the Moroccan souk. You have to do your research and have a good think about whether such an item would fit into your home. Also, prices can vary wildly and you need to prepare for a hard negotiation. One very valid reason to add a Moroccan wool rug to your shopping list is the fact that a good quality carpet will last a lifetime…
Brassware
Moroccan artisans have been crafting metal objects for centuries and the art has been especially prevalent since the 12th Century, with the technique of hammered brass. The different metals used include copper, silver, lead, tin, nickel and aluminium, however, the most common one is brass. Fes and Marrakech specialise in crafting fine homewares, especially brass lanterns and intricate Moroccan mirrors.
A Moroccan pendant light can be a nice element in a decor. A round brass tray or some Moroccan hanging lanterns could be on your shopping list.
Moroccan style lighting is usually fairly understated but this can make the mood of a room.
Babouches
Seeing rows of Moroccan leather slippers or “babouche” is very evocative of Morocco. They also make for great photography… When I shop in the Medina, the colours and textures fascinate me, I can spend hours selecting my favourites.
I don’t know many people who admit to wearing slippers at home but in my opinion, the Moroccan babouche slippers are the most comfortable thing… They are the only thing I collect from Morocco, I have to buy several pairs on each of my trips.
Quality Moroccan slippers should be soft and mould to your feet after just a few wears. You can also find babouche shoes with a thicker rubber sole.
Are you looking for some Marrakech day trips after all this shopping? See below for some information on Morocco desert trips and Marrakech day trips.
Moroccan Pillows & Cushion Covers
With many styles and iterations, pillow covers are a good compromise if you don’t know what to buy in Morocco but are keen on a more exotic look for your home. Moroccan cushions are also easy to transport and a more discreet statement in a decor than a large carpet.
Pillows and cushions have a big place in the Moroccan lifestyle, where sitting on the floor is quite common.
Morocco Leather
Leather is another symbol of traditional Moroccan craft and there are so many Moroccan products: clothing, handbags, shoes and homewares.
Marrakech leather is good but the finest is in Fes due to a long tradition of tanning and dyeing, going back to the 13th Century. The souks of Marrakech and other cities usually have a scent of leather.
Moroccan leather goods come in all shapes: handbags, wallets, belts and shoes of all styles. In the Medina, the quality can be a little average but there are some very fine leathers in the chic stores of Marrakech. My pick? I always buy a small wallet when I travel, to hold local money. I am spoilt for choice in Morocco. Last time, I also treated myself to a beautiful suede jacket from this store.
Moroccan Homewares
The handmade arts of Morocco are very well utilised in the design of homewares, big and small… At home, I have a Moroccan tea set, a Moroccan tray and a Moroccan pouf… I am missing a large Moroccan mirror and I may be a little obsessed…
Moroccan light fixtures are a little trickier to transport. But Moroccan plates and bowls might work if they’re packed properly!
I have a soft spot for tadelakt boxes and dishes, they look lovely in my bathroom!
Tea Sets & Glasses
When you meet Moroccan people, you will certainly taste mint tea and experience a central element of hospitality in Moroccan culture. Wherever you go, mint tea is on offer, served in small glasses adorned with intricate details. Mint tea is made very simply, with green tea mixed with mint leaves and steeped in a small silver or brass teapot.
A Morocco tea set is complete with a matching tray and decorated glasses. Traditionally, mint tea is very sweet, but these days, cafes serve the sugar on the side, so you can dose it yourself.
Those were my Achille’s heel on my last trip… I bought two sets of Moroccan tea glasses when I already have some at home but what can I say… I fell in love with the colourful patterns, when mine at home were plain handblown Moroccan glassware. They’re equally beautiful, with a light aqua colouring and tiny bubbles in the glass, but I guess that’s how you start a collection!
Admittedly, a glass tea set is not the easiest thing to transport but you can count on merchants to package your purchases for travel!
Thuya Wood
Morocco is home to forests of thuya trees, especially around Essaouira. Thuya is a type of cypress and a fragrant and precious wood. Moroccans artisans craft an endless range of objects such as boxes… Thuya is very popular for Moroccan gifts or for bigger things like a Moroccan side table.
However, the best use is made through the fine art of marquetry, on a Moroccan tea table, for example. You need to be aware that the harvesting of thuya has been abusive in the past and the essence is getting a little scarce, so you’re unlikely to find large objects these days.
