An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.
Discover the beauty of spending time in a traditional riad. Immerse yourself in the culture of Marrakech where you will experience peace and tranquility co-existing with the hectic pace of life outside.
The Kasbah is a quieter part of Marrakech, with fewer tourists than the medina.
Staying in the Kasbah, you feel totally immersed in the culture of Marrakech as you rub shoulders with the friendly locals.
There are plenty of restaurants and shops including a good fixed price store selling everything you will find in the souks at a realistic price.
*See my separate post on Dar Bouchaib.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Inside the Kasbah, you can visit tourist attractions like the Saadian tombs and El Badi Palace.
Zeitoune Cafe overlooking the mosque is a lovely spot for lunch or a drink whilst taking a break from sightseeing.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
It is about 15 to 20 minutes leisurely walking from the main square with plenty to see along the way.
There are a range of budget and high-end riads to stay in around the Kasbah.
* See my separate post on Riad Hikaya.
The Kasbah is the historical citadel in Marrakesh with fortified walls.
The narrow alleyways make it an exciting place to visit, and there are fewer motorcycles and donkeys trying to negotiate the streets at the same time as you, making it less stressful.
The Kasbah is home to the Clock restaurant and its legendary camel burger and storytelling evenings.
Also, the Kasbah Cafe is a popular place for lunch and dinner.
Krepchy does a fantastic breakfast, and the prices are very reasonable.
I highly recommend the waffles.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Consider taking a tuk-tuk from the main square if the weather is hot.
It’s quite an adventure in itself as you rattle along the bumpy streets.
Spending an hour or two enjoying this interesting area of Marrakech is definitely worth it.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
For details about places to stay or eat in the Kasbah, contact me via the email address below;
Riad Hikaya is a beautifully restored riad in the Kasbah district of Marrakech.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
It was purchased by an Englishman who spent 15 years restoring it because everything inside the riad is handmade.
It is captivating and very pleasing to the eye.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Riad Hikaya is not a budget riad.
However, considering its aesthetics and the professionalism of the staff, it’s worth paying a little extra for.
The breakfasts were very good and I ate there one evening and the meal was delicious.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
There is a beautiful rooftop with several places to sit in the shade or soak up some of the hot, morroccan sun.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
The Kasbah is a great place to stay with more of an authentic feel about it.
There are plenty of good restaurants, including The Clock, which is across the road from Riad Hikaya.
There are shops and attractions such as El Badi Palace and the Saadian tombs to explore.
I enjoyed staying amongst the locals in Kasbah, and it was a nice 15 – to 20-minute walk to the main square Jamaa El Fna.
Riad Hikaya was a good choice, I loved the large copper bathtub in my room and the total piece and quiet the riad provided me with.
If you’re looking for a lively scene, this place may not be for you. But if you want to disconnect from the busy touristic areas for a while, it’s a perfect retreat.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
For more information about here or other places to stay in Marrakech, drop me a message.
It is visually stunning with blue and white zellige tiles and exotic plants.
Intricately carved wooden doors and ornate traditional window frames.
Interior courtyard of riad Zouhour/images Freebird Tracey.
The rooftop is an oasis of wonderful flowers and tropical plants, with plenty of places to sit and admire the beautiful surroundings.
There is also a small pool for cooling off in.
Rooftop of riad Zouhour/images Freebird Tracey.
The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated in a traditional yet modern style, with large private bathrooms containing nice fragrant products for use in the shower.
A room in riad Zouhour/ images Freebird Tracey.
The food is also very good.
I loved the vegetable tagine and seasonal salad that I had served to me on arrival at the riad.
My flight had been delayed, yet it was still hot and beautifully presented despite the time of night I eventually arrived.
The staff are attentive and kind, going out of their way to make you feel welcome.
Nothing is any trouble, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and professional.
The riad exudes luxury, yet it’s affordable and in a strategic location close to the centre of all the action.
