Staying in a riad (traditional Moroccan home) is as authentic as it gets. Choose from posh to moderate accommodations in Marrakech, Fez or Essaouira. With their interior courtyard gardens and serene atmospheres, riads provide a great escape from a day out in the big city.
Staying in a riad during your time in Morocco is one of the most authentic ways to experience the country’s culture. Traditionally designed as private homes built around an open interior courtyard, riads offer a sense of calm and intimacy that feels worlds away from the busy streets outside. Many of these historic residences have been carefully restored and transformed into boutique hotels or guesthouses, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern comfort. Their design often spans several levels, including a rooftop terrace, with courtyards filled with plants, trees, and the gentle sound of water flowing from a fountain or pool. Decorative zellige tiles, carved cedarwood doors, and detailed plasterwork add to the atmosphere and reflect Morocco’s rich artistic heritage.
What makes riads especially appealing is their ability to act as peaceful retreats within the heart of a city. Most are tucked inside the medina, just steps from lively markets and historic landmarks, yet once inside, the pace slows dramatically. Each room is usually decorated in its own unique style, creating a sense of character and individuality rather than uniform luxury. From budget-friendly stays to high-end hideaways, riads offer something for every type of traveler. The following selections highlight some exceptional options in Marrakech, Fez, and Essaouira to help narrow your search.
Marrakech Riads
Marrakech is a city of contrasts, where centuries-old traditions exist alongside a modern, creative energy that attracts travelers from around the world. The medina alone is home to an extraordinary number of riads, each hidden behind an unassuming door and offering its own version of calm and beauty inside. With so many options to choose from, finding the right place can feel overwhelming, but the reward is a stay that feels deeply personal and connected to the city’s rhythm.
Riads in Marrakech range from intimate hideaways with just a handful of rooms to expansive properties with pools, spas, and rooftop terraces overlooking the city. What they share is the ability to offer refuge from the intensity of the streets outside. After a day spent exploring souks, palaces, and lively squares, returning to a quiet courtyard filled with plants, soft light, and gentle water sounds becomes part of the magic of the experience. The following riads stand out for their atmosphere, design, and ability to make a stay in Marrakech feel both luxurious and authentic.
Riad Yasmine and Petit Yasmine
This intimate riad is known for creating a sense of calm the moment you step inside. With just seven rooms and one suite, the atmosphere feels personal and thoughtfully curated, making it ideal for travelers who value quiet luxury. At the center of the courtyard, an emerald-colored pool reflects the surrounding greenery and soft light, creating an oasis that feels far removed from the lively streets of Marrakech. The staff are consistently praised for their warmth and attentiveness, helping guests feel at home while ensuring every detail of the stay runs smoothly.
Right next door, Petit Yasmine offers an even more exclusive experience. Recently renovated, it features only three luxury suites arranged around a private plunge pool. The design is refined and understated, with an emphasis on privacy and comfort. Both properties are well located, making it easy to reach highlights such as Jardin Majorelle, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the Bahia Palace. Together, Riad Yasmine and Petit Yasmine offer a beautifully balanced stay that combines convenience, style, and a sense of retreat.
Dar Kawa
Tucked away on a quiet alley near the historic Ben Youssef Madrasa, Dar Kawa offers a sense of seclusion that feels especially welcome after a busy day in the medina. Street noise fades quickly once inside, replaced by an atmosphere that is calm, refined, and deeply comfortable. With only four rooms, three of which are suites, the riad feels intimate and thoughtfully designed, allowing guests to truly unwind.
The interiors strike a beautiful balance between traditional Moroccan elements and contemporary style. Soft textures, carefully chosen furnishings, and subtle lighting create a space that feels both elegant and inviting. A tranquil patio shaded by orange trees provides a peaceful spot to relax, while the spacious rooftop terrace offers room to linger and enjoy the light and air of Marrakech. For those seeking extra indulgence, the on-site spa allows guests to enjoy massages and beauty treatments without ever leaving the riad.
Dar Kawa is ideal for travelers who appreciate privacy, comfort, and understated luxury. Its location makes it easy to explore nearby landmarks during the day, then return to a serene retreat that feels worlds away from the surrounding streets.
https://www.darkawa.net/life-in-dk/the-house/
Riad Kniza
Stepping into Riad Kniza feels like entering a living piece of Marrakech’s history. Family-owned and operated for more than two centuries, this five-star riad carries a sense of heritage that is immediately apparent in its design and atmosphere. Its location is especially appealing, allowing guests to move easily between the energy of places like Djemaa el Fna and the calm that awaits behind the riad’s doors.
