Riad Capaldi

Riad Capaldi Overview

You know what struck me first about Riad Capaldi? The fact that you’ll actually find it. I mean, navigating the medina can be a nightmare — those narrow derbs all look the same after a while — but this place sits on Derb Sidi M’hamed Benasser in a way that makes sense geographically. It’s tucked into the Kaat Benahid area, which honestly feels more authentic than some of the tourist-heavy zones closer to Jemaa el-Fnaa, but you’re still only about a ten-minute walk from all the action.

The riad itself has that perfect balance you’re hoping for in Marrakech — traditional enough that you feel like you’re experiencing the real Morocco, but comfortable enough that you’re not roughing it. The central courtyard does what these old merchant houses were designed to do: it’s this cool, quiet refuge from the chaos outside. I actually spent most mornings just sitting there with mint tea, listening to the call to prayer echo off the surrounding walls. The rooms wrap around it in typical riad fashion, and while they’re not massive (these are converted historic buildings, after all), they’ve got character in spades. The tilework is genuine, not some modern approximation, and the staff clearly takes pride in maintaining the details that matter.

What really sets this place apart is how they handle the practical stuff without making a big deal about it. The Wi-Fi actually works throughout the property — not always a given in these thick-walled riads. The hot water is consistent, which, trust me, you’ll appreciate after a long day wandering the souks. And here’s something I didn’t expect: they’re genuinely helpful with navigation and recommendations without being pushy about it. The front desk guy (I think his name was Youssef) drew me a little map to find this amazing tagine place that locals actually go to, not just tourists. It’s those kinds of touches that bump a good stay into memorable territory.

The location works in your favor too, especially if you’re planning to explore beyond the obvious tourist spots. You’re close enough to the Ben Youssef Mosque area to wander over there in the evenings when it’s less crowded, and the walk to the Saadian Tombs is actually pleasant through some quieter residential streets. I’ll be honest — there’s still some street noise in the early morning (you’re in the medina, after all), but it’s more authentic neighborhood sounds than tourist chaos. The 8.3 rating feels about right to me; it’s not trying to be a luxury resort, but it delivers exactly what you want from a traditional riad experience without the headaches that sometimes come with staying in the old city.

Riad Capaldi Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Capaldi

• Lovely, intimate Riad with tasteful, minimalist, Moroccan-influenced contemporary interior. – Peter from United Kingdom – 22 May 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely, intimate Riad with tasteful, minimalist, contemporary interior design – Moroccan influenced without being kitsch – elegant light fittings and traditional Moroccan plaster ('tadelakt') bathrooms. The larger Jasmine room we stayed in was spacious and light, with a fireplace and armchairs. We had pre-booked dinner the first night, which was simple but excellent. Le Foundouk restaurant (with rooftop) – recommended by the Riad and 2 mins walk away – was absolutely fantastic (although just short of London prices it was well worth it). The location was good, not too far from the taxi drop off (the Riad can arrange transfers) and around the corner from the stunning Ben Yousef Madrassa. It was 10-12 minutes walk to Jemaa el-Fnaa and about 30 minutes to Jardin Majorelle. Breakfast on the roof top terrace was excellent.
  
  Last but not least, the staff were exceptional – warm, polite and very helpful (as was the driver who did the transfers). We would definitely stay there again.
  
  What could be improved: More dessert options might be worth the management considering but then desserts are my thing.
  
  Nothing else.

• Wonderful Riad with Great Hospitality – Johnson from United States – 2 April 2025 (9/10)

  Difficult to find but well worth the effort. Fabulous managers helped us save money on a booking, so, so very friendly and helpful. Gave us coffee and Moroccan bread on a couple of afternoons when I asked. Breakfast was delicious, and Bader added fruit to the yogurt upon request. The bed was very comfortable. The rooftop seating area for breakfast, available anytime, was lovely, including climbing flowers and birds filling the air with song.
  
  What could be improved: Minor inconveniences included the low water pressure, the lack of a door in the bathroom (although there was one in the toilet area), and the housekeeping staff's failure to provide hand towels for a couple of days and to clean the sink area on one occasion. These were all very minor.
  Location is difficult to find, so take photos of the entrance when you go out to make it easier to find.

• Superb – Marjolijne from Netherlands – 5 March 2025 (9/10)

  We had an amazing time due to the hospitality of the team of Riad Capaldi.

• Very authentic experience and great location. download google maps! – Kelli from United States – 5 February 2025 (9/10)

  Breakfast included and it was on the roof. The attendants walked us to and from our airport shuttle (we'd have never found it on our own… easy to get lost here!)
  
  What could be improved: no internet in the rooms, only in the shared spaces

• Exceptional – Kerry from United Kingdom – 20 June 2024 (10/10)

  The staff did everything they could to help. They recommended and walked us to a nearby restaurant in the first night to help us get our bearings.
  They walked us to the taxi pick up also to ensure we were in the correct place.
  Bader was excellent helping with everything.
  The square is only a short walk away so the location is excellent
  
  What could be improved: The taxi cannot drop or pick you up directly outside of the property, it’s not easy to locate at first but once you know where to go it’s easy.
  Sometimes you have to wait a while to get into the property as you have to ring the bell to get in.

• Excellent, was concerned that location was a bit out of the way but we soon learned our way around – Keith from United Kingdom – 7 May 2024 (9/10)

  The staff were great, very helpful and obliging, going above and beyond what was expected.
  
  What could be improved: A mirror in the bedroom and a better reading light would be nice

• Great Riad – Shazzyontour from United Kingdom – 12 March 2024 (10/10)

  Beautiful space in a hectic area, staff were all very nice, especially Bade.
  
  What could be improved: The only thing we didn't like was you don't have a key to the front door entrance so sometimes need to wait for someone too come

• Friendly, clean and lovely – Vesna from United Kingdom – 16 February 2024 (10/10)

  The hodts were exceptional, especially the ladies who were preparing breakfast and doing up our rooms.
  Badr was so kind and gudied us through the Medina and both Badr and Mourane helped us with our cases when taking the taxis.
  
  What could be improved: The mopeds in the streets outside the riad

• Beautiful place, will definitely be returning – Sophie from United Kingdom – 15 February 2024 (8/10)

  Stunning building and roof terrace and excellent attentive staff

• consiglio di alloggiare in questo riad . – Luca from Italy – 2 November 2022 (9/10)

  Colazione sul terrazzo golosa , lo staff gentilissimo disponibili a ogni nostre esigenze , ci hanno consigliato dei bei posti per cena , prenotando loro per noi .
  la posizione a un attimo dalle vie caotiche e piazze .
  E quando si rientra la pace , si dorme indisturbati .

Surroundings

Facilities