Step inside any of these boutique Riad hotels, and you’ll find yourself enveloped in a serene sanctuary, shielded from the din of the outside world by meter-thick walls. The only sounds that permeate these oases are the soothing murmurs of burbling fountains and singing birds. In recent years, many of these historic residences were transformed into exquisite guesthouses, where Moroccan craftsmanship intertwines with impeccable hospitality. Let us guide you through 2024’s best luxury boutique Riad hotels in Marrakech. We are listing them here in no particular order, but are keeping the list up-to-date throughout the year. May our recommendations inspire you to embark on an unforgettable journey.
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Laid-back Mediterranean
El Fenn pays homage to the Morrocan riad traditions through authentic charm complemented by modern art in its seven townhouses. The property strings together the houses through serene courtyards, which allow sunlight to flood the interiors. Beautifully restored and modernized, the hotel combines European creature comforts with African glamour and hints of boho style. The Riad has three swimming pools, including one on the rooftop sundeck. Other facilities include a restaurant, bar, spa, and library. The hotel’s restaurant is an epicurean delight, serving a fusion of Moroccan and international cuisine, while the bar is a lovely spot to relax with a cocktail. For an Instagrammable experience, book room 20, which boasts a modern baby-pink theme.
Read more in the review from our stay: El Fenn.
Alternatively, book El Fenn via
Expedia | Mr & Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © El Fenn
“Riad de Tarabel demonstrates what you can do with the concept of a boutique hotel when the personal taste of its creators enriches the local traditions with sophisticated European chic.” — from our review
A discreet entrance at the end of a dimly lit alleyway leads to the enchanting Riad de Tarabel, an intimate retreat with only ten rooms and suites spread over four interconnected townhouses. Each room has a unique character and carefully curated interiors — always with a touch of French flair. The place is brimming with family heirlooms and souk-sourced antiques, all beautifully arranged amidst the cedar and rattan furniture. The pièce de résistance is the tranquil, beautiful spa. Accessible through a secret door, cleverly concealed within a mirror in the first courtyard, this hidden oasis exudes an air of exclusivity and intimacy.
Read more in the review from our stay: Riad Tarabel.
Alternatively, book Riad Tarabel via
WelcomeBeyond | Mr And Mrs Smith or check TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Tarabel
Where to stay in Marrakech
La Sultana is a luxurious oasis neighboring the famous Saadian Tombs on Medina’s edge. It’s a 28-room luxury hotel created by combining five authentic riads. Each Riad features bespoke decor designed to transport you back to the grandeur of traditional Moroccan architecture. The richly decorated interiors feature gilded bathrooms, carved wood doors and ceilings, and decorative stucco and tile work. But the hotel experience is defined by contemporary luxury, infused with privacy and beauty. Guests benefit from a rooftop space serving as a restaurant and an evening lounge overlooking the Saadian Tombs. The gorgeously designed, intimate spa is another highlight.
We stayed at La Sultana Marrakech — make sure to read our review!
Alternatively, book La Sultana Marrakech via
Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Agoda or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos (including the leading shot at the top) © La Sultana
The eight-room maison Brummell Majorelle is masterfully crafted. Its interiors pay homage to the traditional techniques of local artisans, creating an exquisite aesthetic that blends contemporary design, Moroccan influences, and classic design pieces, like the iconic Egon Eiermann chairs and Ingo Maurer’s paper lamp. The hotel’s ground level features a custom-built, Moroccan-style kitchen, serving mouth-watering dishes in the hotel’s dining room. Further down the hall, guests can relax in a stylish living space with a cozy fireplace and a range of modular sofas. It’s perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The hotel has an excellent address, next to Yves Saint Laurent’s iconic Jardin Majorelle in the heart of Marrakech.
Alternatively, book Maison Brummell Majorelle via
Mr & Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Maison Brummell Majorelle
“The Riad’s evening menu is a feast for the senses, with modern-style tagines featuring chicken, meatballs, lamb with pomegranate, or seabass with sautéed artichokes.”
