Shopping in the Tangier medina: what to buy and how to bargain

The souks of Tangier’s medina are smaller and calmer than those of Marrakech or Fes, which makes them a great place to start shopping in Morocco.

What to buy

• Leather: bags, belts and soft babouche slippers.
• Lanterns: pierced metal and coloured-glass lamps in every size.
• Textiles: scarves, blankets and traditional djellabas.
• Rugs and carpets: from small kilims to large hand-knotted carpets. Take your time over bigger purchases.
• Ceramics: painted plates, bowls and tagine pots.
• Argan oil and spices: buy from shops that let you see and smell what you are buying.

How bargaining works

Prices in the souks are rarely fixed, and bargaining is part of the experience. Keep it friendly:

1. Decide what the item is worth to you before you ask the price.
2. Let the seller name a price first, then offer well below it.
3. Meet somewhere in the middle, with a smile.
4. If you cannot agree, thank the seller and walk away. There is no obligation to buy.

Tips

• Carry small notes and coins. Many shops do not take cards.
• Be wary of “guides” who offer to take you to a special shop or a closing-down sale.
• For rugs and large items, ask about shipping and get the agreed price and description in writing.
• Many shops close for a while around Friday midday prayers.