The most Beautiful Riads in Marrakech: my good addresses
Marrakech is one of the best tourist destinations in Morocco. With its almost permanent sunshine, its smiling and helpful inhabitants, the beautiful beaches of Marrakech, its cultural and historical places to see at least once in a lifetime and its bargains to be had, it is impossible not to love the stay there. Moreover, if you do not know what to do in Marrakech, I invite you to consult my complete article on this subject. If you want to spend a few days in the Red City, I strongly suggest that you rent a room in typical Moroccan accommodation: a riad. You can even privatize a riad if you feel like it! I have made here a selection of the most beautiful riads in Marrakech with their specificities in order to guide you in your choice.
Why stay in a riad in Marrakech?
It is by staying in a riad that you will be able to live the Moroccan experience to the full: in a typically traditional house, namely with a patio in the middle, rooms all around and a terrace which overlooks the roofs of the city!
Not only will you be quiet there, but you will also enjoy exceptional comfort away from the noise of the medina. And then, Moroccan hospitality is recognized all over the world so imagine yourself sleeping in four-poster beds, on a mattress worthy of a fairy tale and in a warm atmosphere! Not to mention the meals you can enjoy on site: delicious tajines with succulent pastillas and the famous mint tea with its sweet delicacies. In short, you can only return to France with good memories!
You don’t know yet where to sleep in Marrakech? No worries because there is no shortage of choice. There are indeed lots of riads in Marrakech, especially in the heart of the old town. And, to help you prepare your stay in Morocco, quietly from home and now, here is a list of the most beautiful riads in Marrakech, in the medina and outside it. You will only have to choose the one that will correspond to your favorite district, your desires for comfort and above all your budget.
The riads of the medina
Welcome to the medina of Marrakech, the perfect place to stay because you will be very close to the major tourist sites of the city, you will necessarily pass there if you go on a road trip in Morocco. The small streets and the colorful souks are yours, the Place Jemaa el Fna, THE essential nugget where storytellers, acrobats, snake charmers and musicians put on their show. Without forgetting the Koutoubia mosque, the Majorelle Garden, the various museums… In short, an endless list of things to see and do absolutely!
You’ll find heaps of riads in the old town and most are located in unexpected places, behind small wooden doors. You will also be surprised to be there in absolute calm; while outside the noise is almost incessant.
The most famous: Riad Yasmine
Riad Yasmine is undoubtedly the most famous of the riads in Marrakech. With its typical Moroccan decoration (just like its furniture), it is one of the most popular with tourists from all over the world and it is one of my favorite riads in Marrakech.
The 485 m² establishment is more of a small private hotel than a family riad as it can accommodate up to 16 guests at the same time. The riad has many rooms on the ground floor or upstairs and sublime suites. Each suite has its own decoration or its own color palette.
Why sleep at Riad Yasmine?
It really is an exceptional riad and a very romantic vacation spot! It fully deserves its place in the selection of my favorite riads in Marrakech. It is very bright and in the traditional patio you will find a swimming pool with mattresses all around. The decoration is just sublime with rooms in a row, beautiful alcoves, a reading corner with tadelakt walls, multiple lounges, very intimate sleeping areas, green zellige everywhere and above all a terrace with a breathtaking view of the city !
Note that the owners of Riad Yasmine own two other riads. One is right next door, Petit Yasmine. It is a 100 m² establishment which can be an ideal vacation spot for a family stay. The second, the Orange tree of the Medina, is located in the middle of the souk (135 m²).
We find in these two annexes: 3 suites that can accommodate a maximum of 6 people, a heated swimming pool, a small garden area, dining rooms and lounges and of course a roof terrace with a view of the city and the mountains.
NB: If you book the riad l’Oranger de la Médina, you will be entitled to a butler who will be at your entire disposal to serve you and guide you through the streets of the city.
Riad Yasmine is located at 209 rue Ank Jemel, Marrakech. To book, go directly through the official websites by clicking here. Note that you will have to book at least two days on site. For rooms and suites at Riad Yasmine for two people and two nights count at least 250 $.
Note that a tourist tax is imposed by the city: $ 3/person and per night. This is valid for foreign nationals staying in all establishments in Marrakech.
Between modernity and tradition: Riad Dar-K
Located in the heart of the old town, in one of the oldest quarters, the riad Dar K offers a more intimate atmosphere than the Riad Yasmine. It looks more like a guest house.
The very refined decor is minimalist with Berber-style furniture. The warm colors of the walls bring a lot of calm and a warm atmosphere that invites laziness. The riad – which can accommodate up to 15 people – has three large suites and two double bedrooms. There is also a very green patio with a swimming pool to cool off. And of course, there is a terrace on the roof where you can relax while having a view of the Koutoubia.
Why choose the riad Dar-K among all the riads in Marrakech?
The Berber tent on the terrace will allow you to have delicious snacks in the shade. You can also enjoy the outdoor shower!
The Dar K is located at Derb Boucetta Lakbir 23, Quartier Place des Epices, Medina, Marrakech. A night in this riad will cost you around 127 $ per night depending on the season when you go to Marrakech and if you book in advance. Breakfast is included in the rates.
