Discover the best luxury hotels and riads in Marrakech, from palatial retreats and chic medina hideaways to eco-friendly desert escapes. Find your perfect stay in Morocco’s most magical city.
Marrakech, Morocco’s bustling jewel, is a city like no other. It pulses with energy, from the colorful souks of the medina to the swaying palms lining the city’s outskirts. Known for its vibrant markets, striking architecture, and rich history, Marrakech offers travelers an escape into a world of ancient traditions and cutting-edge luxury. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil oasis away from the city or a lavish stay surrounded by the hum of life, the accommodations here are as diverse as the city itself. Here are some of the best luxury hotels and riads in Marrakech, each offering its own unique experience.
1. Izza Marrakech: A Futuristic Oasis in the Medina
Tucked away in the heart of the medina, Izza Marrakech is a striking blend of traditional Moroccan architecture and contemporary digital art. Spread across seven interconnected riads, this boutique hotel is a maze of narrow corridors and intimate spaces. The decor features a mix of vintage furniture, Moroccan wood carvings, and cutting-edge art, including Sebastião Salgado’s Amazonia NFT series and works by Turkish-American artist Refik Anadol.
The 14 rooms, named after expatriate bon vivants like Talitha and Jack, are filled with character. Some feature modern, cubed staircases and kitchenettes, while others are more traditional with wall-to-wall beds and intricate woodwork. What truly sets Izza apart is its £5 million art collection, as well as its intimate, yet forward-thinking atmosphere. The rooftop, with its secret garden feel, offers a serene escape with views of the medina.
2. Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech: A Majestic Retreat in the Atlas Mountains
For those seeking a grander, more expansive retreat, Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech is nothing short of spectacular. Located just 20 minutes outside the city, this sprawling resort is set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, offering a peaceful contrast to the energy of the medina. With 570 acres of lush gardens, an 18-hole golf course, and a world-class spa, this is a place where wellness meets glamour.
The interiors reflect Morocco’s rich heritage with vibrant prints and bold colors, while the exterior feels like a regal palace with soaring ceilings, marble accents, and iconic Moroccan chandeliers. Whether you’re indulging in a spa treatment, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a fine dining experience at the on-site restaurant, Fairmont Royal Palm is the perfect blend of relaxation and luxury.
3. Selman Marrakech: Arabian Elegance Meets Modern Comfort
Selman Marrakech feels like a true Moroccan palace, combining regal Arabian influence with a sense of contemporary chic. Built in the style of an ancient summer palace, the hotel is surrounded by horse paddocks with Arabian stallions, reflecting the personal passion of its owner, a show-jumping champion.
Inside, the decor is a beautiful blend of Hermès-inspired Arabian design, with dark wood, leather, and exquisite Moorish detailing. Each room is thoughtfully designed with large, plush beds and traditional Moroccan furnishings. For a memorable experience, indulge in a breakfast at the Pavilion, where you’ll be serenaded by Berber musicians, or enjoy an extravagant Sunday brunch with mariachi bands, free-flowing Champagne, and a horse parade. For an intimate, private escape, Selman Marrakech is hard to beat.
4. Caravan by Habitas Agafay: A Minimalist Eco-Retreat in the Desert
For a completely different kind of luxury, Caravan by Habitas Agafay offers an off-the-beaten-path experience in Morocco’s Agafay Desert. Located in the rugged, lunar landscape of the Agafay hills, this eco-retreat embraces sustainable luxury. The 41 Berber-inspired tents are solar-powered and designed with minimalism in mind. Inside, earthy tones and natural materials blend seamlessly with the landscape, creating a serene environment that feels a world away from the busy streets of Marrakech.
At Caravan, the focus is on communal living and engagement with nature. The eco-friendly accommodations, including open-air lounges and Berber rugs, invite guests to slow down, relax, and connect with one another. Enjoy lamb slow-cooked in an underground oven or sip sangria as the sun sets over the Atlas Mountains. If you’re looking for an escape to nature with a touch of luxury, this is the place to unwind.
5. El Fenn: A Contemporary Haven with a Touch of Magic
Once a small six-room retreat, El Fenn has evolved into one of Marrakech’s most iconic hotels. Located on the edge of the medina, it seamlessly blends traditional Moroccan aesthetics with a modern, artistic vibe. The riad’s colorful and vibrant interiors feature a mix of Moorish archways, plush velvet cushions, and contemporary pop art.
