Where to stay in Marrakech: riads, areas and our tips

In short: for a first visit, stay in a riad in the medina, within walking distance of Jemaa el-Fna square. For a practical, modern base, Gueliz; for families or big hotels, Hivernage; for a quiet break with a pool, the Palmeraie or a night in the Agafay desert. A stay of a few days can easily combine two atmospheres.

Understanding Marrakech in two minutes

At the heart of the city, the walled medina is home to Jemaa el-Fna square, the souks, the palaces and the riads. To the south lie the kasbah and the Saadian Tombs. Outside the walls, to the west, is the modern city: Gueliz, with its avenues, restaurants and the train station, and Hivernage, the area of big hotels. To the north-east is the Palmeraie with its villas; about forty kilometres away, the Agafay desert and its camps.

The right area for your trip

The riad experience: the medina

A riad is a traditional house built around a courtyard, often with a fountain, a rooftop terrace and sometimes a small pool. Staying in the medina means living Marrakech from the inside: Jemaa el-Fna, the souks, Bahia Palace and the Ben Youssef Madrasa are on foot.

• Around Jemaa el-Fna and Mouassine: closest to everything, but lively.
• Riad Zitoun and the kasbah: a little quieter, near the palaces and the Saadian Tombs.
• The outer parts of the medina: more authentic and often more affordable, but further from taxis.

Practical and modern: Gueliz

Wide avenues, cafés, restaurants, shops and the train station: Gueliz is ideal for a practical stay, solo or for a few nights before heading into the Atlas. The Majorelle Garden is close by. The medina is a few minutes away by taxi.

Families and comfort: Hivernage

Between Gueliz and the medina, Hivernage has big hotels with pools and gardens, restaurants and lively nightlife. Handy for families, with easy car access.

Relaxation and pools: the Palmeraie

Villas, guesthouses and luxury hotels among the palm trees, with big pools: the Palmeraie is ideal for resting. Allow for a taxi or shuttle to reach the medina.

A night in the desert: Agafay

Less than an hour’s drive away, the stony Agafay desert has camps and lodges with views of the Atlas: a night under the stars, without the long drive to Merzouga.

Choosing the right riad

1. Access: ask how far the car drop-off point is, especially with suitcases.
2. Heating and air conditioning: winter nights are cool, and summer is very hot.
3. Terrace and pool: a real bonus for resting between visits.
4. Noise: the call to prayer and the bustle are part of the experience; if you are a light sleeper, avoid riads right next to the square.
5. Breakfast, often served on the terrace, and whether you can have dinner on site.

Getting to Marrakech

Marrakech Menara Airport is only about fifteen minutes from the centre. Taxis are plentiful; agree on the fare before setting off, or ask your riad to arrange your transfer. A pre-booked transfer is the simplest way to reach a riad in the medina.

Our booking tips

1. Book early for school holidays, Easter and the festive season.
2. Allow for the tourist tax, charged per person per night, often paid on site.
3. Combine two atmospheres: a few nights in a riad, then a night in the Palmeraie or Agafay.
4. Choose free cancellation when it is offered.

Once you’re there

To plan your days, see our guide Things to do in Marrakech and our guide Travel in Morocco. The areas and useful services are on our Marrakech page.