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Without a doubt, Marrakesh is Morocco's nightlife capital. Options include everything from the free but fascinating goings-on at Djemâa el Fna square to the hedonistic cocktail scene of Hivernage, with its cluster of casinos, cabarets, and nightclubs.
True to the name (El Fenn means "art" in the local dialect), this fashionable spot in the medina is a magnet for designers, artists, and photographers. Wine, beer, spirits, and a vast selection of cocktails are available and can be sipped fireside in winter, or under the rooftop tent with views across to the Koutoubia mosque. Be warned, however, that cocktails are super pricey at about 200 DH a drink.
A mash up of café, restaurant, and bar, the Café du Livre is a good place for a meal but it's also popular just as a place to meet for a drink. There's usually live music Friday and Saturday, but it can get very smoky.
A lively crowd gathers regularly at Comptoir Darna to take in the nightly cabaret show, enjoy the occasional live music, or to chill out with cocktails. There's a small dance floor for those who want to swirl to the tunes.
Right near Jemaa el-Fnaa and with one of the best views of the Koutoubia minaret, Kabana is the latest hot spot on the Marrakesh night scene. Live DJs, an array of cocktails, and a full menu of snacks and main dishes are available. Make a reservation ahead of time as it gets crowded very quickly.
The intimate surroundings of the jazz bar at hotel La Maison Arabe provide a cozy fireside setting for cocktails and a tasty menu of light savory snacks. A resident pianist tickles the ivories every evening from 7 to 9.
A stone's throw from Jemaa el-Fnaa and up a narrow staircase, Le Salama is one of the few places in the medina where you can grab a cold beer or an aperitif without having to eat dinner. Drinks are served either at the bar area in the top terrace Sky Bar with views across to the Koutoubia.
A restored petanque club from the 1930s, Petanque Social Club has a cool members-only club vibe to it, as well as outdoor area that looks like a beer garden you'd stumble across in Brooklyn.
