Where to Stay in Marrakech
RiadsOne of the most sought after accommodations in Marrakech is a Riad, a traditional Moroccan house situated in the Medina (old town). All riads have a central courtyard that will often have a fountain, restaurant or a pool. Some riads also have rooftop terraces where you can eat breakfast and look out over the city. Click here for a comprehensive list of riads in Marrakech which include photos and prices. Riads are not all expensive, check out the Maison Mnabha, Dar Mouassine and the Hotel Sherazade where you can stay in style but pay less than $100 for a double.
There are two Riads in Marrakech that have made my Top Ten Places to Stay in Morocco, they are:
- La Maison Arabe; a luxury Ryad in the heart of the Marrakech Medina. Famous for its restaurant it also offers 13 rooms overlooking two courtyards and a beautiful hammam (traditional Moroccan sauna). You can catch hourly shuttles to the hotel's cooking school (20 minutes away) with swimming pool and gardens.
Rates: From USD 160 per room per night.
- Riad Kniza; situated in the heart of Marrakech's Medina just a few minutes walk from the Djemma el Fna (the main square). This small, romantic, beautifully furnished traditional Riad has 7 rooms, two lounges, a courtyard and several patios. The owner is an antique dealer and extremely knowledgeable about Marrakech. The Riad Kniza comes very highly recommended with glowing reviews from all who stay here.
Rates: From USD 195 per room per night.
Hotels
Marrakech has lots of luxury hotels available including the famous La Mamounia, recently refurbished and featured in the Sex and the City 2 movie. There are also several popular chain hotels like the Le Meridien, and Sofitel. These hotels are often housed in historic buildings and retain the Moroccan character and style. The most famous luxury hotel in Marrakech is La Mamounia which Winston Churchill described as "the most beautiful place in the world".
Budget hotels are also plentiful and Bootsnall has a decent listing of hotels ranging from $45-$100 per night. Since many of the smaller budget hotels won't have web sites or online booking facilities you should get a good guide book, like the Lonely Planet and follow their recommendations. Most budget accommodation is situated south of the Djemaa el Fna.
Morocco: Guide to Marrakech
Page One: Introduction and When to GoPage Two: What to See in Marrakech
Page Three: Getting Around Marrakech
