THE BEST RIADS TO STAY IN MARRAKECH WHERE YOU CAN TAKE AMAZING PICTURES FOR INSTAGRAM
Marrakech is without a doubt the first tourist destination in Morocco. The city offers a touch of exoticism and romance, with old souks, fascinating maze of red streets and centuries old buildings. Marrakech is divided into two parts: the historic Medina and the modern European district, so when booking your accommodations, you have to make a decision Traditional or Modern? Old Medina or New Medina? Hotel or riad?
The Old Medina is the tourist epicenter of Marrakech and possibly the most recognizable district in the entire city. Filled with mazes of souks, the Central Medina is the best area to stay in Marrakech if you’re not afraid of a little exploration and for a more authentic stay we recommend you stay in a riad.
But what is a riad?
A riad is an old traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden designed to provide both cool shade from the heat outside, as well as privacy for the family. These houses were converted into atmospheric small hotels, keeping the feature of having an open courtyard in the middle, where you can find either a small pool or a trickling fountain. They usually have a very humble exterior facade but once you push the doors open, a magical world is revealed of orange blossom smell, trees, and plants, refreshing air, and a calm area that makes you forget the noisy streets of the Medina.
- Riad BE:
Riad BE is an Instagram paradise yes, but it’s more than that. As soon as you step in the Riad you feel like you’re at home with the most friendly and welcoming staff. There are 2 themed pool areas, the oasis (green space) and the essence (yellow space), both are very peaceful and calming and a perfect place hang out, get some sun, or read a book. Breakfast on the rooftop is included and it’s a perfect way to start you day and was by far the best breakfast we had in our entire Marrakech trip. *Note that they have limited options when it comes to lunch or dinner and you should order in advance.
The location is a bit tricky and hard to find at first. It’s better if you ask them to come meet you on a main street. The riad staff are helpful and responsive, after the first time, you’ll be able find your way easier. From Riad BE it’s roughly 6min walk to Dar El Basha and 15min walk to the main square Jamaa El fnaa.
Price: starting 120$/night
2. Riad le Yasmine:
Riad Yasmine is an exceptionally stunning and photogenic Riad. It’s decked in 50 shades of green with a tropical decoration with a Moroccan touch and feel likes the perfect oasis to relax and find peace in the hectic Medina. The rooms are beautiful and simply decorated. As for the location, it’s in the intersection of two driveways, which is very practical because a taxi can drop you right in front of the riad’s door.
The breakfast is filling, rich and delicious! They make sure you have a full belly before you walk the streets in search of all the culture and treasures that Marrakech has to offer.
Prince: starting 120$/night
3. Riad Dar Baraka Karam:
Riad Dar Baraka Karam is a hidden gem in Marrakech, it’s 50% cheaper than the two previous Riads and the quality of stay is no less comfortable and delightful. When you step in off the street you’ll be greeted by a kind and smiling face and the fresh scent of orange blossoms. While you wait for your room, they will offer you some Moroccan mint tea and you’ll sit in one of the 2 different patios. Our favorite is the one with the pool and green tiles. We felt like we had the riad just for ourselves, it’s very calm and peaceful.
The breakfast is a little more simple than Riad BE or Yasmine, but still quite fulfilling. Riad Dar Baraka Karam is located in a small alley, but easy to find. It’s only 5min walk from Dar El Basha, 2min walking from the restaurant Les Jardins des roses and 15min walk from the main square Jamaa el Fna.
Price: starting 60$/night
4. Riad Kasbah & Spa :
Ksar Kasbah & Spa is a boutique Riad in Marrakech. It contains 11 rooms and suites furnished in a pure bohemian style, of course a Moroccan touch is present with Berber rugs and beautiful lanterns.
Televisions are deliberately not available in the riad to encourage guests to chill, to connect with people, to read and take time for themselves.
The Riad is centrally located, yet very far from the bustle and hustle of the city. The patio inside is big, calm, and very charming. You’ll get a 5 star riad experience with a reasonable budget .
Prince: starting 90$/night
5. Riad le Calipau :
Palais Riad Calipau is a beautiful riad with an incredible location close to the Kasbah and within a short walk of the madness of the Medina. Rooms are elegant and comfortable and come equipped with free Wi-Fi access, modern decoration mixed with a traditional Moroccan touch and nice furnishings.
Price: starting 70$/night