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About Morocco

Morocco's colourful, pungent and frenetic centres are the perfect opposite to the vast expanses of pale, mystical desert and the rugged ridge of the Atlas Mountains. The main cities, built around their incredible marketplaces, have been hosting visitors for centuries, first those on the great trade routes, then those in thrall to the exoticism of the east, and of Africa.

There's so much to experience here, from assailing great mountains, to parasailing and learning to roll cous cous to learning to haggle for rolls of rugs. But whatever you do you'll need somewhere to relax at the end of the day, and the best places to stay in Morocco all offer that chance to unwind over a mint tea.

Marrakech promises romance and a touch of exoticism, but not everyone expects it to be so exhilirating! Its old souks, ancient and beautiful architecture, maze of streets and a whirlwind-like Medina experience like no other, qualify it for many a bucket list. Though if you're just looking for some winter sun you've also come to the right place. Either way, after your adventures getting lost amongst the colours and smells and crowds and dust you'll welcome some time being pampered in one of Marrakech's traditional hammams, or Turkish baths.

Fez, the old, and ancient capital, overwhelms the senses with its colour, noise and cacophony of smells. The medieval Medina of Fez, with its 90,000 streets and alleyways, is partly covered so you get some respite from the sun, but none from the spitting camels, menagerie of animals, and the entrepreneurial spirit of vendors. Pick through the nicknacks and you will find hidden treasures here - but remember that haggling is a way of life. Or just eat your fill from a wonderfully enticing spread of street food. Head to the madrases if you need respite. The tanneries and dying pits of Fez are also a fascinating place to visit, and of course this city has some of he world's most treasured Arabic architecture.

Essaouira spreads along a long sandy strip of Morocco's Atlantic coast, the kind of place you'd imagine Peter O'Toole's Laurence of Arabia riding in to off the desert. Definitely Moroccan, but with a European familiarity. What wouldn't work for the filmic Laurence is the backdrop swooping with windsurfers and kitesurfers. It's these active travellers who've helped protect Essaouira's natural charms from becoming over touristy. Today the busy medina is just as important as a market place as it ever was. This port is not just a pretty museum to a past life, it's still vibrant.

If you want the desert you might consider Ouarzazate, a quiet town at the base of the High Atlas mountains in Saharan Morocco, for a long time a waypoint for traders between Africa and Europe. But if you want to see our experience something of Morocco's Berber culture you'll need to journey into the High Atlas. Aït-Benhaddou, with its mud brick buildings is one of the best known of the tiny Berber villages which cling to these mountains - probably because of its World Heritage Status. Amizmiz is another well known town, this time it's probably because it has one of the largest Berber souks in the area.

If you've come to Morocco for adventure you'll also want the High Atlas mountains. Jebel Toubkal is probably the tallest of them: it's both one of the highest mountains in North Africa, and a very achievable summit - it can be done in two or three days.

If you know which part of Morocco you'll be exploring skip through to our Moroccan Destination Guides:

The Best Places to Stay in Morocco

For a Once in a Lifetime Journey

  • For the real thing when it comes to royal palaces, Mosaic Palais Aziza, just ten minutes from Marrakech's Medina, is owned by a Saudi prince, who lives opposite this romantic, secluded hotel. This is a place to relax - and despite the obvious luxury it's unfussy and peaceful. The pool is large enough, and has enough private pockets so that couples will feel like they're the only ones here.
  • The Riad Kaiss has once a harem, so it's a great place to stay in if you're looking for somewhere with a bit of history to it! It's been very elegantly converted, but many of the most beautiful original features have been kept, including some gorgeous tiling and latticework.

For the Romance of the Desert

  • Dar Ahlam is a traditional Ouarzazate Kasbah, transformed into a luxury retreat. Sumptuous suites and private villas provide the comfortable sleeping arrangements, while the hammam and giant pool will help bring you back to life after time in the desert. Wow. In a Wow setting.
  • Traditional and comfortable, the Kasbah Bab Ourika is eco-friendly, with a Berber feel. Traditional 'rammed earth' walls surround rose-filled courtyards and there's a gorgeous terrace and pool. Plus there's plenty to do in the staggeringly beautiful surrounding countryside. And all this is only 45minutes from Marrakech.

