The Traveling Taylors

When most travelers think of Marrakech, they picture the medina: bustling souks, winding alleys, and centuries-old palaces. But there’s another side of the city—one that feels refreshingly modern. Welcome to Marrakech Gueliz, the “new town” built during the French colonial era. With its wide boulevards, chic cafés, and contemporary art galleries, Gueliz is where Marrakech balances tradition with modern living. Here’s why this neighborhood deserves a spot on your itinerary.

A Different Vibe from the Medina

If the medina feels like a step back in time, Gueliz feels like stepping into cosmopolitan Morocco. Its wide boulevards are made for wandering, so a pair of supportive walking sneakers like these will keep you comfortable as you explore.

• Wide streets and European-style architecture contrast with the narrow alleys of the old city.
• Boutiques and malls replace souk stalls—think Zara, H&M, and Moroccan designer shops.
• Trendy cafés and restaurants serve everything from French pastries to sushi.

Why Visit: Gueliz offers a break from the medina’s intensity without losing Marrakech’s cultural charm. If you plan to linger at the sunny sidewalk cafés, a pair of UV-protective sunglasses like these comes in handy.

Top Things to Do in Marrakech Gueliz

Shop Along Avenue Mohammed V

• The main shopping street lined with international brands and Moroccan boutiques.
• Great for modern fashion, leather goods, and home décor.

If you’re out exploring all day, a portable power bank like this keeps your phone and camera charged.

Explore the Art Scene

• MACMA (Musée d’Art et de la Culture de Marrakech): A gem showcasing Moroccan art.
• David Bloch Gallery: Contemporary art with a global feel.
• 33 Rue Majorelle: A chic concept store near Jardin Majorelle. Just next door, you can book a Majorelle Garden, YSL and Berber Museum tour.

Between the galleries and beautiful boutiques, you may want a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one to capture it all.

Enjoy Café Culture

• Gueliz is full of sidewalk cafés where locals linger over coffee.
• Try Café 16 for French pastries or Amal Women’s Training Center for authentic Moroccan dishes with a social impact.

Relax in Parks & Squares

• Plaza 16 Novembre is a lively square surrounded by shops and eateries.
• A good spot for people-watching and a slower pace than Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Foodie Highlights in Gueliz

Unlike the medina’s traditional Moroccan focus, Gueliz is a foodie playground. To dig deeper into the local flavors, you can join a guided Marrakech food tasting tour.

• Al Fassia: A Marrakech institution, entirely run by women, famous for lamb tagine.
• Le Grand Café de la Poste: Colonial-era building, French-Moroccan fusion menu, stylish vibes.
• Plus61: Trendy modern restaurant with Mediterranean fusion.

Trying new foods while traveling is part of the experience, and a portable electric toothbrush and water flosser combo like this one can help keep your teeth clean after long days of dining out in Gueliz.

Pro Tip: Make reservations for dinner—locals love these spots just as much as tourists.

Why Stay in Gueliz?

While many travelers choose riads in the medina, Gueliz offers a different experience:

• Modern hotels & apartments with pools and amenities.
• Easier access to taxis and buses.
• Quieter nights, away from the medina’s late-night energy.

For a day of shopping and café-hopping, a compact crossbody bag like this keeps your essentials close at hand.

Best For: Families, business travelers, or anyone who wants a mix of Moroccan charm and modern comfort.

Getting to Gueliz from the Medina

• Taxi: A quick 10-minute ride (always agree on the fare or ask for the meter).
• Walk: About 30 minutes from Jemaa el-Fnaa, though less scenic than wandering the medina.
• Bus: Cheap but less convenient for first-timers.

Marrakech Gueliz

The Marrakech Gueliz district is proof that the Red City isn’t frozen in time. It’s a place where locals live, work, and shop, offering a more modern perspective on Moroccan life. Whether you’re here for the art galleries, café culture, or just a break from the medina’s bustle, Gueliz is worth exploring for at least half a day.

Planning your trip? Pair a visit to Gueliz with our Top 10 Marrakech Attractions to balance the best of old and new Marrakech.