Riad Zouhour is a popular riad and gets booked up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.
As with most riads in the medina, they can also organise tours and excursions for you.
The address is;
33 Derb Snane,
Medina 40000
Marrakech Morocco.
Check-in time is,
00:00 until 23.30 hours.
Check-out time is,
5.00 until 00:00
This is a riad I would highly recommend.
I enjoyed my stay here, and I wouldn’t hesitate to go back.
I loved the views from the rooftop, the pretty flowers and plants, and the overall treatment of the guests.
It truly is a gem in the busy medina, a haven of peace and tranquillity.
It is beautifully restored, and cleanliness is a priority here..
For more details about places to stay in Marrakesh, contact me via the email address below:
The Bohemian Jungle is a beautifully choreographed riad, close to the spice square in Marrakech.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Straight out of a tale from Arabian Nights, it exudes charm and authenticity.
The interior decor is simply captivating, with several tastily put-together nooks and crannies to sit and take in its splendour.
Interior of the Bohemian Jungle/ Images Freebird Tracey.
The little pool in the centre of the courtyard is ideal for cooling off in.
The green tiles and exotic plants make it a stunning focal point of the riad.
Interior pool/images Freebird Tracey.
The rooftop is magical. Surrounded by pretty, draping flowers, plants, and lanterns.
There are several areas to hang out in.
A balinese bed for relaxing on and a cerise, romantic boudoir area, where the staff play traditional tuareg music.
There are areas to catch a spot of sunshine and places to sit where you are shaded.
This is perfect for when the hot morroccan sun reaches its highest temperature in the day.
Photos of the rooftop at the Bohemian Jungle/image Freebird Tracey.
The staff are relaxed and friendly, and the vibe is laid back and chilled.
The riad is run by three professional, yet charismatic young men from the Sahara region.
Their knowledge of the area is invaluable, and they enjoy sharing a little piece of their fascinating culture with guests.
The breakfasts are varied and wholesome, consisting of a mix of traditional pancakes, honey, and jam.
Fresh bread, fruit, yoghurt, and eggs.
Fresh orange juice and coffee.
Image Freebird Tracey.
When you arrive at the riad, you are treated to the complimentary mint tea and biscuits, whilst you are given useful advice and a map to help you navigate the souks.
This is helpful for finding your way back to the riad.
The fragrance inside is intoxicating.
Orange blossom and cinnamon oil gently floats on the air, the lamps glow, and Berber music plays subtly in the background.
I never wanted to leave..
I was so happy sitting in the riad, taking in the beauty and experiencing the wonder of such a magnificent place..
Riad Bohemian Jungle gets booked up quickly.
If you are looking for TVs and a modern approach to your trip to Marrakech, you won’t find it here.
Riad Bohemian Jungle is all about experiencing true, authentic riad culture, lost in time with the distant echos of camel traders and a strong spirit of the past.
It is close to the Madrasa Ben Youssef, Marrakech museum, and several nice shops and restaurants.
The address is;
Derb al Maada
Hay azbezte
39 Medina, Medina 40030
Marrakech, Morrocco.
Excursions to the Sahara desert and other popular places of interest can also be arranged by this riad.
They are good value for money and well organised.
Enjoying a moment of tranquillity at the Bohemian Jungle.Sunrise from the rooftop of the Bohemian Jungle/image Freebird Tracey. (more…)
For myself, the perfect day in Marrakech begins by waking up early to watch the sunrise from the rooftop of my riad.
View from the rooftop of Riad Zouhour
Listening to the birds chirping and the sound of the medina waking up.
Watching cats prowling along the rooftops and hearing the clatter of plates as staff in the riad prepare for breakfast.
The first glass of freshly squeezed orange juice hits the spot perfectly.
I enjoy a breakfast of pancakes with homemade jam and honey, bread, yoghurt, and fresh fruit.
Traditional riad breakfast.
