Riad Celema & Spa

Riad Celema & Spa Overview

You know what? I’ve stayed at my fair share of riads in Marrakech, and Riad Celema & Spa honestly surprised me. It’s tucked away on this narrow little street called Derb El Arsa in the Kennaria neighborhood – and I mean narrow, like you’ll definitely hear the donkeys clattering past in the morning, but somehow that just adds to the charm. The thing about this particular corner of the medina is that it feels authentically local without being completely chaotic. You’re still deep enough in the maze that you’ll get properly lost trying to find it the first time (just accept this as part of the experience), but once you do, you’ll realize you’re actually pretty close to the main souks and Jemaa el-Fnaa.

The riad itself is one of those places that makes you understand why people fall in love with traditional Moroccan architecture. The central courtyard is absolutely gorgeous – all intricate tilework and carved wood, with this peaceful fountain that somehow drowns out the street noise. I spent way too much time just sitting there with mint tea, honestly. The rooms are what you’d expect from a well-restored riad: thick walls that keep things cool, beautiful textiles, and those small windows that make you feel like you’re in a proper fortress. The spa is actually really well done too, which isn’t always the case with these smaller places. I had a hammam treatment that was – well, let’s just say it was thorough in the best possible way.

What really sets this place apart though is the staff. They’re the kind of people who remember that you like your coffee strong and will actually give you useful directions instead of just pointing vaguely toward the souks. The rooftop terrace has decent views of the medina (not Atlas Mountains views, but you can see the Koutoubia minaret), and it’s perfect for evening drinks when the call to prayer echoes across the city. Fair warning though – if you’re not used to the sounds of the medina, bring earplugs. The neighborhood comes alive pretty early, and while the riad is quieter than most, you’ll still hear the rhythm of daily life starting up around 6 AM. But honestly? That’s part of what makes staying here feel authentic rather than like some sanitized tourist bubble. The 9.2 rating makes total sense to me – it’s not trying to be the fanciest place in Marrakech, but it nails that sweet spot of traditional charm with modern comfort.

Riad Celema & Spa Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Celema & Spa

• Oasis in the Madina! – Dean from United Arab Emirates – 8 June 2025 (10/10)

  Absolutely wonderful place to stay and they're extremely attentive to help assist you for the best stay.
  A very tranquil relaxing enjoyable experience.
  I would love to return!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing…

• Exceptional – Tomas from Canada – 7 June 2025 (10/10)

  We had a wonderful stay at Riad Celema. The staff were super friendly and helpful, the riad is beautiful, and it is located conveniently close to many points of interest.
  
  What could be improved: We wish we could have stayed longer!

• Exceptional – Caroline from United Kingdom – 16 May 2025 (10/10)

  Sam the Riad Manager was Brilliant organised anything we required and gave us loads of good recommendations and advice.

• Superb – Chris from United Kingdom – 9 May 2025 (9/10)

  Location was great, staff were excellent

• Best location, close to everything yet quite and peaceful inside – Narelle from Australia – 2 May 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful space with beautiful people. Highly recommend and will send all my family and friends to stay. Will be back if ever in Marrakech. Thank you

• A relaxing and beautiful Riad and a perfect homebase for a visit to the medina – Sharon from Netherlands – 27 April 2025 (9/10)

  The Riad is amazing. Lila and Samir go out of their way to make you feel at home by providing basically anything you need for a relaxing stay in Marrakech. E.g. they can organise a taxi from the airport, which you will need since the medina does feel like a rabbit warren when you first arrive. The whole place is an oasis inside the (sometimes hectic) medina. The location is perfect for visiting the sights, especially the souks and the main square Jamaa el-Fnaa. The breakfasts on the rooftop are a highlight and a perfect way to start the day. I also highly recommend the hammam and massage
  
  What could be improved: Honestly? Nothing!

• Loved it! Would 100% recommend to friends – Amelia from United Kingdom – 23 April 2025 (10/10)

  This Riad was amazing. The staff were so accomodating and helpful and we felt like we were royalty. Would definitely recommend to my friends
  
  What could be improved: Our shower flooded slightly and the breakfast doesn’t have any protein

• Exceptional – Lynsey from United Kingdom – 15 April 2025 (10/10)

  Amazingly chic Riad in a great central location. The staff were so helpful and the breakfast was lovely!
  I cannot recommend this riad enough!

• Exceptional – Mona from United Kingdom – 24 March 2025 (10/10)

  Wonderful staff, incredible breakfast and such a calm place in the centre of Marrakesh. The perfect wind down after exploring the busy streets.

• Exceptional – Ben from United Kingdom – 10 March 2025 (10/10)

  Very good service and amazing staff. The breakfast was great.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing.

Surroundings

Facilities