Exploring Marrakech’s Main Districts: Let’s discover

Nicknamed the “Red City” due to the color of many of its buildings and houses, Marrakech is the fourth-largest city in Morocco, after Casablanca, Fes, and Tangier. Yet, it proudly remains Morocco’s tourism capital.

Marrakech offers a complete change of scenery, just a 3-hour-and-30-minute flight from Paris. Many French airports now offer affordable direct flights. It also boasts an ideal climate almost year-round.

Marrakech is a whirlwind of life, with energy pulling in all directions. It’s a city of colors, scents, and flavors that awaken all your senses.

But Marrakech is also about culture, architecture, and breathtaking landscapes!

It’s a unique city, an experience in itself.

We’ve had the privilege of visiting Marrakech several times, partly thanks to Amélie’s parents, who own a charming little riad (available for rent) in the heart of the Medina, in the Dar El Bacha district. It feels like a home away from home!

This base in Marrakech has also allowed us to organize road trips around Morocco, exploring various regions.

GETTING TO KNOW MARRAKECH’S MAIN DISTRICTS

Marrakech is divided into several neighborhoods: the Medina, Guéliz, Hivernage, and the Palmeraie. Each has its own distinct architecture, reflecting the era in which it was built.

⧐ The Medina – Marrakech’s Old Town

Encircled by 19 kilometers of ancient walls, the Medina spans 600 hectares, making it the most densely populated area in North Africa.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is the historic heart of Marrakech.

The Medina is the most touristy yet authentic part of the city. Within this maze of alleys, you’ll find iconic landmarks such as the famous Jemaa el-Fna Square, vibrant souks, historical monuments, museums, and countless cozy restaurants to tantalize your taste buds.

⧐ Beyond the Walls – Guéliz

Guéliz is Marrakech’s first modern district, built during the French Protectorate era. Fun fact: the name “Guéliz” is believed to be a distortion of the French word “Église” (church).

Far from the Medina’s bustling atmosphere, Guéliz offers wide streets and spacious avenues lined with café terraces, restaurants, and bars.

If you’re in the mood for shopping, especially for international brands, this is the place to be! Head to the shopping mall, where you’ll also find all the major fast-food chains.

Landmarks like the Majorelle Garden, Marrakech’s stunning train station, the Palais des Congrès, and the Royal Theatre are located in Guéliz.

⧐ Hivernage – Marrakech’s Chic District

Prestigious hotels, cocktail lounges, casinos, nightclubs, and luxury cars—welcome to Hivernage!

This district attracts affluent visitors seeking modernity and vibrant nightlife.

While this ambiance might not appeal to everyone, Hivernage is still worth a visit. Its clean, tree-lined streets and lush greenery make it a pleasant area to explore.

⧐ The Palmeraie – Marrakech’s Green Oasis

The Palmeraie is truly a lush oasis! However, this area is slowly giving way to luxury hotel complexes.

Spanning 13,000 hectares, this natural Moroccan treasure is home to over 150,000 trees, including palm trees that provide dates, palm oil, palm wine, hearts of palm, and wood.

Thanks to an ancient underground irrigation system, the vast Palmeraie remains fertile.

Alongside this greenery, you’ll find grand hotels with massive pools, fitness centers, and extravagant private residences owned by the wealthy.