Wondering where to stay in Marrakech? Each neighborhood in Marrakech has its own flair, pros and cons. Check out this guide to the best places to stay in Marrakech and find out their pros and cons.
The North African country Morocco, which conjures up images of exotically adorned belly dancers and the vastness of the Sahara, is a country with diverse landscapes and a melting pot of cultures from all over the world.
At its heart is the popular destination of Marrakech, a vibrant city that exudes a mystical atmosphere and invites travelers from all over the world to explore the winding paths of the centuries-old medina.
Visitors to the city are spoiled for choice in every respect: world-class museums, decadent food and indulgent day spas that adopt the techniques of the country’s ancient hammams, where men and women went their separate ways to enjoy the everyday luxuries of steam baths and body scrubs.
Where to stay in Marrakech: The best places in Marrakech
The most famous part of the city is the walled medina – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for every visitor – but the city has much more to offer than just the walls.
There are plenty of luxurious riads in the best areas of Marrakech, but you can also find top-class accommodation in selected districts.
1. The Medina, the best area for a stay in Marrakech
The old medina is probably one of the best places to spend the night in Marrakech. It is surrounded by over 20 kilometers of bricks that are up to 9 meters high and were once used to protect the inhabitants.
It is the heart of the city and its pulsating energy attracts visitors who want to experience the glowing vitality of this district. Many of the city’s most important attractions are located in the medina:
- the Bahia Palace, whose whimsical architecture and colorful motifs are an Instagram dream;
- the Djemaa El Fna, the city’s central square, where snake charmers and henna artists are just some of the colorful characters that populate the square;
- and the Marrakech Museum, where visitors can find art, books, jewelry and much more produced by the various cultures that have populated the city over the centuries.
The medina is also home to the various souks or markets, where visitors can haggle with vendors for a hand-woven rug or a pair of decorative moccasins before perusing the colorful piles of spices and teas laid out for shoppers.
Part of the fun of exploring the city is wandering through the winding alleyways and finding a charming café perched above the streets with incredible views of the Koutoubia Mosque.
Transportation to and from the most popular attractions can usually be done on foot when staying in the medina, while access to attractions outside the city walls may require a cab.
Fortunately, the staff at many riads can arrange airport transfers and other transportation for guests for a small fee.
Travelers staying in the medina are spoilt for choice: locally run riads line the streets, but spacious apartments and villas can also be rented.
Many of the best riads – those with the best service, facilities and location – book up quickly, as this type of accommodation usually has fewer rooms than traditional hotels. It’s best to book early, especially if budget is an issue.
Travelers will find the absolute best deals at a handful of hostels in the medina that swap private rooms and toilets for exceptional deals.
Some accommodations call themselves hotels, but are more like a bed and breakfast or a riad, as they are located in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Most accommodation in the medina is affordably priced, but there are also some upmarket riads that are more expensive in line with the upmarket services and amenities.
BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN MEDINA
- ($$$) Royal Mansour Marrakech 👈
- ($$) Gem Riad 👈
- ($) Riad Rose Du Desert 👈
2. Kasbah, a place steeped in history in Marrakech
The Kasbah is technically a sub-quarter of the medina, located near the south gate, which was specifically designated as the entrance to the royal Kasbah.
As it is part of the larger medina, the neighborhood benefits from many of the same charms and advantages as the medina; however, the accommodation options are more limited in a smaller space.
A special attraction located directly in the Kasbah quarter of the medina are the Saadian Tombs, a beautifully decorated relic of the Saadian dynasty made of Italian Carrara marble and solid gold.
The graves were almost forgotten until they were rediscovered in 1917 and have been carefully restored ever since.
After a day of sightseeing, many visitors retire to their riads to dine locally. There are also a handful of independent restaurants in the Kasbah district, offering guests even more choice.
Similar to the larger medina, the Kasbah is within walking distance of most attractions, making it one of the best places to visit in Marrakech in terms of location.
There are two major public transportation stops that are served by several bus lines, making it easy for residents of the neighborhood to get around when they are tired of walking.
Riads are the main accommodation in this area, and most are located around the Saadian Tombs. Prices are average for Marrakech, although a few are neither overly luxurious nor super-cheap.
The accommodation in this district is pleasant and the riads are mostly rated very highly in terms of location, service and comfort.
BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN KASBAH
- ($$$) La Sultana Marrakech 👈
- ($$) Riad Kasbah & Spa 👈
- ($) Les Rêves De Marrakech 👈
3. Mellah, where you can live in the old Jewish quarter in Marrakech
History-loving travelers will want to visit the Mellah district of Marrakech, and many who visit will find it a charming option when choosing where to stay in Marrakech.
