If I’m Going To Shop Anywhere I’ve Traveled To, It’s Morocco 

As a full-time traveler, there are only a few places that truly make me want to shop. Most of the time I stick to my usual souvenirs like postcards, an occasional scarf, or a small trinket that fits easily in my backpack. But after spending a few months in Morocco, I’ve realized that if there’s one country I would come back to with an empty suitcase just to fill it, it would be Morocco.

There’s something about this country that makes shopping feel like an experience rather than a transaction. From the colorful markets to the handmade crafts, every item tells a story, and it’s hard not to be drawn in by it all.

If you’re planning to come to Morocco, I highly recommend leaving plenty of space in your luggage for all the souvenirs you might want to bring home. There are so many beautiful things to choose from, whether you’re interested in unique household items, traditional crafts, or vibrant clothing. It’s truly a shopper’s paradise, especially in the larger cities like Fes and Marrakesh, where the markets seem endless and every corner reveals something new to admire.

Morocco has such a strong culture of artistry and craftsmanship, and you can really see it everywhere you go. Across the country, you’ll find the most beautiful pieces of art and souvenirs, and it’s amazing to see how much time and effort goes into every single one. What’s so special about Morocco is that so many artists still use traditional methods to create their work.

Leather tanneries in Fes.

In cities like Fes, you can visit the leather tanneries and actually watch the entire process of making a leather bag, belt, or jacket. It’s something that really makes you appreciate how much work goes into each piece. You also see artists working right in the streets, shaping pottery, making shoes, painting, or carving wood by hand. It’s all completely handmade with no machines and no production lines, just pure dedication and talent. Every piece feels original and unique, making it much more valuable to purchase while traveling through Morocco. 

In Morocco, there are so many different things you can buy that it honestly feels endless. Everywhere you look, there’s something beautiful or unique that catches your attention, whether it’s hanging in a tiny shop or displayed in a busy market. I’m going to talk about a few of the main types of souvenirs that are especially popular, but there’s truly so much more out there than I could ever fit into one list. These are just some of the things that stood out to me the most and the ones I would definitely come back for, or buy next time when I have more room in my bag.

A leather shop in the Medina of Fes.

Starting with leather, anything leather in Morocco is completely handmade and absolutely beautiful. You’ll find leather belts, wallets, bags, jackets, and more, all crafted with incredible attention to detail. Many shops are happy to customize items or help you find exactly what you’re looking for, which makes the experience even more special. You can find leather goods throughout the country, but if you want the most authentic experience, I highly recommend visiting Fes. That’s where the tanneries are, and you can really see the traditional process that goes into making each piece. It makes buying something feel even more meaningful when you understand the work and skill behind it.

Ceramic shop in Fes.

Next up is ceramics and pottery. Morocco has some of the most beautiful ceramics you’ll ever see, and locals use them in their everyday lives for all kinds of household dishes. From tajines to plates, bowls, cups, coasters, and coffee mugs, there is an incredible variety. You can even find miniature versions of the tajines that are used throughout the country. What makes these pieces so special is that each one is completely unique. The colors, patterns, and designs vary so much that they would bring a lot of life and personality to any kitchen or home. Having even a few of these beautifully crafted ceramics would feel like carrying a piece of Morocco with you.

Next, I would highly recommend checking out the oils and natural products made by local artisans. One of the most popular items is argan oil. These products are produced by the Amazigh people, also known as Berbers, and the women hand-press the kernels themselves to make the oil. It’s all locally sourced, making it a must-buy for anyone visiting.

You can find these items in shops locally called Berber pharmacies, which are filled with oils, spices, and herbs used for natural remedies, skincare, and other health purposes. The shopkeepers are usually happy to guide you, explaining what each product is good for and helping you pick exactly what you need. 

Shoe shop in Fes.

Another thing to check out is shoes. This is kind of part of the leather category, but Moroccan shoes deserve their own mention. You can get so many beautiful pairs made just for you. Whether you want something simple like a Birkenstock-style sandal or a more traditional leather shoe, the craftsmanship is amazing. Some are made entirely from leather, while others are covered in colorful, patterned fabrics that make them truly unique.

Carpet shop in Ait Ben Haddou.

Next up are carpets. Moroccan carpets are iconic and some of the most beautiful things you can find anywhere in the world. Whether it’s a small rug or a large carpet for your living room, these pieces are absolutely stunning. There are so many different patterns and colors that you could easily find exactly what you’re looking for. Walking through a few shops, you’ll see shelves and floors stacked with carpets of every size and design. Each shop feels like a treasure trove, and no matter how long you browse, you’ll never run out of incredible designs to explore.

Next are scarves. Morocco has so many different kinds, from Pashmina-style wraps to desert scarves and shawls. They come in the most beautiful colors and patterns, and each one feels special. Scarves are not only gorgeous but also practical, especially if you’re planning to spend time in the desert. They’re perfect for protecting yourself from the sun and sand. 

Another thing worth buying in Morocco is spices, tea, and herbs. There are so many options, and the quality is incredible. You can find packs of spices used in traditional Moroccan dishes, as well as herbs and blends for other purposes. The famous Moroccan mint tea is a must-try, and you can even pair it with a beautiful tea set from a local ceramic shop. It’s a wonderful way to bring home a little taste of Morocco and a piece of the country’s rich culture.

Art shop in Chefchaouen.

What’s really nice is that in many of the larger shops, especially those selling carpets and ceramics, they understand that it’s not always easy to take everything home. Many of them even have sheets showing how much it would cost to ship items to different parts of the world, based on the size and weight of the product. The shipping is actually pretty reasonable, especially when you consider the quality of the goods.

When shopping, it’s important to recognize the value of what you’re buying, but haggling is also a big part of the culture here. The shopkeepers actually appreciate it when you haggle, as it’s part of their lifestyle, but always remember not to go too low. These artisans put so much time and effort into creating each piece, and their work deserves respect.

If you’re headed to Morocco or just looking to add something special to your home or wardrobe, visiting the markets is a must. You will almost certainly leave with something in hand. It’s nearly impossible to walk through these vibrant markets without wanting to buy at least a few things. From small trinkets to large, beautiful pieces, everything you see is unique, full of color, and well worth taking home.


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