Antiques
With its long history and many diverse cultural influences, Morocco has a very good stock of antiques. Marrakech has some very reputable antique stores, including in the Medina. There, you can find unique objects and Moroccan furniture that travelled through time and tell a story…
I find the Tuareg objects very interesting, however, this type of shopping is serious business. As this is Morocco, haggling is expected but you need to do some research before shopping.
An old Moroccan hanging lamp or a Moroccan coffee table made out of an old door would be a star element of your decor.
Paintings
Moroccan art is lively and sought-after. Some contemporary artists are highly rated on the international art market. In the Medina, you are likely to find much cheaper paintings of much lesser artistic value, but these little naive scenes make a nice souvenir. I found some charming blue and white street scenes in Chefchaouen, and didn’t buy them… I regret it now but I can always go back!
Painted Wood
Moroccan arts and crafts include painted wood. This is another blast from the past for me… Those mirrors framed in painted wood made their way into my dolls’ house!
Moroccan Textiles
Moroccan women produce some very fine embroidery or weaving, and some of it can be quite expensive. In Rabat, there is women’s coop in the Oudayas quarter, where you can buy some high-quality items. In a world of mass-produced fashion, a trip to Morocco is an opportunity to find some beautiful handmade textiles in rich colours. If you are crafty, some of those textiles can be used to create your own soft furnishings.
Clothing
Moroccan fashion is associated with long, flowing garments and there is plenty to choose from. Whilst the quality of cheap garments can be pretty low in the Medina, there are some designer stores where the traditional silk trimmings are used to adorn high-quality garments. La Maison du Caftan in Marrakech is a temple to fashion temptation!
Is Morocco expensive for clothing and fashion? Yes, it can be. But the cheap stuff is low in quality so you may want to invest in a few statement pieces.
Jewellery
There are different styles of Moroccan jewellery and plenty of choice! The world of jewellery shopping in the Medina can be tricky to navigate… There are lots of fake antiques and the quality of the silver can be questionable.
Also, some sellers swear to genuine stones including polished amber but this incredibly fragrant tree resin has become quite rare in Morocco. So, don’t be fooled but enjoy the shopping, there are some great statement pieces around! Also, Marrakech prices vary greatly!
Purses & Handbags
To add to your list of Marrakech souvenirs, why not pick up a locally designed purse and handbag? I really hesitated over these hessian clutches decorated with colourful pompoms… but I couldn’t decide on the colour. Moroccan accessories are quite easy to pick up and mix with any outfit.
Baskets & Wooden Spoons
I can’t imagine anyone would be at a loss about what to buy in Marrakech but if you need more Moroccan gift ideas, think of basketry and wooden spoons. Basketry is plentiful in Morocco, from the small to large. I love the plain palm fibre ones with leather handles and I have several ones at home. They can get pretty bulky but if you are a basket person, these are probably the best you can find…
On the other hand, wooden spoons are great Moroccan items to bring home and are easier to pack.
Cosmetics
A journey to Morocco wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the rich fragrances of Morocco. My childhood memories are full of orange blossom, mint, roses, amber and various spices… These days, you can take these smells home through locally made cosmetics. A visit to a well-appointed spa will introduce you to new body care products such as ghassoul and savon noir…
In the markets, look for cosmetic rose water and orange blossom water. As for the make-up department, kohl and face tint can be found in the medina.
Argan oil products are everywhere and a Marrakech shopping guide would be incomplete without a mention. There are many argan oil benefits so read on…
In Chefchaouen, you need to spend some time in La Botica de la Abuela Aladdin and shop for oil perfume and musk.
Argan Oil
Original argan oil is an extraordinary success story in Morocco… The oil is produced by pressing the kernels contained in the fruit of the argan tree, a dry shrub tree endemic to Morocco. The women’s cooperatives producing the oil hold a strong social function and it’s important to buy argan oil from the right suppliers.
Culinary argan oil is everywhere but a lot of cheap brands mix sunflower oil and some places falsely advertise themselves as women’s cooperatives.
Natural argan oil has a nutty taste and is quite expensive. In Morocco, edible argan oil is used for dipping bread, drizzled on couscous and salads, and has some demonstrated health benefits. In cosmetics, there are many argan oil uses in face, body and hair products. Those products are widely available outside of Morocco but if you buy pure argan oil, you can actually mix your own oils.
It’s a great product but finding the best argan oil can be a bit of a quest!
Olives, Dates & Sweets
Food should definitely part of your Morocco shopping experience. The local markets have plenty of stalls where you can buy olives, dates, peanuts, dried figs and various sweet biscuits and cakes… Come on, indulge a little… Morocco has a very fine art of living, the small details of hospitality are very important.
