Riad dar Ourika

Riad dar Ourika Overview

You know what caught me off guard about Riad dar Ourika? Walking through that heavy wooden door on Derb Ouayhah, you’re suddenly transported from the chaos of the medina into this incredibly peaceful courtyard that feels like someone’s elegant home – which, honestly, is exactly what a proper riad should feel like. The location is pretty brilliant actually, tucked away in the Sidi Abdelaziz quarter where you get that authentic medina experience without being right on top of the tourist mayhem around Jemaa el-Fnaa. I mean, you’re still close enough to walk there in about ten minutes, but when you’re trying to sleep at night, you’ll appreciate being off the main drag.

The building itself has that classic riad magic – you know, the kind where every room opens onto a central courtyard with a fountain that provides this constant, subtle background soundtrack. The rooms are genuinely spacious (not always a given in medina riads), and they’ve managed to blend traditional Moroccan design with modern comfort in a way that doesn’t feel forced or touristy. What I really appreciated was the attention to details that matter when you’re actually staying somewhere – good water pressure, reliable wifi, and air conditioning that works properly during those sweltering Marrakech summers. The rooftop terrace is where you’ll probably end up spending your evenings, especially since it offers decent views of the medina and you can actually see the Atlas Mountains on clear days.

The staff here really knows their stuff about navigating the medina – they’ll give you landmarks and shortcuts that aren’t in any guidebook, plus they’re honest about timing (like warning you that Friday afternoons get absolutely packed near the souks). Check-in was refreshingly straightforward too, none of that overly formal hotel routine, more like being welcomed into someone’s home. The 8.6 rating honestly feels about right – it’s not trying to be the fanciest place in Marrakech, but it nails the fundamentals of what makes a great riad experience. If you’re looking for that authentic medina stay without sacrificing comfort, and you want to be able to explore on foot while having a genuine sanctuary to retreat to, this place delivers exactly what it promises.

Riad dar Ourika Accommodations

Reviews of Riad dar Ourika

• AMAZING STAY – Roberto from Italy – 1 July 2025 (10/10)

  We had a the most wonderful stay in this marvellous Riad in the heart of the Medina. The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, taking the time to explain everything to see and do in Marrakesh. The room was a dream.
  
  They served us delicious Moroccan tea, and even organized our airport transfers, accompanying us early in the morning to make sure everything went smoothly.
  
  Breakfast was amazing — fresh, varied, and much more than just coffee and bread. You can tell they really care about what they do.
  
  What could be improved: –

• Exceptional – Roland from Hungary – 25 June 2025 (10/10)

  It was really cozy, and the staff was really friendly and helpful and also the whole authentic vibe was amazing

• Amazing stay and lovely staff – Amy from United Kingdom – 21 June 2025 (10/10)

  The staff at the riad were amazing! Very welcoming and helped us when we had medical problems, even walked us to the pharmacy themselves. The breakfast was lovely and the riad was very clean.

• Well taken care of. – Wieczorek from United States – 17 June 2025 (10/10)

  The property was very spacious, clean, and well kept. We stayed in a traditional double room and it was huge – big bed, large bathroom, and a small living space area with chairs and chimney. It had a nice breakfast space and beautiful authentic Moroccan rooms with a double-layered rooftop.

• The riad was so beautiful and the staff were all so friendly & took care of us. – Aurelia from United Kingdom – 12 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very central, walking distance to most places. Breakfast was also delectable.

• Very good and very good staff – Mike from Netherlands – 12 June 2025 (10/10)

  The staff were very kind and helpful!

• Exceptional – Katie from Australia – 9 June 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely and helpful staff, were always around to guide us out the door and helpful providing map to show us around. Lovely accomodation and breakfast.

• Beautiful stay in marrakech – Gonzalo from Germany – 5 June 2025 (10/10)

  Staff was incredible!

• A peaceful, lovely, good-value retreat in the heart of the medina. – Susan from New Zealand – 31 May 2025 (9/10)

  A peaceful retreat in the heart of the medina. Helpful, kind staff. Lovely breakfast. Unique–Unlike anywhere else I've stayed before. Go with a spirit of adventure, and you will be rewarded with a lovely, unique, good value stay.
  
  What could be improved: Access is a bit confusing the first time you go there. Google maps won't get you to the door, only to the nearby commercial medina lanes. Staff can help, or local people can help (for a modest tip, if they lead you there.) The closest taxi/vehicle access is a 7-8 minute walk away. It's probably not an ideal property for someone with claustrophobia as access lanes are narrow and dark, and while rooms open onto a pretty, leafy central atrium, there are no outside windows with regional views.

• Great Time in Marrakesh – Silvia from United Kingdom – 19 May 2025 (10/10)

  -The location is perfect. Very closed to shops and a cool coffee shop where is served Illy coffee (well appreciated by Italians)
  -The staff is friendly and helpful. They gave us a lot of information regarding the city. I would like to mention the lady who prepares the breakfast. I don't know her name, but I would like to say thank you for her smiles in the morning 🙂
  -All the facilities were working fine and the rooftop is a must.
  
  I had a great time, I would definitely recommend it!

Surroundings

Facilities