If you’ve snapped up one of the cheap flights to Marrakech with your sweetheart it’s time to start searching for where to stay in Marrakech. Choosing one spot is no small feat. With nearly 1000 riads plus even more hotels and Marrakech resorts where do you even begin?
For couples planning a Marrakech honeymoon or simply just a nice stay, I’ve put together some suggestions of the best hotels in Marrakech for couples that will help you decide where to stay.
You need to think about a few things when you start choosing a place to stay. First, it’s the variety of options available. I would suggest taking a read of this post I wrote on whether you should stay in a hostel, hotel, or riad in Morocco. It will give you an idea of what to expect and how to choose. Some of the choices you have on where to stay include;
- riads – traditional Moroccan homes, similar to a bed and breakfast.
- hotels – ranging from very basic to extra luxurious
- hostels – for those on a budget that don’t mind shared accommodation (some have private rooms).
- all-inclusive hotels/resorts – hotels that include food and sometimes beverages as well as entertainment in room costs.
- apartment rentals – sites like Airbnb have many apartments and private riads available for rent. Airbnb is one of the sites that I often use for booking apartment rentals and is worth a look if you’re thinking of this.
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Boutique Hotels in Marrakech
Often times riads are referred to as boutique hotels. This often means the riad has more rooms than the average. A normal riad has 3-6 rooms. It was once a private family home that has been made into a guest house. A boutique hotel in Marrakech often has 10-15 rooms. Sometimes this can mean it was two riads that were combined to create one space. Here are my suggestions for this type of accommodation.
Palais Khum
This riad has been gorgeously restored and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The art deco feel, white decor and plenty of lush greenery immediately sets the tone for a secluded hideaway vacation. This riad is in the Dar el Bacha neighborhood and very easy to access.
La Sultana Marrakech
This is the smallest five-star hotel in Marrakech and a lovely boutique hotel with 28 rooms and suites on site. In this couple friendly hotel in Marrakech Morocco, you’ll relax in complete comfort with king-size beds and a stocked mini-fridge. The swimming pool is heated and a full spa can help you relax. La Sultana is in the Kasbah neighborhood of Marrakech.
Les Deux Tours
This Marrakech boutique hotel has 37 rooms or suites along with 8 private pools and a large heated swimming pool that is open to all guests. It’s the largest boutique hotel on the list and I’m including it because of its lovely gardens, hidden location and great amenities. If you want to run away with your sweetheart, this is one of the best hotels in Marrakech to run! Les Deux Tours is in the Palmeraie area of Marrakech.
La Maison Arabe
This small hotel has been open since 1946 and has a great reputation in the city. There are 26 rooms and suites with private entrances as well as 3 onsite restaurants. The cooking school is one of the best in the city. Located in the medina neighborhood you can spend time relaxing on-site or easily venture out and be right in the middle of the action.
Ksar Char-Bagh
Outside the city you’ll find Ksar Char-Bagh. You won’t just find hotel rooms here, each room or suite is spacious – an apartment to yourself, with multiple sizes and amenities available. It has won several awards and you’re sure to feel like royalty if you decide to stay here. This hotel is in the Palmeraie neighborhood of Marrakech.
Luxury Riads in Marrakech for Couples
You want the riad experience but luxury too. These five luxury Marrakech riads will give you just that. The following are some of the best riads in Marrakech for couples.
Riad Kniza
This beautiful 18th-century riad is a gem in the medina of Marrakech. Eleven rooms and suites are available to rent and the onsite restaurant is known for its attention to preparing traditional Moroccan dishes in a beautiful way.
Dar Les Cigognes
Translated to “House of the Storks” Dar Les Cigognes is conveniently located near the Badi Palace and Mellah. This is truly one of the best riads to stay in Marrakech where you can relax in your room and enjoy a hammam or massage onsite. Eleven rooms and suites are available with different amenities. You can also participate in their very well-known private cooking classes.
Riad Farnatchi
Ten suites make up Riad Farnatchi, each with handmade beds and Egyptian cotton linens. Relax in the common areas or enjoy a meal in one of the dining rooms. It also boasts what might be considered one of the best spas in Marrakech. You can visit Le Trou au Mur, part of the Farnatchi family and conveniently located just across the street.
