Where to Stay in Marrakech: Neighbourhoods and Riad Tips
Where you sleep shapes your Marrakech trip more than any sight. The medina gives you the atmosphere and the walking; the new town gives you quiet and a car at the door. Here is how to choose.
At a glance
- For atmosphere
- Medina riad
- For comfort and pools
- Hivernage or Palmeraie
- For restaurants
- Gueliz
- Book
- At least a month ahead in spring and autumn
In this guide
The areas compared
| Area | Feel | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Medina (Mouassine, Kasbah, Riad Zitoun) | Atmospheric, noisy by day, quiet in riads | First-timers who want to walk to the sights |
| Gueliz | Modern, French-built, cafes and galleries | Restaurants, shopping, quieter nights |
| Hivernage | Hotels, bars, resorts, wide streets | Pools, families, easy taxis |
| Palmeraie | Villas and luxury resorts in palm groves | Long stays and privacy; you need a car |
Riad or hotel?
A riad is a small guesthouse in a traditional courtyard house, usually with 4 to 12 rooms, a plunge pool or a roof terrace and breakfast included. They are quiet inside and charming, but staff are few and cars cannot reach the door. A hotel offers a lift, air conditioning, a larger pool and easier access, but less character. See our guide to Moroccan architecture for what makes a riad special.
What to check before booking a riad
- Location by walking time from the nearest taxi drop-off point. A "5 minute walk" is often longer through alleys.
- Heating in winter, air conditioning in summer. Not all riads have either, and old houses can be cold from November to March.
- Noise: riads near mosques may hear the early call to prayer; those near squares may hear music late.
- Recent reviews mentioning cleanliness and staff.
- A staffed pickup from the taxi point, particularly for late arrivals.
Getting to your riad
Taxis cannot enter the medina. Ask your riad to send someone to meet you at the nearest gate or square. Do not follow a stranger who "knows the way." For airport arrival details, ask the riad about a fixed-fee transfer. Our transport guide covers taxis in general.
Budget and timing
Prices swing widely between low season and the spring and autumn peaks, and around holidays. Book early for March to May and September to November, and expect good deals in the heat of summer. The best time to visit guide explains the seasons.
If you are travelling alone or with kids
Solo travellers should choose a riad with strong reviews from other solo guests, and a pickup. See solo female travel. Families often do better in a hotel or a riad with a pool; see Morocco with kids.
Plan your days
Once you have a bed, plan your time with things to do in Marrakech and the Marrakech guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best area to stay in Marrakech?
For first-timers, the medina close to Jemaa el-Fna and the souks. For comfort and pools, Hivernage.
Is a riad better than a hotel?
A riad is more atmospheric and personal, a hotel more convenient. Many people choose a riad for the first nights.
Do riads have air conditioning?
Some do, some don't. Check before you book, especially for summer and winter.