Discover the Gems of Marrakesh’s Walled Medina

Marrakesh’s iconic Medina is the cultural heartbeat of the city and one of the world’s largest open-air markets, home to everything from boutiques, shops and souks to distinct red buildings, mountainous vistas, museums and ancient streets. No trip to Marrakesh is complete without visiting the Medina, which is a destination in itself, separated from the rest of the city via giant ancient walls. Brightsun Travel offers direct flights to Marrakesh, taking you to the heart of this exotic city and its historic Medina. Below is a guide to the highlights of this walled attraction and what you shouldn’t miss on a visit here.

Jemaa el-Fnaa

In the centre of the Medina is Marrakesh’s main square Jemma el-Fnaa, which offers the most intense array of sights, sounds and experiences. This bustling market square is the perfect place to get lost for the day, with a series of stalls selling traditional items, orange juice stands, eclectic cafes which make for amazing people-watching, roof-top terraces with excellent vistas and entertaining street performers such as snake charmers, fire breathers and Moroccan musicians. The square offers entertainment all day and night, so you’ll never miss out on the fun here.

Ben Youssef Medersa

Founded in the early 14th century, Ben Youssef Medersa was a former Koranic school which was transformed into a museum in 1960. This iconic structure is one of the most popular sightseeing attractions in Marrakesh that has been intricately decorated throughout with a stunning interior and exterior. At the college’s entrance is a bronze doorway decorated with brightly coloured mosaics, carvings and cedarwood, and past the entrance, there’s an impressive marble patio with a water basin in its centre, a beautiful inner courtyard and a prayer room with grandeur marble columns and Arabic inscriptions.

Medina Walls

The walls of Marrakesh’s Medina are also known as ramparts, which were built the 12th century to protect inhabitants from invasion. These walls now separate this old city from the rest of Marrakesh, standing up to 9m high with a series of gates circling the city. These walls are an absolute must-see of Marrakesh, allowing you to witness the comparison of past and present in this city, and along the walls are several gardens and benches which are great pit stops. You could even take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the ramparts, which is especially idyllic at sunset when the hues of the walls change.

Koutoubia Mosque

This incredible religious structure is the largest mosque in Marrakesh and a symbolic landmark of the city, with a giant minaret standing at over 70m, intricately decorated with curved arches and windows. Non-Muslims are not permitted entry to Koutoubia Mosque, but it’s still worth coming to see this architectural marvel for yourself to take some great backdrop photos and take a scenic stroll through the landscaped gardens on-site, which are adorned with beautiful plants, flowers and waterways. Koutoubia Mosque is best visited at sunrise or sunset when the golden rays reflect onto this majestic structure.

Book cheap air tickets to Marrakesh with Brightsun and look forward to discovering these special jewels of the city’s Medina.

Brightsun Travel (UK) Ltd. provides travel-related services in the UK through its network of offices in Hounslow, West London, Birmingham, and Manchester.