Ben Youssef Madrasa Tickets
Discover the tranquil beauty of North Africa's largest Islamic college.
Book Your VisitStep out of the bustling Marrakech medina and into a sanctuary of peace and breathtaking beauty. The Ben Youssef Madrasa, completed in 1565, was once the largest center for Islamic learning in North Africa. Today, it stands as a masterpiece of Saadian architecture, inviting visitors to admire its serene courtyard, intricate tilework, and the history held within its walls. Plan your visit with our visitors guide and check the opening hours before you go.
Available Tickets
Ticket prices breakdown
- Adults (Foreign visitors): 50 MAD (approx. €5)
- Children (under 12): 10 MAD (approx. €1)
- Moroccan Nationals: 20 MAD
- Groups (20+ people): 30 MAD per person
Please note: Tickets are purchased with cash (Moroccan Dirhams) at the entrance. The official online ticketing system is currently under maintenance.
Why book your tickets here
Plan your visit to this architectural masterpiece with ease.
Guaranteed Entry
Secure your spot for one of Marrakech's most popular attractions. Booking a guided tour with us includes your entry ticket, letting you bypass potential on-site queues.
Expert Local Guides
Unlock the stories behind the stunning architecture. Our local guides share insights into the history, art, and daily life of the students who studied here for over four centuries.
Free Cancellation
Travel plans can change. We offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.
Instant Confirmation
Receive your booking confirmation and tour details instantly via email. All the information you need is sent directly to your phone.
A Scholar's World Carved in Cedar and Stucco
Completed in 1565 by the Saadian Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib, the Ben Youssef Madrasa was more than just a building; it was the largest theological college in the Maghreb. For over four centuries, it housed up to 900 students in 130 tiny, spartan cells, a stark contrast to the breathtaking opulence of the central courtyard where they gathered.
The courtyard is a masterclass in Islamic art, with every surface covered in intricate Zellij tilework, masterful stucco carvings, and warm cedarwood from the Atlas Mountains. An inscription carved above the entrance perfectly captures the spirit of the place: "You who enter my door, may your highest hopes be exceeded." It served as a constant reminder to the scholars that their pursuit of knowledge was a path to transcendence.
How It Works
Book your guided tour in 3 simple steps
Choose Your Tour
Select a guided tour that fits your schedule. Our tours include the price of admission, so there are no hidden costs.
Book Securely
Complete your booking through our secure payment system. You'll receive an instant confirmation email with all the details of your tour.
Meet Your Guide
On the day of your visit, meet your guide at the designated meeting point near the Madrasa. They will handle the tickets and lead you into this architectural marvel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you visit