After a refreshing shower, I head out into the medina for a nice coffee in a cafe on the main square.
Sat outside, I observe the vendors setting up for the day. The entertainers get ready to entice the crowds of tourists and the local ladies on their way to the market for fresh spices.
The medina waking up.
My next destination is the souks for a browse around before they get too busy.
I suggest just after 9.00 am. is the perfect time to go.
Vendors are eager for their first sale of the day, and bargaining is much easier.
The colourful array of beautiful things on offer is a sight to behold.
The cats gather for a few morsels off the butcher.
Cats are well looked after in the medina.
I check out the wonderful Amazigh jewellery, the argan oil, and the beautiful ceramics and mirrors.
Amazigh jewellery in the souks.
I buy one or two keepsakes and then decide it’s time for a snack.
A colourful outdoor cafe calls out to me, and I choose some delicious pastries with a mint tea.
It’s magical watching the world of Marrakech go by.
The motorcycles, the donkeys, all competing for space in the narrow streets.
Tourists wandering about, looking in awe at the beautiful colours around the medina.
After recharging my batteries, it’s time for some sightseeing.
I head towards Madrasa Ben Youssef and get some amazing photos of the stunning architecture.
The incredible Islamic architecture in the Mederssa Ben Youssef .
The medina is beginning to get rather busy, so I make my way to the gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque to sit quietly for a while.
Enjoying the stunning gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque.
Afterwards, I treat myself to a sugarcane juice from a vendor outside.
Sugar cane vendor.
The heat is now quite intense, so I return to the riad for a rest.
I head upstairs onto the rooftop for a rest from the busy medina and a spot of sunbathing.
Enjoying the peace and tranquillity in my riad.
The call to prayer echos across the medina.
I read a book and order myself a glass of mint tea and a dish of olives.
Soon, it’s time to get ready for the evening.
I decide to go to La Pergola rooftop bar for a couple of cocktails.
It’s a lively atmosphere, and there’s a jazz band playing downstairs in the courtyard of Le Bistro Arabe.
I stop and listen for a while before heading towards Jamaa El Fna.
The energy is electric, food vendors touting for business, dancing, drumming, and crowds of people everywhere.
The smell of food makes me hungry, so I decide to find a nice place to dine.
I choose a place overlooking the square and observe the action from above, sat on the rooftop.
I enjoy a traditional tagine, flavourful and aromatic. I’m tempted by the exotic sounding smoothies on the menu and treat myself to one containing dried fruit.
I watch the beautiful sunset and everywhere has a golden glow.
Once dinner is finished, I nip into The Clock, situated in the square to listen to some traditional storytelling.
After an interesting time immersing myself in the culture of Morrocco, I decide to head back to my riad.
I pick up a few souvenirs along the way.
Back at the riad, I sit in the courtyard reflecting on my day.
The staff in the riad are happy to help me decide where to go the following day.
We chat about possibilities, and they help me put together the perfect plan for another day sightseeing.
I have had a perfect day…
I have experienced a different culture, tasted delicious food, watched a magnificent sunset, chatted with the locals, and navigated the maze of the souks successfully.
I have made a mental note of some of the things I want to buy to take home with me, and I look forward to haggling for a fair price before the end of my trip.
I fall asleep, happy and content, ready to do it all again tomorrow..
A peaceful, fragrant riad in the heart of the medina
The colourful rooftop of Monriad.
The first time I visited Marrakech, I stayed in Monriad.
This is where my love affair with the medina began.
I had no idea what to expect and was absolutely amazed at the wonderful experience I had staying in a traditional riad for the first time.
Monriad was so pretty.
The courtyard was tranquil, and the sound of the trickling water and birds singing was blissful.
Inside Monriad
The owner and her staff were friendly and helpful, greeting me with the ultimate respect and offering traditional mint tea with olives on arrival.
A welcoming glass of mint tea.
I was given helpful advice about the area surrounding the riad and popular excursions I might wish to book.