72 Riad Living is a hidden oasis of tranquility, exotic luxury, and impeccable style in the heart of Marrakesh’s vibrant Medina. The 13 rooms and suites of the Riad are decorated with plush Moroccan fabrics and chic Italian design touches. The Riad’s theatrical patio, with starburst marquetry tables encircling the fanning banana trees, is a great place to unwind and relax. In the library, a louche red-velvet sofa invites you to curl up with a good book, while the Salle Rouge is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner, with giant lanterns casting a high-sheen gloss over the polished tadelakt walls. The hammam spa and a refreshing rooftop plunge pool are also surrounded by the rooftop terrace — a perfect place to enjoy a sunset drink or a delicious dinner under the twinkling stars.
Alternatively, book 72 Riad Living via
Tablet Hotels | Mr & Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © 72 Riad Living
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This super-stylish Riad boasts some of the smartest interiors in the city. They combine the extravagance of a luxury hotel with a laid-back yet exclusive atmosphere. Riad Sakkan is an oasis of elegance comprising 12 style-forward guest rooms, each with a unique configuration and modern Moroccan decor. Additional selling points include a relaxing pool zone, a rooftop bar, and an art collection. This remarkable hotel is the brainchild of a Belgian couple who spent 1.5 years meticulously renovating the original building, part of which dates to the 17th century. The hotel is conveniently located within the old medina walls near Bab Laksour gate and is close to the city’s vibrant nightlife, top-tier restaurants, and Souk shopping.
Alternatively, book Riad Sakkan via
Tablet Hotels | Mr & Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Sakkan
Riad Dar-K is an intimate, contemplative boutique hotel with only two Double Rooms and three large Suites, a large plunge pool on the patio, a quiet and intimate balcony for end-of-the-day readings, and a spacious rooftop terrace. The terrace is the hotel’s centerpiece and the perfect place to savor a delectable breakfast, lunch, or dinner while overlooking the Medina of Marrakech. Fully renovated in 2019, this exquisite Riad showcases local craftsmanship through carefully executed decor, defining the style and experience of the Riad through authenticity and timeless elegance.
Alternatively, book Riad Dar-K via
Agoda or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Dar-K
Dar All Dall, a newly renovated riad in Marrakesh by the hospitality company This Time Tomorrow, blends local warmth, sophistication, and Moroccan authenticity. Located in the vibrant heart of the city, it captures the essence of Marrakesh through its thoughtful restoration and nods to traditional design. The project, a collaboration between Recdi8 of Barcelona and Trab Design of Marrakesh, merges European and African influences to create a harmonious blend of heritage and contemporary style. Inspired by the vibrant colors and patterns of Moroccan spices and textiles, the interiors feature eclectic details throughout. The five suites are adorned with warm tones, intricate tilework, and graceful archways. With a traditional hammam, open kitchen, and rooftop views of the Atlas Mountains, Dar All Dall offers an authentic and serene retreat. *
Alternatively, book Riad Dar Al Dall via
Mr & Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © This Time Tomorrow
Our 2024 guide to the top hotels on the island
The courtyards of Dar Darma Riad, with their cream-colored walls and subtly carved, uncluttered details, would suggest a run-of-the-mill minimalist hotel. Deep inside, Dar Darma Riad quickly unveils its maximalist approach to Moroccan extravagance. This intimate Riad, originally a private residence, features only six suites. All embrace the style defined by explosions of lush color and ornate antique furniture, often embellished with mother-of-pearl or finished with plush velvet. This “Moroccan maximalism” carries on from furniture to all other details: rugs, vases, wooden screens, handcrafted ceramics, and silver tea sets. The Orange Suite has the most opulent, velvety luxury. Book the Blue Suite for the most tranquil design — but then, at Dar Darma, why would you?
