Bab el Khemis Marrakesh
Discover antique doors, artisan crafts, and vintage treasures at this authentic Marrakesh flea market.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Busiest day for flea market finds
Bab el Khemis Marrakesh
Best Time
Busiest day for flea market finds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover antique doors, artisan crafts, and vintage treasures at this authentic Marrakesh flea market.
"You get little tid bits so much cheaper than the souks!"
🎯 Haggle Like a Pro
Negotiating is key! Start low and be polite. Vendors expect it.
💰 Carry Cash
Most vendors prefer cash. Get Dirhams from ATMs for better rates.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Antique Wooden Doors
Various stalls throughout the market
Discover a stunning array of intricately carved antique wooden doors, each with a unique story.

Authentic Moroccan Crafts
Artisan stalls
Explore a vibrant collection of handmade goods from local artisans, including metalwork, woodwork, and textiles.

Vintage Treasures
Flea market sections
Hunt for unique vintage items and hidden gems that offer a glimpse into Moroccan history and style.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Haggling Culture
Cash is King
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Haggle Like a Pro
Negotiating is key! Start low and be polite. Vendors expect it.
💰 Carry Cash
Most vendors prefer cash. Get Dirhams from ATMs for better rates.
🚶♂️ Explore Beyond the Main Path
Venture into smaller alleys for unique finds and authentic artisan work.
🕰️ Arrive Early for Best Selection
Thursday is the main flea market day; arrive early for the best treasures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Haggle Like a Pro
Negotiating is key! Start low and be polite. Vendors expect it.
💰 Carry Cash
Most vendors prefer cash. Get Dirhams from ATMs for better rates.
🚶♂️ Explore Beyond the Main Path
Venture into smaller alleys for unique finds and authentic artisan work.
🕰️ Arrive Early for Best Selection
Thursday is the main flea market day; arrive early for the best treasures.
📸 Respect Local Privacy
Avoid photographing locals without permission; it can lead to issues.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bab el Khemis is a bustling, authentic flea market offering a unique glimpse into local Marrakesh life, particularly loved for its antique doors and artisan crafts. While some find it a bit chaotic or mixed with mass-produced goods, many appreciate its charm and the thrill of finding hidden treasures at negotiable prices. It's a must-visit for those seeking a more local shopping experience.
"This is a very local flea market, and is busiest on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. The outdoor area can get very crowded, but you will find everything here and negotiating prices is a must!!"
Asad Chaudary
"Something like that you will only see here.
I just LOVED it. Even though everything looks sordid, it still has its charm."
Olga Gilow
"Definitely worth going. You get little tid bits so much cheaper than the souks"
Shikha Singh Thakur
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bab el Khemis is located north of the Medina. You can reach it by taxi or by walking if you're staying nearby. Consider using the 'InDrive' app, which is Morocco's version of Uber, and allows you to set your price.
While it's north of the Medina, the market can be a bit hidden. Don't be discouraged if it's not immediately obvious; exploring the surrounding areas will lead you there.
For getting around Marrakesh, the 'InDrive' app is recommended as it allows you to negotiate fares. Taxis are also available, but be sure to agree on a price beforehand, ideally no more than 50-60 Dirhams within the Medina.
Public transport options within the Medina are limited. Taxis or ride-sharing apps are generally more convenient for reaching specific markets like Bab el Khemis.
Walking is feasible if you are familiar with the Medina. However, be aware of your surroundings and consider using a taxi or app for a more direct and potentially safer route, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bab el Khemis is a public market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander through the stalls.
Bab el Khemis is primarily known as a Thursday flea market, but parts of it operate on Saturdays and Sundays as well. It's best to visit in the morning for the full flea market experience.
There is no admission fee to enter Bab el Khemis. The costs are associated with any purchases you decide to make from the vendors.
Thursday is considered the main day for the flea market aspect of Bab el Khemis, offering the widest selection. However, it's also the busiest. Weekends offer a lively atmosphere, and weekdays might be less crowded.
There are no specific entry requirements. However, it's advisable to dress comfortably and be prepared for crowds, especially on Thursdays.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Bargaining
Yes, bargaining is not just expected but essential at Bab el Khemis. Vendors often start with a higher price, so be prepared to negotiate to get a fair deal.
You can find a wide variety of items, including antique wooden doors, rugs, home decor, vintage clothing, metalwork, woodwork, and general flea market goods.
Absolutely. Prices are highly negotiable. Don't hesitate to offer a price you're comfortable with, and remember that walking away politely can sometimes lead to a better offer.
You can find currency exchange offices within the Medina, including near Bab el Khemis. It's generally advised to withdraw cash from ATMs for better rates than airport exchanges.
While some stalls may offer mass-produced items, Bab el Khemis is particularly known for its unique, locally made goods and antique pieces, especially the vintage doors.
📸 📸 Photography
You can take photos of the items and the market atmosphere. However, it's crucial to ask for permission before photographing people, especially vendors or locals.
The antique wooden doors are incredibly photogenic, as are the vibrant displays of crafts and the bustling market scenes. Capture the textures and details of the unique items.
The main restriction is respecting people's privacy. Avoid intrusive photography. Some vendors might ask for a small fee if you're taking extensive photos of their stall.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is useful for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A prime lens can be great for low-light conditions if you visit later in the day.
Drone usage is generally restricted in populated areas and historical sites in Morocco. It's best to avoid flying drones in the Medina to prevent any issues with authorities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the peak crowds. The vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to see artisans at work might be engaging for older children. Remember to carry cash for any small purchases and be prepared for a sensory-rich environment.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for smaller, locally made crafts rather than mass-produced items for better value. Also, utilize the 'InDrive' app for transportation to manage costs. Carrying cash and being prepared to haggle are your best tools for a budget-friendly trip here.
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Remember to be respectful when photographing people. Focus on capturing the details of the crafts, the atmosphere of the market, and the unique architectural elements. Visiting on a Thursday morning offers the most dynamic scenes, but be prepared for crowds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Antique Doors
Many vendors specialize in these architectural salvage items. While they can be heavy and challenging to transport, they make for stunning statement pieces in homes. The sheer volume and variety available at Bab el Khemis make it a treasure trove for interior designers, collectors, and anyone looking for a truly unique piece of Moroccan heritage. Be prepared to spend time sifting through the offerings to find your perfect door.
When considering a purchase, inspect the door thoroughly for any damage or signs of wear that might not be immediately apparent. Discuss the origin and history of the door with the vendor if possible. Transporting these large items can be arranged, but clarify all shipping details and costs upfront.
Navigating the Souk Experience
Unlike the main souks, Bab el Khemis has a strong presence of artisans working with metal, wood, and textiles. You can often see them crafting their wares, adding to the immersive experience. This is a great place to find handmade items that are less common elsewhere. Remember that while it's a local market, bargaining is still a crucial part of the shopping process.
Be aware that some reviews mention a mix of unique local goods and more mass-produced items. If you're looking for truly unique finds, be prepared to explore thoroughly and look beyond the most obvious stalls. The 'sordid' appearance mentioned by some reviewers is part of its raw charm; embrace the organized chaos!
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
Secondly, download the 'InDrive' app for transportation within Marrakech. It's a local alternative to Uber that allows you to set your fare, which can be very useful for negotiating taxi prices. If you opt for traditional taxis, agree on the price before you start your journey, aiming for around 50-60 Dirhams within the Medina.
Finally, be mindful of local customs. Avoid photographing people without their explicit permission, as this can lead to uncomfortable situations. Respecting privacy is key to a positive interaction.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit