Riad Azad & Spa

Riad Azad & Spa Overview

You know what struck me first about Riad Azad & Spa? The fact that you actually feel like you’ve escaped into something authentically Moroccan the moment you step through that heavy wooden door on Derb Tikhzirite Ben Laarasi. I mean, finding it is half the adventure – you’re deep in the medina’s maze, probably getting turned around at least twice (everyone does), but once you locate that narrow derb, you’re golden.

The whole place has this quiet, almost reverent feel that’s honestly refreshing after the chaos of Jemaa el-Fnaa just a few minutes’ walk away. The traditional courtyard design works exactly like it’s supposed to – cool in the afternoon heat, with that gorgeous fountain sound that somehow drowns out the scooters and donkey carts from the nearby souks. I stayed there during shoulder season in October, and the rooftop terrace was perfect for morning coffee without being scorching by 9 AM like it would be in summer. The rooms themselves feel properly restored, not like those riads where they’ve stripped away all the character for modern fixtures. You get the carved plaster and zellige tiles, but the air conditioning actually works and the water pressure doesn’t make you question your life choices.

What really sets this place apart though – and maybe this is why it’s pulling a 9.1 rating – is how the staff handles the little things that matter when you’re navigating Marrakech for the first time. They’ll actually walk you to the main street your first night instead of just pointing vaguely toward “that way,” which honestly saved my sanity. The spa situation is legit too, not just a couple massage tables thrown in a basement. I did the hammam treatment, and while it’s pricier than the neighborhood hammams, you’re getting the experience without wondering about towel cleanliness or language barriers. The breakfast spread hits that sweet spot between authentic Moroccan offerings and stuff familiar enough that jet-lagged travelers won’t panic – fresh bread, local honey, proper mint tea that doesn’t taste like it came from a box.

Location-wise, you’re perfectly positioned for exploring the medina on foot, but far enough from the main tourist drags that you won’t hear party sounds echoing off the walls at midnight. Ben Laarasi is one of those residential pockets where actual families live, so you get glimpses of daily life beyond the souk theater. The walk to Bahia Palace takes maybe ten minutes through some genuinely beautiful back alleys, and you can reach the tanneries without needing a taxi or guide. Just remember – like any medina riad – getting deliveries or large luggage here means some walking and potentially negotiating narrow passages, but the hotel can arrange porters if you’re not up for dragging your suitcase over ancient cobblestones. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special, even though plenty of travelers have obviously figured it out already.

Riad Azad & Spa Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Azad & Spa

• 10/10 – Sirui from United Kingdom – 9 July 2025 (10/10)

  Good location, friendly and helpful staff, beautiful decorations, ac works really well
  
  What could be improved: No

• Perfection 🤩 – Jodie from Australia – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Absolutely magnificent decor. Simple gorgeous.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, it was amazing!

• Exceptional – Galina from United Kingdom – 5 July 2025 (10/10)

  The riad itself was brilliant. Everything was so nice and clean. The staff were helpful and great. The whole experience was very good. Would definitely recommend it
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Marvelous Marrakech – Nilson from Spain – 2 July 2025 (10/10)

  Karim and his whole team of staff couldn't have been more helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Wonderful healthy breakfast each morning and beautifully presented.
  
  The Haman at the Spa was a wonderful experience and we would highly recommend doing this.

• A revitalising getaway! – Trudi from United Kingdom – 16 June 2025 (10/10)

  It is such a beautiful riad, such colourful decor. The staff were super friendly and helpful. A special thanks to Hassan who made us feel welcome. Highly recommend the massage there too.

• Beautiful Riad – Sue from Canada – 5 June 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful Riad, the decoration was museum quality, it was such a pleasure to stay there

• Exceptional – Higgins from United Kingdom – 31 May 2025 (10/10)

  A stunning property, in a great location a short walk away from most main attractions. The staff were amazing and so helpful giving us directions, making sure we felt comfortable and organising taxis for us when we had meals in the new town.

• Exceptional – Lucas from Ireland – 27 April 2025 (10/10)

  Staff is amazing, quiet place, very clean and cozy
  
  What could be improved: –

• Very good – Preeti from Ireland – 22 April 2025 (10/10)

  Very good breakfast
  
  What could be improved: Everything was so good !

• Excellent service including spa. – Martina from Czech Republic – 13 April 2025 (10/10)

  Great locality. Amazing and quiet place.

Surroundings

Facilities