L’Hotel Marrakech
With only five rooms but plenty of space you’ll feel like you’ve got the place to yourself. This riad has been tastefully decorated with some elements that were acquired from the collections of famous Marrakech-based designers Bill Willis and Yves St. Laurent. This riad is truly luxurious and would be a special experience for anyone visiting.
Riad Joya
Here you’ll experience a mix of Moroccan design and Italian style. Seven rooms make up Riad Joya each with a different style and aesthetic. As one of the best Marrakech hotels, an onsite butler will ensure that all of your needs are catered for and can assist with booking anything you would require outside of the riad.
Riad BE
If you want to spend your time in Marrakech in the heart of the medina this is the place to stay. With just six rooms you’ll feel relaxed and get all the personal attention you want. Take a cooking class together or enjoy a meal on the rooftop, they’ll help arrange what your heart desires. To book this riad you’ll need to directly contact the property.
Affordable Luxury Riads in Marrakech
These riads might be some of the best riads in Marrakech if you are seeking luxury and comfort but are on a bit more of a budget. You’ll have a personal, relaxed and romantic experience at a price that won’t leave you crying when you get home!
Riad Adore
As one of the most romantic riads in Marrakech, Light and airy are the words to best describe Riad Adore. It’s tastefully decorated ten bedrooms are luxurious and welcoming. Antique kaftans (traditional Moroccan women’s dresses) are used in each of the rooms as decorative pieces. For book lovers spending time in their beautiful library must be added to your to-do list.
Riad Dar Zaman
With four rooms, Dar Zaman is a cozy hideaway for couples honeymooning or simply looking to getaway. Depending on the season enjoy their plunge pool or open fireplaces! Each room has unique decor with a combination of Moroccan and West African inspiration. Make sure to enjoy their lovely breakfast on the rooftop (weather permitting.)
Riad 107
A hidden oasis in the streets of the medina, this small riad is tastefully decorated and calming after a long day exploring Marrakech. Enjoy the roof terrace and plunge pool. Daily breakfast is included and you can also order lunch or dinner to be served in the riad (highly recommended as the cook is excellent!)
Riad Mur Akush
Amazigh (Berber) for “Land of God” is what Mur Akush means. Inside the doors you’ll find this 300+ year old home has been restored with attention paid to reviving the traditional Moroccan details. Six luxury suites are available in different configurations, two of which include fireplaces.
Luxury Hotels in Marrakech for Couples
I purposely left off some of the more well-known luxury hotels like La Mamounia or The Royal Mansour as they’re on everyone’s radar. Instead, I’ve chosen five other luxury hotels to show you other options in Marrakech.
The Oberoi Marrakech
Here you’ll find five-star luxury amenities that truly pamper you. The property is surrounded by palm and olive trees giving it the feel of seclusion just outside the city with beautiful mountain views. Rooms are a mixture of spacious rooms as well as private villas with pools. For guests that have reduced mobility, there are accessible rooms and amenities available.
Mandarin Oriental
I included this globally known brand because its Marrakech location is truly lovely. Book into one of their villas where you’ll have complete privacy including your own swimming pool. You can also use any of their onsite amenities. Eat at least one meal at signature restaurant Mes’lalla to enjoy traditional Moroccan flavors in a modern way.
La Villa des Orangers
Most 5-star luxury hotels in Marrakech are located outside the city – not this one! You will be situated in the heart of the city but with lush gardens and relais et châteaux status, you’ll feel like you’re miles away. Gorgeous rooms and suites have a modern feel with traditional Moroccan elements.
Selman Marrakech
One of the most unique features of this five-star property is the stable of thoroughbred Arabian horses that could be considered the mascots of the hotel. Each room is deliciously decorated, and the signature experiences offered will make any guest feel like a VIP.
Fairmont Royal Palm
This sprawling property includes hundreds of hectares of gardens, an 18-hole golf course, a 3,500sqm spa, and six restaurants. Each of the 134 rooms, suites and villas offer views of the Atlas Mountains and surrounding gardens.
