Travel bucket list idea:
Yves Saint Laurent Museum, Marrakech
Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco
Credit: Palephotography / Shutterstock.com
Last updated: 20 February, 2024
Fashion lovers queue up to step inside this architectural jewel box, which pays homage to the famed designer. Yves Saint Laurent always credited Marrakech as a source of inspiration, and returned to the city frequently, residing in the nearby Villa Oasis inside the Majorelle Gardens.
The interior of the museum resembles a catwalk, complete with energetic music and audio interviews with YSL. The permanent collection features enviable evening gowns, capes and pantsuits divided by collection, while an impressive curiosity cabinet is filled with accessories to complete the looks. In the theatre, footage from previous fashion shows and interviews is shown on a loop.
Alongside the permanent collection, there is also a programme of temporary exhibitions, highlighting artists who made their home in the city, including Jacques Majorelles and works by Christo. Temporary exhibitions change twice a year, while the permanent collection featuring YSL garments changes annually.
The windowless exterior, designed by KO Studios, is intricately designed to capture the city’s famous light throughout the day, using the same techniques as a traditional medina house.
Don’t miss
The curiosity cabinet within the permanent exhibition hall, where accessories created by Yves Saint Laurent are on display, ranging from woven belts to gold-plate jewellery and rigid necklaces.
Inspired by Saint Laurent, Rive Gauche, the Museum’s bookshop, has one of the best selections of coffee table books in town.
While you’re there
Coordinate your visit with a wander through the Majorelle Gardens, where Saint Laurent and partner Pierre Berge resided in Marrakech, and the Berber Museum just steps away from the museum.
Marrakech’s first concept store, Rue 33 Majorelle, is just down the street from the museum and rotates an impressive selection of designs by contemporary Moroccan creators.
Logistics
Price from: £10
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
The museum is located steps away from the Majorelle Gardens. Take a taxi or walk from the medina, but the route lacks shade, which makes for a hot walk during warm months.
Line-ups can be long and online reservations are recommended via the official website. Book in advance to avoid disappointment.
After, head to Le Petit Cornichon, just a 10-minute walk, and in a similar vibrant blue and yellow colour combo as the Majorelle Gardens. It serves up an outstanding seasonal lunch menu that changes weekly.
When to do it
The museum is open all year round, Thursday to Tuesday. Closed Wednesday.
High season months (March to May, October and Christmas/New Year) are the busiest times in Marrakech, but afternoons tend to be quieter times to visit.
