When I started planning my trip to Marrakech, I was a little confused about where to stay. Of course, the Medina was at the top of my list as it was my first time visiting the city. However, after doing a bit of research, I quickly realized there were so many amazing areas to choose from, and it got a little overwhelming! So if I did, I’m sure you might too!
Whether you want to stay in the heart of the action or prefer a quieter vibe, Marrakech has something for everyone. From luxurious hotels with a swimming pool to traditional Moroccan riads hidden in the winding streets of the Medina.
Speaking of Riads, one thing that really stood out during my stay was the option to stay in an actually traditional Moroccan riad. These colourful accommodations, typically with a central courtyard and sometimes even an outdoor pool, are perfect if you want to experience true Moroccan hospitality. We stayed at Riad Selouane during our trip, right in the Medina. The peaceful setting, combined with the stunning Moroccan design, made it a perfect retreat when we wanted to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Medina.
So to help you decide what the best area to stay in Marrakech is for you, here’s a breakdown.
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Day Trips We Recommend from Marrakech
– Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike & Boat Trip
– Marrakech Balloon Flight with Berber Breakfast
– Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride with Dinner
👉 Don’t miss these Foodie Experiences
– Moroccan Cooking Class & Marrakech Market Visit with Chef Khmisa
– Marrakech Street Food Tour
– Authentic Moroccan Food Tour in Marrakech with Dinner
👉 Stay at the Riad I loved! Riad Selouane
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Best Areas to Stay in Marrakech
If you’re visiting Marrakech for the first time, the Northern Medina is an excellent choice. It’s the heart of the action, with vibrant souks, traditional Moroccan architecture, and landmarks like Jemaa el-Fnaa just minutes away from most accommodations. Staying here puts you right in the middle of the energy and excitement of Marrakech, but be prepared for the hustle and bustle.
Top Sights – Jemaa el-Fnaa, Souks, Medersa Ben Youssef
Best For – First-time visitors, culture lovers
Where to Stay
Budget – Riad Lapis-Lazuli
Mid-Range – Riad Selouane
Luxury – La Maison Arabe
Where did I Stayed in Marrakech
👉 Watch our hotel review staying at Riad Selouane in Marrakech.
The Kasbah area, located in the southern Medina, is full of history. It’s home to historical sites like the Saadian Tombs and Bab Agnaou, and its quieter streets make it a lovely place to stay if you want a break from the chaos of the city centre. This area still offers plenty of traditional Moroccan accommodation but with a slightly more laid-back vibe.
Top Sights – Saadian Tombs, Kasbah Mosque, Bab Agnaou Gate
Best For – History buffs, those looking for a quieter stay
Where to Stay
Budget – Riad Hikaya
Mid-Range – Riad Daria
Luxury – Les Jardins de la Medina
For travellers looking to dive deeper into the rich history of the Medina, the Southern Medina is a great spot. This area is known for its proximity to the Kasbah district and historical landmarks like the Bahia Palace and El Badi Palace. It’s slightly less chaotic than the northern part of the Medina but still offers plenty of traditional Moroccan charm.
Top Sights – Bahia Palace, El Badi Palace, Jewish Quarter
Best For – History buffs, culture seekers
Where to Stay
Budget – Riad Boussa
Mid-Range – Riad Melhoun & Spa
Luxury – La Sultana Marrakech
Gueliz, also known as the “new town,” is Marrakech’s most modern neighbourhood. It’s a sharp contrast to the traditional Medina and is home to trendy cafés, high-end boutiques, and contemporary art galleries. It’s the perfect spot if you want to enjoy a more cosmopolitan side of Marrakech while still being just a 10-minute drive away from the Medina.
Top Sights – Majorelle Gardens, Yves Saint Laurent Museum
Best For – Trendsetters, shoppers, modern travellers
Where to Stay
Budget – Hotel Almas
Mid-Range – 2Ciels Boutique Hotel
Luxury – Radisson Blu Hotel Marrakech
For those seeking pure luxury, Hivernage is where you’ll find some of the most exclusive hotels and resorts in Marrakech. This area is known for its upscale accommodations with sprawling outdoor pools and excellent service. It’s also close to some of Marrakech’s best restaurants and nightlife, making it ideal for those who want a more refined experience. If you’re looking to splurge, this is the area for you.
Top Sights – Menara Gardens, Palais des Congrès
Best For – Luxury travellers, nightlife lovers
Where to Stay
Budget – Fashion Hotel
Mid-Range – Opera Plaza Hotel Marrakech
Luxury – Four Seasons Resort Marrakech
Located just outside of Marrakech, Palmeraie is perfect for those looking for a bit of adventure and relaxation. This area is known for its vast palm groves and offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city. It’s an excellent spot for camel rides, quad biking, and exploring the nearby desert landscape. Plus, many of the hotels here have beautiful private pools, perfect for a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring.
Top Sights – Camel rides, Palmeraie Golf Club, Quad biking
Best For – Adventure seekers, nature lovers, families
Where to Stay
Budget – Riad Dar Ayniwen
Mid-Range – Palais Rhoul & Spa
Luxury – Hotel Jnane Tamsna
Day trips we recommend from Marrakech
🐻 Discover Marrakech’s natural wonders! Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike & Boat Trip
🚙 Adventure in the desert! Lunch in Agafay Desert with Quad Ride
🎈 Take to the skies! Marrakech Balloon Flight with Berber Breakfast
✨ Dine under the stars! Agafay Desert Sunset Camel Ride with Dinner
👉 One of the tours in Marrakech!
FAQ on Marrakech
For first-time visitors, the Northern Medina is the best option as it puts you close to the main attractions like Jemaa el-Fnaa and the souks. This is where I stayed on my first visit.
Yes, the Medina offers an authentic experience, with traditional Moroccan riads and easy access to the top sights.
The Medina is the heart of Marrakech, with Jemaa el-Fnaa being its central hub.
Chrifia or Palmeraie are great for families, offering a quieter atmosphere and family-friendly accommodations.
Yes, but staying in a riad gives you a more authentic and immersive experience of Moroccan culture.
👉 Read Next: What to see in Marrakech! Sights you can’t miss
The Southern Medina offers budget-friendly options close to cultural landmarks.
The Hivernage district is known for being safe and upscale, with plenty of high-end hotels and restaurants.
Yes, staying in a riad allows you to experience traditional Moroccan hospitality and architecture.
The Hivernage district is where you’ll find the most luxurious hotels and high-end restaurants.
Yes, the Medina and Hivernage are generally safe to walk around at night, but it’s always good to stay aware of your surroundings.
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