Riad Beni Sidel

Riad Beni Sidel Overview

You know what really hits you about Riad Beni Sidel? It’s tucked away on this narrow derb (that’s what locals call the smaller alleyways) where you’d never think to look for it, but honestly, that’s exactly why it works so well. Derb Sidi Mbarek is one of those authentic Marrakech streets where you’ll still hear the call to prayer echoing off the walls and catch glimpses of daily life that most tourists miss completely. The entrance is pretty understated – I mean, you could walk right past it if you’re not paying attention – but once you step inside, it’s like someone hit the volume button on everything that makes a traditional riad special.

The courtyard is what sold me, actually. Most riads have that central open space, but this one feels lived-in rather than museum-perfect, if that makes sense. The tiles aren’t Instagram-flawless, but they’ve got character, and the fountain has this gentle sound that somehow drowns out the scooters and donkey carts from the street. I stayed there during shoulder season (late October), and mornings were incredible – you could have mint tea on the rooftop terrace and actually hear the city waking up below. The staff really knows their stuff too; they’ll arrange the usual tourist things if you want, but they’re also great at pointing you toward the kind of local spots that don’t make it into guidebooks. There’s this tiny bakery about three minutes away where locals line up for bread every morning – our host Youssef mentioned it casually, and it ended up being one of those perfect travel moments.

The rooms themselves are solid without being fancy – traditional Moroccan style with modern touches that actually work. Hot water was reliable (always a concern in older buildings), and the beds were comfortable enough that I didn’t spend half the night adjusting pillows. What I appreciated most was how quiet it gets at night; you’re close enough to the main souks that you can walk there easily, but far enough into the residential maze that you’re not dealing with late-night tourist noise. The 9.5 rating honestly makes sense when you consider that this place delivers on what it promises without trying to be something it’s not. It’s not a luxury resort, but it’s a really good example of what a traditional Marrakech riad should feel like – authentic, welcoming, and just comfortable enough that you can recharge between adventures in the medina.

Riad Beni Sidel Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Beni Sidel

• Exceptional – Raul from United Kingdom – 20 June 2025 (10/10)

  Everything perfect. Kind people.Thank you

• Beautiful riad near Medina with strategic position – Manuzio from Italy – 8 June 2025 (10/10)

  They were very gentle and kind. They care about everything you say.

• Abdel and the staff were superb !! – Bukola from United States – 5 June 2025 (10/10)

  We loved everything.
  The 5 star rating this property has is very well deserved. If I could rate the property 10 stars I would. It was amazing. This was the best place I’ve ever stayed at. They were so accommodating of my friends and I.
  If I’m ever going back to Marrakech. Without a doubt staying here.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Pleasant Stay – Wendy from United States – 4 June 2025 (8/10)

  The staff was very helpful and kind. Our daughter got sick and the riad front desk man went to the pharmacy for us to purchase medication that really helped her stomach. Their English was limited, but we were able to communicate. Just be prepared. They also helped with arranging a car taking our bags to the car for the airport. They’ll store your bags after checkout if needed.
  
  The sheets felt really nice and bed comfortable. Air conditioning was good. Very clean. Breakfast was yummy. The hospital is nearby and several police monitoring area.
  
  What could be improved: The location was a bit further from the souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa (main square) than our first tiad in the old city, an 18-20 minute walk, which is fine if you don’t mind the walk. It is close to the mosque. It might be closer the new city, not sure. There is a tall young man who hangs out where your car will drop you off who tries to get you to pay him for carrying your bags. Avoid him.
  
  There was construction going on next to the building and walkway was covered with rocks. The front desk woman asked them to clear a path and they kindly did, but it still was hard on our roller bags.

• Perfect place to stay. – Venetia from United Kingdom – 4 June 2025 (10/10)

  We had a lovely stay, Abdul & his staff couldn’t have been more friendly & accommodating, nothing was too much trouble. The plunge pool was a real bonus! It was relaxing & comfortable & the perfect place to explore the wonders of Marrakesh. Thank you all for your hospitality, we had such a great holiday!
  
  What could be improved: There was nothing we didn’t like!

• Fantastic – Rita from Portugal – 23 May 2025 (10/10)

  We stayed 3 nights at this Riad and we loved it. We were coming from the desert very tired and this Riad was a very welcomed rest. We had dinner in the firts night which was delicious. We had a tour the next day and they kindly offered to prepare our breakfast earlier. The room was always very clean. Our flight was late at night and they let us stay in the Riad later, keeping our bags as we had one last stroll through Marrakech. Abdel is a very nice host Thank you all so much.

• Amazing, I will comeback for sure! – Carolina from United Kingdom – 21 May 2025 (10/10)

  Abdel was amazing, helpful and professional. The kitchen women were fantastic, food was really good and fresh. Also the person who was there during the night, great service. My room was a little bit small for 2 people, but bed was very comfy and clean.
  I will definitely comeback to this beautiful, clean and quiet Riad. ❣️

• Perfect stay in Marrakech – Katerina from Greece – 20 May 2025 (10/10)

  Everything was perfect. The services, the people working there were super kind,friendly and willing to help. Also the breakfast was very nice.

• 10/10 beautiful and clean riad with very friendly staff – Tudor from Romania – 4 May 2025 (10/10)

  – comfortable beds
  – good AC (LG)
  – very clean
  – beautiful design
  – nice little pool
  – good breakfast
  – nice location (easy to find – google maps takes you to the right place)
  – very friendly staff
  
  What could be improved: We didn’t get a key to the main door and we had to knock and wait for someone to open each time (just a small complaint)

• Exceptional – Theodoros from Greece – 27 April 2025 (10/10)

  Fantastic Moroccan riad, beautifully combining traditional and modern elements. The breakfast was very good, and the room was comfortable with wonderfully scented hand soaps, shower gel, and shampoo.
  The greatest advantage was the staff — everyone was polite, very helpful, and always with a smile.
  We arrived at the riad around 10:30 p.m., and there was welcome tea and cookies waiting for us. I had informed them earlier in the afternoon asking if it would be possible to have a light dinner, and they had prepared a lovely meal and set the table for us. The food was delicious.
  One day, we needed to wake up early for a day trip. We informed them, and they kindly served us breakfast at 6:30 a.m., earlier than the usual breakfast hours.
  
  What could be improved: Everything was perfect

Surroundings

Facilities