Discover the world of Moroccan riads, a blend of tradition and art of living
Symbols of understated refinement, the best riads in Morocco offer one of the most authentic expressions of Moroccan art de vivre. Staying in these traditional houses means entering an intimate world where Moorish architecture meets sunlit patios, the scent of orange blossoms, and the warm hospitality so characteristic of the country. From Marrakech to Fes and Essaouira, each riad carries its own story, shaped over generations by the families who lived there.
The word “riad” comes from the Arabic riyâd, meaning “garden,” an image that makes perfect sense when you step inside these homes arranged around a central courtyard. With fountains, colorful zellige tiles, lush plants and shifting shadows, these patios were designed as cool retreats in the heart of the medina.
Carefully restored today, Moroccan riads blend traditional craftsmanship with modern comfort. Many have become guesthouses or boutique hotels, offering a peaceful and elegant experience to travelers seeking authenticity. A quiet interlude away from the bustle of the cities, and one of the finest ways to discover Morocco in its most intimate form.
Riads in Marrakech
Marrakech comes alive at dawn, in the ochre lanes of the medina where the shops slowly wake up. Behind the red-earth walls, the best riads in Marrakech offer a soothing contrast, built around shaded patios and cool rooms where time seems to slow down. The city blends the energy of its souks with the softness of its inner gardens, an ideal setting to discover the Moroccan art of living through a stay in a traditional riad.
Riad Kniza
⚲ 34 Derb L’Hotel Bab Doukkala, Médina – Marrakesh
You’ll find Riad Kniza in the Bab Doukkala district, behind a discreet door that reveals nothing at first, then suddenly opens onto a silent patio, a complete contrast with the hum of Marrakech. Once inside, the rhythm settles. The lounges play with textures and materials: zellige tiles like splashes of color, finely carved wood, carpets that soften each step, an ensemble reminiscent of the old medina houses where one still senses traces of past lives.
The rooms extend this atmosphere, each in its own way. Some open onto a shaft of light, others onto a more intimate corner, with tones that shift from soft to deeper shades. Nothing feels standardized. Everything seems designed to preserve privacy and offer a place to breathe after wandering the medina’s maze.
After nightfall, the mood changes gently. The sounds of the city fade, the fountains whisper under the arcades, and this traditional riad in Marrakech becomes a calming refuge, a place where evenings linger before returning to the city’s vibrant pace.
Riad BE Marrakech
⚲ Derb Sidi Lahcen O Ali, Quartier Bab Doukkala, Médina – Marrakesh
Riad BE Marrakech seems to hold itself slightly apart, like a house that prefers discretion. The walls blend old stone with more contemporary touches, an easy balance that tells its story without showing off. Inside, some rooms overlook an intimate patio, others a terrace where the air settles at the end of the day, when the medina finally slows down. You imagine a few curtains stirring softly, a pale sky above the roof, the distant hum of Marrakech, then that gentle feeling of being both here and elsewhere, sheltered inside a riad at the heart of the medina.
In the morning, the light enters without warning. It slides across tiled walls, lingers on half-closed shutters, and the whole house opens gradually. The day begins quietly, as if the riad itself knew you needed time to adjust to the unique rhythm of Marrakech and the timeless charm of riads in Morocco.
El Fenn
⚲ Derb Moulay Abdullah Ben Hezzian, Bab El Ksour, Médina – Marrakesh
El Fenn was created in 2004 in the medina of Marrakech, after the careful restoration of several riads in the Bab El Ksour district. The transformation was guided by a real love of art, color and details that set an atmosphere almost effortlessly. You move from one patio to a spacious terrace, then along a nearly silent corridor, before stepping into a room shaped by light and shade. Quiet pools, lounges dressed in traditional materials, contemporary artworks that feel at home, nothing is static, everything seems alive.
The rooms and suites each form their own universe, with Moroccan textures, unexpected volumes and shadows that change throughout the day. Sometimes the morning brightens everything at once, sometimes you wait for the light to shift. In the evening, the rooftop takes over. The city stretches out below, the Atlas Mountains appear on the horizon, and the air turns soft. You linger there, unsure whether it’s the view or the calm, or simply the feeling that this riad knows how to slow time.
Riad Yasmine
⚲ 209, rue Ank Jemel, Bab Taghzout, Médina – Marrakesh
On a quiet street in Bab Taghzout, Riad Yasmine appears slightly withdrawn, in a part of the medina that seems to breathe differently. You push a discreet door and the patio opens suddenly, clear and almost minimalist, with a refreshing coolness that surprises after the narrow streets outside. Around it, the rooms and suites form a harmonious circle, each with a detail that draws the eye: carved wood, green tiles, a simple but precise touch that shapes the atmosphere.
Higher up, the rooftop follows its own slow rhythm. The space fills gently in late afternoon, when the light begins to fade and a particular calm settles over Bab Taghzout. Nothing dramatic, just a quiet pause. This riad in Marrakech keeps a slower pace, almost silent, offering a welcome break from the city’s lively streets.
La Maison Arabe
⚲ 1 Derb Assehbe, Bab Doukkala, Médina – Marrakesh
La Maison Arabe stretches through a vast residence in Bab Doukkala, a succession of patios and galleries where you move effortlessly from cool shade to softly lit salons. The rooms and suites reflect the essence of Marrakech: delicate stucco, beldi floors, light woodwork, an ensemble that avoids showiness and instead creates a serene, luminous atmosphere. Each space keeps its own character, sometimes intimate, sometimes more open.
