Riad la medersa

Riad la medersa Overview

Look, I’ve stayed in plenty of riads in Marrakech, and Riad la Medersa honestly surprised me in the best way possible. It’s tucked away on Derb Bouamer in the Zaouiat Lahdar area — you know, that part of the medina where you actually feel like you’re discovering something real instead of just following the tourist trail. The first time I tried to find it, I’ll admit I got completely turned around (typical medina maze situation), but once you know the route from the main souks, it’s actually pretty straightforward.

What struck me immediately was how they’ve managed to keep that authentic riad feel without making you feel like you’re roughing it. The courtyard is gorgeous — I mean, you walk in from those narrow dusty streets and suddenly you’re in this peaceful oasis with traditional tiles and a fountain that actually works properly. The rooms have that thick-walled coolness that’s perfect when Marrakech gets blazing hot in summer, and honestly, the beds are way more comfortable than I expected. You know how sometimes these traditional places sacrifice comfort for authenticity? Not here. The staff really knows their stuff too — they’ll arrange your airport transfer, help you navigate the medina, and they actually give useful restaurant recommendations instead of just sending you to touristy spots that pay them commission.

Here’s what I really appreciated: the location puts you right in the heart of things without the chaos. You’re close enough to walk to Jemaa el-Fnaa in about ten minutes, but far enough away that you won’t hear the drumming and calling until all hours. The neighborhood has this lived-in feel — there’s a little bakery around the corner where locals actually go, and you’ll pass kids playing football in the alleys. Parking isn’t really an option (it’s the medina, after all), but they’ll coordinate with someone to meet you at the edge of the car-free zone, which honestly works better than trying to navigate those narrow streets anyway. The hammam experience was solid too — not the most luxurious I’ve had, but authentic and reasonably priced. One small thing: the WiFi can be spotty in some rooms, but let’s be real, you’re in a centuries-old building in the medina, so that’s hardly shocking. With an 8.8 rating, this place clearly knows what it’s doing, and after spending four nights there, I get why people keep coming back. It’s that sweet spot where you feel like you’re experiencing the real Marrakech while still having a proper place to retreat to at the end of the day.

Riad la medersa Accommodations

Reviews of Riad la medersa

• Lovely stay at the friendliest Riad! – Vicky from United Kingdom – 30 June 2025 (10/10)

  All the staff (most specifically the Abduls) were friendly, breakfast selection was delicious, location was perfectly set within the souks but had complete silence within the riad and we both had a lovely stay – we would most definitely come back again! – from Summer and Keely 🙂

• Family around the world – Ludovica from Italy – 4 May 2025 (10/10)

  The Riad was at the centre of Medina and 2 minutes walking from Souk. Although it was a super quiet place with no noise at all. Bahija was super helpful and gentle. She really makes us feel at home. She accommodated any of our requests without any problems. The rooms were spacious and very clean and the food and breakfast were amazing.
  
  What could be improved: Remember to ask for hot water.

• Exceptional – Ioan from United Kingdom – 29 April 2025 (10/10)

  Staff is really friendly, absolutely brilliant breakfast and good location.

• Excellent stay right in the heart of the Riad – Sui-yee from United Kingdom – 31 March 2025 (8/10)

  We had a great stay, the breakfast was exceptional and they were very accommodating when we explained we don’t eat eggs or milk. The riad was in a great location but I would echo what other guests said about booking a taxi with the hotel for when you arrive so they can guide you there. The room was clean and comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: I think it was just in our room (twin room) that the toilet didn’t have a door but a curtain instead.

• Peace and tranquility in the Medina. – Helen from France – 27 February 2025 (9/10)

  Friendly helpful staff. Well equipped bedroom and bathroom. Peaceful and spacious rooftop terrace.
  Good and satisfying breakfast.
  
  What could be improved: Access is difficult along winding dark passage ways deep in the Medina.

• Perfect! – Shmalfie from United Kingdom – 11 January 2025 (10/10)

  Lovely staff – very helpful and welcoming. Always ready to assist in anything you ask. They printed off our boarding passes which was especially kind.
  The building and interior was beautiful.
  Lovely breakfast.
  Comfy beds.
  
  What could be improved: The sink in our bathroom had a very frustrating leak.

• Exceptional – Yiqing from United States – 6 January 2025 (10/10)

  Amazing little Riad in the perfect location in the medina. Very close to tourist attractions. We asked the host to arrange a shuttle for us when we arrived and she came to pick us up outside of the medina, that was very necessary as the place can be hard to find. We had amazing breakfast and couscous dinner at the Riad, such a lovely experience.

• Exceptional – James from United States – 3 January 2025 (10/10)

  Fantastic Riad. Not as luxe as some, it is the best value. The rooms are excellent and the mattresses are very comfortable. It is quiet. The staff is the best we've experienced in Morocco. Anwar was so incredibly helpful and went out of his way to provide excellent customer service, he is a real asset to the Riad. Another guest and I thought his name should be "super Anwar". All the staff were very friendly and very helpful. I'll definitely return next time I'm in Marrakech

• Incredible value – Nancy from Canada – 7 December 2024 (10/10)

  The breakfast was amazing and staff were attentive. We ordered lunch (lamb Tagine) one day and it was excellent. Our room was comfortable and clean. There is also a nice terrace on the roof to relax.
  
  It is secluded and a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the Medina. We arrived at night and arranged with the Riad to be picked up as we read it the location was hard to find on your own – I’m glad we did this. The Riad is easy to find once you have spent a couple days in Marrakesh, but on Day 1 it can be confusing.

• Comfortable Rhiad in central Marrakesh – Mark from United Kingdom – 14 November 2024 (8/10)

  Centrally located, nice terrace for breakfast and friendly staff.
  
  What could be improved: Bedroom felt a bit small and enclosed.

Surroundings

Facilities