Marrakesh City Guide

Local dishes include tagine, tanjia, and harira. International cuisine is growing in Gueliz. Food stalls in Djemaa el-Fna serve late into the night. Vegetarian options exist but are limited.

Nightlife ranges from traditional music and dance to modern clubs in Hivernage. Alcohol is served in licensed places.

Coffee culture is developing with traditional strong brews and some modern cafés offering specialty coffee, mainly in Gueliz.

Tipping is expected in restaurants (around 10%). Round up fares for taxis. Small tips for hotel staff and guides are appreciated.

SIM cards available at airport or official stores of Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi. Maroc Telecom offers best coverage. ID is required for activation.

Cleanliness varies; medina is dusty with some waste, newer areas like Gueliz are cleaner. Public toilets are basic.

Some pharmacies open late on rotation; corner shops usually stay open late but not 24/7. Food stalls in Djemaa el-Fna operate late.

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Marjane, and Acima sell international goods. Fresh produce and local items are found in souks and small shops. Shops often close midday and may have reduced hours on Fridays.

Cash is used more than cards, especially in markets, small shops, and taxis. Cards are accepted mainly in bigger hotels and restaurants.

ATMs are common in Gueliz and near Djemaa el-Fna. Major banks include Attijariwafa Bank, BMCE, and Banque Populaire. Withdrawal fees of about 20-30 MAD apply.

International schools like American School of Marrakesh and Lycée Victor Hugo teach in English or French. Check admissions early.

A growing scene with co-working spaces and Facebook groups for networking. Co-living spaces exist but are few. Cafes in Gueliz and Hivernage support working remotely.

Parks like Menara Gardens and Jardin Majorelle provide good green spaces with shaded areas and running routes.

Good routes in Palmeraie, Menara Gardens, and Cyber Park. Generally safe during the day with some traffic outside parks.

Gyms are common in hotels and independent centers, mostly in Gueliz.

Tennis courts found in clubs mainly in Gueliz and Hivernage. Padel is gaining popularity.

Padel courts exist and are becoming more common.

Yoga studios are in the new city and in some riads. English-speaking instructors are common. Spa and hammam culture is strong.

Training centers offer Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, and boxing. BJJ and Muay Thai are less common. English instructors are rare outside international gyms.

Oukaïmeden ski resort is around 75 km away. Season lasts December to March, with basic facilities.

Limited in the city. Hotels may offer pools; coastal trips needed for kayaking or paddleboarding.

Surf spots are on the Atlantic coast, 2.5 to 4 hours away. Essaouira is good for beginners; Taghazout suits all levels.

No diving in Marrakesh; available only on Atlantic or Mediterranean coasts far away.

Private clinics with English speakers include Clinique Internationale de Marrakech and Polyclinique du Sud. Pharmacies are marked with green crosses and offer basic advice.

Locals drink tap water, but travelers should stick to bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

Playgrounds and parks like Cyber Park and Jardin Majorelle are good for kids. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions suit families.

Homosexuality is illegal; no public safe spaces or pride events. Public displays of same-sex affection are risky. High discrimination risk.

Not very pet-friendly, especially in the medina. Some hotels in newer areas accept pets. Veterinary and supply stores are available. Pet parks are limited.