A little further on, the garden and pools bring unexpected freshness to this part of the medina, like a natural echo to the lively streets outside. By the end of the day, when footsteps fade in the hallways, the house settles into a gentle calm. It feels like a peaceful manor, an iconic Marrakech riad where you regain your breath after exploring the city.
Riad Hikaya
⚲ 252 Rue Sidi Mansour, Kasbah – Marrakesh
Riad Hikaya occupies an old house of the royal Kasbah, patiently restored over several years by artisans who reworked each wall and each molding with respect for local craftsmanship. The eight suites unfold around two quiet patios, with custom-made furniture, warm materials and soft lighting that highlights the carved wood and zellige. The whole place feels familiar, almost domestic, as if the house had recovered its natural breath.
The heated indoor pool adds a muted, suspended ambiance, extended by the hammam and rooftop jacuzzi. The attention to service shows in the small gestures: fresh fruit, flowers, carefully arranged linens. These details make you feel like a welcomed guest. At dawn, light filters between tiles set by hand, and time seems to slow. A rare pause in this lively part of Marrakech where the city wakes quickly around its riads.
Les Jardins de la Medina
⚲ 21 Derb Chtouka Kasbah – Marrakesh
Les Jardins de la Medina now stand on the grounds of an old palace in the Kasbah, within a vast estate where you first walk through an unexpectedly lush garden, nearly three thousand square meters of foliage and quiet clearings. Then, almost hidden along a green corridor, the pool appears, followed by terraces that hold shade for much of the day. The rooms, on the first or second floor, open onto patios planted with trees and jasmine. Some have small sitting areas, ideal for families who like to travel at a slower pace.
The whole property blends discreet modern comfort with traditional details: stucco, fountains, narrow passages that recall the nearby medina. You move from one space to another with the feeling of sliding between eras, step by step, without trying to understand how everything fits together. In the evening, the garden slows down. The scent of flowers spreads, the light softens, and this riad in Marrakech withdraws slightly from the city’s noise, as if closing its eyes for the night.
La Sultana Marrakech
⚲ 403 rue de la Kasbah – Marrakesh
In the Kasbah, La Sultana Marrakech emerges like a moving mosaic, a collection of riads connected to form a labyrinth of sculpted patios. The silence is thick, almost solemn, as if the walls still remembered the dynasties that shaped the city. Each detail carries the trace of an attentive hand, the work of artisans who understand wood, stone and clay.
Cedar ceilings, zellige tiles set one by one, light that clings then slips away, everything seems made to tame time or at least slow it. Up on the rooftops, the city stretches without rushing in a soft, hazy light. Beneath the arcades, a quiet breath moves through the air, a faint echo of the Marrakech of old, still present at the heart of this exceptional riad.
Riad Dar Anika
⚲ 112 Riad Zitoun Lakdim – Marrakesh
At the entrance to the souk, Riad Dar Anika preserves a surprising calm, like a house that has chosen to remain slightly withdrawn. Once you pass the carved door, the bustle fades and only the patio’s freshness remains, that quiet sense of water moving somewhere, unhurried. Twelve rooms, each with its own way of welcoming guests, a hammam, a pool and several corners to settle into without thinking, as if everything had been arranged so nothing would be missing.
In the evening, the terrace opens onto the tight rooftops of the medina. The light lingers, hesitates, then turns toward the Atlas Mountains. You stay for a moment, sometimes longer, carried by the end of the day and the comforting atmosphere of a traditional Moroccan riad.
Palais Sebban
⚲ 43 Derb Moulay Abdellah Ben Hsseine – Marrakesh
Behind its ochre walls, Palais Sebban reveals its lounges with the slow rhythm of an old story opening page by page. Once the home of Caïd Sebban and restored without haste, the house carries a particular presence, almost reminiscent of Fes, floating quietly at the heart of Marrakech. Cedar ceilings, carefully placed zellige tiles, light filtering through moucharabieh screens, all shaped by patient craftsmanship.
In the patio, silence settles naturally. A fountain murmurs lightly and its echo dissolves between the columns. You feel the place encouraging you to linger, to slow down, to notice details that only appear to those who take their time. A riad in Marrakech where you stop simply to watch the day pass and realize that this is enough.
Riad Jardin Secret
⚲ Dar el Bacha – 43-46 Arset Aouzal – Marrakesh
Riad Jardin Secret lives up to its name, like a whisper behind a door left slightly open. Hidden in a discreet alley, it holds onto a sense of quiet detachment, as if the years had brushed past without ever disturbing it. Cyrielle and Julien, who arrived from Paris with a few dreams in their luggage, have placed objects collected over time throughout the house, almost intuitively.
Here, nothing is overwhelming. No screens, no air-conditioning, only light moving through the rooms and shadows stretching across the walls. At times, you catch the artisans’ work resonating like a breath — steady, then slower — a subtle rhythm that accompanies each step. The house follows its own tempo, unhurried, open to simple gestures and the inspiration that rises from silence, faithful to the spirit of riads in Morocco.
Occasionally, an artist in residence stays for a few days. They leave small traces — a line of color on the stairs, a sketch forgotten in a corner, a light memory. Then everything returns to place, slightly different. The riad continues, calm, almost motionless, yet always awake.
Riads in Fes
Fes reveals a more labyrinthine medina, where every turn leads to a workshop, a minaret or a carved doorway. The riads in Fes carry this ancient story forward with their zellige tiles, cedar ceilings and quiet patios. The city naturally encourages you to slow down, shaped by a craft culture that is still very much alive.
Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux
⚲ 5 Derb Ben Slimane Zerbtana – Fès
Riad Fès occupies a former 14th century palace, restored to reveal its original Fassi architecture. The house is arranged around four patios, each with its own style. The first remains quite classic. The second recalls Andalusian arches. Further in, a more baroque space brings a different note before you reach an inner garden where fig trees and ferns grow as if they had always been there.