The Mellah is the old Jewish quarter of the city and serves as an excellent reminder of the ever-changing cultural mix that has shaped the city’s past.
The synagogues and shrines stand in stark contrast to the predominant Islamic architecture and decorative art outside this neighborhood, and the old wooden buildings located here add to the historic atmosphere.
Visitors can visit the Jewish cemetery or explore the souks, of which the spice markets are particularly noteworthy.
One of the most beautiful museums in the district is the Heritage Museum, a carefully restored 17th century riad that houses the collection of a family that owns tribal jewelry, Andalusian embroidery and Jewish artifacts, among other things.
After visiting the exhibition rooms, guests can retire to the roof terrace, from where they have a breathtaking view of the nearby Jemaa El Fna Square.
The old Jewish quarter is located southeast of the medina, and there are numerous accommodation options.
The proximity to the medina means that it is very easy to get around the Mellah district on foot; there are also a relatively large number of public transport stops, especially on the outskirts of the district.
When deciding between different districts in Marrakech, Mellah is a good choice:
- There are numerous riads in the neighborhood, many of which boast luxurious amenities such as hammams, restaurants and pools;
- the location is convenient to the Medina and close to various other attractions;
- and the prices are reasonable for the comfort offered.
THE BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN MARRAKECH IN MELLAH
- ($$$) Riad La Vie 👈
- ($$) Riad Bayti 👈
- ($) Riad des Etoiles 👈
4. Hivernage, the luxury accommodation in Marrakech
Attracting mainly a young and stylish crowd, the Hivernage district offers spectacular decadence and upscale bars and restaurants amidst some of the most expensive accommodation in Marrakech.
The city’s first casino brought this neighborhood to life, and it has since developed into a top-class oasis that extends to the borders of the Agdal district.
Hivernage is lined with numerous green spaces such as Lalla Hasna Park and Cyber Park. During the day it looks like a lush green suburb, but at night the neighborhood comes alive thanks to the high concentration of nightclubs and luxury hotels, often frequented by visitors looking to spend big on their travels.
The Instagram-worthy restaurants in this area offer stunning interiors and international menus, but also many traditional Moroccan offerings. The proximity to the city center makes this neighborhood a top choice for luxury travelers.
There is affordable accommodation in the Hivernage district, but the real appeal of the district lies in its expensive elegance; this is the place for a high-end Marrakech vacation.
However, it’s important to remember that while this neighborhood is known for its luxurious accommodations, luxury in Marrakech is often much more affordable than anywhere else in the world. Travelers get more bang for their buck when they splurge in the Red City.
While one of the most expensive hotels in the world (The Royal Mansur) is located in Hivernage (and in the medina), there are also several riads and hotels in this neighborhood that would be considered bargains elsewhere in the world, given their high-end amenities.
From on-site spas to relaxing pools, Hivernage is the neighborhood where visitors go to be pampered.
BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN HIVERNAGE
- ($$$) Four Seasons Resort Marrakech 👈
- ($$) Hivernage Secret Suites & Garden 👈
- ($) AppartHotel Atrani 👈
5. Gueliz, where to stay in Marrakech for the nightlife
The young and hip district of Gueliz stands in stark contrast to the traditional mystique of the old medina of Marrakech and is often referred to as the European quarter.
The district, which radiates out from the central square, is dominated by Parc El Harti and is a hotspot for high-end restaurants and cafés.
In contrast to the markets in the historic city center, the stores in the Gueliz district are more upmarket and the shopkeepers do not encourage haggling to get the best price.
The MACMA Museum of Marrakech displays works by historical and contemporary Moroccan artists as well as other cultural exhibits.
The most striking feature of this district is the relative abundance of bars and nightclubs. As the population in Marrakech is predominantly Islamic, bars and other venues serving alcohol are few and far between, but the Gueliz district is a hotspot for live music and creative cocktails.
This is one of the best places to stay in Marrakech for travelers who want to get a taste of the nightlife of this vibrant city without spending too much time in Hivernage.
Hotels and apartments are among the most common types of accommodation in the Gueliz district, and room prices are mostly very affordable.
Some of the hotels have spas, which are much cheaper than the famous and photographed hammams in the city’s luxury hotels.
There are also several riads in this neighborhood, and the converted houses are ideal for guests who want a more personal experience.
Compared to other parts of the city, there is an abundance of public transport here, making it easy to get from the main sights to the accommodation in Gueliz.