Olives are offered as an appetiser in most restaurants and there are so many flavours available in the Medina… I recommend you sample those snacks as everything is fresh and flavoursome.
Sweets are some of the best gifts from Morocco.
Morocco is famous for its sweets mixing spice and floral flavours. There are some great patisseries in the Casablanca Habbous medina and also in the Gueliz district of Marrakech.
Spices
Spices are an essential part of the culture and local cuisine and should definitely be part of your Morocco shopping! In Marrakech, the Place des Epices has many stores laden with colourful Moroccan spices. I see it as exciting as shopping for shoes…
The colours and smells of the Moroccan spice mix are a magnet and I often go overboard, however, authentic spices make such a lovely gift! The spices of Marrakech include ginger, black and white pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, cumin, saffron, anise, nutmeg, fenugreek… and of course the complex ras el hanout, a well-known Moroccan seasoning.
Remedies
Unusual remedies are a lesser-known aspect of Moroccan culture and traditions. This may be for the more adventurous traveller… but why not try the various teas and herbal remedies available in the Medina? This funky stall in Essaouira has plenty to choose from!
Shopping in Morocco
Marrakech shopping can be a fun and enriching experience, where you get to mingle with the locals. You can trust this guide as I have bought most of the things listed above: some I use every day and some things were more impulse purchases… But these are the best things to buy in Marrakech!
To give you a good idea of prices, I recommend visiting the Ensemble Artisanal. Only a few minutes from the Koutoubia, this state-sponsored shopping complex has the same things that you find in the medina but the prices are fixed and quite fair. Once you do that, you are ready to haggle your way through the medina. I have more information on the things you need to know before travelling to Morocco and also 20 reasons why you should visit Morocco. If you are intending to drive in Morocco, I have a comprehensive guide here. Trust me, there are some spectacular roads…
Finally, knowing what to pack for Morocco is important…
For more city guides on Morocco, check out these posts on Chefchaouen and Tangier. On the Mediterranean Coast, I recommend checking out the Spanish Enclaves and the Controversial Spanish Islands.
Related Posts
Haggling in Morocco
Marrakech Day Trips
Things to know before Travelling to Morocco
Do you have favourite buys I could add to my Morocco shopping guide? Please tell me in the comments below!
Save this Morocco shopping guide on Pinterest!
I’d definitely be buying the sweets and the leather…although those shoes look very comfy! Nice post!
Hi Lynne, I highly recommend the babouches slippers, they are so comfortable and they come in so many colours it’s hard to resist! And who could resist so many handbags! And I love sweets that are not too sugary, it’s lovely with a glass of mint tea!
Everything looks beautiful. I would probably go for a pair of babouches and get some argan oil!
Hi Janine, the babouches are my favourite thing to buy. I always have them at home and they are so soft and comfortable… I also wear them on planes as they are light and easy to pack! As for the argan oil, it really is the gold of Morocco. I use the edible oil in salads, it gives a lovely nutty flavour… And the cosmetic oil is great to mix with other oils to make a facial cleanser and massage oil!
Wow… very comprehensive list of things to buy with name of places to buy these. Quite helpful.
Hi Sapna, thank you for dropping by. I have spent quite a lot of time in the medina and drooled over all these things to buy, so I know what I’m talking about! The great thing is that I still marvel at the choice everytime I go back.
Oh all these things looks amazing. I’ve always wanted to go to Morocco
Hi Annika, a walk through the medina of Marrakech is a feast for the eyes, there is so much to see and buy! I hope you get a chance to visit Morocco some day, it’s an amazing country!
Delphine, this is such great information for the first timer! Thanks for putting this together and sharing with us along with the colorful photos. Some of the items are quite large so do the vendors typically have a shipping option? Do you have any tips for pricing or haggling of these things? I’m going to Morocco soon and would love to hear your opinion on that. Thanks again, great article!
Hi Sandy, I hope you have a great trip to Morocco. My travel guide about Marrakech is due to be published tomorrow. If you are buying large items, the merchants definitely have shipping options but I’ve never used those, I’ve always carried my shopping in my luggage. As for haggling, it is very much part of the experience of visiting Morocco and it takes a little getting used to. I will be writing more about it very soon but for the basics, I would advise doing some research before getting ready to buy to know exactly what you are looking for. When you are ready to negotiate, take your time and always keep your sense of humour. And finally, be ready to walk away if you don’t get the price you want… Good luck!
