Where To Stay In Marrakech – Best Areas & Neighbourhoods

Looking for the best area to stay in Marrakech? We’ve explored this crazy city many times and put together this guide to help you decipher Marrakech’s many distinct neighbourhoods.

The sprawling maze of Marrakech offers vastly different experiences depending on where you choose to stay.

There’s the atmospheric chaos of the ancient medina, the palm-lined avenues of the modern Ville Nouvelle, and resort-style stays on the outskirts of the city.

We’ve been to Marrakech several times and have come to appreciate how different areas cater to different types of experiences.

Some neighbourhoods put you right in the heart of the souks with authentic riads tucked down narrow alleyways; others offer modern comforts and easy access to contemporary restaurants and bars.

In this guide, we provide a breakdown of the different areas to stay in Marrakech with the pros and cons for each.

Each area includes accommodation recommendations for different budgets and some tips on what to do nearby.

Map & Summary

We have put all the different areas to stay in Marrakech, along with our recommended accommodation options, on the map below.

We have also written a detailed guide on what to do in Marrakech to help decide where to base yourself and a Marrakech itinerary so you can see how we put our trip together. Both these guides will give you an overview of what each of the following areas contains.

Click on the top right corner to open our map in your Google Maps app. Click the star next to the title to save it to your Google account.  

Where to Stay in Marrakech

1. Northern Medina & Souks

We recommend staying in the northern medina if you want to be right in the heart of the action with authentic atmosphere and easy access to traditional markets.

The northern section of the medina, particularly around the souks and near Jemaa el-Fnaa square, is where Marrakech really comes alive.

This area has the highest concentration of traditional riads – converted courtyard houses that you have probably seen on social media.

Many have rooftop terraces with stunning views over the medina’s rooftops towards the Atlas Mountains.

The atmosphere is intoxicating, but it can be intense. The narrow, winding streets can be tricky to navigate, and it’s not quiet, especially near the main square. But it is authentic.

Many of the top things to do in Marrakech are easily accessible from here including Bahia Palace, the Ben Youssef Madrasa and the tanneries.

Selected Places to Stay in the Northern Medina

• Riad Tizwa ($) – Tucked between the central souks and Bab Doukkala, this riad offers unbeatable value and is perfectly situated for exploring Marrakech.
• Riad Kniza ($$) – Beautifully restored palace with antique furnishings, a plunge pool in the courtyard, and one of the best traditional Moroccan restaurants in the city.
• Riad Adore ($$) – A contemporary riad with chic design and plush accommodation. Recently redecorated with sparkling style, this is the place to book for the traditional charm of a riad with the luxury and service of a quality hotel.
• Royal Mansour Marrakech ($$$) – The pinnacle of luxury in the medina. Individual riad suites with private plunge pools, three Michelin-starred restaurants, and a subterranean spa. The price reflects the exclusivity.

2. Southern Medina & Kasbah

We’d suggest staying in the southern medina to escape the tourist crowds, experience local neighbourhood life and stay close to some of Marrakech’s most beautiful palaces.

The Kasbah area, in the southern part of the old city, has a more residential feel than the northern medina. It’s calmer, with fewer tourists and more locals going about their daily lives.

This neighbourhood is home to some of Marrakech’s most stunning attractions. The Saadian Tombs and El Badi Palace are both within walking distance.

The area around Bab Agnaou, one of the old city gates, is one of our favourites in Marrakech. Here you’ll find the Kasbah Mosque and some excellent local restaurants that haven’t been discovered by tour groups.

Riads in this area tend to be slightly cheaper than their northern counterparts, yet they’re equally beautiful. The streets feel more lived-in, with neighbourhood bakeries and corner shops serving locals rather than tourists.

The Mellah, the old Jewish quarter, is within walking distance and offers a fascinating glimpse into Marrakech’s multicultural history.

The downside is that you’re a 15–20-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa and the main souks, though this also means you can retreat to relative peace in the evenings.

Selected Places to Stay in the Southern Medina

• Riad Dar Najat ($) – Charming family-run riad in a quiet alley near the Saadian Tombs, with home-cooked meals and genuine hospitality.
• Les Jardins de la Médina ($$) – Spacious riad complex with beautiful gardens, multiple pools, and a hammam. Feels like a peaceful oasis whilst still being in the medina.
• La Sultana Marrakech ($$$) – Luxury five-star riad with a rooftop bar overlooking the Saadian Tombs, gourmet restaurant, and sumptuous suites decorated with Moroccan antiques.

3. Gueliz (Ville Nouvelle)

Gueliz is the best choice for modern amenities, international restaurants and a more European atmosphere.

Also known as the Ville Nouvelle (New Town), Gueliz was built by the French during the colonial period and feels worlds away from the medina.

Wide, tree-lined boulevards, contemporary cafés, and international shops give this area a distinctly modern feel.

Avenue Mohammed V, the main artery, is lined with banks, travel agencies, and familiar Western brands. There are excellent restaurants here.

If you think the medina might be a bit much or just prefer modern comforts, Gueliz is ideal.

Hotels here have consistent air conditioning, reliable wifi, and Western-style amenities.

The Marrakech Theatre and Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art are both in this neighbourhood, and there are several art galleries showcasing Moroccan contemporary art.

What you sacrifice is atmosphere. Gueliz feels like any modern city – it’s clean, organised, and somewhat soulless compared to the medina. However, the medina is easily reached by petit taxi (about 10-15 minutes) or a 20-minute walk.

