Where to Stay in Marrakech 2026 | Best Areas + Hotel Map
Marrakech accommodation divides between traditional riads (courtyard houses) in the ancient medina and modern hotels in the Ville Nouvelle. The magic of Marrakech lies in staying in a riad - waking to birdsong in a hidden courtyard, mint tea on the rooftop with Atlas Mountain views. First-timers should embrace the medina experience; those seeking familiarity can base in Gueliz.
Editor's Pick for First-Timers
Northern Medina (near Jemaa el-Fnaa)
Walking distance to main square, souks, and major sights. Experience the magic of riad living while being close enough to escape to rooftop terraces. Best of authentic Marrakech.
Central Medina
Kasbah / Mellah
Gueliz
Hivernage
Palmeraie
Quick Guide: Best Areas
Things to Know
- • Very cheap riads may lack hot water, ventilation, or safety standards
- • Some medina areas are far from landmarks and difficult to navigate
- • Be cautious of 'helpful' locals who demand payment for directions
- • Riads directly on Jemaa el-Fnaa are noisy until late - choose nearby alleys
Understanding Marrakech Geography
Marrakech centers on the ancient medina (walled old city) with Jemaa el-Fnaa square at its heart. The French-built Ville Nouvelle (Gueliz, Hivernage) lies west. The Palmeraie palm oasis extends north. The medina's maze-like streets take days to navigate confidently.
Accommodation Map
Check availability and prices across Booking.com, Vrbo, and more.
Best Neighborhoods in Marrakech
Medina (Central)
Best for: Jemaa el-Fnaa, souks, traditional riads, authentic immersion
"Ancient walled city with sensory overload and maze-like alleys"
Pros
- Most authentic
- Walk to everything
- Riad experience
Cons
- Can be overwhelming
- Getting lost guaranteed
- Persistent touts
Kasbah / Mellah
Best for: Saadian Tombs, Jewish heritage, quieter medina, El Badi Palace
"Southern medina with royal history and Jewish heritage"
Pros
- Quieter than central medina
- Historic sites
- Less hassle
Cons
- Farther from main square
- Some areas rundown
- Limited dining
Gueliz (Ville Nouvelle)
Best for: Modern cafés, French colonial architecture, shopping, Western comforts
"French-built new town with tree-lined boulevards and modern amenities"
Pros
- Modern comforts
- Near Majorelle
- Good restaurants
Cons
- Lacks medina atmosphere
- Far from main sights
- Less authentic
Hivernage
Best for: Luxury hotels, nightclubs, gardens, upscale dining
"Upscale hotel district with gardens and nightlife"
Pros
- Luxury hotels
- Pools and gardens
- Quieter
Cons
- Far from medina
- Needs taxi
- Resort bubble feel
Palmeraie
Best for: Resort escapes, palm groves, golf, luxury retreats
"Desert oasis with luxury resorts among palm trees"
Pros
- Ultimate escape
- Beautiful resorts
- Peace and quiet
Cons
- Far from everything
- Taxi essential
- Misses medina experience
Accommodation Budget in Marrakech
Budget
Hostels, budget hotels, shared facilities
Mid-Range
3-star hotels, boutique stays, great locations
Luxury
5-star hotels, suites, premium amenities
💡 Prices vary by season. Book 2-3 months ahead for best rates.
Our Top Hotel Picks
€ Best Budget Hotels
Riad Layla
Central Medina
Charming budget riad with beautiful courtyard, rooftop terrace, and excellent Moroccan breakfast included.
Riad BE Marrakech
Medina
Contemporary-designed riad with pool, modern rooms, and excellent location near Bahia Palace.
€€ Best Mid-Range Hotels
Riad Yasmine
Medina
Instagram-famous riad with stunning green-tiled pool, beautiful interiors, and magical atmosphere.
El Fenn
Medina
Boutique riad by Vanessa Branson (Richard's sister) with art collection, rooftop pool, and bohemian elegance.
Riad Kniza
Medina
Intimate riad with exceptional service, beautiful antiques, and owner who shares deep Marrakech knowledge.
€€€ Best Luxury Hotels
La Mamounia
Medina edge
Legendary palace hotel since 1923 with stunning gardens, multiple pools, and Moroccan grandeur. Churchill's favorite.
Royal Mansour Marrakech
Medina edge
King Mohammed VI's private project with individual riads, underground tunnels for staff, and unparalleled opulence.
✦ Unique & Boutique Stays
Dar Anika
Kasbah
Hidden gem near Saadian Tombs with exceptional cooking classes, intimate atmosphere, and knowledgeable hosts.
Smart Booking Tips for Marrakech
- 1 Book 2-3 months ahead for Christmas/New Year, Easter, and major festivals
- 2 Ramadan dates vary - some restaurants close during day but evenings are magical
- 3 Summer (June-August) is extremely hot - expect 40°C+ but low prices
- 4 Many riads include breakfast - Moroccan breakfasts are substantial and delicious
- 5 Riads often arrange airport transfer - essential for first arrival in medina
Why you can trust this guide
We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.
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Best Time to Visit
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Things to Do
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Overview
Complete travel guide for Marrakech: top things to do, itineraries, and typical costs.