Shopping in Morocco : A Designer’s Paradise of Craft and Colour

If you love interiors, texture, and timeless craftsmanship, Morocco is a dream destination. On my recent trip, I spent days wandering through souks and boutiques, discovering some of the most beautiful handmade pieces I’ve ever seen. Shopping in Morocco isn’t just about buying things; it’s an experience. It’s about connecting with the makers, feeling the materials, and understanding the cultural stories woven into every object.

The Two Worlds of Shopping in Morocco

There are two distinct styles of shopping in Morocco: the souks and the concept stores, and both are worth exploring.

The souks are the beating heart of Moroccan trade, chaotic, colourful, and completely captivating. You’ll find yourself lost in a maze of stalls piled high with rugs, ceramics, brass lanterns, and leather goods. The air is filled with the scent of spices and the sound of artisans at work. Haggling is not only encouraged; it’s part of the fun. Every transaction feels like a conversation, and you quickly realise that negotiation is an art form here.

Then there are the concept stores, the curated, design-forward boutiques that reinterpret Moroccan style for the modern eye. You won’t haggle here. Instead, you’ll find carefully selected collections by local designers and artisans, often blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics. Prices are higher, but so is the level of curation. Think of them as the Moroccan equivalent of a designer showroom.

Rugs - The Soul of Moroccan Design

It’s impossible to talk about Moroccan shopping without mentioning the rugs. They’re everywhere, in every colour, size, and pattern imaginable. From vintage Berber and Beni Ourain rugs with their iconic geometric motifs to vibrant kilims and finely woven Persian styles, the craftsmanship is extraordinary. Most rug vendors can arrange international shipping, so don’t hold back if you fall in love with one (or three).

Ceramics - Art You Can Use

The ceramics are equally captivating. Each piece is hand-thrown, hand-painted, and often etched or carved with intricate detail. Look out for Tamegroute pottery, instantly recognisable by its earthy green and golden glazes. You’ll find everything from tableware and vases to basins and wall art, all made with remarkable care and love. Most vendors will carefully pack them for you, ready to bring home as a reminder of Morocco’s artistry.

Tiles - Pattern, Colour, and Cultural Storytelling

Tiles are one of the most iconic elements of Moroccan design. You see them everywhere: in riads, courtyards, mosques, and fountains, creating mesmerising patterns that tell stories of culture, faith, and geometry. The craftsmanship is extraordinary, with every piece handmade and often hand-cut from clay before being glazed and fired.

Zellige tiles are the most famous. These small, irregularly shaped tiles are set into intricate mosaics that shimmer in the light, creating a surface full of depth and life. They’re available in a rainbow of colours, from soft neutrals to the vivid blues and greens seen throughout Marrakesh and Fes.

For designers and design lovers, Moroccan tiles offer endless inspiration — whether it’s the rhythmic repeat of a geometric pattern or the imperfect charm of a hand-glazed finish. They’re a beautiful reminder of how art and architecture intertwine in Moroccan culture.

Jewellery - Small but Sparkling

From fine silver and gold pieces to bold, bohemian statement jewellery, Morocco is heaven for jewellery lovers. Many of the designs draw on Amazigh (Berber) and Arab-Andalusian influences, resulting in pieces that feel both ancient and modern. And the best part? They’re light and easy to carry home.

Leather - Handmade and Built to Last

Morocco is world-famous for its leather, and it’s easy to see why. You can watch artisans crafting sandals, bags, and belts by hand in tiny workshops that have been operating for generations. The leather quality is exceptional: soft, durable, and beautifully dyed. A pair of handmade slides or a classic satchel makes the perfect functional souvenir.

Textiles - Layers of Colour and Comfort

If, like me, you have a weakness for textiles, Morocco will steal your heart. Cushions, throws, napkins, and bedding spill from every corner of the souks. Many vendors export their wares globally, so the quality is impressive. Think natural cottons, silks, and linens in the most gorgeous colourways. Whether you’re hunting for embroidered napery or woven cushions, you’ll find endless inspiration for layering texture in your home.

Metalwork and Timber - The Finishing Touches

For lovers of detail, the metalwork and timber craftsmanship in Morocco is next-level. Brass and bronze are shaped into lanterns, mirrors, door knockers, and lighting that glows with warmth. In timber, you’ll find inlaid chessboards, ornate chests, carved doors, and furniture that showcase the artistry passed down through generations.

One afternoon in Marrakesh, I even saw a craftsman in the middle of the souk welding a custom balustrade, sparks flying around him as if it were the most ordinary thing in the world. It was such a perfect snapshot of Morocco: beauty and skill in every corner.

Spices - A Feast for the Senses and the Body

One of the most unforgettable parts of wandering Moroccan markets is the spice stalls. Mountains of cumin, turmeric, paprika, saffron, cinnamon, and ras el hanout create a vibrant rainbow of colour and a symphony of scents. What makes shopping for spices in Morocco truly special is the knowledge that comes with it.

Vendors are often happy to explain what each spice is used for, not just in cooking but for its health benefits. Turmeric for anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon for digestion, saffron for mood-boosting effects, and ras el hanout for a mix of energising and warming benefits — the list goes on. You can taste, smell, and touch each spice, learning how these natural ingredients have been valued for centuries in Moroccan kitchens and medicine.

Buying spices here becomes a sensory and educational experience. Each purchase is a little piece of Moroccan culture you can bring home, not just for your meals but as inspiration for your wellness, your kitchen, or even your interiors with colour and texture. Vendors will carefully package them for travel so you can enjoy the experience long after you leave.

My Favourite Shopping Towns

While every region offers something unique, Marrakesh and Essaouira were my standout shopping destinations. Marrakesh is bold and energetic, a designer’s playground filled with hidden gems around every corner. Essaouira, by contrast, feels more relaxed and coastal, with a slower pace and boutiques that lean towards bohemian and textural pieces.

Both are filled with inspiration for anyone who loves design, and both remind me that craftsmanship, when celebrated and preserved, is what truly makes a space feel alive.

Sally travelled on a two week tour with Souk and Co. A brilliantly coordinated, expertly executed adventure. *Not sponsored.