Paris is for lovers, they say. Marrakech, however, is for lovers of design. This ancient city, a vibrant mix of European, Middle Eastern and African influences, is worth a pilgrimage for lovers of architecture and design. Riads are the best expression of Morrocan culture.
A riad is the most symbolic choice for Marrakech accommodation. Riads, or traditional Moroccan houses, are distinguished by a central courtyard in Andalusian style, flanked by four stories. These courtyards are often decorated with colourful zellige tile and have a small garden.
Marrakech’s riads are the most sought-after hotels and short-term rentals. You can either stay in a larger hotel-style riad or rent an entire one. These riads are among the most popular in Marrakech and range from the traditional to the modern.
Jemaa El Fna
This boutique hotel-riad hybrid lies next to the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square in the heart of the historic medina. The riad is decorated in authentic Moroccan style and has opulent rooms and a spa and restaurant. But the property’s highlight is the courtyard, with its teal-tiled pool, curving arches, and soft lighting. The property’s interior is complete with modern design touches, such as a vibrant mural in one of the lounge areas.
Riad O2
Riad 02 is a romantic riad in Marrakech. It features towering palms and terracotta floors, and stark white walls. The courtyard has a small stream-fed pool, brick floor and arcade-style terraces. Six rooms have distinctive design touches, such as the Oeuf Room, which features an earthenware-styled, freestanding tub.
Omaha Marrakech
The Omaha Marrakech is a hotel that claims to be a poet’s dream. Charles Kaisin, the designer of its boutique hotel and designer, used Baudelaire’s poem “Invitation au Voyage” to inspire it. He incorporated contemporary art with traditional Morrocan fixtures like arching columns, bursts of zellige tiles (with earthy-toned walls), wooden screens, lush greenery, and earthy-toned floors.
This luxurious riad has 5 rooms, a swimming pool, Hamman, restaurant and a rooftop terrace, from which you can view the Atlas Mountains. The Pixel Lounge is the highlight. It’s a dark, cosy room decorated with colourful tiles depicting local life scenes.
P’tit Habibi
P’tit Habibi fuses past and present to create a unique riad hospitality experience. The five-room private house is located at the northern end of the medina. It features contemporary design through the use of modern furniture and black frames. The minimalist, high-ceilinged rooms have a simple, elegant design. Instead of traditional headboards, they are adorned with bold design choices, such as a recessed wall inlaid with colourful tiles. The Hazy Moon Suite has access to a private roof terrace. The rest of the roof is home to a pool and a lounge area.
Riad BE Marrakech
You may recognize the white-teal Turquoise tiles and square pool from BE’s oasis courtyard oasis. It’s Instagram-famous because of it! This vibrant, tiled paradise is a magnet for photographers and influencers from all walks of life. It’s one of the most popular riads in Marrakech. The rest of the hotel is equally stunning, featuring colourful walls, carvings, and dynamic local handicrafts.
Riad Kasbah
Traditional riads are known for their white walls and splashy tiled walls. Riad Kasbah uses white walls against dark wooden doors and frames. It also has half-painted walls in white and brown. This gives it a European feel while still paying homage to its home city with old photos and artefacts. A fair-sized pool is located in the central courtyard. The second floor has intricate, Spanish-esque railings.
Riad Kheirredine
Riad Kheirredine is one of the most exclusive hotels in the city. Its unique combination of Italian and Moroccan design makes it stand out. The courtyard garden is almost like a jungle, with tall plants and a drizzling waterfall. Each room is uniquely decorated with vintage furniture and decor, including carved canopy beds. A rooftop terrace completes the picture with a brick- and wood pergola.