You can enjoy delicious meals for lunch or dinner every day on request (remember to report your allergies in advance). Of course it’s extra! Except privatization, there is no supplement for children under 8 years old. And children aged between 8 and 12 can sleep with their parents from $20 per night. Those over 12 are considered adults.
The most riad of riads: Riad Berbère
The Riad Berbère is not far from the Riad Dar K. It is ideally located since most of the souks are only 5 minutes away on foot.
It is especially the architecture of the riad which dates from the 17th century that attracts travelers. Indeed, even recently renovated by its owner (a Belgian architect), it retains all its charm of yesteryear. The decor has just been very refined with a very Marrakchi style, hence its position in the selection of the most beautiful riads in Marrakech.
This riad is a 4-star establishment of 420 m² with 5 bedrooms (superior double room, suite or standard Queen room). You will be entitled to a private balcony or terrace. You will also find a terrace on the roof with a very beautiful panorama on the red city.
Why choose the Berber riad?
This accommodation deserves its place in this ranking of my favorite riads in Marrakech thanks to its shaded garden with its pretty water point in particular. But it is also divided into four with galleries, it is a real haven of peace in the heart of the medina. Who would not want to rest under the shade of its olive trees, its orange trees and its banana trees?
The Riad Berbère is located at 23 Derb Sidi Ahmed Ben Nasser Kaat Benahid in Marrakech. You can book your stay via the Hotelsmarrakech.net network.
Please note, this riad is very popular, so I strongly advise you to call the establishment directly to see prices and availability (Telephone: +212 651-284473).
As I have just told you, it is currently impossible to book online on the riad’s website. In addition, there is no visible availability: it is one of the riads with the best quality/price ratio in the city!
Breakfasts are included as are snacks with local pastries. Children are welcome but additional costs may be charged except for those under one year old.
The most stylish and original: Riad Dar One
Riad Dar One is located in the Jewish quarter of Marrakech. Although it has the charm of old riads, it is a very different riad from the others. There are many bright colors (turquoise, aubergine, fuchsia…) and the materials used (marble, leather, wrought iron, tadelakt, velvet, silk…) are diverse but that in no way tarnishes the decor. On the contrary, everything is in perfect harmony. If you are looking for a lively but super cozy place to stay, you have come to the right place, this is one of the most beautiful riads in Marrakech in my opinion!
The riad has 6 bedrooms (5 bedrooms + 1 suite). The establishment also has a living room with a fireplace, a patio bathed in light with a small swimming pool and of course a terrace (with deckchairs and a jacuzzi, please) with a view of the medina and the mountains. The ideal place for a dinner on the roofs and under the stars!
Why choose Riad Dar One among the riads in Marrakech?
The mixture between the charm of the old decorations and the touches of modernity which brings a real comfort of stay. The address of Riad Dar One is as follows: Derb Jamaa El Kabir n°19, Hay Salam Medina, Marrakech. For one night in this riad, with breakfast included, count around 127 $ for a standard room. Lunches and dinners are on request.
You can privatize the whole riad and invite up to 12 people (from 5 nights minimum). You will then be entitled to the services of a caretaker, a housekeeper and a cook.
Transfer to and from the airport is possible: $17 for up to 3 people and $ 5 per additional person. You can also enjoy oriental massages on request.
The owners have two other riads in Marrakech: the Riad Zaouia 44 composed of 8 suites and the Riad Azzouna13 which has five rooms and suites. They also have guesthouses in Oualidia (El Manzar) and Tangier (Mimi Calpe).
The most contemporary and sober: the Riad Dar Kawa
Riad Dar Kawa (“the coffee house” in Arabic) is located in the heart of the old city. Built in the 17th century, it is a former place of prayer and meditation (a zaouia: a sanctuary of the Derqawie brotherhood) and the owner has kept all the cachet. The original Moorish architecture has been rehabilitated with traditional Moroccan materials.
The riad has 4 spacious bedrooms that can accommodate up to 12 people in total. The decoration is sober (rather minimalist) in gray tones. There is a terrace with benches and one of the best spas in Marrakech (with products specially created for the riad).
Also note that the spa is very nice and the food is delicious. You can book directly on the riad’s website. In terms of prices, expect a minimum of $230 for a suite. You can privatize the riad (school holidays and public holidays) from €940 per night for 4 bedrooms. Breakfasts and tourist taxes are included.
The most secret: Riad Anayela
300 years old, the Riad Anayela is certainly the best hidden in the medina. This small 4-star hotel is considered one of the most beautiful in the city and one of the most traditional. Its decoration and architecture are worthy of the Thousand and One Nights.
It has 3 bedrooms (standard/superior double room) and two suites arranged around the patio and the swimming pool, beldis lounges, small private lounges and a pretty terrace.
The decor is sumptuous and very traditional, it is obviously one of my favorite riads in Marrakech! Riad Anayela is located at 28 Derb Zerwal in Marrakech.