BEST ACCOMMODATION IN MARRAKECH IN GUELIZ
- ($$$) Radisson Blu Marrakech, Carré Eden 👈
- ($$) 2Ciels Boutique Hôtel 👈
- ($) Hôtel Racine 👈
6. Palmeraie, a picturesque and relaxing accommodation in Marrakech
It is possible to experience the best of Moroccan adventure activities without ever really leaving the Red City. Palmeraie is the neighborhood where you can ride dirt bikes and camels without spending hours on a guided tour through the desert.
A picturesque plot of land with palm trees that look like a mirage in the desert characterizes this district, which is known for its exquisite hotels and upscale restaurants.
Those who decide to stay in Marrakech will find this area particularly attractive due to the numerous activities, the quiet location outside the city and the numerous nightlife options.
Travelers staying in the Palmeraie can not only ride camels and quads through the sand, but also spend a relaxing day away from the hustle and bustle of the city on the area’s golf course.
As Palmeraie is further out than other parts of the city, transport links are an important factor when staying in Palmeraie. Renting a car can be risky in the busy streets of Marrakech, but cabs and ride-sharing services can make your stay in this neighborhood easier.
It is also possible to enquire at the hotel or riad whether a shuttle service is offered to and from the airport if you are arriving via Marrakech Menara Airport.
Accommodation in the Jardins de la Palmeraie can be expensive, especially when you consider that room rates can be well under 100 dollars a night, even within the city. These homes usually exude luxury and offer large swimming pools and other upscale amenities.
The rental apartments in this neighborhood are also expensive and offer many of the same amenities as the luxury hotels. Properties further away from the Palms tend to be less expensive, but in general, the area caters to travelers who are willing to spend more money for a luxurious stay.
BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN PALMERAIE
- ($$$) Les Deux Tours 👈
- ($$$) Domaine Rosaroum 👈
- ($$) Palais Mehdi 👈
7. Agdal, spacious area with affordable prices
Located south of the city center, the Agdal district is a comparatively new suburb that includes areas outside the walls of the medina, up to 20 minutes by car from the city center.
Deciding where to stay in the Agdal district of Marrakech can be difficult due to the large number of accommodation options in this neighborhood.
Most of the accommodation is independently owned riads, which can be found in most neighborhoods and many of which include breakfast in the room rate.
Some of these riads also offer a small pool or jacuzzi where you can relax after a long day of sightseeing. In addition to the riads, there are also a handful of hostels in this district, but the prices in the riads are very reasonable and often cheaper.
There are also several hotels and villas in Agdal, with the best public transportation being close to the medina.
The Agdal is one of the best areas in Marrakech for visitors who want to stay close to the city center without being exposed to the noise of the bustling markets, which are filled to the brim. It’s also a great place for travelers on a budget.
Cafés and restaurants are plentiful in Agdal, although many riads have their own restaurants, which is also reflected in the numerous dining options in the area.
The Jardins de l’Agdal is a large botanical garden to the south of the royal palace, which is easy to reach during a stay in Agdal.
As the district is quite extensive and varied, visitors who prefer to be close to the action will find accommodation just as easily as those looking for a quieter stay.
THE BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN MARRAKECH IN AGDAL
- ($$$) Sirayane Boutique Hotel & Spa Marrakech 👈
- ($$) Al Fassia Aguedal 👈
- ($) Guest House Soir De Marrakech 👈
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Frequently asked questions :
What is the best way to get around in Marrakech?
The best way to get around Marrakech is on foot. Most of the main attractions are located in the medina or can be reached on foot from there. Alternatively, you can also take a calèche (horse-drawn carriage) or one of the ALSA tourist buses to many popular sights in Marrakech.
What types of accommodation are there in Marrakech?
Accommodation in Marrakech includes budget riads, mid-range riads and luxury hotels. Riads are traditional Moroccan houses built around a courtyard and offer a unique experience. Hotels in the new city consist of chain hotels and upscale resorts, often with amenities such as golf courses and swimming pools.
How much does accommodation cost in Marrakech?
Prices for accommodation in Marrakech range from £25 – £35 per room per night for budget riads, £60 – £200 per room per night for upmarket riads and £300 per room per night for luxury hotels.
What safety tips are there for a visit to Marrakech?
Safety tips for a visit to Marrakech include not walking through the souk at night, not wearing flashy or expensive jewelry, not carrying large amounts of cash and refusing unwanted attention.
Where are the best neighborhoods in Marrakech?
The best neighborhoods in Marrakech include Djemaa El Fna, Mouassine and the Ville Nouvelle (New Town). Each neighborhood offers a unique experience, from the local atmosphere to great monuments, museums and pretty squares.
More beautiful places to travel
Where can you stay overnight in Bali? The 7 best areas and places to stay overnight
