Let me tell you, choosing the best place to stay in Marrakech for first-timers can make or break your experience! My husband and I recently returned from a fabulous 4-day trip to Marrakech, Morocco, and I can’t wait to share one of the most important decisions of our trip—where to stay. After spending hours researching, we discovered the key differences between a Riad vs. hotel in Marrakech, and today, I’m sharing it all to help you save time, avoid confusion, and book the perfect stay for your Marrakech adventure!
Whether you’re a professional traveler or traveling as a couple, group, or solo, let’s dive into the pros and cons of staying in a Riad vs. hotel in Marrakech so you can make the right choice.
Neighborhoods & Best Areas to Stay in Marrakech
Marrakech is really divided into two main areas:
Inside the Wall – The Medina (Old City): This is the bustling heart of Marrakech, where you’ll find narrow alleyways, souks, and historical landmarks like Jemaa el-Fnaa. If you’re looking for an authentic stay in Marrakech, the Medina is the place to be.
Outside the Wall – Modern Districts (Gueliz and Hivernage): Located outside the city walls, these areas offer modern conveniences, international hotels, wider streets, and quieter surroundings.
Other great areas to stay include:
- Palmerai: A peaceful oasis with luxury resorts and palm groves, about 20-30 minutes (9-12 km / 5.5-7.5 miles) from the Medina.
- Kasbah: A historic area with cultural landmarks like the Saadian Tombs, located just 5-10 minutes (1-2 km / 0.6-1.2 miles) south of the Medina.
- Oliveraie: A quiet green space with olive groves, perfect for leisurely walks, located 10-15 minutes (4-6 km / 2.5-3.7 miles) from the Medina.
- Mellah (old jewish quarter) – A peaceful, historic area with quiet streets and landmarks like the Lazama Synagogue, just 5-10 minutes (1-2 km / 0.6-1.2 miles) from the Medina and close to the action.
Depending on your travel style, you might prefer the Medina for an immersive cultural experience or the modern districts for comfort and calm.
What is a Riad?
Like me, you’ve probably read or heard the term “Riad” thrown around when researching where to stay in Marrakech, but what exactly is it?
A Riad (meaning “garden” in Arabic) is a traditional Moroccan house with a central courtyard. Picture beautiful open spaces, gardens, and maybe even a fountain or pool in the middle! Riads often have intricate Moroccan architecture with rooms facing inward toward the courtyard, providing privacy and tranquility.
Historically, Riads were homes for the wealthy. Today, they’ve been transformed into boutique-style accommodations, offering an authentic stay in Marrakech with local charm and personalized service. Unlike larger hotels, Riads are usually family-owned, with more intimate and personal touches.
Similarly, you may also hear the word Dar, which means “House” in Arabic and can refer to a variety of homes while a “Riad” specifically refers to the type of accommodation I just mentioned.
Riad vs. Hotel in Marrakech: Pros and Cons
If you’re torn between booking a Riad or hotel in Morocco, let’s break down the key differences to help you decide.
Features
- Riads: Expect handcrafted decor, lush courtyards, and traditional Moroccan design. Some Riads offer pools and hammams (spas), but they’re often smaller with fewer amenities.
- Hotels: Typically larger, with more modern furnishings, 24/7 services, and amenities like room service and large pools.
Experience
Staying in a Riad means immersing yourself in local culture. From homemade Moroccan breakfasts to personal recommendations from the Riad owner, the experience is often unique and memorable. However, hotels may offer more standardized services for those who prefer familiar comforts.
Is it safe to stay in a Riad in Marrakech? Absolutely! Riads are generally safe, especially in well-known areas like the Medina. I recommend booking a Riad with excellent reviews and clear safety measures. Look for features like 24/7 staff availability and secure entrances.
Which offers a better cultural experience for first-time visitors: Riad or hotel? Staying in a Riad offers a more authentic cultural experience, but if you prefer modern conveniences and don’t mind a slightly longer commute to the heart of the city, a hotel may be more suitable.
Location
- Riads: Typically located in the Medina, offering a central, immersive experience close to the action.
- Hotels: Often found in Gueliz or Hivernage, providing a quieter, more accessible stay with modern roads and transport.
Riads in the Medina can be tricky to find, especially in narrow alleyways, but their charm is worth it! Funny story—when we arrived, our Riad’s staff kindly met us on the street to guide us through the Medina’s winding streets. At first, I was nervous walking through the dark alleys, but once we reached the Riad’s door and stepped inside, it was pure magic!
Which is more central for sightseeing and exploring Marrakech: Riad or hotel? Riads in the Medina are more central for sightseeing, but hotels in modern areas like Gueliz are also accessible.
Price Comparison: Riad vs. Hotel
What are the price differences between staying in a Riad vs. a hotel? Riads tend to be more affordable than hotels, though you can find luxury Riads on par with five-star hotels. If you’re visiting during the off-peak season (November to March), you can score great deals!
