Discover the Best Riads in Morocco 🇲🇦: 20 Handpicked Stays for American Travelers
Planning an unforgettable Moroccan adventure? Staying in a riad—a traditional Moroccan guesthouse built around a courtyard—is one of the most magical ways to immerse yourself in Morocco’s rich culture. Designed with American travelers in mind, this guide covers the 20 best riads in Morocco—from Marrakech to Fez, Essaouira and beyond—featuring a mix of luxury, local charm, boutique comfort, and excellent value.
Why Choose a Riad?
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Authenticity & History: You sleep in restored palaces or historic homes with carved wood, zellij tiles, tadelakt plaster, and enchanting courtyards.
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Central Locations: Many are tucked inside the medinas of Fez or Marrakech, putting you steps from souks, landmarks, and local life.
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Personalized Hospitality: Family-run or boutique-size, most riads offer tailored service—breakfasts on the rooftop, welcome mint tea, and travel tips.
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Unique Experience: Unlike hotels, each riad has its own style, setting them apart as memorable stays.
🌟 Top 20 Riads in Morocco for American Travelers
1. Royal Mansour Marrakech (Marrakech)
A creation of King Mohammed VI, this palace-style riad complex comprises private riads with courtyards, rooftop terraces, plunge pools, and world-class service. Ultra-luxurious and discreet—perfect for travelers craving privacy and elegance. (Vogue, The Hotel Guru, Wikipédia)
2. El Fenn (Marrakech)
A design‑forward boutique riad co‑owned by Vanessa Branson. Each room is unique, art-filled, with rooftop pools, colorful courtyards, spa, and a rooftop bar. A favorite for creative travelers and Instagram-ready stays. (Wikipédia)
3. La Mamounia (Marrakech)
Legendary since 1929, this palace‑hotel has sprawling gardens, world‑class dining, multiple pools and lavish interiors. Not technically a small riad but an iconic Moroccan institution. Winston Churchill called it “one of the best I have ever used.” (Wikipédia)
4. Riad Palais Sebban (Marrakech)
Set in a restored 19th‑century palace, it features elaborate tiling, two pools, a rooftop terrace, a hammam, and excellent breakfasts. Centrally located near Jemaa el‑Fna. (Travel Morocco Today)
5. Riad Melhoun & Spa (Marrakech)
Known for its serene courtyard and heated rooftop pool with views of the medina and Atlas Mountains, plus a spa offering massages and hammam treatments. Ideal for wellness-minded travelers. (PlacesofJuma)
6. Riad Dar Yasaman (Marrakech)
Romantic and intimate, this riad features a green-tiled courtyard pool, rooftop bar, hot tub, restaurant, and cozy decor. Perfect for couples. (THE EVOLISTA, THE EVOLISTA)
7. Riad Kheirredine (Marrakech)
Blends contemporary design with Moroccan tradition. Offers two pools, rooftop dining serving Italian‑Moroccan cuisine, and superb service. A favorite among food-loving American travelers. (The Hotel Guru, perfectlymoroccotours.com)
8. Riad Kaiss (Marrakech)
A historic 16th‑century former ruler’s house, updated with modern luxury: courtyard pool, hammam, cooking classes, and a restaurant featuring seasonal organic Moroccan cuisine. (mustvisitmorocco.com)
9. Riad Nashira & Spa (Marrakech)
Elegant and inclusive, with rooftop views over the city, a spa, hammam, and authentic-modern décor. A good mid‑luxury pick for American guests. (mustvisitmorocco.com)
10. Riad El Fenn also made the earlier list but merits repeat: artistic, rooftop views, multiple pools. See above.
11. Riad Spice (also known as Riad Safran & Cannelle & Spa) (Marrakech)
Situated near Ben Youssef Mosque, this restored 16th‑century riad offers hammam access via sister properties, rooftop dinners, and mint tea on tap—ideal for those seeking history and comfort. (theluxuryeditor.com)
12. Riad La Maison (Marrakech)
Curated by design-obsessed hosts: serene minimal interiors, candlelit courtyard, home-cooked meals, personalized service. Great for design-savvy travelers. (CN Traveller)
13. Riad Dar Ahwach (Marrakech)
Hidden near Dar el Bacha, with private pool courtyard, lush plants, great guest service. A peaceful oasis steps from the souks. (CN Traveller)
14. Riad Sadaka (Marrakech)
Renovated in 2021, with turquoise courtyard pool, rooftop hammam, and relaxing vibe. Available for exclusive rental—perfect for groups. (CN Traveller)
15. Riad Goloboy (Marrakech)
Bold blue courtyard, artistic interiors, heated pool, rooftop lounge. Stylish and vibrant—a colorful gem that stands out. (THE EVOLISTA, No Hurry To Get Home)
From Elsewhere in Morocco: Fez, Essaouira, Meknès & Coastal Retreats
16. Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux (Fez)
A luxurious palace‑style riad inside the UNESCO-listed medina of Fez. Expect high-end décor, spa and hammam, and rooftop views over ancient alleyways. Ideal for American luxury travelers wanting authenticity in Fez. (perfectlymoroccotours.com)
17. Dar Ba Mohammed Chergui (Fez)
A historic early‑20th‑century palace turned guesthouse (check current availability), with grand courtyards, marble and tiling, and rich heritage feel. A cultural treat for history lovers. (Wikipédia)
18. Riad Laaroussa (Fez) — mention from earlier blog: 17th‑century palace with spacious rooms, tranquil courtyards, rooftop views. Highly rated among American guests.
19. Palais Amani (Fez) — from Architectural Digest mention: 17th‑century richly outfitted villa, stained glass, rooftop with cooking classes and dining. A favorite for immersive stays. (architecturaldigest.com)
20. Riad L’orchidée (Essaouira)
Seaside riad combining coastal charm with traditional Moroccan design. Spacious rooms, rooftop terrace, steps from the beach. A perfect escape near Essaouira. (perfectlymoroccotours.com)
📍Why These 20 Riads Stand Out
| Category | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Luxury & Privacy | Royal Mansour, La Mamounia, Riad Fes |
| Design & Style | El Fenn, Goloboy, La Maison |
| Wellness & Spa Focus | Melhoun & Spa, Dar Yasaman, Riad Kheirredine, Riad Sadaka |
| Historic & Authentic Medinas | Riad Kaiss, Riad Spice, Palais Amani, Dar Ba Mohammed Chergui |
| Coastal & Offbeat | Riad L’orchidée (Essaouira) |