To Lose Yourself in the Markets

  • Fez's Medina is one of the few places on earth to Rival Marrakech's, and Riad Fes is a great place to stay to discover it. It's peaceful luxury will be a balm at the end of the day, as will the fantastic Moroccan cuisine, the pool and spa, and the views from the terrace.

For Winter Sun

  • If you love the idea of staying in a riad, try Villa de l'O, an 18th Century boutique version, just minutes from the beach, souks and golf courses of Essaouira. As well as being a romantic blend of traditional and colonial decor, this villa has wonderful sea views from the rooftop terrace, which also overlooks the old town's battlements.
  • Dar Liouba used to be an Imam's residence in Essaouira, and its seven comfortable, sunny, whitewashed rooms can all be booked together.

For the Real Morocco

  • The Jardins d’Issil, where 15 caidal tents are set up around a huge infinity pool. Is unusual and fantastic value for money. Located just outside Marrakech itself, the view of the Atlas Mountains are incredible and you can book B&B from as little as €30 per person per night.
  • If you're here for the history book into Dar L'Oussia, which is situated in the old ramparts of Essaouira. As well as the historic location these 23 rooms, and fours suites, ooze heritage, from the four poster beds to the art, to the wonderful inside courtyards and romantic balconies overlooking them.
  • Dar Adrar is a simple guesthouse within the Toubkal National Park, but still only an hours drive from Marrakech. In a lovely little Berber village with spectacular views of the mountains, this is the kind of place where the hot water may not always come on demand, but the grand breakfasts and excellent tagines will make up for it.

For a City Break

  • Riad al Bushra is a newcomer to Marrakech's riad scene. In the perfect location, in the heart of the Medina, it offers five suites, all excellent value for money, with prices starting at just €75 per night.
  • In 2012 Dar Les Cigognes won the accolade of Best Cooking School in Morocco - so it's foodie-friendly. Here you also get beautifully decorated rooms and stunning city views from the roof top terrace.

For an Eastern Escape

  • Les Cinq Djellabas is an encampment of ten African eco lodges, offering the perfect spot to chill out away from the buzz of the medina. The feel is barefoot luxury - where contemporary minimalist design blends easily with traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. Ideal for groups but also extremely private.
  • The Domaine de la Roseraie is a rural paradise in the foothills of the High Atlas. It's surrounded by wonderful trekking country, but it's also a great place to unwind. The altitude, 1000 meters above sea level, means it's cool in summer, and tucked away in a valley, it's also mild in winter.
  • Gorgeous Berber castle, Kasbah Angour is the Moroccan equivalent of a country house hotel, with 25 rooms, two suites and a decent restaurant. The views over the High Atlas foothills are spectacular, there's a beautiful garden and a huge swimming pool.

Still not sure which is the best place to stay in Morocco for you?

  1. Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Morocco;
  2. If it's the busy Medina of Marrakech you crave then consult our Guru's Ultimate Guide to Marrakech Medina Hotels;
  3. Or our list of the 20 Best Marrakech Riads;
  4. If you want to relax try our list of Best Hammams and Spas;
  5. or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

See all » 79 hôtels in Marrakech

  • Riad Cocoon Marrakech (Diour Saboune) 5 rooms from £58

    Value chic  -  Bespoke luxury in the centre of town starting from only 90 EUR.
    Sights nearby  -  Marrakech has a thriving modern and traditional art scene and the Dar Cherifa, David Bloch and Galerie 127 are some of the best.
    Cooking classes  -  Head to the Atlas Mountains for a unique cooking experience with a Berber chef.
    Local markets  -  The hustle and bustle of the souks are within easy walking distance.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParking

    Exuding the lust for life of its musical owner this riad allows guests to "cocoon" in the lap of affordable luxury in bustling Marrakech. The individually designed rooms include sumptuous silks, pop colours and mosaic tiles. The menu is gourmet and there's a roof terrace and hammam. See More

