Many accommodations are found within riads, traditional Moroccan houses built around a central courtyard, which may also have fountains, gardens or pools. Riads may be constructed and decorated in traditional Moroccan design, lending themselves to be beautiful places to stay, slow down and relax. Many riads are well-known for their cooking, and sometimes the best food experiences in Morocco are in your own (vacation) home!
Budget:
Staying in Morocco does not have to cost a fortune. With an abundance of hostels, solo travelers or small groups can book a stay for a smaller cost and have the bonus of meeting like-minded travelers.
With its location in the heart of Marrakech’s Medina, Riad Dia hostel offers a warm and welcoming accommodation. With dorm prices starting at US$13 per night, including a free breakfast, this hostel is a lovely place to make your home base. When you’re not out exploring, enjoy the indoor courtyard gardens, pick some fruit or lounge by the pool.
Shared kitchen in Riad Dia.
In a central location only a 10-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the Central House Marrakech Medina is another great choice. With dorm options starting at US$25 per night, this hostel offers amenities a little bit closer to a hotel, like its rooftop terrace with magical views and a restaurant and bar in the courtyard. You can hop out of the pool and head straight to grab a drink!
The Central House Marrakech Medina.
With some of the best surf just a 10-minute walk away, Surf Hostel Morocco in Tamraght is the place to be. This hostel has a myriad of communal spaces, with cozy hammocks, a ping pong table and a shared TV. This is a great spot to meet new friends after a day out exploring or on the water. Beds start at US$12 per night and include breakfast.
Surf Hostel Morocco.
Surf Hostel Morocco.
In Essaouira, check out Essaouira Beach Hostel. Located just a minute away from the beach, this hostel has amazing communal outdoor space to enjoy. Hang out and have fun on the basketball court or football field, and meet new friends at the daily free breakfast. Beds start at US$5 per night.
Essaouira Beach Hostel.
Mid-range:
Mid-range accommodations are likely also in riads, but with more private room options than a shared hostel. Here are a few choices that stood out to us.
With rooms starting at around US$40 per night, Casa Zouina in Agadir is a lovely accommodation. Offering private rooms fitted with their own bathrooms and a shared lounge, this bed and breakfast strikes the perfect balance of privacy and a social atmosphere; be sure to enjoy breakfast in the outdoor lounge while chatting with other travelers.
Terrace at Casa Zouina.
Another option is Riad Kniza in Marrakech. The riad is located in the heart of Marrakech, only a few minutes’ walk from the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. A unique aspect of this accommodation, aside from its beautifully curated architecture and design, is its team of musician resident artists, who create and perform their own pieces. This accommodation has a real taste for art while allowing you to immerse yourself in the Moroccan environment, whether it be through evening music or an intimate meal. As well, Riad Kniza donates to an aid organization with a portion of the proceeds from each booking. Room prices start at around US$270 per night.
Business center in Riad Kniza
Riad Tizwa is also located in the center of Marrakech’s old town and is decorated beautifully with traditional Moroccan architecture. This riad is one of the first in Morocco to be awarded the Green Key, a recognition of sustainability and environmental practices, making it the perfect option for eco-conscious travelers. Rooms start at US$130 a night.
Riad Tizwa.
Airbnb is also quite popular and a great option for a group traveling together. With Airbnb, you may easily rent out whole apartments or rooms in a riad for your group, which can be budget-friendly.
Luxury:
If you are looking for an all-out luxury experience, multiple accommodations across the country may blow you away. Here is a look at just a handful whose interiors and amenities impressed us:
With regal architecture fit for a palace, La Mamounia offers rooms, suites and private riads. This accommodation also has many amenities, like bars, restaurants and spas that bring it closer to a resort. Rooms start at US$518 per night.
Salon de The in La Mamounia.
El Fenn is a boutique hotel offering a unique experience for your stay. The hotel is known for its interior design, with dazzling rooms and suites to stay in. They also host rotating art exhibits every year, and the hotel’s interior is always decorated with beautiful art and photography. Spend your days exploring the old city, and then come back home to hang out with the family of tortoises that live on the property. Rooms start at US$350 a night.
Courtyard in El Fenn.
You could also choose something different and step into a “sanctuary” among the busy old city with a stay at Riad 72. Complete with a spa, pool, bar and restaurant, step into this Riad and enjoy a relaxing stay. 72 blends traditional Moroccan architecture and design with a modern spin, creating a beautifully elegant oasis. Rooms start at US$350 per night.
Terrace on Riad 72.
Outside of historic Marrakech, you can opt for a jungle stay at Les Jardins de Villa Maroc, 15 minutes outside of Essaouira. This simple yet elegant hotel offers separate dome huts for all its guests, allowing for privacy and intimacy in a beautiful setting. They also offer excursions to visit their olive and argan oil farms, as well as cooking classes. For a more active option, you can book a trip during one of their semesterly yoga retreats. Rooms start at US$150 per night.
Les Jardins de Villa Maroc.