Best Riads in Marrakech Medina Under £250 (Handpicked & Tried-and-Tested)
My first visit to Marrakech was a girls’ shopping trip in 2003, I don’t remember what we did exactly, but I do remember the two purchases I made: a leather travel bag that made everything I put in it smell like camel, and a brass lantern that never made it up in my then-London home. Fast-forward to 2025: I have been living in Morocco for 7 years, researching and writing articles and guidebooks on how travellers can best enjoy the city, with and without the crowds. I often get asked for shopping tips - I have gotten better at that - and where to stay.
Most people are looking for a charming riad in the Medina with a reasonable price that isn’t super touristy.
Where should first-timers stay in Marrakech? I always recommend riads in the Medina. This is the city’s main attraction, a maze of alleys, souks, and everyday Islamic life enclosed within iconic rose-pink walls. At its heart, the Djemma el Fna bursts into life each afternoon and evening, surrounded by rooftop cafés, street food stalls, and storytellers. Just beside it, the Koutoubia Mosque rises above the city’s pink skyline, with the Call to Prayer sounding out five times a day.
If you are travelling to Marrakech over the Festive Season in December / January 2025, take a read of this handy blog on how to plan your trip during the busy season.
Where to Stay in Marrakech Medina (and How to Choose the Right Riad)
Your ideal stay depends on:
Budget (this article covers the best riads under £250)
Who you're travelling with (solo, couples, friends, families)
Trip purpose (shopping, eating, spa, museums, work, relaxation, night-out)
Length of stay ((longer stays can combine city time with the Agafay Desert and/ or Atlas Mountains)
Season (A/C essential in summer; heating in winter when the nights are cold)
Previous visits (try a new neighbourhood such as the Kasbah and Mellah on return trips)
Most traditional riads have 5–10 rooms around a central courtyard; some have combined a few riads into boutique hotels with 40+ rooms. Many have splash pools, rooftop terraces, and private hammams.
For large pools or kids’ facilities, look to the Hivernage or Palmeraie districts.
⭐ Best Riads in Marrakech Medina (Under £250)
Perfect for first-time visitors who want to stay in the heart of the old city. From these riads, you can walk to Ben Youssef Medersa, Koutoubia Mosque, Le Jardin Secret, and Djemaa el-Fna without needing a taxi.
1. Central House Marrakech
From £30 per bed/night
A stylish hostel–boutique hybrid. I stayed here when travelling alone, and needed a comfortable bed, a working bathroom, and a low price. Perfect for solo travellers looking for a friendly environment and a central location. Choose between dorms and private doubles. There’s a small pool plus communal dining and lounge areas. Book via their website.
2. Riad Tizwa
From £100 per night
A beautiful, great-value riad on the western Medina edge, close to Dar Bacha Museum. Warm service, simple Moroccan interiors, and traditional feel.
(For live availability and bookings, check Booking.com. If you book through this link, I will receive a small referral commission.)
3. Dar Attajmil
From £100 per night
A charming, four-bedroom riad with a cosy rooftop terrace and slow-travel ethos. Elegant rooms, luxury linens, and delicious homemade meals. Location: steps from Bab Laksour gate. Hammam and cooking classes available.
(Direct booking recommended — tell them I sent you. Or check live availability on Booking.com. If you book through this link, I will receive a small referral commission. )
4. Riad RK Suites & Spa
From £120 per night
Recommended by frequent-travelling friends. A stylish, warm riad with contemporary African touches, tadelakt bathrooms, and lantern lighting. Small courtyard pool, rooftop terrace, spa. Location: 5–6 minutes to Djemma el-Fna, cafés, shopping and Dar el Bacha area. I love the bright white walls contrasting with the hand-carved wood doors, and a soft colour palette of white, sand, pinks, and taupe.
(Book via Booking.com using this link, and I'll receive a small referral commission. )
5. Riad Alena
From £140 per night
A four-bedroom gem in one of the Medina’s most convenient streets, close to Dar el Bacha, Souk Semmarine, and key sights. Colourful, comfy rooms with artisan décor, a shaded splash pool, and rooftop loungers. Excellent food. I have yet to visit, but fellow travel writers highly recommend it, and from communications with the caring, hands-on owner, I trust this is a great option!
(Direct booking recommended — say I sent you. Or, on Booking.com, if you book through this link, I will receive a small referral commission.)
6. Ryad Dyor
From £150 per night
I visited Ryad Dyor as part of a girls’ weekend break. The style and service are incredible. Formerly three riads combined into a refined, design-led retreat. Ten uniquely styled rooms and suites, some with hand-painted ceilings and crafted zellige tiles. Features include a splash pool, hammam/spa, courtyards, and elegant terraces. Located in the quieter northeast Medina, 20 mins from Djemma el-Fna.
(Book direct - say I sent you)
7. Riad L’Orangeraie
From £160 per night
Established, elegant, and very well run since 2003. Many of the opening team members are still working there, including Cyril, the owner. Seven beautifully appointed rooms near Le Jardin Secret on Rue Sidi el Yamani. Two courtyards, a good-sized plunge pool, plenty of indoor and outdoor space, and a large roof terrace.
Not listed on Booking.com — book direct and mention I sent you.
8. Riad Kniza
From £230 per night
A historic, family-owned riad offering classic Moroccan hospitality and warm, polished service. Features include a pool, hammam, massages, and a fine-dining restaurant. Breakfast on the rooftop is a highlight. The owner’s private Moroccan art collection (opposite the riad) is a must-see.
Book direct for best rates and free airport transfer. Say I sent you!
9. Le Farnatchi
From £270 per night
One of Marrakech’s very first riad hotels, next to Ben Youssef Medersa. Ten luxurious suites, each with unique décor. The spa is exquisite, with its marble interior and vaulted ceiling. For upscale Moroccan cuisine, dine at their restaurant Le Trou Au Mur.
Book direct for best rates. Say I sent you!
If your budget stretches beyond £500
Check out El Fenn — a 42-room design hotel known for bold colour, contemporary art, dreamy rooftops, three swimming pools, two restaurants, and exceptional service. Their rooftop, open for non-residents, is an excellent place for sunset cocktails!
Planning your trip?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best area to stay in Marrakech for first-timers?
The Medina is the best area for first-time visitors who want to stay near souks, markets, and key landmarks like Djemma el-Fna and Ben Youssef Medersa.
Are riads in Marrakech safe?
Yes — especially the ones reviewed above.
Do riads have pools?
Many riads have small plunge pools for cooling off. For full-sized pools, look to Hivernage or Palmeraie resorts.
How many days should you stay in Marrakech?
Three to five days is ideal to explore the Medina, gardens, palaces, and take a day trip (Atlas Mountains or Agafay Desert).