Alternatively, book Dar Darma Riad via
Tablet Hotels | Expedia | Mr & Mrs Smith or check TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Dar Darma Riad
“The Riad’s evening menu is a feast for the senses, with modern-style tagines featuring chicken, meatballs, lamb with pomegranate, or seabass with sautéed artichokes.”
P’tit Habibi is a luxury riad located at the north end of the Medina. Its charming, eclectic design blends traditional artisan craft with modern aesthetics, including sleek black frames and contemporary furniture. The austere, high-ceiled rooms of the Riad are simple but chic. They feature inventive design choices to a great effect — like a recessed wall inlaid with colorful tiles instead of a traditional headboard. For the ultimate indulgence, book the Hazy Moon Suite with its stand-out red tiling around the bed and bedhead and a private roof terrace boasting views of the Atlas Mountains.
Alternatively, book P´tit Habibi via
Mr & Mrs Smith | WelcomeBeyond or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © P’tit Habibi
La Villa des Orangers feels like a secret royal palace hidden away in the heart of the bustling Medina. Behind the thick carved doors, the gentle sound of trickling water from the fountains and the refreshing scent of citrus await guests. The calm surface of the swimming pool and the trees lining the courtyards enhance the sense of tranquility. The hotel embodies sophistication and refinement in the Riad’s six suites. They are decorated in a sophisticated fusion of Moroccan and European styles, with nods to the French colonial décor — using velvet chairs, leather sofas, wood-paneled walls, and intricate plaster archways. Excellent cuisine and a luxurious hammam complete the hotel experience.
Alternatively, book La Villa des Orangers – Relais & Châteaux via
Tablet Hotels | Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © La Villa des Orangers
Luxury in the cradle of the Renaissance
The colorful suites of Riad Antara exude elegance and grandeur. The oversized artwork above the sumptuous beds and the high ceilings and fireplaces add a touch of regal sophistication to the overall ambiance. The Riad boasts a classic Moroccan hammam, but the pièce de résistance is the rooftop terrace, with sun loungers and breathtaking views. Try booking a suite with access to the main garden and patio for the elevated experience.
Alternatively, book Riad Antara via
Mr & Mrs Smith | Expedia or check TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Antara
Unlike the traditional Moroccan interiors known for their opulence, Dar Seven is a temple of soothing neutral colors — in a fresh take on the tired family Riad template. There are only four bedrooms here, offering elegance through Italian linens, four-poster beds, and Bulgari bathroom products. The central courtyard, with whitewashed walls, terracotta floors, and creamy tadelakt walls, provides a plain canvas for the camel-backed sofas, Oriental prints, gleaming silverware, and pots of sculptural sisal, bamboo, and palm. Once the holiday home of the esteemed Italian princess Ruspoli, Dar Seven Marrakech is an excellent destination for group booking.
Alternatively, book the Dar Seven Boutique Hotel via
Tablet Hotels | Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Dar Seven
The vibrant Riad Be immerses its guests in Morocco’s colors, culture, and lifestyle. The hotel has ten luxurious rooms spread between two traditional private riads. In the Oasis Riad, the verdant exotic plants and traditional patterns and colors enrich the sensory experience. Meanwhile, the Essence Riad provides a minimalist approach, with handcrafted woodwork and traditional Moroccan tiles creating a sense of understated elegance. The Oasis courtyard is a sight to behold: the white-teal-turquoise tiles, square pool, and ornate doors are Instagram-famous. But the whole place is visually alluring, with colorful walls, carvings, and local crafts on display.
Alternatively, book Riad Be Marrakech via
Agoda or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad BE Marrakech
Your Guide to the Best Hotels in the Spanish Capital
The experience of Riad Le Pelerin is a testament to its heritage. It starts with a welcome on a delightful checkerboard patio adorned with slender palm trees and extends through a bohemian ambiance. Inspired by the rich Berber culture, the seven rooms of the Riad showcase Berber craftsmanship with embroidered cushions, woven straw hats, traditional rugs, and baskets. Each room is named after ancient Moroccan Berber villages. With the address at the entrance of the Medina, Riad Le Pèlerin is a mere 10-minute stroll from Jemaa El-Fna.
