What is it?
Souk Semmarine is the Bond Street of Marrakech. It runs north from the Djemaa el-Fna to the Ben Youssef Medersa and merges with Souk Nejjarine and Souk El-Kebir. Running off this main artery is a whole slew of smaller souks dedicated to particular crafts such as carpets, textiles, babouche, leather hides, lanterns, spices, antiques, metalwork, wool, perfume and more. In short, you can shop for virtually everything here.
Is it worth visiting?
Shopping in these souqs is the quintessential Marrakech experience and is a great deal of fun if you get the hang of the negotiating game. While there’s plenty of merchandise squarely aimed at tourists, there are also some real finds here and much is handmade. In particular, look out for quality leather slippers, hand turned ceramics, beautiful cut-brass lanterns and hand woven bed throws and textiles. Just know the rate of exchange before embarking (an easy rule of thumb is 10 dirhams = £2).
Tickets, accessibility and booking
The souqs are free to visit, but given their crowded nature and unpaved alleys are extremely challenging for wheelchair users and those with mobility issues. That said, Marrakshis make their way here with assistance. Visit in the morning when it is generally quieter and less crowded.
Where’s good to eat in Souk Semmarine?
Famous for the best tangia (beef stew) and mechoui (lamb slow-roasted over coals) in town is Chez Lahmine Hadj Mustapha, who has a tiny restaurant on Derb Semmarine. He once cooked at the palace for King Hassan II and the walls of the restaurant are lined with pictures of celebrity fans.
