Riad
A traditional house built around a courtyard garden, inside the medina. Often with a rooftop terrace. Our favourite for couples.
Where to stay
Where to Stay
Riads, desert camps and guesthouses: how to choose, and the areas we'd pick in each city.
Types of stays
Riad, Dar, Hotel or Camp?
Dar
Like a riad, but with a smaller courtyard and no garden. Often cheaper and very cosy.
Hotel
Modern comfort and easy car access, usually in the new towns, like Gueliz in Marrakech.
Desert camp
From simple tents to luxury camps with private bathrooms. Dinner, music and stars included.
The areas we'd pick
| Place | Where to stay | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Marrakech | The medina, or Gueliz | The medina for the atmosphere, Gueliz for a quieter, modern stay |
| Fes | Inside Fes el-Bali, near Bab Boujloud | Easy to find, and close to everything |
| Chefchaouen | Inside the medina | Wake up in the blue lanes before the day trips arrive |
| Essaouira | The medina, close to the sea | Walk everywhere, hear the waves at night |
| Atlas | Imlil or the Ourika Valley | Village guesthouses with mountain views |
| Sahara | A camp in Erg Chebbi or Erg Chigaga | Sleep in the dunes, not in town |
Booking tips
- Read recent reviews: a riad's charm depends a lot on the people who run it.
- Cars can't enter most medinas. Ask the riad to meet you at the nearest gate or parking.
- Breakfast is usually included in riads, and often served on the roof.
- Expect a small city tax per person per night, often paid in cash.
Places we've stayed
Want our list for your budget?
On a planning call we share the places we trust in each city.