All-Inclusive Marrakech Hotels
For those travelers who would rather have everything taken care of for them, there’s the option of all-inclusive resorts in Marrakech. These resorts are outside the city center but many have transportation options.
Sol Oasis
This property is large, with various categories and configurations. Guests have complimentary access to the year-round pool as well as a spa and lots of outdoor activities like a soccer field, tennis courts and basketball courts. The buffet restaurants are available with the all-inclusive plan for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as complimentary drinks and snacks at the onsite bars.
Eden Andalou Club
For the couple that is seeking an all-inclusive option with plenty of water activities, this is a good option to consider. There are on-site restaurants as well as a half-board option if you plan to take some of your meals in the city. The team in charge of entertainment are particularly well-liked at this location.
Kenzi Club Agdal Medina
Of the all-inclusive options, this one is one of my favorites for people who want an all-inclusive hotel not far from the city. Two hundred and fifty deluxe rooms are complete with modern amenities and a hotel feel. Each room has a balcony and all-inclusive guests have access to onsite restaurants and bars throughout their stay. A shuttle bus will get you to and from the city center – just a very short drive away.
Medina Gardens
While many all-inclusive hotels cater to families, this hotel is an adults-only property. It’s also located in the heart of the city so you won’t need to worry about getting around. Wander the gardens or swim in the pool. Choose from eating onsite or find the city at your fingertips just by stepping outside the doors.
Barbara ZoBell
Wednesday 18th of May 2022
Hi Amanda! I’ve stayed in some of your recommended riads and liked them. Then I discovered El Fenn which I love a lot. I wondered why they aren’t on your list? I rented a riad for a month in Dar Bacha neighborhood and liked that too. Barbara in California
Amanda Mouttaki
Wednesday 18th of May 2022
I don't include the most famous places because those are on every list and are generally sold out. I'd rather support smaller, lesser well known spots.
Shazia Ghulam
Wednesday 19th of February 2020
Hi Amanda,
I got your link via a friend of mine and I'm super curious ... We went last year to Marrakesh for our honeymoon and we stayed in Fairmont royal Palm which was absolutely amazing .
This year my husband gave me a surprise by making all the arrangements tickets and hotel from 9-16 March. We will be staying in Les jardins des Koutoubia for our first wedding anni... he selected this hotel for it's location, all the luxury hotels are outside. What do you think is a good choice Amanda?
Amanda Mouttaki
Friday 21st of February 2020
I think you'll have a very lovely stay. It is a different feel and experience but great. Luxury hotels are nice but I do sometimes feel like you could be anywhere in the world when you are in one.
Tori
Thursday 9th of January 2020
I am grateful to you for such a wonderful review. Everything is very beautiful!
Joe
Friday 13th of September 2019
Hello Amanda, I enjoy your site tremendously! We are planing to stay in the Médina.. Is it better to stay really close to Jamaa en fin? Like 5 minutes away with my family or it’s ok to stay a bit further like 20 min away? We will be in town for 4 nights during December break/ new year, Thank you, Joe
Amanda Mouttaki
Tuesday 17th of September 2019
You don't need to stay really close but it depends a bit on what you want to do and what your plans are while you're in Marrakech.
Kortney Barnes
Monday 14th of January 2019
Thank you for your lovely and informative website! My husband and I will be traveling to Morocco in May 2019. We only have five nights as we are sandwiching the trip between business travel. Before I book my accommodations, I was hoping you could look at our tentative itinerary. We are trying to do as much as possible while we are there.
We fly in to Marrakesh at noon on 5/11. We plan to travel up to Kasbah du Toubkal and spend the night. The next morning, we will trek up to the Azzaden Trekking Lodge to spend one night. We will then arrange transportation by car from the Trekking Lodge to the desert camp, Terre Des Etoiles, to spend one night. We will then travel back to Marrakesh to spend our final two nights at Riad Kniza.
Is this itinerary doable or are we cramming too much in to our time in Morocco? Thank you for your advice! Kortney
Amanda Mouttaki
Thursday 17th of January 2019
It looks doable. You'll just want to keep in mind this will be Ramadan and in rural areas there won't be much open so make sure you have your food situation sorted for the day!