As ever-increasing numbers of eager tourists flock to Morocco each year, the Red City of Marrakech has become a world must-visit city, listed by Forbes in their Top One Hundred Cities, highly recommended on most travel sites, and a popular destination for celebrities. Bustling Marrakech has beautiful architecture, a fascinating history, superb cuisine, great shops and markets, and is the gateway to the allure of the Sahara Desert.
But the first question in your mind after you’ve arranged how to get to this marvellous metropolis, is “Where do I stay?”. Hotels are always a popular choice, of course, but we would really recommend staying in a riad for a more authentic taste of Morocco. The Riads in Marrakech are refurbished traditional Moroccan homes with inner courtyards, usually with a water feature, transformed into plush accommodations for guests seeking something genuinely Moroccan. In this article, we’ll discuss the top riads in Marrakech, each offering a unique mix of style, coziness, and a more authentic cultural experience.
List of the Best Riads in Marrakech:
1. Riad Yasmine
One of the most renowned riads in Marrakech and widely circulated on Instagram, Riad Yasmin is an exceptional place even by the high standards of riads in the city. Located in the heart of the medina, close to Bab Diag and Jemaa el-Fna Square, it boasts stunning views from the rooftop terrace, a beautiful courtyard and offers delicious breakfasts and traditional evening meals. The staff are courteous, friendly and professional. With eight elegant, comfortable rooms, a tile and emerald-adorned swimming pool, and hospitality and relaxation sessions, this riad provides a seamless blend of sophistication and style, making it one of the best riads in Marrakech.
2. Riad Jardin Secret
Known as the Mystical Secret Garden, the Riad Jardin Secret is a peaceful spot to unwind after the noise and turmoil of Marrakech. Situated deep in the old medina, this riad stands out from the other riads in Marrakech by not providing a TV or other distractions that would spoil the peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for creative people or those who just want to read, think or dream.
The rooms have Moroccan decor inspired by the “anti-modern” lifestyle that embraces the imperfections of time. This creates a tranquil repose after spending a busy day visiting Marrakech’s buzzing markets and historical landmarks, making this a unique riad in Marrakech.
3. Riad Dar Anika
The Riad Dar Anika is located in a convenient position at the entrance to the old souk and close to Djemma el Fna Square. Alongside the twelve individually styled rooms, this riad offers a swimming pool, hammam, jacuzzi, and a rooftop area with sun loungers. You can count on warm, practical advice and a personal touch throughout your stay. Their onsite restaurant offers delicious Moroccan and Italian specials with live local music and amazing rooftop views, guaranteeing a perfect stay.
4. Riad Kheirredine
Riad Kheirredine is a luxurious, 5-star establishment nestled in the centre of Marrakech. The riad blends the charm of Moroccan tradition with modern Italian flair, offering an enticing and lively ambiance. It boasts plush rooms and suites, including the grand Imperial Suites. These come complete with cozy living spaces and personal balconies. Visitors have access to facilities such as an in-house spa, a rooftop terrace that offers breathtaking vistas, a pool, and on-site dining and drinks. The staff provides top-notch service and extras include a free local cell phone, a traditional Moroccan breakfast, and clothes-cleaning services. Riad Kheirredine’s prime location is within a stone’s throw of Marrakech’s most popular attractions.
5. Riad Les Yeux Bleus
Riad Les Yeux Bleus ( The Blue Eyes House) is a recently renovated riad that is located in the Bab Doukkala district of Marrakech and is artistically decorated in traditional style with a touch of pop art colours. It offers 11 individually decorated bedrooms, two enchanting patios, two pools, a library, a full spa with massage and hammam, and a roof terrace with a bar. Their services include a twenty-four-hour kitchen specializing in Moroccan classics, planned excursions to show you around the city, a day trip to the High Atlas Mountains to spend time with Berbers, and private transfers to and from Marrakech Menara Airport.
6. Riad Farnatchi
Le Farnatch as it is locally known, smack-bang in the middle of Marrakech Medina, is one of the city’s most luxurious riads and boasts an award-winning spa and restaurant. It has ten unique and gorgeous suites, a private dining room that seats up to twenty-two guests, a traditional salon, a comfy lounge bar, three traditional B’hous (open lounges), a swimming pool, a roof-top terrace and garden nooks and crannies in which to dine and lounge, free access to the Farnatchi Spa and le Trou au Mur, the award-winning restaurant. They also arrange off-site adventures, including paragliding, horse riding, zip-wire thrills, quad-bike rides, rock climbing, golf, hot air ballooning over the desert, and trekking, as well as more relaxed artisanal craft activities like calligraphy, perfume making, and Moroccan cooking lessons. They also organize day trips to Essaouira, and many other places, helping you make the most of your holiday in Marrakech.
7. Riad Kaiss
The Riad Kaiss can be found a few steps from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Djema el Fna, the bustling square that is perhaps the most famous of Marrakech’s many landmarks. This riad provides an authentic taste of Moroccan history, being a 16th-century home once occupied by Marrakech’s ruler, Sultan Moulay Yacoub. But It is not completely lost in a bygone era; the rooms of the riad are tastefully furnished and decorated in a mix of traditional and modern Moroccan styles and each room has a private bathroom and air conditioning, not always present in Moroccan riads, but so delightful in the extreme heat of a long summer.
