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Marrakesh is heavily reliant on the tourist industry. It has adapted the accommodation it offers to attract all kinds of visitors. The two main choices are riads and resorts/hotels. I’ve stayed in both, so here is a comparison so you know which is better for your next trip.
I would compare these to boutique hotels. They usually host 15 rooms or less and offer a more intimate experience.
In Morocco, and Marrakesh in particular, the typical layout is a central courtyard with rooms leading off it. You will have the choice of rooms on the ground floor and via the balconies on the floors above.
Hidden away in the middle of the Medina, they do offer a small pool for you to cool down in. Be aware it is in the courtyard so you need to keep the noise to a minimum. I noticed the atmosphere throughout was always very peaceful.
The rooms can be a nice change from the copy-paste style of the bigger establishments. They are equipped with all that you may need during your stay including hairdryers, A&C, water…
Breakfast is traditionally served on the rooftop which offers great views of the surrounding buildings. It’s a mixture of local and continental to ensure everyone is happy. Being in a smaller setting, if you particularly liked a dish, you could ask for it again and they will happily oblige.
Dinner is also available on the rooftop on request. They offer you several menu choices which you need to pick in advance so they can ensure everything is set up for the time you want. We did this for two nights and it was such a good decision!
Speaking of staff, having fewer guests to look after, they are very attentive and, in my experience, keen to show travellers the wonder that is Morocco. They advise on itineraries, directions, plan special occasions… anything you need, they are happy to help!
The final cost of your stay can vary immensely in Riads. Some pride themselves on being luxurious (which they are) and charge accordingly, like this one! Others are more humble and offer a great stay for a modest price, like the one I stayed in. When researching, the total cost will be one of the defining factors, but generally, they can be more expensive than their resort competition.
Best for – single travellers, couples, small groups and large groups to book out an entire riad
Pro – intimate setting, boutique feel, central location, traditional
Con – Minimum amenities, conscious of other guests, more expensive
Resort or chain hotels do get a bad reputation, but they are still here because they have figured out their place in the market. They are successful!
In Morocco, resorts tend to be located on the outskirts of the city purely for space reasons. They resemble other hotels around the world and to some travellers, this can be comforting.
The hotel rooms are the typical style you expect from a chain and offer plenty of space. In my experience, the Moroccan hotels have slightly bigger rooms with huge showers!
Compared to the Riad, all the amenities are available; restaurants, bars, gyms, pools, kids areas… The pools are big and you can spend as much time as you like lounging in or around them. Resorts have made their money by offering ease and familiarity. This can be reassuring to some, especially families, single travellers or tourists who are still new to travelling abroad. Therefore, they should never be overlooked!
Breakfast is a grander affair offering local, continental and buffet style every morning. If you are visiting with some fussy eaters this will come as a relief! It is also usually included during your stay but always check before booking.
As mentioned above, these resorts can be cheaper than traditional Riads. They make money by the number of guests, which always makes it more affordable. Here is the one I stayed in.
Arrival fees can be high in Morocco, so make sure to enquire about these before booking. They are very upfront, but you want to be prepared in order to start your holiday off the right way.
Best for – Groups, families, & new travellers
Pro – Dinning options, standard room style, amenities including large pools
Con – Location and less traditional
I miss Marrakesh. Please go there and take me with you.
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