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  • Riad Zamzam Marrakech 7 rooms from £113

    City Style  -  A chic little riad with individually designed rooms and suites, roof terrace and little plunge pool
    Short break  -  A short drive from the airport makes Riad Zamzam perfect for a short city break
    Local exploring  -  Ideally located for exploring Marrakech, and just outside the frenetic medina
    Local markets  -  A visit to Marrakech must include day exploring the souks
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendly

    A gorgeous family-friendly riad, just outside the medina. Rooms and suites are individually designed and furnished with antiques, Berber rugs and African art. Delicious seasonal meals are served either on the roof terrace or atmospheric dining room. Plus there's a small pool and hammam. Charming. See More

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See all » 31 hôtels in Essaouira

  • The Serai, Morocco Essaouira 6 rooms from £477

    Exclusive use  -  The Serai can only be booked on an exclusive use basis. It has 6 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 15
    Total relaxation  -  This beautiful, isolated location means that you're away from the crowds and can completely unwind
    Groups  -  The Serai is the perfect venue of groups looking for a retreat or learning experience
    Hideaway  -  Half an hour north of Essaouira, The Serai offers a true off-the-beaten-track getaway
    Swimming PoolGarden

    An exclusive use eco-hideaway on the Moroccan coast, just 15km north of Essaouira. Six rustic chic bedrooms sleep up to 15 people and there are various spaces for yoga, teaching and more. The garden includes a natural plunge pool and you're just 10 minutes walk to the beach. Min stay 2 nights. See More

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  • Dar Adul Essaouira 6 rooms from £47

    Great walks  -  Take a walk along Essaouira's lovely beach that extends down to where Bob Marley had a house.
    Local markets  -  Explore the bustling and hustling Essaouira souk.
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    Full of character
    RestaurantParking

    This colourful, characterful riad owned by a French artist will appeal to a younger crowd who appreciate a relaxed, informal atmosphere. Guests can dine at the proprietor's lively nearby restaurant. See More

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See all » 14 hôtels in Fez

  • Riad Tizwa Fez (Batha) 9 rooms from £50

    Great walks  -  Through the winding medina streets to the Bab Bou Jeloud or the Place As Seffarine
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the equally beautiful as it is interesting Museum of Arts and Crafts
    Local markets  -  Explore the famous souks of Fez
    Restaurant  -  Lunch and dinner by arrangement
    RestaurantParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    This old family house provides value for money considering the generously proportioned and elegantly decorated rooms, complete with four poster beds. Located in Fez medina there is an inviting roof terrace from which to enjoy panoramic views. Breakfast is served with lunch and dinner on request. See More

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  • La Maison Maure Fez (Ferrane Couicha (Ain Azliten)) 6 rooms from £58

    Local exploring  -  Perfectly situated in the heart of the ancient city of Fez.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Volubilis, an ancient city founded in 3rd century BC.
    Cooking classes  -  Take a class in the art of Moroccan cooking.
    Full of character
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    A lovingly restored riad in the heart of historic Fez. Rooms, situated around a pretty central courtyard, keep their traditional features yet have a chic contemporary feel with large glass windows and white washed walls. A stunning rooftop boasts spectacular city views. A tranquil city base. See More

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See all » 9 hôtels in High Atlas

  • Kasbah Bab Ourika Ourika, High Atlas 28 rooms from £130

    Exclusive offer  -  Eco friendly break
    Luxury
    Great walks  -  In the national park and the Atlas Mountains
    Views  -  Spectacular views to the Atlas Mountains
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor Pool
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews

    A stunning escape in the foothills of the Atlas mountains less than an hour from Marrakech. With staggering mountain views - this is the perfect place for enthusiastic trekkers as well as those who want to relax. See More

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  • Dar Adrar Aroumd, High Atlas 8 rooms from £24

    Great walks  -  Ideal base if you're climbing Mt Toubkal. Owner can arrange guided walks of the area.
    Traditional
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Remote  -  Off the beaten track.
    Views

