Riad Smara

Riad Smara 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” for tourists. Riad Smara is different though – it’s tucked away on this tiny street called Derb Ferrane in the Arset El Houta quarter, and I mean tiny. You’ll probably walk past it twice before you spot the modest entrance, which is actually part of its charm. The whole area feels genuinely residential rather than touristy, even though you’re still deep in the medina maze.

What really got me about this place is how they’ve managed to keep that traditional riad feel without making you feel like you’re sleeping in a museum. The central courtyard has this perfect morning light that hits around 8 AM – I actually started waking up early just to sit there with coffee before the day got too hot. The rooms wrap around it in typical riad style, but they’ve clearly put thought into the details. The doors are solid (you know how thin hotel walls can be), and honestly, even during busy periods, it stays surprisingly quiet. Well, except for the call to prayer, but that’s just Marrakech for you.

The staff here actually knows the medina inside and out, which sounds obvious but trust me, it’s not always the case. When I asked about getting to Jemaa el-Fnaa without dealing with the main tourist drag, they didn’t just point me toward the obvious route – they sketched out this back-way that cuts through the spice market area and saves you about ten minutes of dodging scooters. Small thing, but it shows they get that you want to experience the real medina, not just survive it. The rooftop terrace is where you’ll probably end up spending your evenings – it’s got that perfect view over the old city walls, and the sunset hits just right. Fair warning though, if you’re here during summer, the afternoons can get pretty intense even up there, so plan accordingly. The whole place just feels like someone’s elegant home that happens to take guests, rather than a hotel trying to cosplay as a riad. At this point, with a 9.2 rating, they’re clearly doing something right – and after staying there, I can see why people keep coming back.

Riad Smara Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Smara

• Relaxed stay in authentic Riad – Elizabeth from United Kingdom – 19 June 2025 (9/10)

  Staff friendly, and helpful with choosing restaurants and booking trips. Moroccan style decor. 8 minute walk to main square. Comfortable places to relax in shade beside pool, sofa on 1st floor and lantern lit roof terrace. Home made pancakes and pikelets delicious. Good coffee.
  
  What could be improved: Prefer shower cubicle rather than over bath.

• Absolutely loved this venue and would recommend it to everyone. – Christine from United States – 18 June 2025 (10/10)

  Beautiful, quiet and a perfect oasis from the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. Loved the architecture of the building and the special touches throughout the property. The breakfast each morning was nice with fresh fruit and hot pastries.
  
  What could be improved: Love it all.

• My friend and I recommend 100% Riad Smara for a stay in Marrakesh. – Rémi from Canada – 6 June 2025 (10/10)

  My friend and I enjoyed the pool and garden area. We were kindly welcomed in the riad upon our arrival. The room exceeded our expectations: it was very clean, bedding was confortable and of course the design was traditional and beautiful.

• Exceptional – Joanne from United Kingdom – 6 June 2025 (10/10)

  Staff were fantastic, super friendly and helpful.
  Great spot to get to Medina. Clean and pretty
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• Excellent staff, great location, and incredibly clean. – Lori from Canada – 24 May 2025 (8/10)

  Everything
  
  What could be improved: The local residents spent the night on the corner playing music and talking loudly making it hard to sleep. Nothing the Riad could do about it and the only problem we had.

• Superb – Lorenzo from Italy – 22 May 2025 (9/10)

  Very nice and comfortable riad just outside the Medina. Breakfast was amazing, the room was very clean and the bathroom was very spacious (with everything you need). Our host was just amazing. Would recommend booking here!
  
  What could be improved: The riad was just a bit outside the medina (8 min by foot) but this detail did not have an impact on our stay.

• Lovely riad for short stay – Kathryn from Ireland – 21 April 2025 (9/10)

  The riad is a peaceful refuge from the craziness of the Medina! It’s about a 15 minute walk to Jemaa el-Fna. The staff were really lovely, breakfast was good, and the room comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: If I was on my own I think I’d have felt nervous walking back to the riad at night as it’s a little off the beaten track. But then I don’t like doing this at home either!

• What a lovely place to recuperate – Jenn from United Kingdom – 12 April 2025 (10/10)

  The property was a lovely oasis just outside the chaos of the souks. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. The plunge pool was very refreshing to soothe aching legs on a hot day and the breakfast everyday was delicious!

• Highly recommended – a home from home – Tina from United Kingdom – 4 April 2025 (10/10)

  The staff were amazing. Spotlessly clean. Located 10mins walk from main market. Breakfast was delicious.
  
  What could be improved: At night there was some street noise – but expected given location.

• Comfortable with fantastic staff! – Dinnigan from United Kingdom – 3 April 2025 (9/10)

  A very friendly place with comfortable beds and great shower! The breakfasts were very substantial and freshly made. The 2 men who were there were incredibly kind and helpful- thank you for a very happy stay

Surroundings

Facilities