Audio Guide of the Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs are usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (summer hours may extend until 6:00 p.m.), closing on Sundays and Muslim holidays. The main entrance is from Kasbah Street, although an entrance via Jemaa el-Fnaa is sometimes available. I recommend checking the exact opening hours on the official Marrakesh tourism website before you go.

Admission costs approximately 70 Moroccan dirhams (around €7) for adults. Children under 12 usually enter free of charge. You can buy tickets directly at the attraction’s ticket office; in most cases, booking in advance is not necessary.

A full visit usually lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on your pace and how much time you want to spend admiring the architectural details. If you are passionate about history or photography, you may want to stay a little longer.

The Saadian Tombs are the royal necropolis of the Saadian dynasty, which ruled Morocco in the 16th century and the early 17th century. They were rediscovered in 1917 and restored, standing out for their impressive marble and stucco decoration with geometric and calligraphic motifs, especially in the Hall of the Twelve Columns and the Chamber of the Three Niches.

The ideal time to visit is in the morning, shortly after opening at 9:00 a.m., to avoid the crowds and enjoy soft light for photos. As for the season, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer very pleasant temperatures in Marrakesh.

Unfortunately, due to their historic nature and structure, access is not fully accessible. There are steps and narrow passageways that may make access difficult for wheelchairs or strollers. I advise contacting the Marrakesh tourist office at (+212) 524 44 84 80 to learn about the available options.

The tombs are inside the Kasbah, just a short walk from Bahia Palace and the Kasbah Mosque. In addition, when you leave, you can easily wander through the alleys of the Medina and immerse yourself in the life of the Kasbah souk, where you will find local crafts.

Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking on uneven surfaces. Respect the photography rules (generally no flash) and dress modestly. If you want to learn more about their history, hiring an official guide at the entrance can greatly enrich the experience.