Riad Romance

Riad Romance Overview

Look, I’ve stayed in my fair share of riads in Marrakech, and honestly, most of them feel like they’re trying too hard to be Instagram-perfect. Riad Romance is different though – it’s tucked away on Derb El Baroud in the Hart Saura neighborhood, which is actually one of the quieter pockets of the medina. You know what I mean by quiet in Marrakech terms, right? You can still hear the call to prayer and the occasional donkey cart, but you’re not dealing with the constant tourist chaos of the main souks. The alley itself is narrow (they all are), but it’s well-maintained, and the locals are genuinely friendly – not the kind of friendly where they’re trying to sell you carpets every five minutes.

The riad itself hit me the moment I walked through that heavy wooden door. There’s this immediate sense of… I don’t know, authenticity? The courtyard has this gorgeous mosaic work – not the mass-produced stuff you see everywhere, but actual craftmanship with these deep blues and greens that catch the light differently throughout the day. The orange trees in the center aren’t just decorative either; they actually smell incredible, especially in the early morning when you’re having breakfast. Speaking of breakfast, they do this thing with fresh bread and local honey that’s honestly better than most fancy restaurants I’ve been to. The staff – and I mean this – actually remember your name and how you like your coffee. Mohammed at the front desk knows the medina like the back of his hand, and he’ll give you directions that actually make sense (trust me, this is rare).

What really sets this place apart is the attention to detail without being fussy about it. The rooms have proper air conditioning that works – crucial during summer months when Marrakech can hit 40°C easily. The bathrooms have those beautiful tadelakt walls, but also reliable hot water and decent water pressure. You’re about a 10-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa if you want the full sensory overload experience, but you’re also close to some of the better local spots that tourists don’t usually find. There’s this tiny café called Café des Épices nearby where you can get proper mint tea without paying tourist prices, and the spice souk is literally around the corner if you know which turns to take. The Wi-Fi actually works too, which sounds basic but you’d be surprised how many riads still struggle with this. My only minor complaint? The rooftop terrace gets pretty busy during sunset – understandable since the Atlas Mountain views are spectacular, but if you’re looking for solitude, hit it up mid-afternoon instead. With a 9.3 rating, this place has figured out how to balance authentic Moroccan hospitality with the practical stuff that makes a trip actually enjoyable.

Riad Romance Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Romance

• Exceptional – Rosie from United Kingdom – 1 July 2025 (10/10)

  This beautiful riad is an oasis of peace and tranquility amongst the bustling medina of Marrakech. Gorgeous decor, tasty food and wonderful, friendly staff- we'd love to return one day!
  
  What could be improved: Everything was great!

• Exceptional – Marek from Slovakia – 25 June 2025 (10/10)

  Very helpful staff, good breakfasts, big pool for riad. I felt very well by every aspect.
  
  What could be improved: Location is about 20min walking from the Big Square.

• Superb – Luca from Italy – 2 May 2025 (9/10)

  Staff useful and kind, well maintained. Good position.
  
  What could be improved: Little expensive

• OUR SECOND HOME IN MARRAKECH – Patrick from Ireland – 9 April 2025 (10/10)

  AMAZING AMAZING AMAZING I LIKED AND LOVED EVERYTHING OMG THIS IS THE BEST PLACE WE HAVE EVER STAYED SAM WHAT A PERFECT HOST SHE GOES ABOVE EVERY TIME
  
  What could be improved: NOTHING END OF

• Exceptional – Sara from Iceland – 9 March 2025 (10/10)

  A beautiful l Riad in a great part of the medina. Sam and Youness are wonderful hosts and go out of their way to help with whatever you may need. We felt right at home.

• Exceptional – Christina from Greece – 28 February 2025 (10/10)

  The Riad was beautiful, as seen in the pictures, and in a very good location within a few minutes distance from the market. The best thing was for sure the staff and their hospitality. Sam and the rest of the people made us feel like home and helped us a lot with any questions, queries for taxis and tips for going around. I highly recommend this place and for sure I would visit it again!

• Exceptional – Amy from United Kingdom – 17 February 2025 (10/10)

  The riad is so beautiful and calm. The staff were amazing especially the host she was so kind and helpful! She made us very welcome and helped us get everywhere. Room was very clean and nice food.

• Samira made the experience very welcoming and I am definitely coming back – Bark from Sweden – 9 February 2025 (10/10)

  It was so clean, the hospitality was 10/10. I just got home to Sweden and I am already planning my next trip to this Riad. The service provided from the owners was excellent best service you can get.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• An perfect oasis in the middle of a busy medina – Jamie from United Kingdom – 23 January 2025 (10/10)

  Was like an oasis in the middle of the very busy medina, staff were extremely friendly and informative and was only a 10 minute walk if that to the souks.
  
  What could be improved: Nothing, was all great

• Wonderful building and staff. Would recommend – Sarah from Ireland – 21 January 2025 (10/10)

  Had a wonderful stay in Riad Romance. Sam and all of the staff were lovely. Beautiful clean Riad. Perfect location less than 10 min walk to centre. Sam was very helpful in giving us restaurant recommendations and organising day trips for us. Would definitely stay again
  
  What could be improved: Nil

Surroundings

Facilities