Very informative post Delphine. Thank you. We will only spend one day in Marrakech and we hope to go to the market. There is no currency exchange in Florida for Moroccan currency. Can US dollars be used in the market ? If not can you suggest the best place to exchange money after disembarking the ship. Your time is appreciated.
Hi Jayne, aside from Moroccan Dirhams, the currency of reference is the Euro. Even if sellers take US dollars, I doubt that you get good value out of it… There are money changers available, such as Travelex and others, especially in large hotels. Another good alternative is to use ATMs. You can withdraw cash from banks such Credit du Maroc or Attijariwafa if you have a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.I hope this helps, enjoy your time in Marrakech!
Thank you so much Delphine.
Thanks Delphine. Heading to Morocco in 2 weeks and excited about the shopping but not the haggling. Any cities especially good to buy certain products? Essaoura for Arran oil products?
Hi Joan, Marrakech has the most comprehensive shopping, it really has everything… Some textiles are typical of the Rif Mountains (red with white stripes), a particular style of babouche in Tafraoute… but mostly, you can find everything in Marrakech. With Argan Oil products, you have to look out for the fakes… Argan Oil is expensive and is sometimes cut with vegetable oil. It’s best to buy from a cooperative if you can, and get a taste beforehand. For cosmetic products, it’s probably better to get them from a spa or a chic store (like the ones in rue Majorelle in Marrakech) if you want real quality. I really enjoyed shopping in Essaouira because people are so nice. There are some really funky shops with lots of herbs and remedies worth looking at. My post on Essaouira is due to be published this Thursday, I hope you will find it helpful.
Great post thank you! The prices in Chefchaouen are the best! And please be aware that the Thuya wood is quickly becoming extinct because of this production- not sustainable to purchase!
Thanks Mary, I did most of my shopping in Marrakech because there is so much choice! I was given so many thuya objects as a child, I actually got sick of it… I don’t buy it anymore but it’s still for sale everywhere…
Hi, love the post. Great information and pictures. I’m traveling to Morocco in September and excited to do some shopping!
Hi Catherine, September is a great time to visit Morocco. The weather is still gorgeous but not as burning hot as it is in summer. Shopping is best mid morning, when the shops are first open, you can get some good deals if you are the first customer of the day!
This was very detailed– thank you! I found some tips that will be helpful during my November trip to Morocco.
Hi Kitty, I’m very happy that my post is helping you plan your trip to Morocco.Make sure you bring an extra suitcase because the shopping is very hard to resist! All the best for your trip!
I have really enjoyed reading your post. Thank you for all of this valuable information. We are going on our first trip to Morocco in just a few weeks! I look forward to experiencing this country!
Hi Leslie, thank you for your message. I trust you will enjoy Morocco, it’s a beautiful country and the people are really friendly. All the best!
Oh wow. I understand I must simply bring 72 empty suitcases to Morocco! I would love a carpet and some pillowcases for my home, some argain oil, some babouches for home, a new leather bag for myself and some spices for the kitchen. And of course, Christmas presents for everyone. Uh-oh! 😀
Hi Desiree, I’m glad you understand the very real quandary of shopping in Morocco! All the things you are after are available in the medina, you just need to check for quality and do some haggling! The main thing is to keep it fun, and of course to bring 72 extra suitcases! All the best for your trip!
Hi,
Is there anyway you can give me a more detailed place by place like best for textiles, dishes, wood spoons, rugs, soaps and oils etc?
I am on my way to Marocco to shop for resale and your help is greatly appreciated.
thank you
Hi Candy, thank you for your message. I don’t have specific shop names for wholesale. The medina in Marrakech is full of merchants who will be willing to negotiate wholesales rates though. I would suggest you start with the “Ensemble Artisanal” near the Koutoubia mosque. It’s a government-operated outfit and they might be able to indicate quality wholesalers. If you are looking for ceramics, the main manufacturing centre is in Safi, you can look up “Colline des Potiers” or Pottery Hill. Most of the ceramics are made there. I saw plenty of wooden spoons in Marrakech. There is a wonderful soap shop in Chefchaouen, look for a photo and a link in my post. Argan oil is mostly harvested near Essaouira, there are cooperatives in that area so it could worth a trip there, look for my blog post about Essaouira. For rugs, there is a major marketplace for that in Marrakech. For textiles, I would say that each region has its own tradition so it’s hard to direct you to one particular place. However, I do know that Fes has a rich tradition of dyeing textiles and embroidery. I hope this helps, all the best for your trip!
