Morocco Shopping and nightlife
Shopping in Morocco
Popular purchases include handwoven carpets and kilims, leather bags and slippers, glazed ceramics, embroidered textiles, metal lanterns, jewellery, carved thuya wood, baskets, spices and traditional tea glasses. Argan oil and products made from it are widely sold, particularly around Essaouira and Agadir; buy from a reputable shop or cooperative and check whether the product is intended for culinary or cosmetic use.
The medinas of Marrakech and Fez contain extensive souks organised around traditional crafts, while Essaouira is known for thuya-wood products and Safi for pottery. Casablanca has department stores, designer boutiques and modern shopping centres. Bargaining is customary in souks and small craft shops, but prices are generally fixed in cooperatives, supermarkets and shopping centres. Establish the final price before accepting wrapping, alterations or shipping.
When buying expensive carpets, jewellery or craftwork, confirm the materials, dimensions and final price before paying. If goods are to be shipped, use an established retailer and obtain a detailed receipt showing the seller's contact details, shipping cost, insurance arrangements and expected delivery date.
Independent shops generally open Monday to Saturday from around 09:00 to 12:30 and 14:30 to 19:30, although hours vary considerably. Shops in medinas and tourist areas often remain open into the evening and may trade on Sundays. Some businesses close or open later on Friday for prayers.
Modern shopping centres usually open daily from around 10:00 to 22:00. During Ramadan, many shops open later, close around sunset and reopen after the evening meal.
Nightlife in Morocco
Marrakech and Casablanca have Morocco's most varied nightlife, with cocktail bars, rooftop terraces, live-music venues, lounges and nightclubs. Agadir has bars and clubs around its beachfront hotels and marina, while Tangier, Rabat and Essaouira offer a smaller selection of music venues, cafés and late-opening restaurants. Clubs generally become busy late in the evening and may remain open until the early hours.
Traditional evening entertainment includes performances of Andalusian, Amazigh and Gnaoua music, while Marrakech's Jemaa el-Fna fills with musicians, storytellers and food stalls after sunset. Alcohol is served in licensed hotels, restaurants, bars and clubs, but drinking in the street or other unlicensed public places is illegal. Some venues stop serving alcohol or close during Ramadan, so visitors should check arrangements in advance.
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