For a cultural experience unlike any other, Morocco beckons. It’s still one of my favorite countries to visit and one that produced some of my fondest travel memories.
If you’re planning your own trip, your itinerary will more likely than not take you through the bustling city of Marrakech, home to an incredible medina as well as numerous art galleries and historical sights like Bahia Palace. It’s the perfect place to get lost in winding streets with your camera and immerse yourself in local traditions and handicrafts.
A great way to lean into Moroccan culture is by staying at a riad, a traditional Moroccan home that provides a one-of-a-kind experience. I’d go as far as to say it’s a must-do when visiting Morocco, and Marrakech, with a long list of gorgeous options, is a perfect place to try it.
Here, I’ve rounded up some of the most highly rated and chicest riads in Marrakech, many of which are located in the medina and will cost just a fraction of what equivalent lodging would cost you at home. And don’t forget to check out this Morocco destination page if you’re planning a trip for, guides, itineraries, tips, and more.
Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Marrakech:
- Riad BE Marrakech, for the best all-around riad
- Riad El Fenn, for the best luxury riad
- Riad Yasmine, for the best boutique riad
Looking to explore more of Marrakech? Don’t miss my Marrakech travel guide!
The 14 Best Riads in Marrakech, Morocco
1. Riad BE Marrakech
Riad BE is one of the most beautiful riads you’ll find in Marrakech, and you’ve probably already seen a photo of the space’s central courtyard and plunge pool on Instagram. The property weaves together local history, tradition, art, and food for an inspiring stay that also includes a spa and yoga studio. Book the best rates here.
Address: 23 Derb Sidi Lahcen O Ali, Marrakesh 40030, Morocco
2. Riad Yasmine
Welcoming hosts, bright tiles around a central swimming pool, and an incredible rooftop view into the city—these are a few of the details that made my stay at Riad Yasmine unforgettable. Its 7 rooms, decorated individually in a Moorish style, have continued to inspire me and my room had everything I needed for a comfortable and easy stay. In the morning, breakfast is served with fresh juices and pastries at the rooftop making a magical way to start the day. Book the best rates here.
Address: 209 Rue Ank Jemel, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
3. El Fenn
El Fenn is a larger boutique hotel, with 41 individually styled rooms and suites. It has plenty of amenities to match, including three pools, a substantial rooftop terrace, a spa, two cocktail bars, two restaurants, and a shop. There’s even a family of resident tortoises on-site! Community, authenticity, and sustainability are the three core values that make up the hotel’s ethos. Book the best rates here.
Address: Derb Moulay Abdullah Ben Hezzian, 2, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
4. Riad Jardin Secret
“Anti-modern” is a key principle at Riad Jardin Secret. Don’t expect to find televisions or air conditioning—the riad purposefully leaves these out to encourage guests to adopt a slower, more laid-back pace, and free-spirit attitude. Instead, try reading or sketching around the beautiful property, finished with meticulously crafted antiques. Book the best rates here.
Address: 43 Arset Aouzal, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
5. Riad Goloboy
A vision in blue, Riad Goloby’s courtyard will make you feel as though you’ve just stepped into a painting. Part of a complex of two 19th-century aristocratic houses restored by an art collector and interior designer, the riad’s rich colors and patterns across its 15 rooms and suites are a feast for the eyes. Book the best rates here.
Address: 94 Derb Sidi M’barek, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
6. Riad Dar Darma
Designed as a tranquil haven in the center of bustling Marrakech, Riad Dar Darma‘s restored 17th-century building has several special corners and seating areas for relaxing and soaking in the setting. Guests can eat wherever they’d like, from their suite to the rooftop under the stars, and check-in and check-out times aren’t fixed so that nothing feels rushed. Book the best rates here.
Address: Derb Tarik Sidi Bouharba, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
7. Riad Kasbah and Spa
Riad Kasbah is a charming and sophisticated Marrakech riad that was renovated in 2006 and now sports neutral, calming tones, and a minimal aesthetic that still evokes traditional design. It’s centrally located in the heart of the medina, and a full concierge service makes sure guests have everything they need for a perfect visit to the city. Book the best rates here.