Inside, the riad’s rooms and suites are richly decorated with antiques, intricate woodwork, and traditional craftsmanship that give the impression of a private museum rather than a hotel. Every space feels carefully preserved, offering an authentic glimpse into Morocco’s past while still providing modern comfort. After a day of exploring the city, guests can unwind in the on-site hammam or sauna, letting the pace slow naturally as evening settles in.
Riad Kniza suits travelers who value tradition, attention to detail, and a strong sense of place. It offers an experience that is both luxurious and deeply rooted in Marrakech’s cultural identity.
Ryad El Fenn
Ryad El Fenn stands out for its bold personality and generous sense of space. Spread across multiple interconnected riads, the property feels more like a private artistic enclave than a traditional guesthouse. With more than twenty rooms and suites, several swimming pools tucked among lush greenery, and a vast rooftop terrace overlooking the city, El Fenn invites guests to linger rather than rush out the door.
The design blends Moroccan craftsmanship with a strong contemporary sensibility. Vibrant colors, rich textiles, and carefully curated artworks create interiors that feel expressive and inspiring without losing their sense of comfort. The riad also features a spa and hammam, along with a restaurant and lounge that make it easy to spend an entire day on-site. Many guests find themselves drawn to the rooftop, where views stretch across the medina and the atmosphere shifts beautifully from day to night.
Ryad El Fenn is well suited to travelers who appreciate creativity, social spaces, and a slightly unconventional approach to luxury. It offers a stay that feels immersive and energizing, while still providing moments of calm within Marrakech’s ever-moving rhythm.
Royal Mansour
Royal Mansour offers an experience unlike any other riad in Marrakech, blending the intimacy of traditional design with the scale and refinement of a luxury palace. Instead of standard rooms, guests stay in private residences, each individually decorated and arranged around its own courtyard. These secluded spaces create a sense of privacy that feels rare in a city setting, allowing visitors to retreat fully while still being close to Marrakech’s main attractions.
The grounds are meticulously landscaped, with shaded pathways, fountains, and gardens that encourage slow wandering and quiet moments. Dining is a highlight here, with several restaurants offering distinct culinary experiences that range from refined Moroccan cuisine to international flavors. The spa is equally impressive, designed as a sanctuary in itself where guests can indulge in beauty treatments, a traditional hammam, or simple relaxation after a day in the city.
Royal Mansour is especially well suited to travelers seeking complete comfort and discretion, including families who appreciate the space and range of on-site amenities. Despite its grandeur, the experience remains rooted in Moroccan craftsmanship, making a stay here feel both opulent and culturally grounded.
https://www.royalmansour.com/les-riads/
Fez Riads
Fez feels timeless in a way few cities do, and staying in a riad here deepens that sense of stepping back through history. As the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities, Fez has preserved its traditional character remarkably well, with a vast medina that unfolds like a living museum. Wandering its narrow streets can feel disorienting at first, but it is precisely this maze-like quality that gives the city its magic. Riads in Fez tend to reflect this atmosphere, offering an experience that feels authentic, intimate, and steeped in tradition.
Many of the riads here are smaller and more understated than those found in Marrakech, yet they often surprise guests with intricate craftsmanship and serene interiors. Courtyards echo softly with footsteps and birdsong, while rooftops provide quiet views over the medina’s rooftops and minarets. Staying in a riad in Fez allows travelers to slow down, absorb the city’s rhythm, and connect more deeply with its spiritual and cultural heritage.
Dar Roumana
Dar Roumana, whose name translates to “House of Pomegranate,” feels quietly refined from the moment you arrive. Set within the medina, the riad is known for its exquisite attention to detail and craftsmanship, creating an atmosphere that feels both elegant and deeply rooted in Fez’s artistic traditions. The interiors showcase the work of master Fassi artisans, with carved plaster, intricate tilework, and rich textures that reflect generations of skill.
The riad offers a small collection of spacious suites, each thoughtfully designed with high ceilings and handcrafted furniture that adds warmth and character. Natural light filters into the rooms, enhancing the sense of calm and comfort. Its location near Coin Berbère, a family-run carpet and antiques shop, makes it easy to explore the surrounding neighborhood and find unique souvenirs that carry the spirit of Fez.
