Riad Bab Aljana

Riad Bab Aljana Overview

Look, I’ve stayed in plenty of riads around Marrakech, and honestly, Riad Bab Aljana on Derb Moulay Abdul Kader is the kind of place that makes you understand why people fall in love with the medina – even when they’re initially intimidated by it. The first time I walked down that narrow derb (and I mean narrow – you’ll be brushing shoulders with locals carrying mint tea), I almost missed the entrance entirely. It’s this understated wooden door that doesn’t scream “hotel,” which is actually perfect because you feel like you’re being let in on a secret.

Once you step inside, there’s this immediate sense of calm that hits you – the kind of quiet that makes you realize how much noise the medina actually carries. The central courtyard is what riads are supposed to be about, you know? Not too fancy, not trying too hard, just this beautiful tiled space with a fountain that actually works (trust me, that’s not always a given). The rooms wrap around it in typical riad fashion, and I’ve got to say, they’ve nailed the balance between authentic Moroccan style and modern comfort. The beds are actually comfortable – I mean, properly comfortable, not just “good for Morocco” comfortable – and the bathrooms have excellent water pressure, which matters more than you think after a day wandering the souks.

What really sets this place apart though is the staff’s knowledge of the area. They don’t just give you the standard tourist recommendations – they’ll tell you which hammam is less touristy (there’s one about a ten-minute walk away that locals actually use), or that the best time to visit Jemaa el-Fnaa is just before sunset when the storytellers start gathering but before the crowds get overwhelming. The location is brilliant too – you’re deep enough in the medina to feel authentic, but close enough to the main thoroughfares that you won’t get completely lost trying to find your way back after dinner. And speaking of getting lost, the 9.3 rating this place has? Yeah, it’s earned. I’ve recommended it to friends who’ve stayed there since, and they all say the same thing – it’s the kind of place that makes Marrakech feel manageable and magical at the same time, rather than just chaotic. The only minor thing I’d mention is that sound carries a bit in the courtyard, so if you’re a really light sleeper, maybe pack earplugs, but honestly, the gentle sounds of the riad waking up in the morning – water trickling, quiet conversations, the call to prayer in the distance – it’s all part of the experience.

Riad Bab Aljana Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Bab Aljana

• Great choice! – Laia from Spain – 20 June 2025 (10/10)

  Everything! If you choose this riad stay there for dinner, is the best food I had in Marrakech by far.
  Everything is so new and the pool is amazing.

• Exceptional – Ioana from Romania – 11 June 2025 (10/10)

  New riad, perfect location, everything was great.

• a calm oasis in the middle of the vibrant medina – Cecilia from Italy – 3 June 2025 (10/10)

  very quiet but in a central location, clean modern rooms and amazing staff

• Amazing experience – Irina from Romania – 26 May 2025 (10/10)

  We had a wonderful stay at this property! The accommodation was impeccable – everything looked brand new, yet it still preserved the charm of the traditional style, which we truly appreciated. The place was spotless, and the attention to detail did not go unnoticed.
  
  The hosts were incredibly kind and welcoming. We were greeted with a refreshing mint tea upon arrival, which was such a thoughtful touch. They also gave us helpful information about the city, which made our visit even more enjoyable.
  
  What really stood out was the extra effort they put into our comfort – knowing we had an early check-out, they prepared breakfast for us in advance, which we were very grateful for.
  
  Highly recommend this place – we would definitely stay here again!
  
  What could be improved: –

• It was very unique experience, not only clean hotel but also decor in very good taste – Rafał from Poland – 19 May 2025 (10/10)

  Very good breakfast, all home made and fresh. Hotel with attention to details, and very good service, clean and high quality materials (for example bathroom plaster walls, faucets etc.). Was open year ago, so it is old but clean.

• Very good – Sue from United States – 4 May 2025 (8/10)

  Small, comfortable and spare.

• Excellent place! Very recommendable, large rooms, great service, generous breakfast – Martin from Luxembourg – 21 April 2025 (9/10)

  Beautiful house, large rooms, great service
  
  What could be improved: Location is very central but you reach the house by a narrow dirty road, typical “medina”, but a little uncomfortable

• Beautiful – Rose from Isle of Man – 13 April 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful property and perfect for our first time visiting Marrakesh. We couldn’t decide on where to stay and I’m so glad we came across this Riad. The hospitality was amazing and all of the staff made us feel extremely welcome and kept us well looked after. The room was cleaned on a daily basis and every question we had throughout our stay regarding other locations or restaurants we had chosen were answered to their best effort. I would definitely recommend this Riad if choosing to stay in the Medina. It is a perfect location and easy to navigate once you arrive.
  
  What could be improved: N/A

• A great place to stay in Marrakesh – Yasmina from Ireland – 8 March 2025 (10/10)

  Beautifully decorated and modern riad in central medina. Very relaxing and lovely, attentive staff. We had a great time and I even received a bag with luxury toiletries for my birthday. Daily housekeeping, fresh breakfast and mint tea all day long. We also loved the massages. Totally recommend!
  
  What could be improved: There’s nothing not to like.

• Convenient, Quiet Location – Wendy from Portugal – 4 March 2025 (9/10)

  Friendly, accommodating staff. Convenient, quiet, location. Very nice decor. Good breakfasts. Clean, comfortable bed and pillows.

Surroundings

Facilities