The rooftop terrace offers a wide view over the medina and the surrounding hills. The light changes throughout the day and shifts the mood of the place. In the garden, orange trees, a marble fountain and the pool create a peaceful setting, ideal for a break after visiting Fes.
The whole riad keeps a refined spirit, balancing heritage and more contemporary touches without ever trying to impress.
Riad Laaroussa
⚲ Bechara، 3 Derb Serraj – Fès
Set in a 17th century palace restored in 2006, Riad Laaroussa is built around a large courtyard planted with orange trees. The calm contrasts with the lively nearby streets. Old lounges, fireplaces and generous volumes recall the time when the house belonged to Minister Mehdi Mnebhi. It later became a Quranic school, a past that still shows through in subtle ways.
The terrace overlooks the medina and Mount Zalagh. The view changes with the light, sometimes sharp, sometimes more hazy. Many guests simply sit there to watch the city.
The riad lives at the pace of the neighborhood. The team, originally from Fes, knows the area well and regularly supports the children of the Amal Center. Environmental awareness is also part of the project. Altogether, it remains true to a simple, grounded kind of hospitality.
Palais Faraj
⚲ Bab Ziat, Medina – Fès
Built in the 19th century by the Bensouda family, Palais Faraj overlooks the medina from a hill. It stays slightly set back, which lets you enjoy the city without its constant noise. Long abandoned, it was restored in 2012 by Fassi maâllims. Salvaged zellige tiles, hand-carved stucco and revived colors have brought the building back to life.
Painted ceilings, old rugs and Fassi pottery recall the history of the place without turning it into a frozen decor. Around the pool and on the terraces, the view of the medina is one of its main assets, especially at the end of the day.
The house preserves the Arab-Andalusian tradition while remaining functional and comfortable for a stay in a riad in Fes.
Riad Fes Maya
⚲ Avenue Ben Mohamed El Alaoui, N°12 Derb Debbagh Bourjouaa – Fès
In the heart of the medina, Riad Fes Maya occupies an old palace restored in an Arab-Andalusian spirit. Zellige, carved plaster and cedar wood shape a discreet entrance. You walk through a quiet patio before reaching the nine rooms and suites, each bathed in soft light.
The terrace overlooks the southern fortress. Many guests stop there for tea or to enjoy a home-cooked Fassi meal. Fatima’s cooking often becomes one of the highlights of the stay.
The spa completes the riad with a traditional hammam and treatments using local oils. The overall rhythm remains calm, suited to travelers who want to discover Fes without rushing.
Riad Rcif
⚲ Avenue Ben Mohamed El Alaoui – Fès
Once the palace of the Pasha of Fes, built in 1372, Riad Rcif showcases traditional Fassi craftsmanship. Carved cedar, hand-cut zellige tiles and old doors recall the time when the house set the pace of the neighborhood. The 2012 renovation enhanced this architecture without over-modernizing it. At the entrance, light from the patio reveals the relief of the plasterwork and the worked columns.
The riad has eight rooms, all different. Heavy fabrics, hammered copper and historic details create the feeling of a house that has been lived in for generations. The terrace offers an open view of the medina and the southern fortress, perfect for a break after exploring the city.
The riad is located near Bab Jdid, just a few minutes from the tanneries, the Qarawiyyin Mosque and the souks.
Riad Salam
⚲ 18 Derb Bennis Douh, Ziat-Batha – Fès
On a quiet street in the medina, Riad Salam Fes is a house where plaster, wood and zellige tiles regain their natural place. The patina on the walls hints at the age of the building. At the center, the pool brings welcome freshness and links the Lalla Rkia and Lalla Batoul lounges, two rooms associated with simple, home-style Fassi cuisine.
The bedrooms are understated, with materials chosen for comfort and harmony. From the terrace, the view over the imperial city and surrounding hills invites you to pause for a while. The riad offers discreet hospitality, in keeping with the spirit of traditional houses in Fes.
Riad Anata
⚲ Derb El Hamia 16b – Fès
Just a short walk from the Dar Batha Museum, Riad Anata blends contemporary lines with Andalusian heritage. It was restored by Belgian interior designer Audrey Vermeersch. The host, Valérie Janczewski, often shares her attachment to Fes, a city she knows intimately. The rooms are bright and calm, designed for a simple, restful stay.
The terrace looks directly over the medina and remains pleasant morning and evening. Cooking classes led by Samira or Hassania attract curious guests. A visit to the markets usually precedes a shared meal on the rooftop.
Dar Bensouda
⚲ 14 Zqaq Lebghal, Kettanine – Fès
Behind a discreet door lies the former palace of Ben Souda, a spiritual figure of Fes. The restoration was carried out stone by stone to bring back the original zellige, stucco and cedar ceilings. The first patio sets a particularly calm tone, enhanced by the central pool.
The eighteen rooms continue the spirit of the house, with mosaic floors, tadelakt bathrooms and carved doors. You move at your own pace, discovering details room by room.
The rooftop terrace overlooks the medina. A little further inside, a red hammam diffuses the scent of warm oils and plants. Altogether, it forms a riad in Fes where you can truly rest after a day in the medina.
Riads in Essaouira
In Essaouira, the salty ocean air drifts everywhere, through the whitewashed lanes and the old merchants’ houses that have become riads. Life moves at a slower pace, carried by the Atlantic wind and the cry of seagulls. Riads in Essaouira offer a simple, light-filled atmosphere, true to this port city where art, the ocean and an easygoing way of life meet.