Staying at Dar Roumana feels like being welcomed into a beautifully preserved home rather than a hotel. It is an ideal choice for travelers who appreciate artistry, quiet luxury, and a setting that allows them to experience the medina at a slower, more intimate pace.
Riad Laaroussa
Set within a former 17th-century palace, Riad Laaroussa offers an atmosphere of understated elegance that feels especially soothing after time spent navigating the medina. The moment you step into the courtyard, the scent of orange trees and exotic plants creates a sense of calm, transforming the space into a private oasis hidden behind historic walls. Despite its refined setting, the riad maintains a relaxed, welcoming spirit that makes guests feel immediately at ease.
With a small collection of rooms and suites, the experience remains personal and unhurried. Interiors balance comfort and tradition, creating spaces that invite rest rather than spectacle. The rooftop terrace provides sweeping views across the rooftops of Fez, with the surrounding hills visible in the distance, making it a favorite spot to unwind at the end of the day. On-site amenities such as the restaurant, hammam, and pool add to the feeling of quiet indulgence, while the location near Bou Inania Madrasa keeps the city’s highlights within easy reach.
Riad Laaroussa is well suited to travelers who value tranquility, thoughtful design, and a sense of heritage. It offers a peaceful retreat that still feels deeply connected to the rhythm and history of Fez.
Riad Salam
Riad Salam combines historic charm with a sense of comfort that feels welcoming rather than formal. Its location makes it especially appealing, sitting close to some of Fez’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Blue Gate and Borj Nord, while still offering a quiet retreat once inside. The riad’s architecture and décor reflect the city’s heritage, with ornate details that give each space a timeless character.
Rooms and suites open onto balconies, allowing natural light to filter in and offering small glimpses of life in the medina below. With a limited number of accommodations, the atmosphere remains calm and personal, making it easy to relax after a day of exploration. Guests can also enjoy the on-site hammam and spa, an ideal way to unwind and absorb the slower rhythm of Fez in the evening.
Riad Salam suits travelers who appreciate traditional elegance paired with attentive service. It provides a refined yet comfortable base for discovering the city while offering moments of quiet that feel restorative.
https://riadsalamfes.com/fr/index.html
Essaouira Riads
Essaouira has a very different rhythm from Morocco’s larger cities, shaped by the Atlantic winds and a long maritime history. The atmosphere here feels relaxed and creative, with a balance of medieval charm and seaside ease that naturally invites rest and reflection. Staying in a riad in Essaouira often means being close to the ocean while still enjoying the intimacy and calm of traditional architecture. Many properties here emphasize simplicity, light, and openness, mirroring the city’s airy character.
Riads in Essaouira are ideal for travelers who want to slow down and recharge. Courtyards feel breezy rather than enclosed, rooftops open to sweeping coastal views, and interiors tend to favor soft colors and natural materials. Whether you spend your days wandering the port, exploring the medina, or watching waves roll in, returning to a riad here feels like coming back to a peaceful refuge shaped by sea air and time.
Villa De Lo
Set just steps from the ocean, Villa De Lo offers a sense of calm that comes naturally with its coastal setting. The sound of waves and the open horizon shape the experience here, making it an ideal place to unwind after exploring Essaouira’s medina and port. The guesthouse blends simplicity with elegance, creating spaces that feel light, comfortable, and welcoming rather than ornate.
Rooms and suites are designed with understated décor, allowing natural light and ocean views to take center stage. A tranquil inner courtyard provides a quiet place to pause, while the lounges invite guests to relax, one warmed by a fireplace for cooler evenings. The rooftop terrace is often a favorite, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic and the surrounding coastline. Its location near the beach and harbor makes it easy to enjoy evening walks as the sun sets, adding a gentle rhythm to each day spent in Essaouira.
Villa De Lo suits travelers who appreciate serenity, thoughtful design, and a strong connection to the sea. It offers a stay that feels restorative, shaped by simplicity and the steady presence of the ocean.
http://www.villadelo.com/home/?lang=en
Baoussala
A short drive south of Essaouira leads to a very different kind of retreat. Surrounded by eucalyptus trees and open countryside, Baoussala feels secluded and deeply connected to nature. The setting creates an immediate sense of escape, where the pace slows and the focus shifts toward rest, space, and fresh air. Despite its peaceful surroundings, the riad remains within easy reach of the coast and the city.
