Where to Stay in Marrakech: Riads, Hotels and Areas

Short answer: for a first visit, stay in a riad in the medina, within about ten minutes' walk of Jemaa el-Fna. You'll be close to everything, and waking up in a quiet courtyard after an evening in the square is the heart of the Marrakech experience.

A riad is a traditional house turned inward around a central courtyard. Most have a few rooms, a roof terrace, and staff who serve breakfast and give you directions. Rooms often face the courtyard rather than the street, which makes them quiet but sometimes dark. Many have no lift and steep stairs.

Mouassine and the north medina

Central, close to the souks, Le Jardin Secret and Ben Youssef, and home to many of the city's most beautiful riads. The lanes are busy by day and peaceful at night. Our favourite part of the medina for a first stay.

Riad Zitoun and the Kasbah

South of the square, near the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs and El Badi. The lanes are a little wider, some reachable by taxi, and it feels more residential. A sensible choice for families and anyone with heavy luggage.

Gueliz and Hivernage

The new town, with wide boulevards, large hotels, cafés and restaurants that serve alcohol more freely. Hivernage has the big resort hotels and pools. You lose the medina atmosphere and need a taxi to the souks, but it's calmer and easier for anyone who finds the old city tiring.

The Palmeraie and Agafay

The Palmeraie is a palm grove north of the city with luxury villas and resorts. Agafay, south-west, has desert camps and eco-lodges. Both are about pools, quiet and space, and both need a driver. Better as a second base than a first.

Before you book

Check how close the nearest taxi drop-off is and whether the riad sends someone to meet you there. Many medina addresses can't be reached by car, and finding an unmarked door on arrival at night is nobody's idea of fun. Ask about heating in winter and air conditioning in summer. A city tourist tax is charged per person per night, usually at checkout. Our getting there guide explains the airport run, and the best time to visit guide explains when rooms get expensive.