Riad Perle d’Eau
⚲ 64 Rue Koweit – Essaouira
Set against the ramparts, Riad Perle d’Eau lets the sea into its suites. The rooms open onto the steady sound of the waves, and from the rooftop terrace the ocean feels very close, a perfect setting for a riad in Morocco by the sea.
The hammam and massage room offer simple treatments inspired by local traditions. The table d’hôte works on reservation, with dishes prepared for guests who prefer to dine in.
The house has ten rooms, yet calm prevails, even though the medina is just a few steps away. Once you settle in, it is easy to forget the bustle outside.
Casa Lila & Spa
⚲ Bab Marrakech, 94 Rue Mohamed El Qorry – Essaouira
Housed in an 18th century building, Casa Lila offers a calm atmosphere as soon as you step inside. The rooms are bright and arranged like simple, quiet retreats in the heart of the medina. Bab Marrakech is close by, yet the noise remains limited.
The spa features a scented hammam and massages with warm oils. On the rooftop, you find a peaceful spot with a partial view of the city and a breeze from the ocean. The riad follows an easy, unhurried rhythm, suited to travelers looking to rest.
Riad Chbanate
⚲ 179 rue Chbanate – Essaouira
Riad Chbanate occupies an 18th century residence that once belonged to the caïd of Essaouira. As soon as you cross the threshold, calm returns. The 2010 restoration brought back the thuya ceilings, cut stone and tadelakt walls.
Each room has its own fireplace, a rare detail in a medina exposed to the Atlantic wind. The jacuzzi, terrace and patio create a restful space. The welcome is low-key, in the Souiri tradition, with simple, thoughtful gestures.
Villa Maroc
⚲ 10 Rue Abdellah Ben Yassine – Essaouira
Bringing together four riads, Villa Maroc keeps a character strongly linked to the work of Essaouira’s artisans. The sea still shapes the patina of the walls, and the UNESCO-listed medina is just next door. The beach can be reached in a few minutes.
The twenty-one rooms each have their own personality. Some are small and suited to solo travelers. Others open onto larger, naturally lit spaces. It is easy to move from one area to another.
The rooftop terrace overlooks the white roofs and the ramparts. The spa and restaurant extend a friendly atmosphere, closely aligned with local hospitality, making Villa Maroc one of the best-known riads in Essaouira.
Riad Emotion
⚲ 18 Rue Malek Ben Morahhal, Medina – Essaouira
In this 18th century house, the mood softens as soon as you walk in. The scent of flowers and candlelight create a soothing setting. The central patio slowly fills with steady light as the day goes on.
The five suites are named after the region, with references such as Mogador or Les Alizés. Each one combines Moroccan décor with more contemporary elements. The overall feel stays simple and easy to read.
In the early morning, breakfast might include orange crêpes and coffee served in a quiet corner. On the terrace, guests naturally settle down to read or rest, away from the noise of the medina.
Salut Maroc!
⚲ 32 Rue Ibn Rochd – Essaouira
Set in an 18th century former Jewish house later used as a consulate, Salut Maroc! offers a direct view of the Atlantic and the ramparts. From the staircase onward, the sea appears in full view. The owner, Helen Howat, has decorated each space with bold colors, hammered copper and patterns inspired by Morocco.
The ten rooms pay tribute to different Moroccan cities, each with a distinct style. Light shifts from one space to another, changing the atmosphere.
On the rooftop, the restaurant faces the ocean. Many guests pause there to enjoy the wind and the view. The hammam draws on traditional techniques and completes the experience for those looking for a riad in Essaouira that opens directly onto the sea.
Riads in Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen unfolds its shades of blue along the lanes climbing toward the Rif mountains. The town invites you to slow down, to follow the smell of warm bread or the sound of a hidden fountain. Riads in Chefchaouen carry this same softness, with terraces facing the mountains and bright, welcoming interiors.
Riad Gharnata
⚲ Rue Ibn Asskar – Chefchaouen
Riad Gharnata stands in the upper streets of Chefchaouen, where the blue walls shift slightly with the light. The house is arranged around small courtyards, with stairways leading to rooms featuring carved woodwork and Andalusian tiles. Some open onto the medina, others face the mountains.
Breakfast is served with simple, often warm products, and the atmosphere stays quiet, ideal for starting the day gently.
In the evening, the rooftop terrace offers a clear view over the town. Guests settle there to watch Chefchaouen change color before nightfall, a modest and peaceful moment.
Lina Ryad & Spa
⚲ Avenue Hassan I, Quartier Andalous, Ancienne Medina – Chefchaouen
Lina Ryad & Spa enjoys a central location in the medina of Chefchaouen. The bright suites overlook either the mountains or the nearby alleys, and despite the setting, the riad becomes calm as soon as the door is closed.
A large rooftop terrace of about three hundred square meters provides an extended view over the city. The spa enhances the stay with a heated indoor pool, a hammam and treatments inspired by local traditions. Everything contributes to a peaceful setting for discovering Chefchaouen at your own pace.
Service is discreet and efficient, giving the riad a welcoming atmosphere without excess.
Dar Baibou
⚲ Dar Baibou, rue Targhi – Chefchaouen
A short walk from the old town, Dar Baibou brings together several former houses restored with simplicity. The rooms make use of arches, alcoves and local materials, creating a coherent and understated style.
The central patio contains a small fountain. Light enters gradually throughout the day, giving the space a steady, quiet atmosphere.
The rooftop terrace overlooks the valley and the blue rooftops. It is a pleasant place to take a break after exploring the town, typical of riads in Morocco located at higher elevations.