The property offers a small number of spacious rooms and suites, each designed to feel cozy yet refined. Fireplaces add warmth on cooler evenings, while outdoor spaces invite guests to linger during the day. A large heated pool encourages proper swimming rather than a quick dip, and the hammam and spa provide a restorative complement to time spent outdoors. Whether relaxing beneath the trees or walking along nearby wild beaches, the experience here feels unhurried and grounding.
Baoussala is especially well suited to travelers seeking quiet, comfort, and a strong sense of place. It offers a refreshing contrast to busier riads, blending natural surroundings with attentive hospitality for a stay that feels genuinely rejuvenating.
Riad Malaika
Riad Malaika offers a calm and contemporary take on traditional Moroccan design, creating an atmosphere that feels bright, airy, and effortlessly comfortable. Set on a quiet street within the medina, the riad provides a welcome sense of peace while still keeping guests close to Essaouira’s main attractions. The balance between location and tranquility makes it an appealing choice for travelers who want to explore during the day and truly rest at night.
The rooms are decorated with a minimalist approach that highlights carefully chosen Moroccan elements rather than overwhelming the space. This simplicity allows the craftsmanship and natural light to stand out, giving the riad a refined yet relaxed character. Guests can also arrange off-site activities through the riad, from camel rides along the beach to surfing, kitesurfing, or windsurfing, all of which reflect Essaouira’s strong connection to the ocean.
Riad Malaika suits travelers who appreciate modern comfort infused with local charm. It offers a stay that feels personal, quiet, and well attuned to the gentle rhythm of coastal life.
https://riad-malaika-essaouira.com/
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Riads offer something truly special within Morocco’s largest cities—a chance to step away from the noise and discover calm, beauty, and tradition behind an unassuming doorway. Whether hidden within the winding medinas of Marrakech and Fez or shaped by the sea air of Essaouira, each riad creates an experience that feels intimate and personal. These spaces are more than places to sleep; they are part of the journey itself, revealing the craftsmanship, hospitality, and rhythm of Moroccan life.
Choosing a riad allows travelers to connect more deeply with their surroundings, returning each evening to a sanctuary that balances history and comfort. No matter your travel style or budget, staying in a riad transforms a city visit into something far more memorable. Unlocking that simple door often leads to discovering the true magic within.
🧭 FAQs
Q: What is a riad in Morocco?
A riad is a traditional Moroccan home built around an interior courtyard, often featuring a fountain, pool, or garden. Many riads have been restored and now operate as boutique hotels or guesthouses while preserving their original architectural charm.
Q: Are riads better than hotels in Moroccan cities?
Riads offer a more intimate and authentic experience than large hotels, especially within historic medinas. They provide a peaceful retreat from busy streets while allowing guests to stay close to cultural landmarks and daily life.
Q: Is it easy to find riads inside the medina?
Riads are usually tucked away on narrow streets and may not be obvious from the outside. Most provide directions or arrange pick-up services to help guests arrive smoothly, especially on their first visit.
Q: Are riads suitable for first-time visitors to Morocco?
Yes. Riads are an excellent choice for first-time visitors because staff often provide personalized guidance, local tips, and assistance with excursions, making the stay both comfortable and informative.
Q: Do riads offer modern amenities?
Most renovated riads include modern comforts such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and on-site dining, while still maintaining traditional design elements and craftsmanship.
Q: Are riads safe to stay in?
Riads are generally very safe. They are usually family-run or managed by professional staff, with controlled access and attentive hosts who prioritize guest comfort and security.
Q: What should I expect for breakfast at a riad?
Breakfast is often included and typically features fresh bread, pastries, fruit, yogurt, eggs, and Moroccan specialties served in the courtyard or on the terrace.
Q: Are riads suitable for families or children?
Many riads welcome families, though some are better suited for adults seeking quiet. It’s always best to check room layouts, pool safety, and age policies before booking.
Q: What is the best city to stay in a riad for the first time?
Marrakech is often the easiest introduction due to its wide range of riads, good infrastructure, and variety of attractions. Fez and Essaouira offer equally memorable experiences with different atmospheres.
Q: How many nights should you stay in a riad?
Staying at least two to three nights allows time to fully enjoy the riad experience, relax in the courtyard or terrace, and balance sightseeing with rest.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in 2021 and updated in January 2026 for accuracy and freshness.
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