Riad Basim

Riad Basim Overview

Look, I’ve stayed at a lot of riads in Marrakech, and honestly? Riad Basim just gets it right in ways that surprised me. It’s tucked away on Derb Kbala in the Kasbah – and I mean really tucked away, which is actually perfect because you’re steps from the royal tombs and that whole historic area, but you won’t hear the chaos from Jemaa el-Fna at night. The first time I walked through those heavy wooden doors, I sort of couldn’t believe the contrast. Outside you’ve got narrow alleyways where donkeys still carry goods around (no joke), and then suddenly you’re in this gorgeous courtyard with traditional zellige tilework that catches the light just right in the afternoons.

What really struck me was how the place manages to feel authentic without being stuffy about it. The rooms – well, they’re proper Moroccan style with those thick walls that actually keep things cool, carved plaster details that are the real deal, not some tourist knockoff. The rooftop terrace is where you’ll probably end up spending your evenings, and you know what? You should. The view over the Kasbah walls toward the Atlas Mountains is something else, especially around sunset when the whole city turns this golden color. I mean, every riad claims to have a great terrace, but this one delivers. The staff here actually knows the neighborhood – they’ll point you toward the little hammam on Rue de la Kasbah that locals use, or tell you which spice vendor won’t try to overcharge you.

Here’s the thing about staying in the Kasbah versus the main medina – it’s quieter, more residential, but you’re still walking distance to everything that matters. The Saadian Tombs are literally around the corner, and if you’re into that sort of history (the Saadian dynasty stuff), you’ll love wandering these streets early in the morning before the tour groups show up. Parking is tricky anywhere in the medina, but the riad staff will sort that out for you – they know which guys to trust with your car. The 9.4 rating makes sense once you’ve been there; it’s not trying to be a luxury resort, it’s just doing the traditional riad experience really, really well. The breakfast spread changes daily and includes proper Moroccan bread from the local bakery, fresh orange juice that tastes like actual oranges, and mint tea that doesn’t taste like sugar water. Small details, but they add up when you’re trying to ease into Marrakech time.

Riad Basim Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Basim

• Séjour très agréable, reposant merveilleux – Carine from France – 4 May 2025 (10/10)

  Nous avons aimé vraiment tout, le petit déjeuner était très bon et copieux. Le Riad était très propre, notre chambre très belle et les serviettes de douche été changé tous les jours.La vue de la terrasse est magnifique, le personnel et la maîtresse de maison sont irréprochable, à l’écoute et toujours disponible. Riyad, magnifique dans tous les termes.
  
  What could be improved: Rien

• A beautiful riad with excellent hospitality, delicious food, and a homely atmosphere – a perfect stay! – Hasan from Germany – 1 April 2025 (10/10)

  We were very happy with the kind and generous service. The riad was beautiful, and the food was also very good. We truly felt at home during our stay.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was great; we had no complaints.

• A memorable 50th birthday for my wife, starting with a beautiful bouquet of flowers on arrival and careful and attentive – Michael from United Kingdom – 4 February 2025 (10/10)

  The property was beautifully maintained with stunning decorative features.

• Over priced – Dejan from Serbia – 27 December 2024 (8/10)

  Seating area
  
  What could be improved: Nobody speaks in english
  Poor breakfast

• Not as expected – Messrock from Morocco – 16 July 2024 (1/10)

  The room was well maintained
  
  What could be improved: The atmosphere and location of the riad and we had an incident where the staff wanted to keep our passports for security reasons (as they claimed) which is very strange .we had never experienced such .

• Beautiful Property with Welcoming Staff and Prime Location – Charles from Netherlands – 2 January 2024 (10/10)

  This property is not only beautiful, but the team here is also exceptionally welcoming. It boasts a great location and maintains a high standard of cleanliness. Overall, a wonderful experience.

• Excellent Traditional Riyad. Staff were so accomodating and very friendly. Real Authethentic Riad. – Chaudry from United Kingdom – 2 January 2024 (10/10)

  Good traditional breakfast. Fresh every morning.

• Amazing! – Hadi from Iraq – 18 March 2023 (10/10)

  perfect breakfast

• The location was ideal ! Everyone super nice & friendly ! – Linda from Spain – 9 January 2023 (10/10)

  The breakfast was very nice albeit it was the same everyday so a little variety wouldn’t have gone amiss. The host & staff couldn’t have been more accommodating, helpful or friendly.
  
  What could be improved: The room was too dark albeit it was the room I requested after previously viewing on the website.

• We had a wonderful 2 week stay at the Riad Basim. From the moment we arrived until we left, it was a great experience. W – Kevin from United States – 8 January 2023 (10/10)

  Everything

Surroundings

Facilities