10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Marrakech

The early evening is an excellent time to explore the vibrant souks of the Medina, which are open until around 9pm. 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 flavors 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 flavors 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 beverages 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 color overflowing from shops into lively streets. Admire the shimmering, distinctive lanterns and snack on pastries as you wander through the mesmerizing 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 specialize 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 appetizers 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, flavored 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 9 guests, offering a cozy, personalized experience.

Sample from their top-shelf selection of spirits including Scotch whiskeys 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 beverages 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. Head to the neon-lit nightclub African Chic for late-night Latin music and dancing.

Café du Livre is just what the physician ordered after a long day of treasure hunting in the energetic souks. A laid-back spot with board games and a collection of second-hand books, the café provides a welcome respite with cozy seating and a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll find mostly locals and ex-pats gathering here to chat, watch a match or flip through the books.

Stop by for happy hour draft beer and challenge your travel buddy to a game of chess. If you’re in need of a snack, the varied menu has tapas and bites with plenty of vegetarian options.

A visit to the bewitching Theatro feels a bit like a techno party at the Moulin Rouge. A circus of frivolity in a colorful theater, 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 cozy red and gold dining room or on the charming garden terrace, the ambience will make you feel like you’ve walked onto a Moroccan movie 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 Royal Mansour Hotel is a luxurious experience in every sense of the word. Step through the bronze doors into the palace-like interior with marble floors and ornate decorations. The hotel has 3 elegant bars, each with a unique character.

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.