Address: 101, derb Harbil Quartier Kasbah, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
8. Dar Kandi
Dar Kandi elegantly fuses the traditional and modern, resulting in a contemporary and comfortable stay. The riad boasts two terraces—a larger pool terrace where guests can lounge with cocktails in hand, and a smaller terrace for viewing the mountains and Marrakech rooftops. The rooftop outdoor pool is swimmable year-round. Book the best rates here.
Address: 215 Arset Aouzal Rd, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
9. Riad Joya
Minimalist design enthusiasts will love Riad Joya, a luxury riad beautifully decorated in a neutral palette. Its 7 suites marry a sleek Italian aesthetic with Moroccan elements for a calm and refined atmosphere. The riad’s restaurant includes both Moroccan and Italian specialties, as well. Book the best rates here.
Address: 22 Derb El Hammam, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
10. Riad Jemaa El Fna & Spa
Visitors will feel right at home at Riad Jemaa El Fna, where staff members speak Arabic, English, Spanish, and French. A paid airport shuttle, continental or vegetarian breakfast, patios, pool views, and desks in each room are just a few of the attributes that make this accommodation special. Book the best rates here.
Address: Rue des Banques, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
11. Riad Melhoun & Spa
Guests can choose from standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and suites at Riad Melhoun, and they have plenty of common space available to them, too. In addition to a patio and pool with sunbeds, the riad has a restaurant, a spa, a library with armchairs, a lounge with Moroccan sofas, and a terrace with views of the Atlas Mountains. Its hanging garden is a beautiful touch. Book the best rates here.
Address: Quartier La Bahia, 99 Derb Sidi moussa, Marrakech 40007, Morocco
12. Riad Kniza Marrakech
Set in a building that dates back to the 18th century, Riad Kniza is a luxury riad that was completely restored by local artisans using traditional materials. Its 11 rooms and suites are just a few minutes’ walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and other cultural points of interest, and Marrakech’s modern quarter isn’t far, either. Don’t miss the local cuisine on-site. Book the best rates here.
Address: 34 Derb l’Hotel Bab Doukala, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
13. Riad Les Yeux Bleus
The recently renovated Riad Les Yeux Bleus is a treat for design lovers. 11 bedrooms each feature a unique style that blends the contemporary and traditional with a touch of pop art. Two patios, two pools, a library, a full spa with a hammam, and a roof terrace and bar make up the common spaces for travelers to enjoy. Book the best rates here.
Address: Derb El Ferrane, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco
14. Riad Kheirredine
Riad Kheirredine is a beautiful riad located on the northwestern edge of the medina. The lush central courtyard, rooftop lounge, restaurant, and plunge pool with unobstructed views of the Atlas Mountains make for a magical stay. The 14 rooms are well-appointed and individually designed in traditional styles. Many offer fireplaces, sitting areas, or terraces, making for the perfect place to unwind. Book the best rates here.
FAQ: What to Know Before Traveling to Marrakech
What is a Riad in Marrakech?
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house oriented around a closed garden and courtyard. They are known for their open ceilings and charming tile decorations, often featuring marble fountains at the center surrounded by plants and flowers. A stay at a riad is a must to fully tap into local history and culture when staying in Marrakech.
Is it Better to Stay in a Riad in Marrakech?
A stay at a riad provides several advantages. Riads are normally smaller, as they were converted from homes, meaning they won’t be overrun with tourists. They also offer an opportunity to get up close with Morrocan history, culture, and design. Plus, you can do all this without breaking the bank, as many beautiful and luxurious riads are considered inexpensive by travelers’ standards.
What is the Difference Between a Riad and a Hotel in Marrakech?
Many riads have been converted into luxury guesthouses, providing a fantastic overnight option—and some even have hotel-like amenities including spas. The key difference is that riads represent an opportunity to tap into Moroccan history and spend a few nights in a traditional style of lodging.
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PS — Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!
These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here.
1. Book Your Flights
Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.
2. Book Your Accommodations
Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.
3. Book Your Tours & Experiences
Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Car
Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.
5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access
Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.
6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
- World Nomads (best for all-around)
- Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)
Xx,
Jessica