Where to stay in Marrakesh, Morocco

Booking a place to stay in a new country and even a new culture much different from your own can be rough. But I’m sure you know that, and that’s why you’re here.

There is so much information all over the internet to choose from, that it can become overwhelming. First you should consider when you are going, your budget vs the time you want to spend being confused and stressed.

My experience was traveling with another girlfriend of mine, and we both had never been to Morocco (me never have been to an Islamic country or Africa). We decided with our 9 days in Morocco, we would settle on Marrakesh.

We agreed we wanted the following for our accommodation:

Under $150 a night
Safe, clean, and comfortable place to stay within walking distance of everything in the city
Pool or sundeck
A ‘cultural’ looking hotel
Breakfast included
Airport transfer

We also wanted to get a bigger experience, so we booked 2 different hotels.

Why stay in a Riad vs a Hotel?

A Riad is basically a boutique hotel, but is treated with a family atmosphere. The design of the Riad usually has 3 or more levels with the main floor being a small, open courtyard with no roof that has a fountain, or small pools. The second floor would be the rooms surrounding the courtyard, and the third level could be an upper terrace for views of the city. Riads are more personal and give you a better cultural perspective of Moroccan culture. So, skip the hotel and choose the Riad.

Riad Kheirredine

Price: €150-€240 per night
Love it? Book this hotel!

Pros: The service is absolutely impeccable. Owned by Italians, the staff will do anything for the guests and always keep a fun attitude. They know you by name, and go the extra mile and cater activities based on what you like (a staff member offered to run before work with my travel mate).

Cons: Not many. The WiFi is a bit weak, but that is more of a Morocco issue. We weren’t able to use FaceTime, Skype, or send images very quickly through text.

Riad le Clos de Arts

Price: €100-€180 per night
Love it? Book this hotel!

Pros: The space felt warm and inviting, with a charming European couple owning the riad. Every room is very detail oriented. We were given great advice about Marrakesh, and even when we were rushing to get to the airport (we thought we would be late), they helped us calm down, and get organized for our departure.

Cons: The staff was not as friendly as Riad Kheirredine, but they were still pleasant. The WiFi has also the same issues, it being a bit more dodgy.