The Best Places to Stay in Marrakech

Mouth-watering vegetarian food at luxury riad Dar Kawa

There are now over 1500 riads in Marrakech to choose from, making it rather a tricky task to decide where to stay, not all of them are luxury riads of course but you don’t need to spend a fortune in Marrakech to stay in a luxury riad. I spent 15 days in Marrakech in November 2019 and stayed or visited all of the places below. Here are some, though certainly not all, of the best places to stay in Marrakech whatever the budget, hopefully making your choice a little bit easier.

Riad de Tarabel

 

Riad de Tarabel is one of the best luxury riads in the medina. The interiors are stunning, filled with French charm – think chateau-chic – with a touch of Morocco thrown in. There’s a hidden spa behind a pretty gilt mirror in the first courtyard (simply press a button and the mirror disappears) and the second is home to a 1.4m deep heated pool. Add to this 10, large, enchanting rooms, tantalising Moroccan dishes and the perfect location and you have a riad that ticks all of the boxes even for the most discerning and demanding traveller.

Rates from €230 per night including breakfast, book here.

Dar Kawa

 

This 4-room whitewashed house is a hard to find design jewel in the heart of the traditional medina a little off the beaten track. Amazing organic vegetarian food, slick service and exquisite design from owner and designer Valérie Barkowski is what sets this house apart from others. The rooms vary in size, but all have immaculate en-suite bathrooms tiled in a palette of greys complemented with Valérie’s famous tassel bath towels and bed linen. It’s ideal to take over with friends and family for a few days while you explore the souks, medina and museums which are all within easy walking distance.

Rates for the exclusive rental of Dar Kawa from €950 per night including breakfast, book here

Riad Adore

This charming new riad is just around the corner from Dar El Bacha (the Royal Palace) in one of the oldest areas of the medina. Recently restored by the renowned architect Christophe Simeon this contemporary riad has 10 Moroccan inspired rooms, an inviting swimming pool, hammam and spa. Breakfast is a Moroccan feast on the rooftop terrace and dining is under the pergola on the terrace next to the fire. The warmth of the English owner and smiles from the team of staff make Riad Adore a great choice if you’re looking for a few romantic days away in Marrakech.

Rates from €150 per night including breakfast, book here

Riad 72 Living

One of the trendiest riads in the medina Riad 72 Living attracts a fashionable crowd who appreciate subtle Italian design, good food and great service. A perfect choice if it’s your first time visiting the Red City. You’ll find this hideaway in the renovated Bab Doukkala district of the medina which is now dotted with fashionable shops, restaurants and cafés. The en-suite rooms are large with massive beds and luxurious bathrooms with organic Nectarome bath and body products. You’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in a 5-star hotel with the basket of terrace towels, fresh roses, fruit, plenty of complimentary water and a great turndown service.

Rates from €164 per night including breakfast, book here

Riad Cocoon

Owner run and owner managed this little 5 room oasis is just a 10 minute-walk from Jemaa El Fna, the main square in the Marrakech Medina. This riad is perfectly formed with 5 rooms (the Nirvana Suite has its own private terrace), hammam and Moroccan menu which can be enjoyed on the roof terrace or in front of the fire in the sitting room. Riad Cocoon is easy to get to from the airport by tax which drops you off just a few steps away. One of the best value luxury riads in the Medina.

Rates from £78 per night including breakfast, book here

Kasbah Bab Ourika

Should you plan to stay more than 3 nights in Marrakech you’ll want to head to the Atlas Mountains for a night or two to relax and unwind. Kasbah Bab Ourika has some of the most breathtaking views surrounded by lush gardens, rose beds and olive trees. It’s hard to believe that such a jaw-dropping setting is only 45 minutes away from the medina. A stay here is a must as is a dip in the pool and a traditional hammam. The food is simple and delicious with many of the ingredients coming straight from the hotel’s garden.

Rates from €150 per night including breakfast, book here