Best of Marrakech: Guided Bahia Palace & Ben Youssef Medrasa Tour
Description
Meet at the Koutoubia mosque, a Moorish 12th century wonder, for an intro to better understand the city's origins & layout. Walk to the Jewish Mellah and visit the Bahia Palace; city's most famous sight once home to the kingdom's grand vizir & his harem. Free time to stroll in the gardens, riads & reception rooms & enjoy ornate fountains, zellij mosaics, stucco arabesques & carved cedar gates and ceilings. We'll explore authentic neighborhoods & visit the Ben Youssef Medersa, masterpiece of Arabo-Islamic art. Tour the Maghreb's largest Islamic college during the 1500s; its majestic patio, student rooms, prayer hall & ablutions room. Exchange about local muslim practice & history. Then head to the original handicrafts souk to see the skilled artisans at work, learn about their materials & techniques. Stop at the colorful spices square for photos & discovery of local beauty and cuisine secrets. Finish at Jamaa El Fna, city's UNESCO world heritage site to experience exotic street arts!
Tour Options
Itinerary
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).
Discover the Jewish quarter and learn more about Morocco's Jewish heritage. Walk through the colourful spice markets.
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.
Walk through the most authentic souks and neighborhoods of the old city
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.
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.
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.
Discover the trendy and most colorful square of the souks. Climb up a private terrace for a view of the old city labyrinth.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
Reviews(10)
It was my first time in Morocco and in Marrakech, and booking this tour on my very first day was truly a game changer. It was the perfect introduction to both the country and the city, and it made the rest of my trip so much more meaningful. Youssef was absolutely fantastic. He walked us through the history, culture, cuisine, and religion of Morocco and Marrakech in such an engaging and clear way. His explanation from the traditions and daily lifestyle to the incredible food and the significance behind many places we visited. He shared so many fascinating insights and practical local tips that we would have never discovered on our own. You can really feel his passion, knowledge, and pride in his country. He made the experience personal, authentic, and truly special. If you’re visiting Marrakech, I 100% recommend starting your trip with this tour. It made all the difference for me!
Youssef was so kind and considerate. He was very knowledgeable and helped us with purchasing our items. We were late to the meeting place and he was very gracious. Thank you for sharing your spirit and pride in your country!
Youseff was a fantastic tour guide! He was very knowledgeable and cognizant of one of our group members having some mobility issues. And since we did a private tour, he was flexible to our needs. He’s fantastic!!
A little disappointed by for a place that is in reflection and much of which is not visible Toilets were dirty without paper The price is a bit high for an empty palate and under construction I recommend visiting the Koranic school more
Nous sommes navré que ce "bâtiment" n'était pas à la hauteur de vos attentes. Mais comme vous n'avez effectué aucune visite guidée avec nous, votre avis à été publié par erreur. Il serait plus utile aux autres voyageurs dans la page du palais en question. Marrakech Lifestyle est un prestataire de visites guidées indépendant qui ne propose pas seulement des sites touristiques mais surtout la découverte de l'aspect historique et culturelle de Marrakech accompagnée par des locaux qui partagent leurs connaissances, la petite histoire de ces sites historiques, ainsi que légendes locales qui font la renommée de cette ville.
A very old Islamic school. Beautifully renovated, everything looks new. The inner courtyard and the prayer hall are impressive. The rest of the rooms are just a repetition of the same pattern and are banal. I was surprised by how the students' rooms looked: small and dark, they make you think of a prison rather than a school. Very crowded, a lot of visitors crowding the narrow corridors. You need less than an hour to visit it.
We regret the inconvenience, it's unfortunate that the Medersa Ben Youssef did not live up to your expectations. Please note that you are rating & commenting a specific public site on a page dedicated to a private guided cultural activity which includes many other points of interest. For your next visit to Marrakech we suggest to book our 3 hour tour to better grasp the importance behind North Africa's architectural jewels as well as the culture & history which made them so impactful.
Sympathetic guide who conducted the tour with a lot of vigour. Took his time and didn't stress. Told a lot about the city, the country, faith and himself. Top... thank you.
We had a one day tour with Youssef and visited old Medina ,etc . his English is excellent and his recommendations about the different areas like restaurants and entertainments and explanations of the history was great, Very knowledgeable and nice guide! Highly recommended👏
Excellent afternoon with Youssef "our Private Guide" loving to share his vast knowledge and caring for his guests and also knowing how to adapt his course. Outstanding visits and reviews. Thanks again Youssef:)
I recently enjoyed this outstanding guided tour in Marrakech, and it was a highlight of our trip. Our guide, Youssef, was incredibly informative and professional, making the city’s rich history and vibrant culture come alive. The tour was exceptionally convenient as all entrance fees were included, allowing us to skip the lines and save time. He took us through the stunning souks, historical landmarks, and hidden gems of Marrakech, each stop brought to life by our guide's extensive knowledge and passion. He seamlessly wove together facts, anecdotes, and local legends, making the experience both educational and entertaining. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Marrakech. It was a highlight of our trip and offered a perspective on the city that we would have never discovered on our own. An absolute must-do for anyone wanting to experience Marrakech in a profound and memorable way. Thank you Youssef for such a great experience. Highly recommended.
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.
