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.
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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.
Neighborhood Overview
Explore different areas by price range. Click a neighborhood to learn more.
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 Karmela
Medina
Charming traditional riad with elegantly decorated rooms around peaceful courtyards, a rooftop terrace offering Atlas Mountain views, hammam, and authentic Moroccan meals. Perfectly situated just 8 minutes' walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa and the souks.
Hotel Ali
Medina / Jemaa el-Fna
No-frills budget hotel just off the iconic Jemaa el-Fna square with simple clean rooms, a lively rooftop terrace restaurant offering great views, and an unbeatable central location for exploring the souks.
$$ Best Mid-Range Hotels
Riad Layla
Central Medina
A historic 18th-century boutique riad featuring a refreshing courtyard pool, lush flower-filled terraces, and traditional Moroccan decor just steps from Jemaa el-Fna.
Le Riad Yasmine
Medina
Instagram-famous riad with stunning green-tiled pool, beautiful interiors, and magical atmosphere.
$$$ Best Luxury Hotels
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.
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
Riad BE Marrakech
Medina
An Instagram-famous boutique riad in Bab Doukkala featuring vibrant tilework, two courtyards with plunge pools, a yoga studio, and a sprawling rooftop terrace.
Riad Dar Anika
Kasbah
A luxurious boutique riad near the Bahia Palace featuring individually styled rooms, a tranquil heated pool, and a rooftop terrace with Atlas Mountain views.
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 (104°F)+ 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
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
- All neighborhoods verified by walking them
- Curated locations based on walkability & safety
- Real-time availability via live partner maps
- Prices based on Booking.com & Numbeo averages
Methodology: This guide combines on-the-ground neighborhood research, current hotel pricing data, and real traveler feedback to provide honest, actionable accommodation recommendations for Marrakech.
Updated: February 25, 2026
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Complete travel guide for Marrakech: top things to do, itineraries, and typical costs.