Riad Cherifa
⚲ 6 Derb Hmed Laaroussi – Chefchaouen
Near Bab Ssouq, Riad Cherifa displays an architecture made of passages, patios and lounges decorated with traditional motifs. You move through the house as if walking inside a small, private neighborhood. The spaces remain open and easy to navigate.
The pool, surrounded by greenery, offers a quiet place to rest. The fountains add a soft background sound that suits the setting.
The hammam and its atrium extend this peaceful atmosphere. Light descends slowly and guests move naturally through the space. The riad offers a simple, comfortable way to experience Chefchaouen from within.
Riads in Meknes
Meknes retains a quieter, more understated charm than other imperial cities. Its monumental gates protect a peaceful medina where you come across carefully restored historic riads at the turn of a narrow alley. Staying in a riad in Meknes means enjoying an authentic atmosphere shaped by the heritage of the Alaouite dynasty.
Riad Yacout
⚲ 22 Place Lalla Aouda – Meknes
Just two minutes from the medina, Riad Yacout occupies an eighteenth century residence built in the Arab Andalusian style. The 2008 renovation restored much of its original character. The patio remains a calm, inviting space with a central pool, while the terrace, surrounded by greenery, offers a solarium appreciated by many travelers.
Guests move easily between the lounges, where the aromas of Fassi cuisine appear quickly. The hammam completes the experience and is ideal after visiting Meknes’ main monuments.
The riad has a simple, relaxed atmosphere, making it a place where guests feel at ease without any pretension.
Riad Safir
⚲ 1 Derb Lala Alamia, Bab Aisi – Meknes
Opened in 2007, Riad Safir stands close to Bab Mansour, one of the main gateways to the medina. The house is organized around two patios. The first, warm in tone, includes three rooms. The second takes a more contemporary approach, with a small central pool.
Chantal and Philippe restored the former family home with patience, keeping its history intact. The welcome feels natural and unforced, true to the spirit of riads in Morocco that value simplicity and conviviality.
Riad El Ma
⚲ 4 Derb Sidi Besri – Meknes – Meknes
Located in the heart of the medina, near Bab Mansour and the Bouinania Madrasa, Riad El Ma occupies a former residence renovated with care. Fountains and small pools guide guests through the space, creating a soft, steady atmosphere.
The six rooms each have their own style. La Petite Beldi features a small balcony. The suites highlight carved stucco and gentle light, all consistent with the home’s historic character. Some areas are linked by a narrow bridge, a reminder of the original structure.
The riad offers a calm and simple setting, ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful stay in a riad in Meknes.
La maison d’à côté
⚲ 25 derb Lakhouaja – Meknes
Hidden in an old alley, La maison d’à côté occupies a riad that had been abandoned before being restored. The central patio is framed by three orange trees and a banana tree. Zellige floors, painted cedar ceilings and earthen walls reflect the work of local craftsmen.
The riad includes two suites and one room. One suite favors soft tones with a tadelakt bathroom. Another brings in brighter colors, with light filtering through stained glass. The room near the terrace is simple and open to the outdoors.
The whole place forms a quiet retreat, renovated with the intention of preserving the home’s original character without freezing it in time.
Riads in Tangier
Tanger faces the sea at every moment, as if suspended between two continents. The medina rises toward the kasbah and opens onto direct views of the strait and the white rooftops. Riads in Tangier often embrace this distinctive light, blending Andalusian heritage with contemporary touches in an artistic atmosphere unique to the city.
Riad Mokhtar
⚲ Palacio Aharrar, 31, rue de la Kasbah – Tangier
Riad Mokhtar preserves the character of traditional Tangier homes. You can still sense the families who lived here before its renovation. The rooms have been carefully restored. Zelliges, woodwork and a few contemporary additions modernize the space while keeping its original spirit intact.
The terrace appears almost unexpectedly and opens onto a wide view of the city and the sea below. Many guests pause there for a few moments to enjoy the panorama before returning to the quieter lounges.
The atmosphere stays warm, supported by an attentive team. The overall impression is simple and welcoming, true to the spirit of riads in Morocco.
Aux 3 Portes
⚲ 19 rue Sidi Bouknadel – Tangier
Aux 3 Portes stands on the edge of the cliff, in an old house of the kasbah. The rooms follow one another naturally, as if the home had expanded gradually over the years. You move from a lounge to a staircase and then to a bedroom without a marked transition.
The terraced garden descends toward the sea. The plants grow freely, adapted to the wind and the climate of the strait. Following the steps, you discover a discreet pool set between two levels. Travelers often pause there for a moment of quiet, far from central Tangier.
La Tangerina
⚲ 19, Riad Sultan Kasbah – Tangier
La Tangerina sits at the top of the kasbah. Around the central patio, the rooms display simple objects, a few old photographs and fresh flowers. The owners have revived this former colonial home with a restrained, thoughtful decoration.
From the terrace, the view opens directly onto the ocean. The wind often changes the mood, but the spot remains pleasant for settling down a while. The old wood-fired hammam adds an intimate touch, well-suited to those looking for a calm setting within the medina.
Saba’s House – Riad Dar Saba
⚲ 61 rue Cheikh Mohammed ben Seddik – Tangier
Saba’s House is located in a small street of the kasbah. The home blends contemporary art with Moroccan materials. Each room has its own atmosphere, some more daring, others more understated. The whole remains coherent and pleasant to explore.
The rooftop terrace offers a broad view of the strait and the city. The landscape shifts with the light, giving each moment a different feel. Many visitors simply stop to enjoy the panorama.
The hammam, the restaurant and the lounges complete the experience. The welcome is discreet and warm, encouraging guests to extend their stay.
