What to know before choosing a riad.
There are so many riads in Marrakech that it can be difficult to choose one. The following posts are dedicated to helping you decide.
By showcasing my own experiences, I hope to give visitors an idea of what staying in a riad is like. Obviously, these are my personal opinions, so do check other people’s reviews too.
There are a number of hostels in the medina that are renovated riads. These are perfect for budget conscious travellers. There are also luxury riads that were former palaces. Somewhere in between are the mid price range that have been beautifully restored. It’s these riads that I favour. The small personal touches and laid-back friendly atmosphere make these riads feel welcoming and intimate.
For the best experience, consider staying in more than one riad. I like to spend 3-4 days in a small family owned riad. I find this a good option when I’m out a lot sightseeing and using the riad as a base or somewhere to sleep. I spend the last few days relaxing in a more luxurious riad. It makes sense to pay more if you are going to use the facilities. A restored former palace is a peaceful environment in which to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. After exploring the busy medina, it’s the perfect way to finish a visit to Marrakech.
When choosing somewhere to stay, check the location. Decide how close you would like to be to the main square. Consider how much walking you are prepared to do in the heat. Check the facilities on offer. Does the riad provide a hammam, breakfast, and dinner? Do they supply a taxi to pick you up at the airport?Is there parking available? Also, check payment methods. Some riads only accept payment in cash. Decide whether you want to stay in a quieter area such as the Kasbah. There is also the Mellah, which is the old Jewish quarter of the medina. Lastly, read the latest reviews before choosing a riad.
Staying in a traditional riad is the best way to experience the history and culture of Marrakech. Each riad has its own story from the past. Inside the unassuming walls, you can imagine families who spent hours in the tranquillity of the courtyard and evenings chatting together on the rooftop terrace as the sun went down. For people who have read the tales of Arabian Nights, staying in a traditional riad feels as though you have been encapsulated into one of the stories. It’s a magical experience.
If you’re a light sleeper, taking a set of earplugs is essential. The call to prayer echos across the medina early every morning, and soundproofing in these ancient constructions is not the best. However, it’s a small price to pay for an authentic experience in a traditional Morroccan house.
Here is the list of riads I feature in my next posts. It is continuously updated.
- Monriad
- Riad Persephone
- La Maison Des Oliviers
- Riad Hikaya
- Riad Dombaraka
- Riad Zouhour
- Riyadh Al Moussika
- The Bohemian Jungle
- Riad Blue Berber
- Riad Laila
- Riad Jardin Lea
The Sound Of The Souks 