Riad Palais Blanc & Spa

Riad Palais Blanc & Spa Overview

Look, I’ve stayed at my fair share of riads in Marrakech, and honestly? Most of them feel like they’re trying too hard to be “authentic” while completely missing the mark. But Riad Palais Blanc & Spa actually gets it right – and that 9.1 rating isn’t just people being generous.

The first thing that hits you when you walk through that heavy wooden door on Rue Bennaser onk Jmel is the quiet. I mean, you’re still in the medina, so you’ll hear the occasional moped or call to prayer, but it’s like stepping into this calm pocket where the chaos of the souks feels miles away instead of a five-minute walk. The courtyard is stunning without being Instagram-desperate about it, if you know what I mean. White walls (hence the name), traditional tadelakt work that’s smooth as silk, and this gorgeous pool that’s actually big enough to swim in – not just pose next to. The spa part isn’t just a fancy title either; they’ve got a proper hammam tucked away downstairs that feels like it’s been there for centuries.

What really sold me on this place was the staff’s approach to hospitality. They don’t hover or overwhelm you with constant mint tea offers (though the tea is excellent when you want it), but they seem to anticipate what you need before you ask. The rooms vary quite a bit – some are cozy, others are properly spacious – but they all have this lived-in elegance that makes you feel like you’re staying in someone’s beautiful family home rather than a hotel. The beds are actually comfortable, which isn’t always a given in traditional riads, and the bathrooms blend modern functionality with Moroccan design without looking like a theme park. Air conditioning works properly too, which you’ll definitely appreciate if you’re visiting during the summer months.

Location-wise, you’re perfectly positioned in Riad Laarous, which is one of the quieter sections of the medina but still walkable to everything that matters. It’s about a ten-minute wander to Jemaa el-Fnaa if you want the full circus experience, but close enough to some of the better local restaurants that tourists haven’t discovered yet. The narrow streets can be tricky with luggage – honestly, just arrange their pickup service from wherever you’re coming from, it’s worth it – but once you’re settled in, everything feels wonderfully accessible. I particularly loved that you could walk to the Bahia Palace in the morning before the tour groups arrive, then come back for a midday break by the pool when the medina gets overwhelmingly hot and crowded.

Riad Palais Blanc & Spa Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Palais Blanc & Spa

• Peaceful hotel with superb staff – Emma from United Kingdom – 1 July 2025 (9/10)

  Excellent location, superb and very helpful staff, tranquil and calm atmosphere, fantastic pool area
  
  What could be improved: N/a

• Perfect for a short break. – Joanne from United Kingdom – 17 June 2025 (9/10)

  Great location in the heart of the Medina.

• A tranquil oasis within the Medina – Happytraveller22 from United Kingdom – 28 May 2025 (9/10)

  The pool area was delightful and a super space to relax and lovely pool to swim in after or before a hectic outside of the Riad. A true oasis within the medina
  
  What could be improved: Nothing everything was wonderful

• Hidden Gem – Sarah from United Kingdom – 28 May 2025 (10/10)

  Gorgeous little place and so quirky, really loved the room and the decor of the place. Felt very traditional

• Beautiful Riad – Anna from United Kingdom – 14 May 2025 (10/10)

  Location friendly staff beautiful place to stay.

• Exceptional – Jolene from United Kingdom – 8 May 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful hotel, staff were extremely friendly.
  Great location 👌

• Beautiful, quiet oasis in the middle of the hustle & bustle of Medina. Exceptional service. – Julie from United Kingdom – 4 May 2025 (10/10)

  Really lovely oasis in the middle of the hustle & bustle of Marrakesh. Exceptionally helpful hotel team and wonderfully relaxing suites around a heated pool.
  
  What could be improved: Tea and coffee making facilities in the room would be a welcome addition.

• We had a lovely break at this clean and friendly Riad – highly recommended. – Andrew from United Kingdom – 30 April 2025 (9/10)

  Very chilled place with a lovely pool and riad setting. The staff were all so friendly and helpful. The SPA was very nice and relaxing.
  
  What could be improved: It was in a northern part of the medina so was a bit of a walk (20-30 mins) through the souks to the centre – but this was quite an interesting walk so did not cause any problems.

• Superb – Esther from Switzerland – 30 April 2025 (9/10)

  The location was great, close to the souk but still very quiet. The rooms were nice and clean and the service provided by Ahmed and the team could not have been better.

• An Oasis of relaxation – Julie from United Kingdom – 10 April 2025 (10/10)

  Great staff and facilities, an oasis of relaxation and rest. Highly recommend Riad Palais after a busy day in the hustle and bustle of the markets.

Surroundings

Facilities