Gueliz
Wide boulevards, pavement cafés and international shops — the Marrakech that grew up alongside the old city, not inside it.
What it's like
Gueliz was laid out during the French protectorate era as a planned "new town," in deliberate contrast to the Medina's dense, organic street pattern. The result is walkable in a completely different way: straight avenues, roundabouts, pavements, and buildings with lifts and modern plumbing. It's where a lot of Marrakchis actually live and shop day to day, alongside a growing restaurant and boutique scene aimed at both locals and visitors.
What to do there
- The Majorelle Garden & YSL Museum — Gueliz's best-known attraction, and reason enough for most visitors to make the trip. See our full guide.
- Independent boutiques & concept stores — a different shopping experience from the souks: fixed prices, contemporary design, less negotiation.
- Restaurants & cafés — a wider range of international cuisine than the Medina, plus casual terrace cafés popular for people-watching.
- Rue Yves Saint Laurent & Avenue Mohammed V — the main arteries for a wander, with most of the shopping and dining concentrated along or near them.
Is it a good place to stay?
Gueliz suits travellers who want modern hotel amenities (lifts, pools, easy street access) or a longer stay where daily practicalities matter more than atmosphere. It trades the Medina's charm for convenience — see our where to stay guide for the fuller comparison.
Getting between Gueliz and the Medina
A petit taxi between the two takes around 10–15 minutes depending on traffic and where exactly you're headed. It's walkable in good weather for those who enjoy a longer stroll, but most visitors taxi at least one way.