Alternatively, book Riad Le Pelerin via
Agoda or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Le Pèlerin
Le Farnatchi is a boutique hideaway featuring ten exquisite bedrooms spread over six meticulously restored merchant houses. Le Farnatchi has top-notch facilities, a pool, and a roof terrace. The beautiful spaces of the Riad include a courtyard with an emerald-tiled pool; another has fragrant citrus trees. A fabulous spa — located in an adjoining riad — features marble hammams. The highlight for many is the sumptuous breakfast, served wherever guests prefer and at any time. The attentive and warm-hearted staff provides personalized service, creating a familial atmosphere.
Alternatively, book Le Farnatchi via
Tablet Hotels | Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Le Farnatchi
“The Riad is owned by stylish Milanese transplants, Mauro and Claudia, who are hands-on and offer guests shopping tips, day trips, and even picnic bags for early airport transfers.”
Step into Riad Numa for a dose of minimalist Milanese glamour. This urban pad respects raw materials and classical proportions, allowing bespoke designer furnishings to shine. Upon entering the Riad from the hot, dusty souk, guests are greeted with a peaceful midnight-blue corridor that leads to a brilliant white patio with two verdant green citrus trees. Upstairs, there’s a sizeable plunge pool and a rooftop terrace with punchy green loungers and mosaic-topped tables for glam guests to enjoy breakfast. The six lovely bedrooms, including two double rooms and four suites, feature uncomplicated elegance with bespoke furniture, top-quality beds, and beautifully finished terrazzo floors. The riad doesn’t have an on-site restaurant, but some of Marrakech’s best dining options are right outside its doorstep, giving it the feel of a stylish pied-a-terre.
Alternatively, book Numa Marrakech via
Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Numa
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Tucked away on a peaceful street, yet only a short walk from lively sites like Dar el Bacha Palace and Jardin Secret, Riad Brummell is a serene 5-room retreat in the heart of Marrakesh. This beautifully restored 19th-century palace, transformed by Barcelona-based architect Claudia Raurell, harmonizes traditional Mauresque design with a modern aesthetic, offering a perfect blend of heritage and luxury. Every detail, from bespoke furniture and art to the serene courtyards, is thoughtfully crafted to preserve the palace’s rich history while providing all the comforts of contemporary living. Guests are invited to explore the central courtyard, where elegant arcades frame calming water features and lush greenery, creating a peaceful retreat. The riad also features a traditional hammam for an authentic Moroccan relaxation experience. The rooftop terrace offers lovely views, perfect for enjoying a leisurely breakfast or unwinding at sunset.
Alternatively, book Riad Brummell Medina via
Mr & Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Brummell Medina
Riad Due is where traditional Moroccan craftsmanship meets quirky design ideas. The central courtyard is a riot of color, with a blue-tiled plunge pool, lush plant life, and candy-striped furniture in shades of blue and turquoise. Inside, the four rooms burst with color, and whimsical design touches, each offering a unique visual experience and featuring in-room fireplaces and even private Hammans. Riad Due has a fabulous roof terrace artfully screened with exotic palms and cacti. For book lovers, there is a stand-out library compiled with texts on Moroccan design and history.
Alternatively, book Riad Due via
Mr & Mrs Smith | Expedia or check TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Due
“The Riad’s evening menu is a feast for the senses, with modern-style tagines featuring chicken, meatballs, lamb with pomegranate, or seabass with sautéed artichokes.”
