Morocco Nightlife

The varied and lively nightlife in Morocco is as vibrant and colourful as the bazaars, from traditional Arabic live music to an uber-trendy and seriously cool clubbing scene. The opulent cocktail lounges in the swanky Gueliz district of Marrakesh (also known by its French name Marrakech) attract tourists and locals looking to enjoy some chilled out people watching.

The markets beat to the rhythm of traditional musicians, and party-goers from across Europe are heading in droves to the new wave of electronic music festivals in Morocco, where you'll find clubbers practicing their moves, and their yoga poses.

It's not only the bright lights of Marrakech where you'll find plenty of night-time action. If you're staying in the gorgeous beach resort of Agadir, you'll discover plenty to do after the sun goes down. From playing pool in The English Pub, hunting down one of the popular Irish bars, to having a flutter in the casino, you can party until the early morning, then hit the sunloungers during the day to sleep it off.  

Traditional nightlife in Morocco

Ultra modern clubs and bars may draw the hip crowd to Marrakech, but there's another stunning nightspot that has been entertaining the crowds for hundreds of years. The UNESCO recognised site of Djemaa el Fna Square, in the heart of Marrakech, is transformed into a magical circus after dark. The air is thick with the smells of spices and cooking while lights and gas lanterns make the colours glow as the whole place comes to vibrant life. As you wander the maze of streets you'll see storytellers and musicians, who entertain tourist and locals long into the night.  

Rooftop bars with a view

Make the most of the warm, balmy nights in Morocco and enjoy your drinks al fresco at a rooftop terrace bar. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the medina (old city) in Marrakech with drinks in the Jardin de la Koutoubia Hotel. Overlooking the Koutoubia Mosque, it elevates you above the noise and crowds below.

In Agadir, sit back and gaze across the ocean from a choice of rooftop bars. Or sit and try the local mint tea or eye-wateringly strong coffee at one of the cafés on the buzzing promenade, open until late. Although bars in Morocco tend to close at around 1am, the clubs keep going into the small hours so the party doesn't have to stop.  

Enjoy the theatre and opera in Marrakech

If you're looking for a more cultural night out, head to the Royal Theatre in Marrakech. This 1,200 seat open-air theatre schedules magical ballet and musical performances, to be enjoyed under the stars. There's also an 800-seat opera house and the splendid building itself is considered an architectural wonder, well worth a visit alone.  

Arabic music and dance festivals in Morocco

Wherever you go to sample the Morocco nightlife, you're likely to be treated to traditional music, which is an essential part of local folk culture and present at every event or celebration. Head to the souks to watch live performers, or check out local festivals like the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival. Held in the summer, the festival is your chance to catch authentic performances by Moroccan musicians and dancers as well as be entertained by traditional performers, such as fire-swallowers.

More Things To Do ideas

Find more Things To Do in Morocco: Agadir Beach | Agadir Kasbah | Agadir Medina | Atlantica Waterpark | Bahia Palace | El Badi Palace | Jardin Majorelle | Marrakech Markets | Marrakech Medina | Marrakech Nightlife | Nightlife Agadir | Ouzoud Falls | Royal Saadian Tombs | Souk El Had