Riad Cologne

Riad Cologne Overview

I’ll be honest – I was skeptical when I first booked Riad Cologne because, you know, finding a truly authentic riad in Marrakech that doesn’t feel like a tourist trap is getting harder these days. But walking through that heavy wooden door on Derb Zwina, I immediately knew this place was different. The entrance is tucked away in this narrow alley in Riad Zitoun Jdid (which, by the way, is actually one of the better parts of the medina for staying – close enough to Jemaa el-Fnaa that you can walk there in ten minutes, but far enough that you won’t hear the drummers at 2 AM).

What really struck me was how they’ve managed to keep the soul of a traditional riad while making it actually comfortable for modern travelers. The central courtyard has this gorgeous fountain that creates the perfect white noise – I mean, it’s not just decorative, it actually helps mask the sounds from neighboring riads. The zellij tilework is stunning, obviously, but what I loved were the little touches that showed someone actually lives and breathes this place. Fresh orange blossoms floating in the fountain water, the way the staff arranges the cushions on the rooftop terrace just so, the smell of mint tea that seems to permanently hang in the air around the seating areas. The rooms themselves are spacious by medina standards – and trust me, I’ve stayed in some closet-sized “traditional” rooms that barely fit a bed. Here, you can actually open your suitcase without having to put it on the bed.

The rooftop terrace is honestly where you’ll spend most of your time if you’re smart about it. Early morning up there with coffee, watching the city wake up and hearing the call to prayer echo across the medina – it’s pretty magical. And the Atlas Mountains on a clear day? Come on. The staff will set up dinner up there too, which beats fighting the crowds at the touristy restaurants around the main square. Speaking of staff, they’re the kind of helpful that doesn’t feel pushy – they’ll give you solid recommendations for restaurants (ask about the place on Rue Bab Agnaou, locals actually eat there) and can arrange a reliable taxi driver, which is worth its weight in gold in this city. The only minor thing is that the WiFi can be spotty in some rooms – it’s an old building, thick walls, you get it. But honestly, that might be a blessing in disguise. The 9.4 rating this place has? It’s earned. This isn’t just a place to sleep between hammam visits and souk shopping – it’s the kind of riad that makes you understand why people fall in love with Marrakech in the first place.

Riad Cologne Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Cologne

• Amazing stay, convenient location and friendly staff! – Daniel from United Kingdom – 21 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great location, situated a couple of minutes walk from the main square (Jemaa el-Fnaa) and plenty of restaurants also close by.
  Rooms with ensuite were clean and had air conditioning (needed!). Pool was very cold, but refreshing out of the Moroccan heat! The traditional breakfast was lovely.
  
  And the staff were great! Special mention to Ali who made the stay special, he was very accommodating and was more than happy to give us recommendations to restaurants and attractions.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing!

• Exceptional – Nicholas from Switzerland – 20 May 2025 (10/10)

  Great location, super friendly staff, the room was large
  
  What could be improved: The only downside was that our room was next to the pool and common area, so it was occasionally a bit noisy sometimes

• Superb – Haddad from Qatar – 20 May 2025 (9/10)

  Very nice staff
  So kind so friendly

• Definitely visit! – Ondrea from United Kingdom – 15 May 2025 (10/10)

  On arrival we were met by Ali who was welcoming and friendly, he provided us with traditional mint tea and treats. Throughout our stay we were looked after by Ali and Yassine, they advised us where to visit and places to eat and drink. They were both lovely and it was a delight to see them both at the start of the day and when we returned from our days out interested in where we had visited that day.
  The riad itself is as advertised. Eating breakfast on the rooftop was a great start to the day and we thoroughly enjoyed all the food at the riad and out and about.
  Hustly, bustly streets and souks as you'd expect but peaceful tranquil places to explore as a contrast. We'd been recommended and enjoyed Le Jardin Secret, local Bahiaa palace and Madrasa Ben Youssef – all stunning beautiful places.
  Good Medina Tanjia is a lovely restaurant to go to as is Cafe des Epices to name a couple of places to eat. The smell of spices as you wander round…..
  We enjoyed watching the world go by sat on different rooftop terraces.
  A little further afield, we went on a balloon flight which was amazing, quad biking and camel riding in the desert followed by an evening of food and entertainment which we'd totally recommend.
  Thank you!

• Superb – Navjot from United Kingdom – 14 May 2025 (9/10)

  The staff were attentive, helpful, and genuinely kind. As first timers in Marrakech, we found the city a little overwhelming at first, but the team made us feel comfortable and supported throughout our stay. The location was also good, within walking distance to many of the main attractions. They even kindly helped us print our boarding passes before we left. The breakfast each morning was a lovely touch. Room was nice and clean. Would recommend.

• Great location, nice Riad, friendly staff – Anirudh from United Kingdom – 25 April 2025 (9/10)

  Perfect location in the Medina. Didn’t need to take taxi much, everything was walking distance. The Riad looked very nice. The terrace was perfect. The staff were 10/10 – super helpful.
  
  What could be improved: Pool is a bit small to actually swim in.

• Superb – Tim from Netherlands – 23 April 2025 (9/10)

  Friendly staff, excellent location

• Very good – Sofie from Spain – 17 April 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful riad right in the middle of the medina. Very clean and peaceful! Breakfast is good and abundant but the best thing of all is the staff. Very nice, friendly and accommodating staff!

• Hidden Gem – Simon from Spain – 10 April 2025 (10/10)

  A hidden oasis.Impeccably clean, with super comfy beds and a shower that felt like a spa. The staff were absolutely wonderful—warm, welcoming, and couldn’t do enough to help. Lovely breakfast every morning sealed the deal. A total gem.

• Superb – Esther from Spain – 7 April 2025 (9/10)

  What could be improved: They don’t have a microwave

Surroundings

Facilities