Duration
Book now, pay later
Guided tour
Pickup available
-
Step into Ben Youssef Madrasa with your licensed local guide to see its intricate zellij tilework, cedarwood carvings, and centuries-old Arabic calligraphy.
-
Hear fascinating stories and insider tips from your guide as they bring Marrakech’s vibrant culture and student life to life.
-
Enjoy plenty of photo opportunities in the serene courtyard and ornate prayer hall, where you'll see Moroccan craftsmanship at its finest.
-
Discover hidden symbolism woven into the architecture, from geometric mosaics to poetic stucco inscriptions.
-
Opt to add skip-the-line tickets for convenience or for a private tour with hotel or riad pickup in the Medina for a personalized, door-to-door experience.
-
-
1 to 1.5-hour guided tour of Ben Youssef Madrassa
-
Licensed tour guide
-
Skip-the-line entry to Ben Youssef Madrassa (if option selected)
-
Hotel or riad pickup from the city (if option selected)
-
Small-group shared tour or private tour (based on option selected)
-
Free time to explore sites
-
-
Food and drinks
-
Gratuities
-
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Enjoy a private guided tour of Ben Youssef Madrasa with skip-the-line entry and convenient Medina pickup in just 1 hour.
Getting started
Your guide will meet you at the meeting point, and you’ll head straight to the Ben Youssef Madrasa. If you've purchased the skip-the-line option, you will breeze right in.
What to expect
Step inside one of Marrakech’s most significant historic sites, a 14th-century Islamic college that once welcomed scholars from across North Africa. Your expert guide will share insights into the madrasa’s cultural and educational legacy, revealing stories of student life and Moroccan heritage.
Features
-
Central courtyard: Marvel at the symmetrical architecture, marble columns, and tranquil reflecting pool that form the heart of the madrasa.
-
Zellige mosaic tiles: Admire intricate geometric patterns adorning the walls and floors, showcasing Moroccan artistry at its finest.
-
Carved cedar woodwork: Discover doors and ceilings featuring detailed cedar carvings, a testament to traditional craftsmanship.
-
Stucco Arabic calligraphy: See Quranic inscriptions and poetic verses in plasterwork, reflecting the spiritual and intellectual focus of the madrasa.
-
Student dormitory rooms: Peek into the compact cells where over 100 theology students once lived and studied.
-
Prayer hall (mihrab): Visit the sacred space with ornate decorative details, central to daily life at the madrasa.
-
Hidden symbolism: Learn how water, geometry, and silence were woven into the design, each holding special meaning in Islamic education.
-
The private tour upgrade includes entrance fees, skip-the-line access, photo opportunities, and insider tips, plus hotel or riad pickup for maximum convenience.
-
What to bring
-
Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking through the medina and the Ben Youssef Madrasa.
-
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially during warmer months.
-
Bring a camera to capture the intricate architecture and details.
-
Carry a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
What’s not allowed
-
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed inside the madrasa for security reasons.
-
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
-
Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on the premises.
-
Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the monument.
Accessibility
-
The experience is wheelchair accessible. The madrasa involves climbing stairs to reach the upper level student cells. Not suitable for wheelchair users.
-
Stroller accessible.
-
Most travelers can participate.
Additional information
-
Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
-
The shared tour will have a maximum of 21 travelers.
-
The meeting point is located outside the main entrance of the Ben Youssef Madrasa; a full address and Google Map link will be provided after booking. If your Riad is within the Medina and you have opted for a private tour, the guide may meet you at your Riad reception.
-
The tour ends back at the meeting point.
-
The tour may have a 5 to 10 minute delay if some customers are late.
-
If you need assistance, ask the guide at the meeting point for further information.
-
A WhatsApp confirmation with the guide's name and meeting location will be sent the day before the tour.
-
Madrassa Ben Youssef tickets cost MAD50 per adult (for tour option where entry is not included), payable at the site.
-
- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
Top things to do in Marrakesh
Nearby cities to explore
