Riad Asrari

Riad Asrari Overview

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first turned down Derb Derdouba looking for Riad Asrari, I thought my taxi driver had gotten lost. The medina’s narrow alleys can be pretty intimidating if you’re not used to them, and this particular derb (that’s what locals call these little side streets) feels almost secretive. But that’s exactly what makes this place special – it’s tucked away from the main tourist chaos, yet you’re still right in the heart of everything that matters.

The moment you step through that heavy wooden door, it’s like someone hit the mute button on Marrakech. I mean, the medina never really goes quiet, but suddenly the donkey carts and scooter horns feel like they’re happening in another world. The central courtyard is what really gets you – traditional Moroccan tilework that’s clearly been restored with serious attention to detail, not the rushed job you see at some riads. There’s this fountain in the center that actually works (you’d be surprised how many don’t), and the sound of water makes everything feel cooler, even during those brutal July afternoons.

What I appreciate about Asrari is that it feels authentic without being stuffy about it. The staff knows the neighborhood inside and out – they’ll point you toward the best tagine spots that aren’t tourist traps, and honestly, their directions are better than Google Maps in these winding alleys. The rooms themselves strike a good balance between traditional Moroccan style and modern comfort. You’ve got proper air conditioning (crucial in summer), decent Wi-Fi, and bathrooms that work like they should. Nothing fancy, but everything you need. The rooftop terrace gives you those classic medina views – a jumble of satellite dishes and ancient walls with the Atlas Mountains in the distance on clear days.

You know what really sold me on this place? It’s the little details that show they actually care. The mint tea service when you arrive isn’t just going through the motions – it’s proper tea, served properly. The location puts you about a five-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa (you’ll hear the evening drums from the rooftop), but far enough away that you’re not dealing with the constant hustle of touts and street performers. If you’re planning to explore the souks, you’re perfectly positioned – the main carpet and textile areas are basically around the corner.

The 8.5 rating makes sense to me. It’s not trying to be the fanciest riad in Marrakech, but it gets the fundamentals right and then adds those touches that make you feel like you’re experiencing the real Morocco, not some sanitized version. Just remember that like most medina riads, your taxi can’t drop you right at the door – you’ll need to walk the last bit through the alleys. But honestly, that’s part of the charm.

Riad Asrari Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Asrari

• Superb – Edgars from Latvia – 4 May 2025 (9/10)

  Comfortable room, good terrace. There is a bathtub in the room.
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast was average, sound insulation have to be improved.

• Magical – Michael from France – 23 April 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful courtyard and rooms – the owners welcome and care for us was exceptional

• Close but no cigar – Ian from Norway – 15 April 2025 (7/10)

  Beautiful and classic riad in an ideal location that was close to everything you need by walking but in a much quieter area than the busy medina. Rooms had a mix of traditional and modern.
  
  What could be improved: I like to eat dinner in my riad, it’s always relaxed and quiet after the bustle of Marrakech in the day.
  I ordered a Tagine. It was a fresh tagine but sadly pre-prepared and then microwaved!!!! That is a complete no for me.
  
  Breakfast was very average, especially for a riad. Disappointing.
  
  The riad lacked a ‘home’ feel which is the USP of a riad 🤷🏻‍♂️

• A lovely stay and a perfect escape – Lucy from United Kingdom – 26 March 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful setting

• Good – Mealla from Ireland – 26 March 2025 (7/10)

  Riad itself was a beautiful house. The room was decorated nicely. Spacious bathroom. Hospitality needs improvement. Breakfast was disappointing for the price we paid. Towels were old and not enough provided. Safe not working in our room. No atmosphere. We had stayed in another Riad the week before, and it exceeded all expectations.
  
  What could be improved: Location

• Very good – Wilma from United Kingdom – 19 March 2025 (8/10)

  Beautiful Riad, very helpful staff and pleasant breakfast served on the rooftop.
  A short walk to the souks and resteraunts.
  
  What could be improved: The beds were very narrow , nearly fell out a couple of times when turning over.

• Riad Asrari – Brian from United Kingdom – 19 March 2025 (10/10)

  The owners Nicholas and Florence could not have done more I needed some medication during our stay and Nicholas came with me to the pharmacy The 2 members of staff were also great.The breakfast was excellent our room was lovely and clean It.was 1st class
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing I could find fault with.If I go again to Marrakech I will stay at Riad Asrari

• Very good – Alphapunk from Belgium – 8 March 2025 (8/10)

  Riad Asrari is the place to be in Marrakech, well designed, clean rooms, very friendly personnel, especially Khalil, he took care of us so well 😊 The owners, Florence & Nicolas are also very accessible & warm, they made us feel like home. If you’re looking for a well designed, cosy place, don’t hesitate 😊

• Our first experience of Marrakesh and a Riad whet our appetite for more. – Jackie from United Kingdom – 4 March 2025 (10/10)

  Beautifully designed room , lovely roof terrace and interiors. The staff were so friendly, helpful and welcoming, including serving breakfast, booking and suggesting venues and generally around friendly service.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing in the accommodation we didn’t like.

• A pleasant Riad that is a 20min walk from the main square – Tina from United States – 19 February 2025 (8/10)

  The riad is quite nice — well decorated with a nice breakfast served on the roof terrace under tent cover which was welcomed during the February chilling morninga. We stayed in the India room with 3 twin beds that had a lovely attached bath. The water was warm for the shower which was very appreciated. The staff were nice and caring when we encountered safety issues in the Medina.
  
  What could be improved: The India room was quite "cozy" for 3 people and 3 pieces of carry-on luggage. The neighborhood was quiet but required a 20min walk from the central square which was troubling and less safe late at night. DO NOT WALK THROUGH THE SOUKS after they close (even though google maps guided us this way). Please keep this in mind when booking. We encountered safety issues (attempted mugging from a motorcyclist) but this is NO FAULT of the Riad. But bear in mind that you should NOT be walking from the central square after 9:30pm.

Surroundings

Facilities