Thanks for this article Delphine! I am going to Morocco in September 2019 on a Solo traveler trip. This a my gift to myself for my 60th birthday this year! I’ve always been fascinated with Morocco and I just got tired waiting for my family or friends to travel with me. There are so many things I would like to bring home that my initial plan of travelling with only a carryon are fading fast. Do they sell suitcases fairly cheap there if I require one for the trip home?
Hi Colleen, a solo trip as a guest to yourself is a great idea! Apologies for the late reply, I was travelling without access to a computer these last few days. I’m sure you will be able to find a cheap suitcase in Morocco. The medina in Marrakech also has stalls where people everyday items, a bit as you would do in a department store. I wish you all the best for your trip. If you enjoy a bit of shopping, Morocco is the perfect destination!
I think I would want to buy so much! I love the ceramics and the rugs! Thes pieces would definitely turn a room into a sanctuary. The bags are too gorgeous! I hope to one day visit the Souks in Morocco!
Hi Alicia, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the stuff you can buy… But it’s a great experience too. All those items have a lot of personality so they’re great to have in your home to make a statement.
Hello Delphine.
I have found your information very interesting.
I am trying to buy a Morrocan leather backpack and see photos all the time of
ones that I love but am nervous about buying them from people I don’t know
anything about.
Would you have any helpful places or suggestions for me to buy a backpack ?
I live in New Zealand.
Kind regards
Fiona Campbell
Hi Fiona, thank you for contacting me, I’m pleased you are enjoying my shopping experience in Morocco. Unfortunately, I don’t know who to refer you to for an online purchase at this point. The items featured in my post can be found in the souks in Morocco but I haven’t heard of anyone online specifically. I would suggest doing some searches on the French google, you are more likely to find reputable companies who can ship to you in New Zealand. Good luck!
Hi! I visit Morraco in 2 weeks and have a lot I want to get while I’m there. Do you have any advice on how to ship rugs and other items back home?
Hi Tyshima, thank you for your message. Merchants will be able to help you with the shipping process. I’ve never done it myself but I would recommend you should a reputable shipping company and make sure that the paperwork is in order. Also, make sure that fragile items are well wrapped but that’s usually not a problem, they always use lots of recycled cardboard, bubble wrap and paper. Enjoy your shopping adventure!
Wow the shopping here looks like a dream! So much colour and detail, and so authentic looking. I would definitely leave with some cushion covers and pantings. Those are beyond gorgeous!
Hi Sam, the cushions are very cool, they have that hippy and authentic vibe, perfect for a comfy couch…
Very very detailed post Delphine! And LOVE your photos…I know I have said that to you before. One thing I would recommend though is that you guide folks away from purchasing wood products made from Thuya wood. It is reportedly endangered, even though they will tell you the plant regenerates after cutting. On my shopping list for our next visit to Morocco is a pair of slippers, or two, that is for sure. Other than that though, we aren’t big shoppers, though we do love to wander the markets.
Hi Michael, I’m no longer a big shopper, I’ve had to get rid of too many things after bringing them home… I tend to go for things I know I will use, and I use my leather slippers everyday…
Thank you Delphine for inspiring me to travel to Morocco. Marrakech and a shopping expedition sound incredible. I’d love to inspect all the handmade artisan products . As well, I’m thinking a visit to the markets would be a total sensory experience. The colours, the textures, the food aromas … it all looks incredible. The only down side is I might be tempted to buy too much 🙂
Hi Estelle, you’re right, visiting the markets in Marrakech is a sensory experience, the smells, the sounds and the colours… It all makes for a fantastic experience, no wonder the medina is on the UNESCO World Heritage List!
I would love to visit Morocco and stay in the heart of Marrakech so I could be close to the markets. as shopping would be top of the list of things to do. Everything looks so tempting, but I really like the ceramic bowls, they have beautiful designs. And I always gravitate towards jewellery too, oh and leather goods, of course. Keeping for future reference.
Hi Tania, the temptation is definitely there. Shopping in Morocco is a fun experience and I always love having something in my house from my travels. As long as I have a daily use for it, then I’m happy!
I think I would have to buy an extra suitcase as I could see myself wanting to bring a lot home with me. A must would be a rug and those slippers (I am a believer that one can never have too many slippers!). I have Morocco on my list to do soon, so I love this post and can’t wait to read more in future.
The great thing is that you can buy an extra suitcase in the souk as well. They make it really easy to do some serious shopping in Morocco!