La Maison de Tangier
⚲ 9 rue Al Mabarra (Quartier Josafat) – Tangier
La Maison de Tangier opens behind a simple façade. Light circulates easily between the floors and the garden. Each room mixes old objects with more modern elements, creating a varied yet coherent atmosphere.
The garden includes a tall palm tree and a central pool, offering a calm space despite its proximity to the Grand Socco. It is a place where visitors gladly rest after a day of exploring.
The rooftop terrace serves as a refuge to look at the sea or enjoy a quiet conversation. The atmosphere remains gentle and unhurried, ideal for a stay in a riad in Tangier.
Riads in Ouarzazate
At the gateway to the desert, Ouarzazate shifts in appearance throughout the day as the light moves across the kasbahs and the Atlas mountains. Riads here often feature earthen architecture, with quiet patios and terraces turned toward the horizon. The city serves as a starting point for exploring the valleys and oases of southern Morocco.
Ksar Ighnda
⚲ Aït Ben Haddou – Ouarzazate
A former kasbah restored with care, Ksar Ighnda unfolds around terraces, narrow passageways and viewpoints overlooking the High Atlas. The village of Asfalou still surrounds the property, and you sense that connection in the way the house blends naturally into its environment.
The traditional materials used during the renovation recall the site’s history. Each room is different. The varied, sometimes raw furnishings give every space its own character.
At sunrise, the light reveals the valley and the palm trees. A simple, pleasant moment that often marks the beginning of a stay in this riad in Ouarzazate.
Le Petit Riad
⚲ 1581 Av. Moulay Abdellah – Ouarzazate
Located in the quiet neighbourhood of El Wahda, Le Petit Riad is run by Fatima Agoujil, the first female guide in the city. Her welcome brings a local and authentic dimension to the stay. The architecture follows Berber traditions, with a central fountain and a small, well-exposed pool.
The rooms open onto the mountains, the patio or the terrace. They remain simple and thoughtfully arranged, which makes guests feel at ease quickly. You move calmly between the spaces, carried by the quiet rhythm of the neighbourhood.
The table d’hôtes uses market produce and ingredients from the garden. The dishes reflect the generosity of southern Morocco, served without fuss. A riad where guests are guided naturally and where the stay often becomes more meaningful than expected.
Riad Ouarzazate
⚲ Hay El Wahda, Rue Oukaimden N° 1462 – Ouarzazate
Riad Ouarzazate is also located in El Wahda. As at Le Petit Riad, the welcome offered by Fatima Agoujil plays an important role. The Berber-inspired structure centres on a fountain and a small pool where the light lingers.
The rooms overlook the mountains or the interior spaces. The decoration stays simple and pleasant, matching the spirit of riads in Morocco. Movement around the riad is slow and relaxed, shaped by the tranquillity of the area.
The table d’hôtes favours fresh ingredients. Meals are accessible and true to local flavours. A place where you feel quietly accompanied, without any display.
Dar Chamaa
⚲ Tajda Bp 701 Tarmigte – Ouarzazate
Dar Chamaa draws on the lines of a kasbah, with earthen walls, towers and a large courtyard animated by a fountain. The interior echoes traditional riads, with bright arcades and gardens planted with local species. You move quietly through the space, guided by shade and the soft sound of leaves.
The two buildings house thirty-three rooms. A pool lies at the heart of the palm grove and a spa completes the property. The handcrafted materials and the proximity of the Atlas mountains create a simple, welcoming refuge.
From Dar Chamaa, it is easy to reach the Drâa and Dadès valleys. The routes toward Zagora or Merzouga offer many ways to explore the South. The riad serves as a practical base and a peaceful place to return to after each excursion.
Riads in Skoura
Skoura is a world of its own, an oasis of palm gardens, old kasbahs and paths lined with almond trees. In the palm grove, the riads blend into the ochre earth and open onto peaceful landscapes shaped by water and light. It is a place where silence and simplicity take over quickly.
Dar Ahlam
⚲ Douar Oulad Cheik Ali – Skoura
Dar Ahlam occupies an old kasbah in the palm grove, transformed into a house of fourteen suites. The approach is particular, with no traditional reception and no fixed programme. Each stay unfolds day by day, shaped by the season and the wishes of each guest. The team knows the region intimately and shares this local heritage in a simple, unforced way.
Meals change daily. They draw inspiration from produce grown in the oasis, from the nearby Food Lab and from ideas of the moment. Nothing repeats itself, which gives the stay a spontaneous and pleasant rhythm.
Each day at Dar Ahlam follows its own tempo. A sequence of brief but memorable moments that leave visitors with lasting impressions of their time in this riad in Skoura.
L’Ma Lodge
⚲ Douar Ouled Ali Khamsa – Skoura
In the heart of Skoura’s palm grove, L’Ma Lodge is a calm and welcoming guesthouse created by Vanessa and Xavier. They transformed a once-abandoned plot into a dense garden where olive trees, palms and fruit trees form a peaceful setting. The rooms and suites are arranged within a discreet riad that opens onto a wide view of the palm grove and the Atlas mountains.
The stay remains simple and relaxing. Heated pool, massages, walks to the nearby kasbahs, each activity follows a gentle pace. Families also find suitable spaces, with corners designed for children.
It is the kind of place where you plan to spend a few nights and then decide to stay longer without really thinking about it. The calm, the welcome and the natural surroundings often explain that choice.
Riads in Taroudant
Nestled between the High Atlas mountains and the Souss plains, Taroudant charms visitors with its peaceful atmosphere and sunlit ochre walls. Often called the “little Marrakech”, it has preserved a rare authenticity. In its quiet streets, the riads reveal tree-filled patios, silent fountains and an unchanged Moroccan art of living. An ideal place for travellers seeking calm and cultural immersion.
