Where to Stay in Morocco: 10 Best Riads You Will Love

Looking for a unique place to stay in Morocco? Just skip hotels and try riads when they are available in your destinations! These traditional guesthouses often located in old cities and look ordinary from the outside, but when you walk in, it will definitely surprise you with its stunning courtyards, intricate tilework, and warm greetings from the locals. Whether you are seeking a romantic stay in Marrakech, a luxury retreat in Fez, or a classic room in Chefchaouen, this guide will help you find the perfect one for your Morocco tour.

What Is a Riad in Morocco

Hidden in the narrow alleys of ancient medinas, riads of Morocco are the symbol of traditional Moroccan architecture. They are nowadays guesthouses, modest on the outside yet breathtaking within, these buildings blend Islamic and Moorish design, featuring intricate geometric patterns, hand-crafted mosaics and ornate archways.
In the center of a riad usually lies a serene courtyard or lush garden, encircled by guest rooms that ensure both privacy and provide a peaceful atmosphere. There are often fountains or small pools in the courtyard, which adds a cool feeling, especially during the hot summer months.

Are Riads Better Than Hotels in Morocco

Today, many riads have been transformed into boutique hotels and guesthouses, providing travelers with an immersive stay that blends authentic Moroccan charm with modern comforts. One of the highlights? The rooftop terraces, where you can sip traditional mint tea while soaking in stunning city views.
A stay in a riad is more than just accommodation - it is a journey into Morocco's rich culture heritage, you can definitely get cultural immersion into the artistry, history and hospitality that define this enchanting country. It will be a great choice for travelers who want to feel connected to Morocco's heritage.
Besides, the best part of traveling is not only the scenery but also the people you meet along the way. Riad has shared common areas where you can meet locals and other tourists in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

How to Choose the Right Riad in Morocco

Choosing the right riad in Morocco depend on several factors, including location, budget, amenities, and the type of experience you prefer. If you love being in the heart of the action, stay near Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakech or inside Fez's ancient medina. For a quieter atmosphere, opt for a riad in a hidden alley of Chefchaouen.
Budget is another key factor. Luxury riads offer pools, rooftop terraces, and spa services, while mid-range ones balance affordability with comfort, provide beautifully decorated rooms and traditional charm. Budget riads are basic but still authentic stay, suitable for those seeking cultural immersion over luxury.
Amenities may vary widely. Many riads offer complimentary Moroccan breakfasts, and some provide on-site dining with homemade tagine and mint tea. Some have pools or rooftop lounges, perfect for unwind yourself after a full-day tour. So it's worth to consider what is important experience during your stay.

Tip: Some riads are designed well for couples and solo travelers, if you are traveling with family, it is advisable to check whether your preferred riad is family-friendly.

Most Recommended Riads in Morocco

Riad Yasmine

Riad Yasmine is located in Marrakech, in the south of Morocco. Its most distinctive feature is its swimming pool. You can take a particularly nice picture no matter if you stand in any corner of the pool. It has only 7 rooms and does not offer breakfast and dinner voluntarily. But you can book in advance according to your needs. Each room has a different decoration style, which is full of Moroccan style. Its transportation is also very convenient, 5 kilometers from Menara Airport and 3 kilometers from Marrakech Railway Station.

Star Rating: 4 Star
Address: 209 Rue Ank Jemel Bab Toghzout, Marrakech 40030 Morocco

Riad Be Marrakech

This is a very exquisite riad with a predominantly yellow and green color palette. And it is full of green plants, which will make you feel happy when you look at it. The riad will play soothing music all day, with a faint green landscape. Even if you sit here for a day, you won't feel tired. You can get free breakfast on the roof and it’s basically a feast. The view and atmosphere on the top floor are particularly good, with plenty of light and relaxation facilities such as hammocks and lounge chairs. Every detail in the riad will amaze you, whether it's the arrangement of instruments or the ornament of plants.

Star Rating: 4 Star
Address: Derb Sidi Lahcen o Ail 23 Bab Doukkala, Marrakech 40030 Morocco

Riad Fes Maya Suite & Spa

Riad Fes Maya Suite & Spa was converted from a 14th-century palace and the details and design are exquisite everywhere. You can see flower tiles and carvings in every part of the hotel, which are carved and spliced by hand. So the production process is very delicate and complicated. The design of the room is basically colorful. When the sun shines into the room, it looks particularly beautiful. Its bedroom is a duplex two-storey, and you can see the scenery of Medina Old Town from the top terrace. If you have more time, you can explore some seafood restaurants, including Restaurant Aladino and Restaurant Los Pescadores Fes. And you only need a few minutes' walk to reach them.

