Public Toilets in Marrakech: Where to Find Them + Must-Know Tips for Visitors
Marrakech, the dazzling “Red City” of Morocco, is known for its historic medina, colorful souks, charming riads, and captivating cultural experiences. But for all its magic, there's one practical issue that often leaves travelers puzzled: where can you find a clean, accessible public toilet in Marrakech?
Whether you're wandering the labyrinthine alleys of the medina, enjoying mint tea on a rooftop terrace, or navigating the hustle and bustle of Jemaa El-Fna square, knowing where to find a restroom — and what to expect — can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
In this guide, we’ll show you:
-
The main places where public toilets are available in Marrakech
-
Smart alternatives when no “official” toilets are in sight
-
What to expect in terms of cleanliness, cost, and etiquette
-
Insider tips for families, women, and older travelers
-
Google Map strategies and local language tips to make asking easier
Let’s dive in.
1. Are Public Toilets Common in Marrakech?
Let’s start with the truth: public toilets are not as common or as clearly marked in Marrakech as they are in many European or Western cities. While newer shopping centers and attractions may offer them, you won’t find clean, free-standing public restrooms in every square or corner.
However, don’t worry — there are reliable alternatives you can count on, and with a little local savvy, you’ll never be caught off guard.
2. Top Locations to Find Public Toilets in Marrakech
A. Jemaa El-Fna (Main Square)
This is the beating heart of Marrakech, and yes, there are public toilets nearby — but with a catch.
-
Location: Southwest corner of the square, behind the orange juice stands and close to the Police office.
-
Look for signs that say “Toilettes” or “WC”.
-
Cost: Usually 2–5 MAD (Moroccan dirhams)
-
Cleanliness: Varies greatly. Have tissues and hand sanitizer.
💡 Tip: Nearby cafés offer cleaner restrooms if you buy a small drink. A mint tea for 10–15 MAD might be worth the comfort.
B. Souks and Medina Alleys
As you explore the maze-like souks of Riad Zitoun, Mouassine, or Derb Dabachi, you won’t find public toilets in the streets, but:
-
Some fondouks (traditional merchant courtyards) have small pay-per-use facilities.
-
Ask shopkeepers politely, they may direct you to one — or even let you use their private WC.
💡 Learn this phrase:
“Sme7 liya, fin kayn WC 3afak?” (Excuse me, where is the toilet please?)
C. Major Monuments and Museums
Good news! Most major attractions have restrooms.
-
Bahia Palace
-
El Badi Palace
-
Saadian Tombs
-
Maison de la Photographie
-
Le Jardin Secret
-
Dar Si Said Museum
Cleanliness is generally good, and access is included with your ticket.
D. Gardens and Parks
-
Jardin Majorelle: One of the best-kept restrooms in Marrakech. Modern, clean, and free with your entry ticket.
-
Cyber Park (Arsat Moulay Abdeslam): Public restrooms near the entrance gate; cleanliness is moderate.
E. Shopping Centers and Malls
These are among the best options for modern, clean, and accessible toilets, especially if you're in the new city (Gueliz or Hivernage):
-
Ménara Mall: Clean, well-maintained toilets.
-
Carre Eden Mall (Gueliz): Includes baby changing areas and wheelchair access.
-
Al Mazar Mall (Agdal area): Reliable, with signage in Arabic and French.
👉 These restrooms are free but may be inside the food court or near the supermarket entrance.
F. Train and Bus Stations
-
Gare de Marrakech (Train Station): Toilets available for 2 MAD. Cleanliness is average.
-
CTM Bus Station: Offers basic restrooms. Bring tissues.
-
Supratours Station: Slightly better in terms of maintenance.
3. Cafés and Restaurants: The Secret Weapon
In Marrakech, cafés are your best allies. Most have restrooms, and staff will usually let you use them if you buy a drink or snack.
💡 Pro Tip: Look for international chains like Café Paul, Starbucks (Carre Eden), or McDonald's (Avenue Mohammed V) if you want Western-style restrooms with toilet paper and soap.
4. Riads and Hotels (in a pinch)
If you're staying in a riad, try to use the bathroom before heading out, as you might not come across another one for hours. But if you’re nearby and in need, many small hotels or riads will let you use their restroom — especially if you ask politely and explain you’ve stayed there or plan to book a dinner.
5. Mosques (Limited Access)
While mosques often have ablution facilities, tourists generally cannot use them unless they are Muslim, and these are not meant as public toilets.
Respect the religious norms, and don’t rely on mosques as public restroom options unless you’re familiar with local customs.
6. Cleanliness and Cultural Expectations
Let’s talk expectations.
What You May Find:
-
Squat toilets in older places
-
Western toilets in newer malls and attractions
-
No toilet paper (bring your own tissues!)
-
A small bucket or sprayer for washing
-
An attendant asking for 2–5 MAD
💡 Always Carry:
-
Small change (2–5 MAD coins)
-
Pocket-sized tissue pack
-
Hand sanitizer
-
A scarf or wrap (for modesty if needed)
7. Special Tips for Families, Women, and Older Travelers
-
Families with Kids: Use mall facilities when possible. Carry a portable toilet seat for toddlers if your child is sensitive.
-
Women: Bring sanitary supplies. Some cafés may not have disposal bins in stalls, so be discreet.
-
Seniors: Stick to locations with well-reviewed toilets: malls, train stations, or museums. Some restrooms in the medina require squatting, which may be uncomfortable.
8. Google Map Strategy: Search Keywords that Work
To locate toilets on your phone, try typing:
-
"Toilettes publiques Marrakech"
-
"Public toilets near me"
-
"WC Marrakech"
-
"Restroom" or "Toilette" (French works best)
💡 Zoom into malls, museums, and parks. Look at reviews — sometimes locals or tourists mention if toilets are present and their condition.
9. Emergency Phrases in Arabic and French
Here are helpful phrases you can use with locals:
-
Arabic (Darija):
“فين كاين الطواليط من فضلك؟” — Fin kayn toilette men fadlak? (Where’s the toilet please?)
“بغيت نمشي للطواليط” — Bghit nemchi l toilette (I want to go to the toilet) -
French:
“Où sont les toilettes, s’il vous plaît ?”
“Est-ce que je peux utiliser vos toilettes ?” (Can I use your toilet?)
10. Final Advice for a Stress-Free Experience
-
Plan ahead: Know your route and where malls, museums, and reliable cafés are.
-
Don’t wait till it’s urgent: Go when the opportunity arises.
-
Respect local customs: In traditional areas, modest dress and polite behavior help when asking.
-
Keep supplies handy: Tissues, hand sanitizer, small change — they go a long way.
-
Use cafés wisely: Think of them as your restroom safety net throughout the city.
Conclusion: Be Ready, Not Worried
While Marrakech may not be filled with shiny, modern public toilets on every corner, it’s entirely possible to enjoy the city comfortably and confidently if you know where to go — and what to expect.
With this guide in hand, you’ll be able to navigate the city like a pro, avoid awkward moments, and enjoy all the beauty and charm Marrakech has to offer.
Just remember: a little planning, some cultural sensitivity, and a packet of tissues can go a long way!