Here’s a quick price comparison:
Accommodation Type | Cost per Night (MAD) | Cost per Night (USD) |
---|---|---|
Budget Riad | 550–800 MAD | $55–$80 |
Budget Hotel | 240–540 MAD | $24–$54 |
Mid-Range Riad | 800–1,500 MAD | $80–$150 |
Mid-Range Hotel | 560–1,300 MAD | $56–$127 |
High-End Riad | 1,500–3,000+ MAD | $150–$300+ |
High-End Hotel | 5,000–10,000+ MAD | $500–$1,000+ |
You may be charged in Moroccan Dirham, Euros, or USD (if booking through a third-party site), so be aware of the conversion rates when searching for properties.
Additionally, don’t forget about the tourism tax in Marrakech, which ranges from 28-55 MAD ($3-$6 USD) per person per night. We paid about €20 ($21 USD) for our stay.
How to Choose the Right Riad in Marrakech
Here’s what to look for when choosing a Riad:
- Location: If you want to be close to the action, choose a Riad in the Medina or Jewish Quarter. Consider how far you’ll be from attractions and whether transport is convenient.
- Features: Some Riads are small and family-owned, while others are larger and offer more luxurious, hotel-like services. Staffing is often minimal, so service can be more personal but less available 24/7 compared to hotels, so look for a Riad that will accomodate your staffing preference.
- Style & Rooms: Due to the traditional nature and seasonally hot weather, you may not immediately see windows in a Riad. Instead, you’ll likely see glass windows hidden behind solid wood shutters and thick, insulated walls to block the heat. Riads are a bit more flexible with room options, so you may be able to fit a family of four in a family suite at a Riad instead of booking two rooms at a hotel. Plus, look for a room that fits your style preferences, whether contemporary or traditional.
- Amenities: Look for air conditioning, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and rooftop terraces. Some Riads offer breakfast and even pools or hammams. MBe aware that staffing is often minimal, so service can be more personal but less available 24/7 compared to hotels. Be sure to book a Riad with a flexible cancellation policy.
- Accessibility: If you have mobility concerns, hotels may be more accessible as many Riads have narrow staircases and limited accessibility.
How to Book a Riad
Hotels are available to search and easily book via website. But did you know you can book Riads online through major booking platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, or Airbnb? It’s also common to book directly on the Riad’s website for better deals or to communicate special requests. Still, other Riads may only be available by filling out a contact form on their website or calling in advance (and possible trying to navigate booking in French!), compared to hotels where you can book immediately online. I searched Expedia to find our Riad and read multiple reviews before deciding to book a refundable rate through the Hotel’s website. However, if you prefer paying in USD and searching with a user-friendly interface booking through a major platform is most convenient. No matter where you book, I suggest booking your accommodations at least two months in advance, as the more affordable rooms book quickly.
Best Riads in Marrakech







Ready to book? Here are some of the best Riads in Marrakech for your first visit:
Riad Idra: This luxury Riad in the Medina offers top-notch service. We stayed in the beautiful Aliyah Suite, and the hospitality at Riad Idra was unforgettable! Check out the pictures above for a first-hand look at this beautiful riad.
Riad Be Marrakech: A budget-friendly option with a stunning rooftop.
Riad Le Saadien: A mid-range Riad with free breakfast, located in Kasbah.
Riad Kniza: For a luxury experience with traditional decor and excellent service.
Riad Andalla Spa: An affordable, luxury Marrakech riad in the Medina with a full-service spa and breakfast included.
Best Hotels in Marrakech
Prefer a hotel? Here are some of the best hotels in Marrakech:
Luxury Hotels: The Royal Mansour Marrakech and La Mamounia are two of the best luxury hotels in Marrakech, offering five-star services, pools, and spas. These are also the hotels where celebrities tend to stay. Also checkout the Hotel & Ryads Barriere Le Naoura is a great luxury option.
Mid-Range Hotels: Le Méridien N’Fis in L’Hivernage, 2 Ciels Boutique Hotel & SPA and The Radisson Blu Hotel in Gueliz, offer comfort and modern amenities at reasonable prices.
Budget Hotels: Swiss Continental Hôtel and Ari Boutique Hôtel – Adult Only are great for travelers looking to stay on a budget.
Which Should You Choose: Riad or Hotel?
Which is better for first-time visitors: Riad or hotel? What accommodation in Marrakech should you choose? The decision between a Riad vs. hotel in Marrakech ultimately depends on what type of experience you’re after.
Choose a Riad for a more authentic stay in Marrakech, complete with local charm and traditional architecture. If you want to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture and stay somewhere unique, a Riad is ideal
For travelers who prioritize modern comforts, familiar environments, services, and convenience, a hotel might be the better choice. Opt for a hotel if you prefer modern amenities, familiar services, and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
So, where will you stay in Marrakech? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
Enjoy!
Antoinette | Frolic & Courage