Riad Dar Zitoune
⚲ Boutarialt El Barrania – Taroudant
Riad Dar Zitoune follows an environmentally conscious approach. Accommodation is spread across bungalows, suites and fully equipped caidal tents. Each space opens onto a large garden filled with olive trees, orange trees and papaya plants.
A heated swimming pool, jacuzzi and full spa complete the setting. The restaurant serves Moroccan dishes alongside Western influences, in a calm and steady atmosphere that reflects Taroudant itself.
Dar Zitoune is a convenient base for exploring Agadir, the Atlas or the Souss plain. Guests can also simply enjoy the garden and the quiet rhythm of this riad in Taroudant.
Riad Tafilag
⚲ 31, Derb Taffelaght – Taroudant
Close to the Assarag and Talmoklate squares, Riad Tafilag sits in a quiet lane. The architecture blends modern touches with traditional Moroccan elements. Decorative pool, tadelakt hammam, several terraces, every area is designed for relaxation.
The five rooms are simple and warm. Guests move easily through the riad, carried by its gentle atmosphere. The team provides discreet assistance, from dining to recommendations for discovering Taroudant.
The city is easy to explore on foot, by bicycle or by carriage. Its soft pace of life is one of Taroudant’s greatest charms.
Dar Zahia
⚲ 175 Derb Chrif – Taroudant
Set slightly away from the centre, Dar Zahia welcomes guests into a lush garden animated by discreet fountains. Built in rammed earth, the house retains a natural coolness. The four rooms are divided between the ground floor and the upper level, where some enjoy private terraces.
A long swimming lane lies within the olive grove, facing the Atlas mountains and accessible by bicycle. Pergolas and shaded corners offer many places to rest.
The riad offers a simple stay focused on nature and tranquillity, appreciated for its calm and discretion.
Palais Oumensour
⚲ Borj Oumensour – Taroudant
In the historic district of Borj Oumensour, Palais Oumensour offers eleven rooms that blend tradition with contemporary touches. As soon as guests enter, the atmosphere shifts with open lounges, gardens and terraces. The pool brings welcome freshness in this sunlit region.
The restaurant adapts to the daily market, serving local cuisine in a shady patio. The ambience remains simple and pleasant.
With the souks and ramparts nearby, this riad in Taroudant is a good starting point for exploring the city and enjoying its local life.
Riad El Aissi
⚲ à 750m du Village Nouayl à KM3 route de Taroudant
A few kilometres from Taroudant, Riad El Aissi occupies a 21 hectare estate. The seven independent houses include bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room and a private terrace. This layout offers great autonomy and direct access to nature.
Guests share an infinity pool with views over the Atlas mountains. Simple common areas complete the estate. Shops and the neighbouring village are close by, which makes the stay easy and convenient.
Visitors enjoy a rural and peaceful environment, suitable for exploring the region or simply resting. Since 2004, the riad has kept its authenticity and warm atmosphere.
Riads in Rabat
Rabat blends the calm of a coastal city with the elegance of its historic heritage. The medina, gentler than many others, features carefully restored riads near the Andalusian Garden and the old ramparts. Staying in a riad in Rabat offers a rare balance between culture, the ocean and a peaceful urban atmosphere.
Dar Shaan
⚲ 35 Rue Lalla Aïcha – Rabat
Dar Shaan sits in a quiet alley of the medina, inside a renovated Andalusian-style house. Old stone, woodwork and light contemporary touches create a simple and pleasant atmosphere. Rooms and suites open onto a patio or terrace, some with a small lounge area, others with a view of the pool.
On the rooftop, the swimming pool becomes a peaceful spot at the end of the day. A few terraces and touches of greenery offer a restful setting as the neighbourhood slowly quiets down.
The hammam, spa treatments and indoor lounges complete the stay. A riad well suited for travellers seeking a calm pause in the heart of Rabat.
Riad Al Bahi
⚲ Rue Sabat Bidawi N°1 Ancienne Medina – Rabat
In the medina of Rabat, Riad Al Bahi offers a peaceful setting. The bright patio, thoughtful decoration and discreet layout make it a quiet place to return to after exploring the city.
Each room has its own identity inspired by nomadic, Amazigh or Andalusian cultures. Materials and colours are chosen with simplicity, creating welcoming spaces where guests relax easily.
The restaurant highlights local produce. Moroccan cuisine is subtly reinterpreted with Mediterranean influences, a reflection of Rabat’s cosmopolitan character.
An intimate riad close to the city’s heritage, combining calm, charm and warm hospitality.
Riad Al Mazhar
⚲ 46, Rue Sidi Fatah, Impasse Sandal – Rabat
Located near Rabat’s main sites, Riad Al Mazhar welcomes guests into a house restored with great attention to Moroccan craftsmanship. Zelliges, tadelakt and handmade light fixtures speak for themselves and give the place a natural coherence.
The atmosphere stays warm and simple. Rooms offer modern comfort while keeping a peaceful feeling. Nothing seeks to impress, the focus is on ease and balance.
Breakfast is served in the patio, gently lit by the morning sun. A quiet moment that sets the tone for discovering the capital.
A suitable address for exploring Rabat at an unhurried pace, between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary comfort.
Riad Thamayna
⚲ bab mrissa, 5 bis Rue Boukaâ – Rabat
Riad Thamayna occupies a Merinid residence from the thirteenth century, restored with care. The entrance reveals an Andalusian ambience with colourful zelliges, carved stucco arches and sculpted doors. The central patio and marble fountain bring welcome freshness.
