The “Red City” is a sensory overload in the best possible way. The scent of cumin and grilling meat mixes with the earthy, rich aroma of tanned hides. For lovers of craftsmanship, Marrakech isn’t just a destination; it is a pilgrimage.

At Kasba Leather, we draw endless inspiration from the heritage of Moroccan artisans. Whether you are carrying one of our weekender bags or hunting for authentic treasures in the Medina, this 48-hour guide will ensure you eat like a sultan and shop like a local.

Day 1: The Heart of the Medina

09:00 AM | Breakfast at Le Jardin Secret

Start your morning slowly. Before the heat sets in, head to the rooftop of a Medina café. Café des Épices offers a quintessential start with mint tea and msemen (Moroccan pancakes) served with honey and goat cheese.

11:00 AM | The Main Event: Shopping for Leather in Marrakech

You cannot visit this city without navigating the labyrinth of the Souks. This is where the magic happens. For the uninitiated, the souks can be overwhelming, but for the prepared shopper, they are a paradise.

Head straight for Souk Cherratine, the specialized leather market. This is the epicenter of shopping for leather in Marrakech.

• What to look for: Keep an eye out for vegetable-tanned leather, which ages beautifully (much like the leather we use at Kasba). Look for bags that feel supple, not stiff, and smell earthy rather than like chemicals.
• The Tannery Visit: If you have a strong stomach, visit the tanneries near Bab Debbagh to see the ancient process of dyeing hides in vats of saffron (yellow), poppy flower (red), and indigo (blue).

Kasba Leather Tip: If you find the bargaining process exhausting, remember that quality leather should have natural imperfections—it’s a sign of authenticity, not a defect.

01:30 PM | Lunch at Nomad

By now, you’ve earned a break. Head to Nomad, a modern Moroccan restaurant with one of the best rooftop views in the city. Their menu is a fresh take on traditional cuisine—think shaved cauliflower salad with fennel and roasted chicken with harissa.

• Link Strategy: [Internal Link to Kasba Leather “Travel Collection” – “Perfect bags for your city break”]

04:00 PM | Culture Fix at Ben Youssef Madrasa

After lunch, walk to the Ben Youssef Madrasa. Recently reopened after years of renovation, this Islamic college is a masterpiece of intricate zellige tilework and cedar wood carving. It’s a peaceful respite from the chaos of the streets.

08:00 PM | Dinner at Dar Yacout

For your first night, go traditional. Dar Yacout is an institution. It’s grand, dramatic, and serves a set menu that will leave you stuffed. Expect a succession of salads, tagines, and couscous in a palatial riad setting.

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Day 2: Modern Vibes & Ville Nouvelle

10:00 AM | Majorelle Garden & YSL Museum

Leave the Medina walls behind and take a taxi to the Gueliz district (the new town). Your first stop is the Jardin Majorelle, the famous botanical garden saved by Yves Saint Laurent. The electric “Majorelle Blue” is iconic.

• Pro Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the massive queue.

01:00 PM | Lunch at Plus61

For a complete change of pace, eat at Plus61. It brings Australian dining sensibilities to Marrakech. The vibe is minimalist and chic, and the food is bright, seasonal, and delicious. It’s a favorite among the expat community and savvy travelers.

03:00 PM | Upscale Shopping in Gueliz

While the Medina is for bargaining, Gueliz is for curated shopping. Walk down Rue de la Liberté and explore the concept stores.

• Lalla: For towel-lined beach bags.
• Mora: For exquisite hand-woven textiles.
• Some Slow Concept Store: A curated mix of local designers.

This is a great time to compare the modern leather designs found here with the traditional work you saw in the souks yesterday. You’ll see how contemporary designers are adapting age-old techniques—a philosophy we embody here at Kasba Leather.

06:00 PM | Sunset Drinks at El Fenn

Head back toward the Koutoubia Mosque and slip into El Fenn. This boutique hotel has a massive rooftop terrace with arguably the best sunset view in Marrakech. Sip a cocktail as the sky turns purple and the call to prayer echoes across the city.

08:30 PM | Dinner at Al Fassia

End your 48 hours at Al Fassia. Unlike many restaurants that are run by men, this is completely run by women and serves arguably the most authentic home-style cooking in a restaurant setting. Their Shoulder of Lamb (slow-roasted until it falls off the bone) is legendary.