Riad L’Emir

Riad L’Emir Overview

Look, I’ve stayed in a lot of riads in Marrakech, and honestly? Most of them feel like they’re trying too hard to be exotic for tourists. But Riad L’Emir – tucked away on this narrow little street called Derb El Arsa in the Kennaria neighborhood – actually gets it right. When I first walked through that heavy wooden door (after getting slightly lost, because let’s be real, everyone gets lost in the medina at least once), I was hit by this incredible sense of calm. The courtyard has this gorgeous fountain in the center, and you can actually hear it over the city noise, which is saying something in Marrakech.

What really impressed me was how the staff seemed to know the medina like the back of their hands. The guy at reception – I think his name was Youssef – didn’t just give me the usual tourist map with the big attractions circled. He actually walked me partway to Jemaa el-Fnaa the first night, pointing out which alleyways to avoid after dark and which little tea shop makes the best mint tea (spoiler: it’s not the one all the guidebooks mention). The riad itself feels authentic without being stuffy – you know what I mean? The rooms have those traditional tadelakt walls that feel almost silky to touch, and the beds are actually comfortable, not just photogenic. I stayed in one of the upper floor rooms, and honestly, sitting on that little terrace in the morning with coffee while the city was waking up… that’s the kind of moment that makes you want to extend your trip.

The location is pretty perfect if you want to experience the real medina without being right in the chaos. You’re maybe a ten-minute walk from the main square, but the neighborhood feels more residential – you’ll see kids playing in the streets and women shopping for vegetables, not just tourists taking selfies. The only thing I’d mention is that the Wi-Fi can be a bit spotty on the upper floors (though honestly, that might be a blessing in disguise), and like most riads, the rooms can get a bit chilly in winter since there’s no central heating. But the staff will bring you extra blankets without you even asking. I mean, for a 4-star place with a 9.2 rating, you’re getting genuine hospitality in a building that feels like it has stories to tell – and at the end of the day, isn’t that what you’re really looking for in Morocco?

Riad L’Emir Accommodations

Reviews of Riad L’Emir

• Good value money and nice location – Kennedy from United Kingdom – 31 March 2025 (8/10)

  The breakfast was lovely, and the bed was very spacious and comfortable. We were on the ground floor so the only thing was it felt as if we couldn’t really speak without people hearing us.

• A Tranquil Haven in the Heart of Marrakesh – Unforgettable Hospitality & Delicious Cuisine – Aladdin from Ireland – 17 March 2025 (10/10)

  This place was our peaceful retreat in the bustling heart of Marrakesh—a truly tranquil and beautiful spot.
  
  Hisham, Hamid, and Amina took wonderful care of us, making us feel right at home. Their warm hospitality made this place truly special.
  
  Amina’s food is incredible! Be sure to ask her to prepare dinner—you won’t regret it. And the breakfast? Absolutely delicious!
  
  The rooftop is stunning, perfect for a relaxing morning or a peaceful evening.
  
  We absolutely loved this place—it made our visit unforgettable.
  
  Thank you all!
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Hidden gem that’s a perfect escape from the hubbub of the Medina. – Taavi from Spain – 17 March 2025 (9/10)

  A quiet refuge hidden away from the buzz of motorcycles and mopeds that race wildly through the Medina. We requested dinner at the Riad a couple of times and it was some of the best food we had during our stay in Morocco. Breakfast is included and always reliably good. The chef could easily open her own restaurant. She’s very talented. And the gentleman who manages the property was so kind and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: The split to heat or cool the room was a bit noisy and took some time getting used to. The location seemed a little scary at first because it takes you through some shady looking streets to get there but it’s really quite charming. Also the noise travels within the Riad so I advise bringing ear plugs.

• We’re coming back so we definitely liked it! – Taavi from Spain – 10 March 2025 (8/10)

  The best part of the place is how nice the staff is.
  
  What could be improved: The split to heat the room was noisy and kept waking me up so I turned it off but it’s chilly otherwise.

• Perfect place – Benjamin from Netherlands – 5 January 2025 (10/10)

  Very nice place, spacious room. And Amina is a great hostess!

• Fantastic riad, friendly staff and very attentive – Alex from United Kingdom – 6 December 2024 (10/10)

  Eveyone was friendly and welcoming.
  Very helpful and accommodating with the room changes we needed.
  Breakfast was fantastic and freshly made.
  
  What could be improved: It's a pity the baths in the rooms can't be used for bathing, just showering.

• Brilliant!. Fantastic!!. – Ángel from Spain – 3 June 2024 (10/10)

  X Very nice Riad, good breakfast and very friendly owner.

• Exceptional – Angela from United Kingdom – 30 May 2024 (10/10)

  Staff were excellent. Very friendly and helpful.
  
  What could be improved: It would have been nice to have instant access to coffee, but not a big problem.

• I highly recommend this Riad to anyone. The staff have exceptional hospitality. – Chanel from United Kingdom – 13 April 2024 (10/10)

  All the staff went above and beyond to ensure that we had an exceptional stay. They went out of their way to ensure our dietary requirements were catered to.

• The comfort you need to enjoy the caos of Marrakech – Ruggero from Italy – 6 November 2023 (10/10)

  The room, the reception, the services and the breakfast. Everything so good! People of the staff always very kind.
  A corner of peace and relax, really necessary to face the crowd of Marrakech.
  We have bought the same incense of the reception to relax also at home 😉
  
  What could be improved: Nothing. It was everything perfect

Surroundings

Facilities