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Marrakech is famous the world over for its vibrant bustling Medina, chaotic souks overflowing with crowds of people seeking fragrant spices, woven rugs and leather goods, its fascinating architectural heritage, such as the impressive Koutoubia Mosque and the El Badi Palace, its elegant, oasis-like riads and its awe-inspiring natural wonders. However, once the sun sets over the famous Jamaa al Fna square there is another side of Morocco's fabled Red City for visitors to explore: that of chic cocktail bars and mojitos, trendy restaurants with rooftop terraces, the sight of acrobats, fire-eaters and belly dancers and the pulsing sounds of international DJs...
Villanovo takes a look at the nightlife in Marrakech, offering tips on the best places to catch live music, where to dance well into the early hours at the best nightclubs in Marrakech, as well as where to head to sip a cocktail while looking out over the rooftops of Marrakech to the distant Atlas Mountains.
If the cultural offering on show at the Medina has something of a monopoly during the daytime, then as night falls and the dinner menu is replaced with the drinks menu the baton is passed to the upmarket Hivernage district and the nearby area of Gueliz. Built during the country's era as a French protectorate, the ville nouvelle is brimming with stylish riads with rooftop terraces and European style cocktail bars offering a cosy atmosphere and all manner of entertainment,
Gueliz's Grande Cafe de la Poste is a beautifully elegant brasserie for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere in a gorgeous setting, with light jazz and a mildly oriental soundtrack piped in to create the perfect ambience for an intimate candlelit dinner with that special someone.
In a similar vein, the exclusive French-inspired restaurant Le Palace provides the inviting art deco setting for an unforgettable evening of fine dining, complemented by a diverse wine list. As the evening stretches out into the night head to the cosy basement where the luxurious soft furnishings and music sustain the classy ambience until 2am.
Two must-sees to be found in the Hivernage district include Palais Jad Mahal, and Theatro at the Essadi Palace. The former is a softly-lit restaurant offering refined dining and an excellent international menu, followed by exotic entertainment, including live music, fire eaters and acrobats, leaving diners open-mouthed in wonder as they perform around the tables; a spectacle not to be missed!
By contrast, Theatro, a lively club converted from an old theatre, complete with crystal chandeliers, is arguably the best place to catch live performances in all of Marrakech, with resident DJs joined by live musicians, belly dancers, acrobats and jugglers for one of the best parties in town. Meanwhile, its sister location, the famous Casino de Marrakech, the first established in the city back in 1952 and fully renovated in 2003, draws some of the top poker players in the world, and provides refined gaming for those looking to try their luck in an lavish setting.
On Avenue Echouhada the classic two-storey restaurant Le Comptoir Darna is a must for those who wish to follow sophisticated cuisine with some of the finest cocktails on offer in the city. And just down the road the hedonists among you will enjoy the sleek Secret Room club, where resident DJs and an exotic parade of dancers will keep you moving until well into the early hours.
Further late-night options in the ville nouvelle area include the sleek So Lounge, and the elite club Babouchka. So Lounge, located in the lush gardens of the Hotel Sofitel complex, a short walk from the Medina, is a trendy restaurant/cocktail bar which gives way to live music and entertainment, transforming into a club as the night wears on. The So Lounge is open late and represents a unique setting for an unforgettable evening.
The plush velvet-soft decor of Babouchka, meanwhile, is the location for one of the best nights out in Marrakech. The fancy confines of this elite venue host a number of resident and international DJs to keep you entertained throughout the night. Given the prestige of being seen at Babouchka, those wishing to secure a table at this most exclusive of clubs would be advised to reserve in advance.
Much is made of the stark contrast between the glamorous modern areas of Gueliz and Hivernage and the traditional Medina. Never is this more apparent than after dark. As the clock ticks past midnight and the ville nouvelle comes alive, the more once bustling centre becomes altogether more sedate, with the snake charmers heading to bed and alcohol not really a feature. However, although it might not represent the wildest of the nightlife in Marrakech, that's not to say there aren't places to be enjoyed earlier in the evening.
The famous Jamaa el Fna square is best visited in the evening, with food stalls selling mouth-watering cuisine pop up all around and live music performed by street musicians create a uniquely festive atmosphere. The friendly crowds tend to thin out around 11pm as many of the stalls shut up shop.
For those looking for a refined evening in an exquisite setting might like to visit Les Jardins du Lotus, a stone's throw from the famous Dar el Bacha palace and museum. This gorgeous riad-like establishment enjoys the benefit of a beautiful leafy courtyard, complete with tasteful chequered tiles offering a beautifully understated elegance, which continues into the plush interior rooms. The food is first rate, created from locally-sourced ingredients and displaying a keen Mediterranean influence, and the atmosphere is relaxed and pleasant throughout this fantastic location.
Another charming - albeit somewhat more low-key - cocktail bar can be found on the rooftop of Riad El Fenn, where panoramic views of the medina at sunset and cosy wood fireplaces in the winter make for an splendidly relaxing evening.
A little further to the south of the city, the flashy 555 Club is the place for those who like their music house-y and their dancefloors full. When we talk about nightlife in Marrakech, featuring alcohol, pulsing music and sweaty crowds of gorgeous young people, we think about this sort of venue. Be aware that entry and drinks in this particular highlight of Marrakech is rather pricey, even by European standards!
At the other end of the scale, the leafy courtyard of the classy Bô zin restaurant is ideal for those who seek high quality dining followed by a delicious mojito or a bottle of wine in a refined setting with a festive atmosphere.
It's worth noting that Morocco is a Muslim country, and while exceptionally open and tolerant of Western culture, the locals do hold different attitudes towards alcohol and partying. Therefore, it's important when visiting this fantastic city to adhere to local customs and show respect to locals when enjoying the nightlife of Marrakech. Do not allow yourself to become drunk in public, as it would be considered offensive. Public displays of affection should also be regulated when in the more traditional neighbourhoods of Marrakech, with more provocative clothing should also avoided.
Women can feel safe throughout the city, although those who feel a little uncomfortable about walking the narrow, less well-lit streets of the Medina, at night for example, should ensure they are accompanied.
Finally, drugs - including cannabis and hashish - are illegal in Morocco. We therefore strongly advise that you do not partake if offered any, especially since it is common for police officers to masquerade as dealers.
If you keep these tips in mind, then we have no doubt you'll have an unforgettable experience in the vibrant nightlife of Marrakech!
>>> Take a look at our handpicked selection of luxury villas and riads in Marrakech
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