The short answer
Yes, if you go the right way and do not mind the smell. The Bab Debbagh tanneries are working leather yards with stone vats, seen from the terraces of leather shops. Go in the morning, when the vats are being worked, and allow 30 to 45 minutes. Take a petit taxi to Bab Debbagh and walk in yourself rather than following a guide from the souks.
In more detail
The tannery visit is also one of the city's best-known setups. Someone tells you the tanneries are 'only open today', walks you there, hands you a sprig of mint and then leads you to a shop and asks a large fee. Arriving by taxi at the gate avoids most of it.
There is no official ticket. A small tip to the person who shows you the terrace is normal; agree it before you start rather than after. You are not obliged to buy leather in the shop below.
The ground is uneven and wet, and the smell is strong. The mint is offered for a reason. Wear shoes you do not mind getting dirty.
Good to know
- Go in the morning, when the vats are worked.
- Agree any tip before you climb to a terrace.
- Decline 'free guides' who later ask for money.