Riad Kniza is an 18th-century townhouse and an oasis of serene beauty hidden behind a plain façade in the maze of Medina’s streets and pathways. The hotel is celebrated for its authentic Moroccan decor, with 11 spacious rooms, fireplaces, and plenty of Moorish details. The soaring salons, spacious rooms, and tranquil patios are decorated with beautiful antiques, Berber rugs, silk sofas, and embroidered curtains. Kniza enchants with its tranquil atmosphere, with its smells, and sounds. During the day, the Riad is filled with bird songs, while a rose petal-filled fountain in the courtyard quietly gurgles in the hot afternoon. Nights are filled with music from local artists, played live. Completing the experience is Riad Kniza’s excellent restaurant, permitting guests to enjoy meals whenever and wherever they like. The Riad is situated inside Bab Doukkala, one of the nine main gates of the Medina.
Read more in the review from our stay: Riad Kniza.
Alternatively, book Riad Kniza via
Expedia | Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Kniza
Nestled within Marrakech’s medina, IZZA is an independent boutique property, seamlessly blending seven interconnected riads. Boasting 14 individually designed rooms, three courtyards, and three pools, the hotel offers a sensory journey. With a massage room, hammam spa, rooftop terrace, bar, and restaurant serving Moroccan cuisine, IZZA provides an authentic and immersive experience. Inspired by Morocco’s history and influenced by iconic figures like Jack Kerouac and Yves Saint Laurent, the property is adorned with over 300 framed art pieces, creating a captivating ambiance.
Alternatively, book IZZA Marrakech via
Mr & Mrs Smith or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © IZZA
The defining picture of Riad Vivre is that of a majestic waterfall gracefully pouring into the courtyard’s alluring plunge pool through shimmering cascades amid the fragrant whispers of bougainvillea and jasmine. The interior décor matches the tranquil experience. It is tastefully understated, showcasing refined mosaics that adorn the walls, ebony balustrades, and local brass lamps, exuding an air of unfussy sophistication. Berber-style rugs strewn atop meticulously tiled floors and plush leather poufs invite the feeling of comfort. The magnificent main bedroom captivates with a resplendent freestanding copper bathtub. The rooftop terrace provides a perfect relaxing spot by the plunge pool while enjoying mint tea or a mojito. This adults-only Riad can be reserved in its entirety for an extra-exclusive experience.
Alternatively, book Riad Vivre via Mr & Mrs Smith.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Vivre
“This idyllic oasis provides the ideal sanctuary for indulging in moments of tranquility and capturing stunning photographs. Make sure to spend an evening on the rooftop terrace, to dine and take in the panoramic vistas of Marrakech.”
Ksar Fawz & Spa captures the essence of Moroccan elegance. This enchanting Riad, formerly a regal palace, exudes authenticity in its 11 uniquely decorated rooms and suites — in the tapestry of textures, patterns, and hues that weave together to create an atmosphere of refined opulence. Imbued with a sense of artistry and attention to detail, the decor showcases a curated collection of flea-market finds, from Berber carpets to Tuareg mats, for an authentic Moroccan experience. In a deliberate act to foster a sense of tranquility and connection, televisions are intentionally absent from the rooms. At the heart of this Riad lies a charming patio adorned with a photogenic central pool that beckons guests to find respite from their adventures and bask in its refreshing waters.
Alternatively, book Riad Ksar Fawz & Spa via
Mr & Mrs Smith | Agoda or check TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Ksar Fawz & Spa
From Ottoman grand dames to uber-chic luxe newcomers
Riad Adore envelops its guests in impeccable service and a traditional Moroccan style with a contemporary twist, creating an oasis of tranquility amidst the bustling city. The experience is centered on two magnificent courtyards. An open-sided salon adorned with sumptuous fireside club chairs and sofas seamlessly connects the courtyards. Culinary delights are served in the indoor dining room, while leisure hours can be spent on the rooftop, with its tapestry of terraces. There is also a private library on the first-floor loggia. The ten resplendent bedrooms are adorned with Berber rugs on the floors and antique kaftans on the whitewashed walls — while intricately embroidered cushions and coverlets add a flourish of opulence to the expansive seating areas. Nestled discreetly off the main alley, Riad Adore exudes an aura of blissful seclusion while remaining conveniently accessible. A leisurely ten-minute stroll will transport you to the enchanting Djemaa el-Fna.
