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Where to stay in Marrakech

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Soak up the best areas to stay in Marrakech

For your holidays to Marrakech, you’ll find that the city offers a variety of delightful areas to stay in, each with accommodations as diverse as the city itself. Many options are within walking distance of major attractions like the Marrakech Museum and le jardin secret, especially in the Marrakech medina, which is enclosed by ancient city walls and known as the historic medina.

  1. Jemaa El-Fna
  2. Northern Medina
  3. Southern Medina
  4. Gueliz
  5. Palmeraie
  6. Ourika

Choose from boutique hotels or restored riads, high-end villas or grandiose palaces. Many luxury resorts, such as Les Deux Tours in Palmeraie, offer amenities like heated pool, heated swimming pool, steam room, rooftop pool, outdoor pool, lush garden, and stunning gardens. Accommodations often feature private bathrooms, private balconies, private terraces, and even private pools, catering to guests seeking exclusivity. Modern hotels offer contemporary rooms with private terrace options, while some riads feature a dining room for cosy meals.

However, the most quintessential way to stay in Marrakech, or Morocco for that matter, is the riad. This traditionally refers to a home built around a courtyard garden, but today it’s generally used to describe guesthouses in general; with their unique decor, charming rooms, and appeal for couples or solo travellers, they certainly make for a one-of-a-kind stay. Staying in a stylish riad with elegant furnishings and a roof terrace or rooftop terrace is a highlight for many visitors.

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1. Jemaa El-Fna

Jemaa El-Fna is the pièce de résistance, and as such is one of the best areas to stay in Marrakech. Not only does this bustling square serve as a convenient entryway into the medina, but the square itself has enough to keep you occupied during the day and night, with street performers (think musicians, acrobats, storytellers of traditional Arab tales) and numerous food stalls. Many accommodations are within walking distance of Djemaa el Fna, making it easy to experience the vibrant atmosphere.

Accommodation-wise, there are loads of options, from chic riads located off the main souk, Art Deco-style guesthouses and boutique hotels offering secluded courtyards and traditional hammam spas. Many riads and hotels near Jemaa El-Fna feature rooftop terraces or roof terraces with views of the square, as well as private balconies or terraces for relaxation. You’ll also find charming rooms with private bathrooms for added comfort, and some boutique hotels have a dining room where guests can enjoy traditional Moroccan meals.

Best for: Those looking for a feast for the senses.

While you’re there: Visit the square in the evenings, when the performances reach their crescendo.

2. Northern Medina

It’s a slightly quieter affair in the Northern Medina, with local food markets, workshops and museums. This area is part of the historic medina, enclosed by ancient city walls that have protected Marrakech’s cultural treasures for centuries. Many accommodations here are within walking distance of key attractions, making it easy to explore the labyrinthine souks and historic sites.

If it’s sights you’re after, head to the Maison de la Photographie, which depicts the ordinary life of Moroccans between the 19th century to the 1950s through 5000 photographs. Move on to the Musée de Marrakech (also known as the Marrakech Museum) for a selection of traditional and contemporary Moroccan art, with a great bookshop attached. Nearby, le jardin secret offers a tranquil garden escape, perfect for a peaceful break from the city bustle.

Once you’ve finished exploring, head back to your stunning riad or stylish riad—many feature charming rooms with private bathrooms, elegant furnishings, and amenities like courtyards, roof terraces, and even a spa with hammam. Restored 18th-century houses in this area also offer art-filled rooms and large pools for a relaxing stay.

Best for: Those seeking the sights.

While you’re there: The Chroub ou Chouf Fountain dates back to the 16th century, and is UNESCO listed.

3. Southern Medina

To see a grander side of Marrakech, stay in the southern part of the Medina. There are enough sights here to fill a day or two – or more if you really want to take your time – with accommodation options spanning a range of budgets. Many riads and hotels in this area feature luxurious amenities such as a private pool, outdoor pool, or heated pool, and some even offer a heated swimming pool or steam room for ultimate relaxation. Select properties also feature a dining room, private terrace, rooftop terrace, or roof terrace with city views, as well as stunning gardens for guests to enjoy.

The charming rooms in these accommodations appeal to travellers seeking comfort and style. A few are located near the popular Rue Riad Zitoun el Kedim Shopping Street, and many attractions are within walking distance of the accommodations. Others offer rooftop terraces facing the scenic Atlas Mountains. In this area of Marrakech, take in Badi Palace with its huge central courtyard, Green Pavilion and minbar (a stepped pulpit), before moving onto El-Bahia Palace with its 150 rooms. Although it spans a huge site, certain areas and rooms are still used by the current Royal Family, but from what you are permitted to see, it’s a great way to find out more about Morocco’s royal history.

Best for: Those wanting Moroccan grandeur.

While you’re there: Head to the Museum of African Contemporary Art for an insight into emerging young artists.