The 41 rooms at El Fenn are spread across 13 interconnected riads, each designed with an eye for detail. Expect hand-stitched camel leather floors, bold zellige tiles, and beautiful Moroccan craftsmanship. With three pools, lush courtyards, and a serene rooftop, this hotel is the perfect balance of Marrakech’s old-world charm and a modern, artistic spirit.
6. La Mamounia: The Epitome of Marrakech’s Grandeur
For travelers who want to experience Marrakech at its most opulent, La Mamounia is the gold standard. Famous for attracting celebrities like Winston Churchill and Charlie Chaplin, this palatial hotel is a true icon. With its sprawling gardens, historic architecture, and world-class service, La Mamounia is a place to indulge in the best that Marrakech has to offer.
The hotel’s vast gardens are a haven of tranquility, with lemon trees, beekeepers, and hidden courtyards that offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. The rooms and suites are designed with a perfect blend of traditional Moroccan and contemporary French styles, with views of the Koutoubia Mosque or the vibrant city below. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, enjoying a traditional tagine at Le Marocain, or sipping cocktails in the iconic Le Bar Churchill, La Mamounia is an unforgettable experience.
7. Le Farnatchi: Peace Amidst the Medina’s Chaos
Nestled in the heart of Marrakech’s lively medina, Le Farnatchi is a peaceful oasis offering tranquility within the city’s chaos. Behind a grand black wooden door lies a serene courtyard, complete with an emerald pool and charming alcoves. The intimate setting—just nine suites—ensures a personal and quiet experience. The riad’s design reflects the best of Moroccan architecture, with handmade beds, polished marble floors, and cozy living areas.
Le Farnatchi’s restaurant, La Trou Au Mur, offers delicious Moroccan cuisine, including dishes like camel Tangia and saffron-infused Tride, making it a great choice for food lovers. If you’re looking for a more private, low-key stay with access to the medina’s best, Le Farnatchi is a perfect choice.
Marrakech Awaits: Find Your Perfect Stay
From grand palaces to minimalist desert retreats, Marrakech offers a range of accommodations to suit any taste. Whether you’re in search of the ultimate luxury or a more eco-conscious escape, the city’s hospitality scene never disappoints. Each of these hotels and riads provides not just a place to stay, but a gateway into the culture, history, and magic of Morocco. Ready to experience the unforgettable beauty of Marrakech? The city is waiting to welcome you, with each hotel offering a unique slice of its vibrant soul.
FAQ
What is the best area to stay in Marrakech?
The most popular areas include the Medina for traditional riads and cultural immersion, Hivernage for luxury hotels and nightlife, Palmeraie for resort-style stays among palm groves, and the Agafay Desert for unique eco-retreat experiences.
Are riads or hotels better in Marrakech?
Both offer different experiences. Riads are intimate, traditional, and usually located in the Medina—ideal for culture lovers. Hotels and resorts offer more amenities such as pools, spas, restaurants, and spacious grounds great for families, wellness trips, or relaxed escapes.
What is the best time to visit Marrakech?
The best times to visit are March May and September November, when the weather is warm but not too hot. Summer can be very hot, while winter evenings can get chilly.
Is Marrakech safe for tourists?
Yes, Marrakech is generally safe. As with most major cities, staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding overly crowded areas at night, and keeping personal items secure is recommended, especially in busy souks.
How many days do I need in Marrakech?
A stay of 3 to 5 days is ideal. This allows time to explore the Medina, visit palaces and gardens, enjoy a hammam experience, and take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains or the Agafay Desert.
What amenities do luxury hotels in Marrakech offer?
Many luxury hotels feature spas, hammams, fine dining restaurants, pools, lush gardens, rooftop terraces, and curated cultural experiences such as cooking classes or desert excursions.
Do hotels in Marrakech serve alcohol?
Yes, most luxury hotels and resorts serve alcohol. Some traditional riads in the Medina may not, so it’s best to check in advance if this is important to you.
How far are Marrakech hotels from the airport?
Most hotels in the Medina or central Marrakech are 15–25 minutes from Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). Resorts in the Palmeraie or Agafay Desert may take 30 minutes to an hour.
Do I need a reservation for popular hotel restaurants?
Yes—high-end restaurants at hotels like La Mamounia or Selman Marrakech can book up quickly. It’s best to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Are children welcome in luxury hotels and riads in Marrakech?
Many hotels, such as Fairmont Royal Palm Marrakech and Selman Marrakech, are family-friendly and offer kids’ clubs and large suites. Some smaller riads are more adult-focused, so check policies before booking.
