Vintage

Everything you need to know about the Marrakech flea market

Bab el khemis marrakech

Bab El Khemis, a former camel market once pushed outside the walls of the Medina due to noise, has now transformed into a sprawling flea market. Just minutes away from the Majorelle Garden, this open-air flea market is named after the gate through which you enter: Bab El Khemis, or 'Thursday's gate', a nod to the market day. Photo: Annie Spratt

The souk is now divided into four sections

The first section naturally includes antique dealers and their eclectic assortment of items. Some have their own shops, while others set up on the neighboring streets, displaying their goods directly on the ground in a yard sale fashion. Strolling through, you can browse old objects or furniture, happily moving from one discovery to another.

For those redoing their homes or looking for something specific, the other three sections of the market house woodworkers, metalworkers, and potters. You can watch them at work, admiring their skilled movements and the smells of glue and varnish. This is the charm of a market still unknown to many tourists, remaining distinctive and preserved. If you enjoy treasure hunting, this bustling, popular souk is a must-visit.

 

marrakech Bab El Khemis
Photo : R Prazeres

 

How to get there?

Bab El Khemis gate, just a few minutes from the Jardin Majorelle.

When to visit?

The market is open every day except Friday. However, the best days to visit are Thursday and Sunday when more vendors are present and larger shipments arrive.

Best time to visit?

Antique collectors and flea market enthusiasts will tell you, early morning is the best time to find great deals. However, give the vendors time to unpack and set up, so it's best not to arrive before 10:00-10:30 am.

What can you find?

Antique furniture, fabrics, clothes, tools, trinkets, and a plethora of colorful items. There are also many craftsmen available to create custom pieces: potters, carpenters, wholesalers, scrap dealers, metalworkers, and more.

 

Bab khemis B.jpg
Photo : DR
Bab khemis A.jpg
Photo : DR

How to get around?

About 20 Dh from Jemaa el Fna square by small taxi, the same for the return unless you leave with your arms full, in which case, Hondas are there to help you transport your purchases. 

 

Published: Nov 13, 2024

Updated: Nov 17, 2024