4. Gueliz

Art fans will simply fall in love with Gueliz, a lively area that’s filled with contemporary art galleries. To give an idea of the amount to choose from, there’s the Matisse Art Gallery which centres on local artists; Comptoir des Mines Galerie focuses on temporary exhibitions; Galerie Re displays different art forms, from sculpture to photography; while the David Bloch Gallery is your go-to for collections of street art. As energetic as Gueliz may feel, it’s not quite as hectic as the medina, and you can choose from minimalist guesthouses, soothing-coloured riads and budget hotels.

Best for: Art fans.

While you’re there: Galerie Tindouf displays rare Fassi ceramics, Islamic calligraphy and Indian miniatures.

5. Palmeraie

Palmeraie was a garden that once spread over 32,000 acres; today, most of the land has been developed into luxury hotels and villas. If it’s a slice of the VIP life you’re after during your Marrakech holidays, then Palmeraie is the most stylish area to stay in Morocco, with its Nikki Beach offering a high-end party scene. In terms of things to do here, you can enjoy camel rides, cycles through a maze of lanes or simply resting under the palm trees; it retains a tranquil vibe. As is expected, the hotels are slightly more upmarket here; villas offer heated pools, laidback hotels offer private terraces and other places offer a range of events from yoga and massages to excursions.

Best for: Glitz n glamour.

While you’re there: Treat yourself to a hammam spa.

6. Ourika

Looking for the perfect combination of nature, culture and seclusion? Ourika might be the most tranquil area to stay in Marrakech, and offers a real variety of places to stay. There are hilltop hotels with incredible views of the Atlas Mountains and Beber villages, while there’s also mountain refuges at the foothills of Jbel Toubkal. There’s also luxury mountain retreats – one is owned by Richard Branson – but at the other end of the scale you can pitch up at Ourika camp, which offers a swimming pool and steam bath! Families will enjoy the waterfalls, sculpture parks and Anima Garden botanical park, or an organised excursion into the nearby mountains and villages.

Best for: Families.

While you’re there: Tnine-l’Ourka has a great weekly souk.

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FAQs: Best areas to stay in Marrakech

  • What area of Marrakech is best to stay in?

    The best area to stay in Marrakech is the Marrakech medina, especially for first-time visitors. The historic medina, enclosed by ancient city walls, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with historic charm, vibrant souks, and iconic attractions like Jemaa el-Fna Square and the Bahia Palace.

    Many accommodations here are within walking distance of the main sights. Staying in a boutique hotel in the Marrakech medina is highly recommended, as these stylish properties often feature traditional Moroccan design, a rooftop terrace for relaxing with city views, and a private bathroom in each room for added comfort.

    The Northern Medina is an excellent choice, offering easy access to the city’s main sights. Other good options include the Kasbah and Mellah neighbourhoods for their historical appeal. For a more modern vibe with upscale amenities, the Gueliz and Hivernage districts offer chic restaurants, shopping, and contemporary hotels.

  • How many days are needed in Marrakech?

    Three to four days are ideal for exploring Marrakech. This allows enough time to visit the main attractions, including Djemaa el Fna, Jamaâ el Fna square, the Medina, Majorelle Garden, and Saadian Tombs. Many of these sites are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to experience the city's vibrant culture, cuisine, and perhaps take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or the nearby desert.

  • Is Marrakech a walkable city?

    Yes, Marrakech is a relatively walkable city, especially within the historic medina, which is enclosed by ancient city walls. Many attractions, traditional souks, and cultural sites are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. However, the narrow and winding alleys can be confusing, so a map or guide can be helpful. For getting around the newer parts of the city, like Gueliz, walking is also convenient, though taxis are easily available for longer distances.

  • What are the safest parts of Marrakech?

    The Medina, Kasbah, and Mellah neighbourhoods are generally considered safe areas for tourists in Marrakech, especially during the day. The historic medina, enclosed by ancient city walls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional architecture and vibrant souks. Many safe accommodations are within walking distance of main attractions, allowing travellers to easily explore the area on foot.

    However, caution should still be exercised, particularly in crowded areas and after dark. Staying in a reputable hotel or riad and being aware of your surroundings will help ensure a safe visit. Gueliz and Hivernage are considered some of the safest and most comfortable areas, with a modern infrastructure and a good police presence.

  • What is the best month to visit Marrakech?

    The best time to visit Marrakech is in spring (April to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Temperatures are comfortable for sightseeing, with average highs around 25-30°C. Summer can be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, while winters are cooler with occasional rain. Spring and autumn also see fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.

  • Is it better to stay in a hotel or riad in Morocco?

    When visiting Marrakech, staying in a traditional riad is often considered the best way to experience Morocco authentically. Riads are historic houses built around a central courtyard or garden, offering a unique and intimate atmosphere that differs from hotels. Many riads in the Medina offer a charming base for exploring the city’s winding streets and markets, often featuring charming rooms with private bathrooms and access to rooftop terraces for relaxing and enjoying city views.

    However, some travellers may prefer the amenities and familiarity of a hotel, especially if travelling with children, as some riads are adult-only. Alternatively, you can choose a boutique hotel for a stylish stay that blends modern comforts with traditional Moroccan design, or opt for one of the best hotels in Marrakech for top-tier luxury and exclusive experiences.

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