Alternatively, book Riad Adore via
Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Adore
Thanks to impressive restoration work, Dar Mo’Da has transformed a 19th-century townhouse into a haven of modern sophistication. Moorish influences blend seamlessly with contemporary decor throughout the Riad, with arched walkways and high ceilings creating a sense of grandeur. However, despite its opulence, Dar Mo’Da exudes an atmosphere more reminiscent of a house than a traditional hotel. The highlight of this fantastic Riad is the rooftop, offering a mesmerizing view of the Medina. Elevated seating allows you to witness spectacular sunsets, while another plunge pool invites lazy afternoons spent basking in the sunshine. Dar Mo’Da boasts five stunning rooms with four-poster beds and black-marble bathrooms. Some suites feature working fireplaces, and secluded private terraces, adding an extra layer of luxury.
Alternatively, book Riad Dar Mo’Da via
Expedia | Agoda or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Dar Mo’Da
Discover the top boutique hotels in the City of Lights
Riad Goloboy is a hidden gem in Sidi Mimoun. Driven by the owner’s tastes (which included a penchant for the Soviet aesthetic), the riad dazzles with unique design decisions and an art collection that pushes boundaries. Each element exudes personality and flair, from a stunning hot-pink canine sculpture in the lobby to a graffiti-adorned splash-back in the rooftop shower. The courtyard, awash in an eye-catching Majorelle blue, is a dazzling choice, serving as a striking backdrop to the art collection — and the sultry bedrooms. The eight guest rooms feature dark metallic tones; carefully chosen elements add depth and richness. The Catherine suite, for example, boasts aubergine walls, python-skin armchairs, and a fireplace trimmed with hand-beaten metal. The bar and sitting room have charcoal tadelakt finishes, pastel armchairs, and luxurious gold velvet banquettes.
Alternatively, book Riad Goloboy via
Hotels.com or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Goloboy
Riad Jaaneman is a luxurious boutique riad that stands out among the boutique Riad hotels in Marrakech with the beautiful style of its romantic suites. They feature four poster beds, delicate Italian bedding, marble floors, enormous bathrooms, and balconies with stunning views towards the Atlas mountains. The Riad’s glorious courtyard and roof terrace offer tranquil spaces to relax and unwind. Beautifully designed spaces include the shaded plunge pool surrounded by tall palms and banana trees. Only five suites are here, ensuring the Riad always feels exclusive and intimate.
Alternatively, book Riad Jaaneman via
Mr & Mrs Smith | Expedia | Agoda or check TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Riad Jaaneman
“Brighter, sunnier, somehow friendlier than the average riad hotel — maybe it’s the owners, a couple of designers, one Dutch and the other Spanish, but for whatever reason, Ryad Dyor stands out.” — Check-in to Ryad Dyor; enter House of Light
The place comprises two houses with only seven rooms. There is a courtyard plunge pool, while the rooftop terrace is the ideal evening lounge. The breakfasts are simple but delicious (think honey, jams, a selection of warm Moroccan bread, excellent coffee, and fresh juice). The rooms offer plentiful sunlight and an eclectic collection of furniture, art, and antiques that blend Moroccan, European, and Far East styles. Ryad Dyor’s tranquil vibe and classy looks make it one of the top boutique riads in Marrakech. The place’s address is in the Sidi Ben Slimane neighborhood of the Medina, which is at least a 20-minute walk from the Jemaa-el-Fna square.
Read more in the review from our stay: Ryad Dyor
Alternatively, book Ryad Dyor via
Tablet Hotels | Expedia or see what others think on TripAdvisor.
Official Website. Photos © Ryad Dyor
Where to stay in Marrakech
The below shortlist makes a worthy companion to the main list.
Getting there: The flight-comparison sites such as Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.com) or Kayak (www.kayak.com) will help you find the best flights and deals.
Disclosure: We earn commissions for purchases made through links in this post.
Author: Travel+Style. Last updated: 15/11/2024
