Jemaa el-Fna
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About Jemaa el-Fna
Get the inside scoop on Jemaa el-Fna from local experts, travel creators, and tastemakers. Browse genuine trip notes, Jemaa el-Fna reviews, photos, travel guides, and itineraries from real travelers and plan your trip with confidence.
What people say
Mark Fedoronko
Available for hire
"The centerpiece of the Media and the most iconic part of Marrakesh, you cannot miss the Jema'a el Fna. Originally situated adjacent to a royal palace over a thousand years ago (now the site of the Koutobia Mosque), the Jema'a el Fna began as a gathering place for the city. Over time, the square has emerged as a center of commerce and a distinguished landmark in Marrakesh.
There is no place like the Jema'a el Fna in all the world. By day, the square is filled with juice vendors, performers with monkeys, snake charmers playing music, and touts selling cheap souvenirs - in it of itself a sight. At night, people drag carts and turn the square into a makeshift food court of sorts. The area is also dotted with storytellers and bands performing gnawa music.
I could write a whole article on the food stalls, but main advice: go to places with locals, and where you see people cook in front of you (as opposed to eating on long benches). Other tips: do not accept a snake or monkey unless you are willing to pay for a picture. Final tip: it is quite fun to sit at one of the touristic cafes at around 4 PM and watch the people drag their carts and set up their food businesses.
You may not like it here but it is magical nonetheless "
Margherita Bianchini
Available for hire
"Jemaa El-Fna is not just a square; it's the epicenter of Marrakesh's vibrant culture and daily life.
Here by day, you've got snake charmers, henna artists, and local stalls selling all sorts of goodies. When night falls, it transforms! Food stalls pop up everywhere, musicians start playing, and storytellers gather crowds.
DO NOT EAT AT THE STALLS THAT ARE HERE: many locals told us so for sanitary reason.
Also be prepare to have people comming to you to ask to buy their stuff or take part in the performance. "
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Saskia Veendorp
Available for hire
"Jemaa el-Fna, Marrakesh’s most famous square, bursts to life in the evenings with vibrant markets and a plethora of street food stalls. It's a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and flavors, where you can explore bustling bazaars, enjoy street performances, and savor delicious local delicacies. As the day winds down, head to the area around Ben Youssef at sunset for a serene contrast, where the historic architecture glows under the fading light, offering a tranquil end to an exhilarating day."
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