Best neighborhoods in Marrakech

6 areas in Marrakech, Morocco — what each one feels like, who it suits, and roughly what it costs.

Jemaa el-Fnaa ($) — The square, smoke and drums Best for Atmosphere. Rooftop terraces over the food stalls, and noise until late. The centre of everything — thrilling, relentless, touristed. Getting around: Walking
Gueliz ($$) — New town, boulevards, galleries Best for Modern comfort. Wide pavements, real cafés, and a short taxi to the medina. French-built and orderly; where residents actually shop. Getting around: Walkable grid + petit taxis
Medina ($) — Walled souks, riad courtyards Best for First-timers. A riad courtyard behind an unmarked door, minutes from the square. Labyrinthine and loud; deliveries arrive by handcart. Getting around: Walking; taxis to the gates
Kasbah & Mellah ($) — Saadian tombs, old Jewish quarter Best for History + quiet. The Saadian Tombs and Bahia Palace with fewer crowds. The medina's calmer southern end. Getting around: Walking; taxis at Bab Agnaou
Hivernage ($$) — Palm-lined hotels, quiet nights Best for Quiet + pools. Big hotel gardens between the medina and the new town. Calm, green and a little impersonal. Getting around: Petit taxis
Palmeraie ($$) — Palm groves, walled villas Best for Resorts + golf. Pools under palms, twenty minutes out from the souks. Villa country; nothing within walking distance. Getting around: Car or taxi