    A simple and charmingly rustic guesthouse perched in the High Atlas mountains above Imlil. See More

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See all » 6 hôtels in Taroudant

  • Palais Oumensour Taroudant 11 rooms from £61

    Local exploring  -  Great location, a short walk to marvellous sights such as the Arab Souk, Assarag Square, Grand Mosque & Arrahma Mosque
    Great walks  -  Walking trips offered- visit authentic Berber villages, discover the rural life of the area and see diverse natural environments
    Birdwatching  -  If you fancy a wilderness tour, you can visit the Massa Natural Park and the bird sanctuary with lunch overlooking the ocean
    Sights nearby  -  Discover exceptional houses and gardens around Taroudant and the “lost” valley of the High or Anti-Atlas region
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendly

    Expect a warm welcome at this authentic medina haven. Rooms lead off from a lush pool courtyard with an array of exotic plants and lots of cosy nooks & convivial areas to relax in, while the restaurant offers delicious seasonal cuisine. Great value for a well-situated, elegant and friendly base! See More

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  • Dar Zahia Taroudant 83000 4 rooms from £74

    Hideaway  -  Situated in a beautiful, abundant garden creating an oasis of tranquility in the middle of town
    Sights nearby  -  Tanneries and the Berber artisan cooperative are nearby and worth a visit
    Traditional  -  Decorated with traditional moroccan furnishings and ornaments
    Local markets  -  The town has two huge souks which are a must see
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A tranquil and leafy haven, surrounded by an exquisite garden with a pool. Understated rooms, ideal for a calm retreat, with the town on your doorstep if you want to venture out to the souks. Breakfast included and other meals can also be prepared upon request. A simple yet pretty holiday idyll. See More

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See all » 6 hôtels in Rabat

  • Dar Zen Rabat (Médina) 3 rooms from £82

    Boutique  -  A beautifully converted traditional Rabat house complete with a beautiful roof terrace and central courtyard
    Local exploring  -  Ideally situated in the centre of Rabat within the Medina and minutes from the Marina
    Sights nearby  -  Hop on one of the taxi row boats across the lagoon to the sister city, Salé
    Local markets  -  Explore the market stalls along the narrow lanes in the Medina
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolPet friendlyParking

    A charming guesthouse in the heart of historic Rabat. The traditional house has been beautifully converted with the potted plant-filled courtyard now complete with plunge pool. Indulgent breakfasts are served on the roof terrace (along with fabulous views) while rooms keep their traditional charm. See More

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  • L'Alcazar Rabat (Bab Laalou) 8 rooms from £101

    Local exploring  -  An atmospheric property well positioned to access Rabat's sights.
    Surfing  -  At the nearby town of Kenitra there's great surfing opportunities.
    Sights nearby  -  Wander through the enchanting medieval fortified city of Chellah.
    Traditional
    Air conditioningRestaurantParkingNo pets

    An enchanting riad well located near the centre of Rabat. Atmospheric rooms are well proportioned and keep their original charm; think intricately tiled floors, arched windows, antique furniture and free standing baths. Boasting a pretty central courtyard, hammam and rooftop with views. Very chic. See More

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See all » 5 hôtels in Tangier

  • Dar Tanja Tangier 9 rooms from £78

    Groups  -  A small hotel offering a secluded spot on the outskirts of Tangier. Ideal for groups to take some or all of the property.
    Great walks  -  Wander through the cobbled residential and commercial alleyways of the Kasbah walls.
    Sights nearby  -  See The Grande Mosquée Of Tangier.
    Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    In a modern complex in the residential Boubana quarter outside the main city, this guest house sits within its own manicured garden with a pool. Suitable for couples, business and groups. See More

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  • Palais Zahia Tangier 18 rooms from £79

    Local exploring  -  Ideally positioned in the historic centre with many of the main attractions within walking distance.
    Great walks  -  Wander through the cobbled residential and commercial alleyways of the Kasbah walls.
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Full of character
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Well located and easy to find in Petit Socco district just as you start the ascent towards the medina, this large traditional-style hotel, housed in a former bank is perfect for groups large or small. See More

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