Riad Kaiss makes your comfort its top priority. Guests can take a dip in the little rooftop pool, enjoy the traditional hammam and get spoiled with spa treatments. The excellent restaurant serves seasonal, organic Moroccan fare and you can even participate in their daily cooking classes. Here, under the guidance of the expert head chef, you will shop in the souk to source fresh local ingredients, learn more about Moroccan cuisine, and enjoy a meal that you have prepared yourself.
8. Riad El Fenn
The Riad El Fenn is renowned for its hospitality and quality of staff. A first-class establishment in the centre of Marrakech, this riad combines the charm of traditional Moroccan architecture with contemporary style. Its invigorating aura is produced by a meticulously restored historic building. Variety is the secret at Riad El Fenn, as each room or suite has a unique mix of classical and modern. You’ll discover features like private terraces or balconies offering stunning views over the city, courtyards, a panoramic rooftop terrace looking over Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains beyond, a pool, and a spa with traditional hammam treatments. The riad also boasts a rich art collection and hosts regular art exhibitions, that are a memorable experience for visitors to Marrakech.
9. Riad Nashira & Spa
With a beautiful terrace with breathtaking views overlooking the Red City, the Riad Nashira & Spa is an equally gorgeous a riad as The Secret Garden (see number 2 above). If you decide to stay in this place, you cannot go wrong, it is a legendary riad and resort that makes one feel like you’re in one of the tales of The One Thousand and One Nights. It offers accommodation in a building of surreal beauty and elegance, effortlessly combining authentic architecture with modern comforts. Guests adore the service, the local and international cuisine offered in the on-site restaurant, and the competitive price. It is also fully equipped to accommodate those with special needs, providing an inclusive experience for everyone who wants to experience the wonder of riads in Marrakech.
10. Riad Villa Makassar
A more modern riad in a central location on Derb Chtouka, near the Royal Palace, the Villa Makassar has a luxurious and novel design and provides exceptional service. It gives its guests a unique lodging experience coupled with a secluded romantic ambiance that surprises with every detail, from its gypsum walls to the gorgeous marble bathtubs. It offers a spa, massage services, a pool and a hot tub on the terrace with breathtaking city and ocean views. The riad even has a private golf course for guests to enjoy. The dining is excellent.
11. L’Hotel Marrakech
A delightful but modernised riad with a rich history, at one time part of the ancient royal Palais Kaidal, L’Hotel Marrakech has a convenient central location in the heart of the Red City, near the Jemaa el-Fna Square, the souks (markets), and the 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque. The riad consists of five spacious wings surrounding a wide, central garden/ courtyard and private swimming pool. As well as superb personal service, your stay in this luxurious palace provides delicious cuisine and outstanding comfort. The riad is reminiscent of a museum, showcasing a fine collection of fascinating Moroccan handicrafts, textiles, antique furniture, and enchanting, artistic lighting.
12. Riad Salman
Riad Salman is located in a prime position in the centre of Marrakech It has welcome air-conditioning in the rooms, a garden and a terrace. Other facilities at this riad include an excellent restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, room service, and free Wi-Fi throughout. The accommodation also has family rooms available, each including a writing desk, fresh linen, and a patio with a view of the pool. All the rooms at Riad Salman come with a safe deposit box and a private bathroom, ensuring a secure stay in Marrakech.
FAQs
1. What is a riad?
Riads are traditional Moroccan homes that have an inner courtyard or garden and usually a water feature. Nowadays, you’ll find many of them transformed into plush tourist accommodations, that allow you to experience genuine Moroccan charm and warmth.
Read also: What is a Riad in Morocco?
2. What amenities can I expect in a riad?
The typical riad in Morocco has a courtyard and/ or garden, a pool or fountain, terraces on the roof, in-house dining, and often a spa. Some offer much more, such as guided tours, cooking classes, or a hammam and local spa treatments.
3. Are riads located centrally in Marrakech?
Riads in Marrakech are norma;;y centrally located in the city’s Medina. This prime location allows easy access to the historical sites, lively souks (markets), and unique culture of the city.
4. Are the riads family-friendly?
Absolutely! The vast majority of the riads in Marrakech provide accommodation suitable for families. They will offer larger rooms or interconnected rooms for families. Features like pools and gardens are commonplace for kids to enjoy. The Moroccan people love children and will go out of their way to ensure that the kids are happy.
5. How can I book a stay at a riad in Marrakech?
To reserve a riad in Marrakech, explore online travel sites or the riad’s own site to find the accommodation that suits you best. Be sure to check out reviews by people who have stayed at the riad. It’s best to book early, especially during busier travel times, to ensure the dates and room types you require are available.
6. What is the difference between riads and hotels in Morocco?
In Morocco, the primary difference between riads and hotels lies in the architectural design and sometimes the scale. Riads are large, traditional Moroccan houses or palaces that have intimate layouts with internal courtyards or gardens and usually a water feature, offering fewer rooms and more personalized service. They showcase traditional Moroccan design for a more authentic cultural experience. In contrast, the hotels in Morocco are generally larger and more contemporary, providing diverse facilities with a standardized level of service and a more international aesthetic, catering to a broader range of travellers.
Riads in Marrakech are special places to stay in Marrakech. They are beautiful and likely to take your breath away. Each riad on our list has a little bit of everything. There is elegance, comfort and a true Moroccan feel. If you wish to relax or explore the city, these riads will have you covered with their prime location, which is normally close to the city’s most popular attractions. Their charm and style make Marrakech a great place to visit. Consider our top 12 riads in Marrakech for your next trip. They promise a great stay in Morocco.