Wow, the colors of everything are gorgeous. I collect ceramic or pottery from the places i visit so the ceramic would be a must. After that everything is so beautiful. I love the brassware, the pillows and pretty much all the fabric. I would need to make a lot of room in my suitcase.
Hi Wendy, you need an extra suitcase for shopping in Morocco, it’s as simple as that. I need to get some nice ceramic boxes on my next trip.
I love shopping guides! The babouches are beautiful and so colourful but I’d absolutely have to come home with some of their leather goods and wooden boxes. They remind me of the marquetry boxes in Granada, Andalucia Spain!
Hi Joanne, the babouches are my favourite thing. I always buy a pair when I go to Morocco. I don’t buy wooden boxes anymore. I’ve had too many as a child and now, the wood is endangered.
Wow all the shopping looks amazing, I could definitely do with a new colourful set of bowls, I’ve still got the same ones from 25 years ago! I also love all that brassware and would love to buy some light fittings, definitely very original here in Australia.
I think I visited Morocco, I would have to ship a whole heap of stuff home. Do they organise shipping for you? We found in India they would organise shipping if you purchased carpet/rugs.
Hi Sally, merchants will certainly organise shipping for you but I don’t know how reliable it is. I guess I’d have to try next time. I tend to buy small things to pack in my suitcase but I would love some bigger pieces. I agree with you that the light fittings are stunning and quite unusual!
Ah, babouches and mint tea glasses are definitely my favourite vices. And as you say, all those beautiful colours mean that you can be there for hours working out your favourites. Currently I am wearing pale lilac babouches, but they are my last pair, so I will have to return again soon. Mint tea glasses are not just good for tea itself, but make beautiful shadows across my kitchen from the window ledge where I store them. It’s great to see all those vivid colours in your pictures here.
Hi Bernadette, I love colourful tea glasses and I bought too many on my last trip to Morocco… I should think of a way to display them nicely, thank you for giving me some ideas!
Oh man I’ll probably end up buying most of these Moroccon souvenirs except the leather. The ceramics and rugs look lovely with their designs and would make for a nice gift for family and friends. Such a great post!
Hi Kekti, there are so many gifts to buy for family and friends, I still need an extra suitcase!
When I visited Marrakech last year, the markets were definitely a highlight of my trip! But they really can be overwhelming, and you do a great job of breaking down exactly what’s available. Reading this article is making me nostalgic for the hustle and bustle of the bazaars. Thanks for sharing, Delphine!
Yes the markets can be overwhelming. I find the Place Jemaa El Fna the most overwhelming as some sellers can be quite aggressive. I prefer the sheltered lanes. It’s busy but fairly ordered and you can wander at your own pace. No wonder the medina is on the UNESCO World Heritage List!
Hi Delphine, thanks for sharing your Moroccan expertise! I’m doing a tour through Morocco in November and looking forward to seeing all the places you’ve been talking about. Do you know whether we are allowed to bring the woven bags and baskets into Australia?
hi Jenny, you shouldn’t have any problems bringing woven bags and baskets into Australia, as long as they are clean and free of any dirt. They’re not the kind of things Quarantine worries about anymore. And they will such a nice addition to your home! Enjoy the trip in November!
i had bought some stunning neck pieces which are unisex. I have been a fan of semi precious gems for quite some time. This just blew my mind away!!! the intricacy! detailing. i bought some sahara ear rings and berber styled silver.
once you start you can stop. its bit of a goldmine!!! you gta just bargain well
Thanks Kevin, I agree with you that Morocco has some beautiful jewellery if you know what you are buying!
My family is traveling in March for a week – how much cash should we make available? And what to wear?
Hi Kim, March is a very good time to travel to Morocco, not too hot but sunny, you will have a great time. It’s really hard to know how much cash you need to take, it depends on how much you want to buy and how many people are travelling with you. Cash is king in Morocco so you always want to carry some with you, but not too much in order not to become a target. I usually carry 400-500 dirhams, that’s enough to see me through a few days of small expenses.
If you are looking for what to wear in Morocco, I have a perfect list for both men and women: https://lesterlost.com/what-to-pack-for-morocco/
This article should also help you negotiate your way around: https://lesterlost.com/best-guide-successful-haggling-morocco/
Have a great time in Morocco!
Hi thanks for this comprehensive guide!
What would you advise if one wanted to buy bulk homecare items (furniture etc) and have them shipped or transported in a container ? Would you have any suggestion or transport companies in Morocco who could assist ?
I don’t have any information about shipping from Morocco, sorry. But I’m sure you can organise shipping through the usual companies.