Jemaa el-Fnaa

Famous main square with intense energy day and night. Worth seeing for the atmosphere and food market, but expect aggressive vendors, constant scams, overwhelming crowds. Rooftop cafes let you experience it while avoiding the chaos.

The massive main square at the medina's heart. Completely transforms day to night. During daylight: orange juice vendors, snake charmers, henna artists. After sunset: chaotic food market with 100+ stalls cooking tagines and grilled meats under smoke clouds. The energy is incredible but overwhelming. Aggressive vendors, fake guides trying to 'help' you, street performers forcing you into photos then demanding payment. The scams are legendary. Henna artists grab your hand and start drawing before you can say no, then charge outrageous prices. Restaurants have two menus with different prices. Water sellers and snake charmers create scenes if you don't pay. Tourist Police are stationed around the square and can help if vendors won't leave you alone. Rooftop cafes surrounding the square offer the best experience - watch the chaos from above while eating in peace. Cafe de France works for solo dining with sunset views. The square stays busy late with good lighting and crowds, relatively safe compared to quiet medina alleys. Pickpocketing is rampant in dense crowds though. Many travelers find it too intense. If you visit alone: keep your bag zipped and in front, don't make eye contact with anyone selling things, head to a rooftop cafe when it gets overwhelming.