10 Best Marrakech Nightlife

The early evening is an excellent time to explore the vibrant souks of the Medina, which are open until around 9 pm. Take a lazy stroll through the narrow alleys of the old city in the cooler evening temperatures when the crowds have thinned.

In the city’s main square, Jemaa el-Fna, you’ll see snake charmers and henna artists at work. Browse shop after shop of intricate brass lanterns, hand-woven rugs and patterned ceramics while taking in the rich smells of local spices. Find your perfect pair of babouches (Moroccan leather slippers) and don’t be afraid to engage in some friendly haggling to get a good price.

Discover Marrakech's myriad scents and flavours by night with an evening tour of the city’s street food. From flatbreads and olives to hearty harira soup, there are lots of local delicacies to sample. Enjoy the sweet-and-savoury flavours of flaky b’stilla pastries and munch on sticky sesame chebakia.

With so many things to choose from, hiring a local guide is a great way to try a little bit of everything and learn about Moroccan culture along the way. Many tours finish off the evening of snacking with drinks on a rooftop terrace overlooking Jemaa el-Fna.

Souk Semmarine is the main thoroughfare of the Marrakech souks. A long, wide alley covered by an iron trellis, the souk is a feast for the senses. You’ll find silver teapots, herbal medicines, antique furniture and kaftans in every colour overflowing from shops into lively streets. Admire the shimmering, distinctive lanterns and snack on pastries as you wander through the mesmerising market.

Be sure to set aside plenty of time to explore Souk Semmarine and the souks that branch off from it. While Semmarine has all the most popular market offerings, other souks specialise in particular crafts, such as carpentry and leatherwork. For traditional musical instruments like the Moroccan oud, explore the shops in Souk Kimakhine.

Tucked down an alley off Jemaa el-Fna is the chic Bistro Arabe, an orientalist brasserie hosting nightly live jazz. There are no starters or main courses here. The menu is an assortment of shareable French-accented Moroccan dishes. Poolside tables, palms and moody lighting give the venue a relaxed, luxurious atmosphere.

The drink menu boasts excellent Moroccan reds and sangria that gets rave reviews. Head upstairs to the rooftop La Pergola bar for inventive cocktails like the exquisite Love in the Orange Grove, flavoured with ginger and orange blossom.

Bar Le Churchill is a stylish space named in tribute to its most famous visitor. This refined bar in the Mamounia Hotel seats only a handful of guests, offering a cosy, personalised experience.

Sample from their top-shelf selection of spirits including Scotch whiskies and a variety of aperitifs. An excellent spot for an intimate celebration, the bar has an extensive list of champagne and serves tastings of grand cru wines. Accompany your drinks with bites of smoked fish and caviar.

Just 5 minutes west of Old Town lies the so-called New Town of Marrakech, the modern Gueliz. Developed by the French in the early 20th century, the neighbourhood has European-style wide streets and spacious squares. Take an evening stroll or grab dessert at the stylish Plus61, which serves delights like chocolate orange cake with plum mascarpone.

For cocktails, you’ll want to visit Barometre. This underground bar feels like an upscale apothecary and serves well-balanced cocktails in unique vessels. For some late-night snacks and live music, head to La Cueva tapas bar.

Step into Cafe Clock and you’re immediately surrounded by the mesmerising décor and the scent of amazing coffee. Aside from serving great food, the cafe is famous for being a gateway to the diverse Moroccan culture through music, art and cuisine. You can take cooking and baking classes to learn how to make local delicacies at home or immerse yourself in Moroccan way of life on a 101 class. 

The breakfast menu is served until noon, and you can start your day with a Moroccan omelette or pancakes. For the rest of the day, you’ll find local staples on the menu such as falafels, couscous and delicious Moroccan pastries. If you’re travelling with family, ask the waiter for kid-friendly options.

A visit to the bewitching Theatro feels a bit like a techno party at the Moulin Rouge. A circus of frivolity in a colourful theatre, Theatro showcases the latest talents in spectacular nightly shows. Put on your most dazzling outfit and hit the dance floor.

Throughout the evening acrobats, dancers and fire eaters perform amazing feats in glamorous costumes. A place of celebration, come to Theatro to dance all night long to electronic music or sip cocktails while you watch the fabulous light shows.

A veritable Marrakech institution, Comptoir Darna is a joyous dining experience. Whether you’re in the cosy red and gold dining room or on the charming garden terrace, the ambience will make you feel like you’ve walked onto a Moroccan film set.

Pick your poison from an extensive wine list and indulge in an after-dinner snack of pastilla or sfinge doughnuts. The restaurant has nightly entertainment ranging from traditional music to belly dancers, and as the evening progresses, the upstairs bar transforms into a nightclub.

The stellar bars at the luxurious Royal Mansour Hotel boast elegeance and opulence that transport you to a different time. Each bar features unique character and ambiance. The Main Bar is a tribute to the spirit and design of the 1920s, with piano tunes, vintage furniture and a hand-crafted silver ceiling. 

The skilled bartenders concoct classic and inventive cocktails that you can enjoy along with a selection of elevated canapes. Take your intimate conversations to the dimly lit Fireplace Lounge or settle into the softas at the Cigar Bar while you sample from the hotel’s high-calibre collection.