Count around $ 625 for two nights in a suite with a king size bed. Remember to book well in advance because this riad is very popular. Full breakfasts are included. You can taste local and international specialties on request.
The holiday home: Riad Shiraz
The Riad Shiraz is one of the establishments in the city that does not rent a single room. You will therefore have to book the riad exclusively.
Located in the medina, this 200 m² riad has 4 suites that can accommodate up to 8 people. You will find queen size beds and a unique decoration (particularly Berber style, solid wood furniture…).
There are two living rooms, a heated swimming pool in a pretty green in a very illuminated patio and a large terrace with beds to enjoy the view of the city and the mountains.
Why choose Riad Shiraz?
You can rent the riad by the week or for the month. Riad Shiraz is located at 218 Derb Sidi Bouamar Riad Laarouss, Marrakech
Full breakfasts are included. Lunches cost 250 dirhams per person and dinners 300 dirhams (about $30); just remember to notify in advance. Children up to 2 years old can stay in a cot (on request) for $10/child per night. Those 12 and over in an extra bed for the same rate.
You can enjoy the jacuzzi and the barbecue on the roof. There is also a private hammam available with treatments on request.
The most beautiful riads in Marrakech? Riad Hizad
Composed of 4 suites and 5 bedrooms, Riad Hizad can accommodate up to 13 people. You will find a garden, a terrace and a balcony but also a spa and wellness centre, a solarium and a restaurant serving local specialities. You can also relax in the common lounge or relax under the Berber tent.
The rooms offer a view of the city or the garden. They are decorated in ocher, brown and red tones in a typical Moroccan style. It is a 4-star type riad which brings a lot of peace and which can be rented in its entirety.
Which one to choose among the riads in Marrakech? Riad Jnan El Cadi
This riad, which is not very far from the major sites of the medina, has 10 beautiful rooms opening onto a private patio with a small pool.
The decoration pays a very nice tribute to traditional architecture with zellije everywhere, columns all around the courtyard and a beautiful wooden railing that leads to the bedrooms. It also has a rooftop swimming pool and solarium.
The riad’s swimming pool is magnificent and is on the roof. It also has a business center (perfect for business trips). Riad Jnan El Cadi is located at 30 Derb El Cadi, Medina in Marrakech.
The rates are the same regardless of the season, the comfort room (two people / two nights) is $ 140 and the family suite (5 people / two nights) is $150.
Breakfasts are not included in the rates. You can dine in the restaurant of the riad (surcharge). You can enjoy the hammam and a massage on request.
Riads outside the medina
If you do not want to stay closer to the medina of Marrakech, you have other neighborhoods offering various atmospheres. For example, you can opt for a rental in the new town (Guéliz) or even in Hivernage, which are chic neighborhoods. But know that nothing will be more soothing than a stay in the heart of the Palmeraie (the new tourist district).
Located just a few minutes by car from the city center (ideal if you have rented a vehicle), the Palmeraie is a real oasis of tranquility. It’s the perfect place to disconnect! On the calm and relaxation program of course, but also lots of activities of all kinds (swimming pool, golf, camel/camel/quad rides, hiking in the mountains…).
The soothing riad: Villa 55
Composed of 6 suites and 4 comfortable rooms, Villa 55 is located 15 minutes by car from the medina (9 km), on a plot of one hectare.
The riad has a large swimming pool located in a garden surrounded by palm trees, roses and bougainvillea. You can also enjoy a solarium, a patio, a pool house, a summer and winter lounge, a dining room and a hammam.
Its decoration combines the charm of the beldi and the comfort of the modern. The colors are soft and the furniture found in all regions of Morocco. This large riad is ideal for family holidays. Villa 55 is located in Bab Atlas, Douar Makina La Palmeraie in Marrakech.
The rates depend on the rooms rented and the equipment (double bed, queen size bed, child’s seat, etc.). Count at least $145 per night. A full breakfast is served daily at an additional cost. Lunch is $20, afternoon tea $11 and dinner $30. The suites have private gardens or a private terrace.
Relaxation and escape: Riad Maison Ayda
The riad Maison Ayda, also called riad Al janna (Paradise) is a real little gem (230 m² anyway!) located in the heart of the Palmeraie.
It consists of 3 independent bedrooms (with 2 single beds or 1 large double bed), a living room, a dining room and a fully equipped kitchen.
It also has a patio with a fountain, a swimming pool and a terrace with pergola where you will have a magnificent panorama of the Atlas Mountains. The garden is dotted with palm and olive trees.
The house staff is included (cleaning and cooking) in the rental price. The bedrooms are separated, which allows for great privacy. Maison Ayda is located in Residence Ayda Palmeraie, Marrakech
Rooms are available from $450 no matter the time of year. A breakfast is served every morning. You also have a bicycle available.
Here you know almost everything about our selection of the most beautiful riads in Marrakech. Some will meet all your requirements, others will not; but all have a special atmosphere, conducive to escape and relaxation. Do not hesitate to consult my blog to know what to bring back from Marrakech and when to go to Marrakech. Enjoy your stay in the Red City!