The rooms, preserved in their original proportions, combine modern comfort with historic character. Guests move freely through soft, natural light that highlights the architectural details.
From the rooftop, the 360 degree view spans the monuments and rooftops of the medina. It is a pleasant place to sunbathe or rest. Moroccan cuisine, the hammam and massages extend the feeling of relaxation.
A historic riad, ideal for travellers wishing to discover Rabat in a calm and refined setting.
Riads in Agadir
Agadir offers a modern, ocean-facing atmosphere shaped by long sunlit beaches and a relaxed coastal rhythm. Behind its seaside image, several riads embrace a more intimate spirit inspired by traditional southern Moroccan homes. The city is a practical base for exploring the Souss villages, the Atlantic coast and the surrounding mountains.
Riad Villa Blanche
⚲ Baie des Palmiers secteur N°50 cité Founty – Agadir
Riad Villa Blanche sits just a short walk from Agadir’s beach, in a bright house where contemporary elegance blends with Moroccan influences. Some suites overlook the ocean. The gardens bring together palm trees, flowers and cacti, and it is easy to move from the patio to the terraces in a calm, gentle atmosphere.
The spa lies at the heart of the house. Under a dome crafted by Marrakech artisans, traditional materials meet modern lines, creating a soothing setting for those seeking a peaceful stay near the bay.
The restaurant highlights seafood and produce from the Souss region. In the evening, the atmosphere quiets down, a pleasant moment before returning to a room with views over Agadir as the city slowly settles.
Dar Haven
⚲ Hay Ait Soual, Tamraght – Agadir
Dar Haven is located between the beach and the peaceful lanes of Tamraght village. The nine rooms form an intimate ensemble with a simple, thoughtful décor. Guests move easily from the patio to the pool and then to the rooftop terrace, where the Atlantic light sets a gentle tone for the end of the day.
In the evening, lanterns glow around the table set by the water. Moroccan dishes are served in a warm, unfussy way, ideal for a relaxed dinner.
The next day, everyone follows their own rhythm: surfing, yoga, walking along the shore or reading in a quiet corner. The riad seems designed precisely for that, letting travellers ease into their own tempo.
Riad des Golfs
⚲ Chemin des Français Aghrod Ben Sergao – Agadir
Set in the middle of an eucalyptus forest, Riad des Golfs offers a quiet setting close to the courses favoured by Agadir’s golfers. The house stands near the Royal Palace, surrounded by a garden where light and shade shift throughout the day. The spacious suites open onto the gardens or onto discreet terraces.
Around the heated pool, the Andalusian garden provides welcome freshness. The lounges, shaped with soft oriental lines, extend this restful atmosphere, far from the city’s bustle.
The riad suits both golfers and travellers looking for serenity. Transfers, meals and excursions are arranged with ease, allowing for a flexible and uncomplicated stay.
Riad Les Chtis d’Agadir
⚲ 27 Rue Hommane Al Fatouaki – Agadir
Riad Les Chtis d’Agadir stands in a lively neighbourhood filled with the scents of the souks and the comings and goings of taxis heading toward the beach. The riad adopts a simple, warm Moroccan style. Caroline and Didier bring their own friendly touch, giving the place a relaxed, personal character.
Breakfast features homemade preparations such as msemen, flavoured yoghurts and amlou, a pleasant moment before exploring Agadir’s beaches or markets.
In the evening, the terrace hosts tajines and Berber dishes cooked on site. The atmosphere becomes calmer, offering a welcome contrast with the nearby city centre. A straightforward, welcoming riad, ideal for a relaxed stay in Agadir.
How to choose an authentic riad in Morocco
Choosing a riad is not just about a beautiful photo or a rooftop pool. Each house has its own story, and some offer a far more intimate experience than others. Before booking, take a moment to think about the atmosphere you want, because a family-run riad tucked away in a quiet alley has little in common with a larger guesthouse near a lively square.
- Look for riads with an authentic central patio, the heart of the house where the spirit of the place is most palpable. A patio that has been heavily redesigned or modernised often loses part of its charm.
- Pay attention to who runs the riad. Places managed by Moroccan families or long-established hosts usually offer genuine hospitality and valuable guidance for exploring the medina.
- Check the accessibility, since some medinas are real labyrinths. If you travel with luggage or plan to arrive late, choose a riad close to a main gate or a recognisable landmark to avoid a complicated arrival.
- Ask about the rooftop terrace. In Morocco, a good terrace can transform a stay, especially at sunrise or sunset. Some offer striking views over the mountains or the medina rooftops.
- Consider the size of the riad. Smaller houses, often with four to eight rooms, tend to be quieter and create a more personal connection with the hosts.
- Read reviews about breakfast and local cuisine. A good riad often serves homemade dishes, sometimes based on family recipes. It is a real added value for discovering local culture.
Keeping these points in mind makes it easier to choose a place that truly matches your trip, avoiding the disappointments that sometimes appear only once the door closes behind you.
Extend your medina experience with a local guide
Staying in a riad means stepping into the intimate heart of a medina and feeling the pulse of Morocco. To go even further, many travellers enjoy being guided by someone who knows the narrow streets inside out. Medinas can feel overwhelming at first, yet they become fascinating when a local shares their history, their artisans and their traditions.
Whether you want to explore the workshops of Fez, the hidden districts of Marrakech or the forgotten passages of Essaouira, a tour guide in Morocco can turn a simple walk into a moment of genuine exchange and discovery. It is often an opportunity to understand what lies behind the carved doors of riads, the ancestral crafts and the customs that shape daily life.
A gentle and enriching way to extend the experience you have in guesthouses and give your journey an added depth.