Selected Places to Stay in Gueliz

• Fashion Boutique Hotel ($) – A 3-star boutique hotel near the train station with a rooftop pool and excellent restaurant. Modern rooms with air conditioning and soundproofing, plus a spa with hammam.
• 2Ceils Boutique ($$) – Art Deco-style luxury boutique hotel with 85 rooms, two outdoor pools (including a lively rooftop pool), and a full-service spa. Located between Gueliz and Hivernage with two restaurants, multiple bars, and a vibrant atmosphere.
• Four Seasons Marrakech ($$$) – Sits between Gueliz and the medina with sprawling gardens, multiple pools, a world-class spa, and impeccable service.

4. Hivernage

Hivernage is perfect if you want upscale hotels, nightlife options and resort-style amenities whilst staying close to the medina.

Positioned between Gueliz and the medina walls, Hivernage is Marrakech’s upscale modern neighbourhood. It’s where you’ll find many of the city’s luxury hotels and some of its best restaurants and bars.

The area has a resort feel, with manicured gardens, high-end boutiques, and several of the city’s licensed bars and nightclubs.

The Menara Gardens are at the western edge of Hivernage – peaceful olive groves with a reflecting pool and views of the Atlas Mountains. The Cyber Park offers a green escape with wifi throughout.

Staying here gives you the best of both worlds. You’re close enough to walk to Jemaa el-Fnaa in 15 minutes, yet you return each evening to modern luxury. The streets are safe, well-lit, and easy to navigate.

What you miss is the authentic Moroccan experience. Hivernage caters primarily to wealthy tourists and feels somewhat artificial. But if you value comfort, this is an excellent choice.

Selected Places to Stay in Hivernage

• Hotel Marrakech Le Tichka ($$) – Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary Moroccan design, rooftop pool with mountain views, and excellent location.
• Sofitel Marrakech Palais Imperial & Spa ($$) – Modern luxury with traditional touches, beautiful gardens, and multiple pools. The spa is particularly good.
• Es Saadi Marrakech Resort ($$$) – The most glamorous address in Hivernage. Extensive gardens, three pools, gourmet restaurants, and the city’s best nightclub on-site.

5. Palmeraie

We love staying in the Palmeraie for total relaxation, resort facilities and a complete escape from the city.

The Palmeraie is a vast palm grove on the northern edge of Marrakech, about 20 minutes’ drive from the medina.

This area has been developed into a luxury resort zone, with sprawling hotels and private villas set amongst date palms and olive groves.

The hotels here tend to be enormous, with extensive pools, championship golf courses, multiple restaurants, and world-class spas. Some resorts offer activities like quad biking through the palms, camel rides at sunset, or hot air balloon launches at dawn.

After the sensory overload of the medina, retreating to a resort here feels wonderfully peaceful.

The main downside is that you’re isolated from the city. You’ll need to arrange transport (taxi or hotel shuttle) for every trip into town, which takes the spontaneity out of exploring.

Dining options are limited to hotel restaurants unless you venture out.

This isn’t the place to stay if you want to experience authentic Marrakech. But if you’re looking for a luxurious base from which to make occasional forays into the city, combined with serious relaxation time, the Palmeraie delivers.

Selected Places to Stay in the Palmeraie

• Pickalbatros Palmeraie Golf Suites ($) – One of the more affordable options, offering pools, gardens, and Moroccan-style accommodation at reasonable rates.
• Hotel Riu Tikada Garden ($$) – Adults-only all-inclusive resort set in lush gardens with multiple outdoor pools, entertainment programmes, and a wellness spa.
• Iberostar Waves Club Palmeraie ($$) – Family-friendly all-inclusive resort set in 10 hectares overlooking the Atlas Mountains. Three heated pools, landscaped gardens, kids’ club, and multiple restaurants serving Moroccan and international cuisine.

6. Day Trips & Resort Stays

If you fancy combining your Marrakech stay with mountain scenery or coastal relaxation, here are a few great options beyond the city.

Atlas Mountains (Imlil & Ourika Valley) – About 90 minutes from Marrakech, mountain lodges offer spectacular hiking, traditional Berber culture, and dramatic scenery. Perfect for a two-night addition to your Marrakech trip.

Essaouira – This coastal town is a three-hour drive west. The medina is far more manageable than Marrakech’s, the beaches are excellent, and the seafood is superb. Ideal for a few days by the sea.

Ouarzazate & Ait Benhaddou – For desert landscapes and kasbahs, head southeast. The striking scenery has featured in numerous films and provides a stark contrast to the city.

We usually include at least one of these excursions in a Marrakech trip. The variety of experiences within just a few hours’ drive is one of Morocco’s greatest assets.

7. Destination Stays

If you’re looking for a specific type of stay rather than a particular neighbourhood, here are some recommendations.

BEST FOR	HOTEL	WHERE
Best traditional riad	Riad Kniza (££)	Northern Medina
Best spa & wellness resort	Fairmont Royal Palm Beachcomber (£££)	Palmeraie
Best rooftop views	La Sultana (£££)	Southern Medina
Best desert-style resort	Amanjena (£££)	Edge of Palmeraie
Best budget option	Riad Dar Anika (£)	Northern Medina

More Morocco Guides

• Our 10-day Morocco itinerary covers Marrakech, Fez, the Atlas Mountains & the Sahara Desert.
• Read our guide to the most beautiful places to visit in Morocco.
• Our 3-day Marrakech itinerary covers all the big sights plus some local neighbourhoods.
• This walking tour of the Fez Medina is a great way to experience the city.
• Enjoy the beautiful and remote Ouirgane Valley.
• All you need to know about driving in Morocco.
• Take a coastal break with our guide to Essaouira, Morocco.
• Go off the tourist trail in the Atlas Mountains.
• Explore the activities around Ait Ben Haddou.