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Finding the perfect Moroccan medina

Moroccan medina Morocco’s famous medinas (walled cities) date back to 11th century but continue to create lots of modern day interest for their mix of history, sights, intrigue and shopping.

For those heading to Morocco without the time to visit them all, here’s a quick guide to the distinctive features of the top four medinas so that you can choose the medina that suits you best.

Town	Size	Hassle factor	Terrain	Traffic	Prices	Escapes
Essaouira	Small – intimate, the locals all know each other	Get approached a lot but it’s very friendly	Flat, easy access	Mostly pedestrian, bicycles and people-powered carts	Food and accommodation cheaper than others but not necessarily shopping	The beach is right on your door step when you need a break.
Marrakesh	Large, great chance to really get lost	Many offers to guide you through the medina. Shop keepers are a bit more intense	Mostly flat	Seems like it’s mostly motorcycles so the noise of the motorcycles and them beeping their horns, plus the exhaust fumes can get a bit much	A bit more pricey than other medinas	Jardin Marojelle or one of the many other gardens in this city. Or to your riad in the medina
Meknez	Medium sized	Less than the two above	Sloped, so some walking up hill and steps	Mostly pedestrian. May experience a human traffic jam	Great variety of food and accommodation options	To the El Haboul Garden or the new city (Novelle City)
Fez	Large	Less than Marrakech	Sloped, which means no motorbikes	All pedestrian, some mules and even camels ferrying goods	Some real bargains to be had for items made locally. Enjoy bartering.	A terrace (roof top) cafe, restaurant or once again the local gardens

Things to enjoy

Whichever medina you choose remember to enjoy the genuine welcome from the locals. Yes, the shop keepers may want you to buy from them but if you don’t they will shout after you good wishes for the day and there are no hard feelings. You will be welcomed by people in the street and be hard pressed to find more friendly faces.

You might also like our article on Marrakesh >>>

© Birgit Schonafinger