Star Rating: 5 Star
Address: Avenue Ben Mohamed El Alaoui, No 12 Derb Debbagh Bourjouaa, Fes 30200 Morocco

Riad Fes Maya Suite & Spa

Riad Gharnata

Riad Gharnata is located in Chefchaouen and its style is characterized by modernity and simplicity. If you want to visit these scenic spots including Plaza Uta el-Hammam, Ras Elma Park and Chefchaouen Kasbah, Riad Gharnate must be your best choice! As they are very close, you can just walk there. It has a total of 5 rooms and two rooftop terraces. Standing on the terrace during the day, you can enjoy a magnificent view in all directions. Gazing at the mountains of Chefchaouen and the vintage streets can be very relaxing and enjoyable. At night, the star-filled sky will make you unforgettable.

Star Rating: 3 Star
Address: Quartier Andalous, Rue Gharnati, Chefchaouen 91000 Morocco

Riad Hicham

Riad Hicham is located on the Outa Hammam square, about a two-minute walk to the local stores. You can enjoy a complimentary breakfast during your stay, and it's not only delicious but also generous. If you decide to stay in Riad Hicham, you must not miss the Kasbah Museum. The Kasbah Museum is a red clay fortress built in the 15th century and retains the complete structure and layout of the castle. When you climb to the top floor, you have a view overlooking half of the city. There are many Mediterranean restaurants near it, including Cafe Restaurant Sofia, Lala Mesouda and Restaurant Chez Fouad. You can choose one of them to try for a Mediterranean dinner.

Star Rating: 3 Star
Address: Place Outa Hammam, Chefchaouen 91000 Morocco

Casa Perleta

Casa Perleta is located in the center of the medina, so it is very easy to get around. All corners and walls are painted in the same blue color as Chefchaouen. The owners and staff of this riad are very friendly and polite and you can get along with them very well. And it is close to many scenic spots, such as about 2km from Kasbah Tower, 2km from Ota El Haman Square and 3.5km from the Las Alma Water Source. When you pack your bags, you can visit these scenic spots, or go for a walk in the evening, which is a very good experience.

Star Rating: 4 Star
Address: N68 Hassan 1 street Bab souk, 91000 Chefchaouen City, Morocco

Hotel & Spa Riad Dar Bensouda

Hotel & Spa Riad Dar Bensouda is located in Fez and has a history of nearly 400 years. When you enter the gate of the riad, it seems that you have come to an exquisite and quiet paradise. It's like you're staying in a 16th-century museum, with 18 rooms featuring grand doors, and carvings. If you come to the Hotel & Spa Riad Dar Bensouda, you must experience a private hammam and spa, which is the specialty of the riad. On top of that, there is a beautiful pool and terrace where you can let go of the day's weariness and enjoy life.

Star Rating: 4 Star
Address: 14 Zqaq Lebghal Kettanine, Fes 30202 Morocco

Riad Dar Mayssane

Riad Dar Mayssane is located in Rabat, the capital of Morocco. When you check in, the host will provide mint tea and snacks. It has a great location, and it only takes 30 minutes to walk from here to the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. When you walk through the old Moroccan town, you can see many shops selling handicrafts there, which is a good place to buy souvenirs. You can also go to Kasbah of the Udayas, where many of the super cool shots in Mission Impossible 5 are taken. And it's also very close to the Riad Dar Mayssane, about 20 minutes away. At sunset, you can watch the sun go down on the terrace of the riad with the breeze blowing, which is an excellent experience.

Star Rating: 3 Star
Address: 13 rue Faran-Khechen, Rabat 10000 Morocco

Riad Madu

Riad Madu is located in Merzouga, a cozy family Kasbah where you can enjoy an exotic riad on the border of the Sahara Desert. If you are planning to go to the desert, this riad can be the starting point of this journey. Riad Madu not only provides bicycle rental and car rental services but also has some activity places nearby. For example, it is 3.3 kilometers away from the starting point of camel hiking in the desert and 3.8 kilometers away from the flamingo observation point. You will enjoy the magnificent natural scenery and charming desert city, which will surely be an incredible and unforgettable desert trip.

Star Rating: 5 Star
Address: Ksar Hassi labied, Merzouga 52202, Morocco

Chez Talout

Chez Talout is located on the top of a mountain in the Skoura Oasis. The Skoura Oasis is represented by a palm grove protected by the United Nations. The palm forest makes the desert bloom with life, and the comfortable life here comes from its shelter. Chez Talout is an excellent location overlooking palm grove and snowy Atlas Mountain. Chez Talout can serve as a stopping point for your desert trip, and its open-air pool and terrace can also provide a pleasant experience.

Star Rating: 3 Star
Address: Oulad Aarbiya Soura Ouarzazate Maroc, Skoura, Ouarzazate 45502 Morocco

Plan Your Best Moroccan Way of Tour With Odynovo

There are few rooms in Riads and you need to book at least six months in advance during the peak season. If you are interested in a Moroccan-style Riad and want a unique experience of accommodation during your trip, please contact us simply, or write to [email protected], we'll design a tailor-made itinerary for you based on your interests and needs.