Marrakech Film Festival 2026 and Late Autumn in Marrakech
The 23rd Marrakech International Film Festival runs 20–28 November 2026. Where to stay, from medina riads to Hivernage hotels, and how to get around the city.
Marrakech International Film Festival 2026: dates and venues
The 23rd Marrakech International Film Festival takes place from Friday 20 to Saturday 28 November 2026. It is one of the main film events in Africa and the Arab world, with an international competition for first and second feature films, out-of-competition premieres, tributes and talks with filmmakers.
The main screenings and the red carpet are at the Palais des Congrès in the Hivernage district. In recent editions the festival has also held free open-air screenings on Jemaa el-Fna square, which are popular with locals and visitors alike. Programme details and ticket information are published by the organiser closer to the festival, so check their official channels before you travel.
Marrakech in late autumn
Late November is a pleasant time to visit Marrakech. Daytime temperatures are usually mild, often around 20 °C, which makes walking through the souks and gardens comfortable. Evenings and nights are noticeably cooler, so bring a warm layer for rooftop dinners and late screenings.
On clear days the High Atlas mountains, sometimes with the first snow on the peaks, are visible from the city. Days are shorter than in spring, with darkness falling in the early evening. During the festival week, hotels near the Palais des Congrès and well-located riads book up earlier than usual, so reserve as soon as your dates are set.
Where to stay: medina, Hivernage or Palmeraie
- Medina riads
- Traditional houses around a courtyard, inside the old city walls. Atmospheric and close to the souks and Jemaa el-Fna. About 15 minutes from Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). Many lanes are too narrow for cars.
- Hivernage
- A modern district just outside the medina walls with larger hotels, restaurants and the Palais des Congrès. About 15 minutes from the airport and the most practical base for festival-goers.
- Palmeraie
- The palm grove north of the city, with resorts, villas and gardens. Quieter and more spacious, about 25 minutes from the airport, but you will need transport to reach the centre.
Arriving at Menara Airport and getting around
Marrakech Menara Airport is close to the city: the drive to the medina or Hivernage takes about 15 minutes, and to the Palmeraie about 25 minutes. Cars cannot enter most of the medina’s narrow lanes, so drivers stop at the nearest accessible point. Riad staff or porters often help with luggage for the last stretch on foot; tell your riad your arrival time in advance.
A private transfer with HotelTaxi is useful for late arrivals, families, or when you are staying in a riad that is hard to find. The price is agreed before you travel, and the driver meets you in the arrivals area with a name sign. Share your flight number and your riad’s name when booking.
In the city, Hivernage and the medina are within walking distance of each other. For longer trips, petit taxis are common; agree on the fare or ask for the meter before you set off. From the Palmeraie, many hotels offer shuttles to the centre.
Festival trip checklist
Note the dates
20–28 November 2026; check the official programme once it is released.
Book accommodation early
Hivernage for festival venues, the medina for atmosphere, the Palmeraie for calm.
Arrange your arrival
Share your flight number and riad details; expect a short walk into the medina.
Pack for cool evenings
A warm layer for nights and comfortable shoes for the medina lanes.
Dress respectfully
Covered shoulders and knees are appreciated in the medina and religious sites.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Marrakech International Film Festival 2026?
The 23rd edition runs from 20 to 28 November 2026. The main venue is the Palais des Congrès in Hivernage.
How far is Marrakech Menara Airport from the medina?
About 15 minutes by car, the same as to Hivernage. The Palmeraie is about 25 minutes away.
Can a car drive to my riad door?
Often not. Most medina lanes are too narrow, so the driver stops at the nearest accessible point and riad staff or porters usually help with luggage.
What is the weather like in Marrakech in late November?
Days are usually mild, often around 20 °C, and mostly dry. Evenings and nights are cool, so a warm layer is useful.