She also suggested that I could eat dinner in the riad with the other guests and recommended places of interest close by.
The rooftop was glorious, and watching the sunrise up there each morning really was a blessing.
Sunrise from Monriad rooftop.
My room was impeccable, with traditional and good quality furniture and a beautiful bathroom with a traditional basin.
The riad smelt amazing. Cleanliness was a top priority for the staff.
There was a large, traditional, carved wooden door into the riad. I wasn’t given my own set of keys, but it was never a problem.
I did eat dinner once inside the riad, and the food was quite good. It was popular with other guests who seemed to really enjoy dining inside the riad.
The breakfast was very good.
Monriad is tucked away down a quiet little street.
It’s a pleasant, safe area with several cats and kittens who have also made the surrounding streets their home.
Making friends with the locals.
Monriad is close to Jamaa El Fna and points of interest, such as Bahia Palace, yet it is peaceful and secluded.
It is considered a mid price riad but has still maintained a family and welcoming feel about it.
It remains my mission to stay in as many different riads as possible in Marrakesh, but I would definitely consider returning to Monriad.
Riad Blue Berber is a traditional riad close to some great places such as Bahia Palace, Dardar rooftop bar, Le Pegola, and a variety of restaurants and shops.
It is situated on my favourite side of the medina because it’s still lively yet a little less manic.
I find it easier to locate riads here than negotiating the souks late at night.
The riad is authentic and pretty with typically morroccan furnished suites.
There is a more intimate feel about this riad because it’s slightly smaller.
The owner, Habi, is a knowledgeable man who enjoys a chat with his guests. He is very hospitable, and the riad has a homely feel about it because of its staff.
Mona, the lady who cooks breakfast, doesn’t speak English, but every morning, she prepared a hearty breakfast for me.
The riad can organise tours, runs cooking classes, and will store your luggage after checking out.
The rooftop was large with different tiers to sit on and was being updated during my stay.
The rooftop of Riad Blue Berber.
However, it would benefit from a lick of paint to make it perfect.
I always felt safe walking to and from Riad Blue Berber. This is also a bonus, especially for female solo travellers.
The traditional 17th century tiles on the floor of the courtyard give it a sense of character and charm.
Riad Blue Berber has four rooms.
Three of the rooms have air conditioning, and two have fans and heaters.
Riad Lea, as it is also known, is a traditional mid priced riad only 10 minutes walk away from the main square.
There are 5 suites, and they are authentically decorated and comfortable.
The courtyard is peaceful with the sound of birds chirping.
It’s a nice place to sit and cool down after a busy morning exploring the city in the heat.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The rooftop is a great place for a spot of sunbathing, and there is also a jacuzzi.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The staff at Riad Lea were especially attentive. They couldn’t do enough for their guests.
They even offered me some of their food they were breaking their fast with during Ramadan.
It’s the little touches like this that make a traditional riad such a charming place to stay. There are more modern riads, but it’s the personal touches that stand out for me.
The staff at Riad Lea made sure that their guests felt comfortable and happy.
There was a lovely atmosphere in the riad, and everyone seemed to be having a great experience.
Reaching the riad was like heading down a hobbit hole, and the doorway was not made for tall people, but once you got used to it, you soon remembered to duck.
The breakfast at Riad Lea was a typical Morroccan breakfast, but as good as I’ve had in the more expensive riads.
I loved their homemade yoghurt and msemen pancakes.
The walk to the main square was enjoyable, passing by lots of interesting little shops and restaurants on the way.
I enjoyed my stay at Riad Lea. It’s not a fancy 5 star accommodation, but it’s good value for money.
It was clean, I had everything I needed, and the staff were a credit to the riad.
Riad Lea can be found at,
41 Derb Sidi Bou
Amar Marrakech 40000.
Courtyard at Riad Lea.
For more information about places to stay, contact me via the email address below;
Sounds Of The Souks 