Riad Zoraida

Riad Zoraida Overview

Look, I’ve stayed in plenty of riads in Marrakech, and most of them are either tourist traps or hidden so deep in the medina that your taxi driver gives up halfway there. Riad Zoraida is different – it’s tucked away on Jnane Ben Chagra, which honestly sounds intimidating until you realize it’s actually one of those quiet pockets where you can still hear the call to prayer echoing off the walls but you’re not dodging motorbikes every two seconds. The entrance is pretty unassuming (like most good riads), just a heavy wooden door with the number 32, but once you step inside… well, that’s when you get it.

The whole place has this lived-in elegance that you don’t see much anymore. I mean, the tiles are gorgeous – proper zellij work, not the machine-made stuff you find in newer places – and there’s this central courtyard with a fountain that actually works. The sound of water is perfect for drowning out any street noise, though honestly, this part of the medina is pretty quiet anyway. What really got me was the rooftop terrace. You’re close enough to the Koutoubia that you can see it clearly, but far enough from the main tourist drag that you won’t have crowds of people trying to photograph the same sunset. The staff here actually knows the neighborhood – they’ll point you toward the little bakery around the corner where locals get their bread, or tell you which hammam to avoid (trust me, there are a few sketchy ones nearby).

The rooms themselves are what you’d expect from a proper 4-star riad, but with character. Mine had this beautiful tadelakt bathroom – that’s the traditional lime plaster technique, super smooth and waterproof – and the bed was actually comfortable, which isn’t always a given in these old buildings. Air conditioning works well too, which you’ll appreciate if you’re visiting between May and September. One thing I really appreciated was the WiFi actually reaching the rooms; half the riads I’ve stayed in, you’re stuck camping in the courtyard if you need to get online. The only minor thing is that some rooms can be a bit dark during the day since the windows face inward to the courtyard, but that’s just how these traditional houses are built, and honestly, it keeps things cool.

What really sets this place apart is that 9.4 rating – and having been there, I totally get why. It’s not trying to be the flashiest riad in Marrakech, but everything just works. The breakfast spread includes proper Moroccan pastries alongside the usual continental stuff, the housekeeping is thorough without being intrusive, and the location gives you that authentic medina experience without making you feel like you’re completely lost in a maze. You’re maybe a 10-minute walk from Jemaa el-Fnaa if you know the shortcuts, but far enough away that you can actually sleep at night. For the price point and the experience, it’s honestly one of the better deals in the medina.

Riad Zoraida Accommodations

Reviews of Riad Zoraida

• I would go there again in a second. – Liz from United Kingdom – 20 June 2025 (10/10)

  The breakfast was delicious and served in the main area which is beautiful. The guys who worked there were so lovely and helpful too. We had the rooms on the balcony and loved it up there. It was such a peaceful stay there which was amazing to go back to after the bustle of the markets.
  
  What could be improved: Honestly, nothing.

• Exceptional – Giedrius from Lithuania – 18 June 2025 (10/10)

  Staff were really nice. The riad is a 5min walk from the parking( the riad is easy to find). There’s a jacuzzi on rooftop. Big room and big and nice bathroom. In the bathroom a lot of necessities like towels, flipflops, shower gels and more. Breakfast was tasty. Also for your interest the parking is 100mad or 10eur
  
  What could be improved: Everything was nice

• A beautiful stay – Veronique from Australia – 8 June 2025 (10/10)

  I had a lovely stay at this quiet Riad which was only 8 minutes walk to the main square. The staff were lovely, particularly Mustapha and Hassan.
  
  What could be improved: Transport do not pick up at the door. But that has nothing to do with the Riad.

• Superb – Anthony from United States – 7 June 2025 (9/10)

  The staff was very nice and spa was good!

• Riad very clean and aesthetic. Great experience, much recommended. – Adam from Poland – 4 June 2025 (10/10)

  Everything was nice, people working there were really kind, the breakfast was tasty, great localization close to the parking and Bahia palace.

• Exceptional – Karen from Spain – 23 May 2025 (10/10)

  Authentic Rhiad with friendly, helpful staff & great location

• We loved our stay here, highly recommended. – Fabrinne from United States – 19 May 2025 (10/10)

  Common areas were nicely decorated. Outstanding service by staff. Rooms were comfortable and great location, close to everything.

• Easy and good – Thomas from Belgium – 17 May 2025 (10/10)

  Friendliest staff

• Excellent attention, cleanliness, great location – Balazs from Cape Verde – 15 May 2025 (10/10)

  We had wonderful time in Riad Zoraida. The staff attended to our every request and concern with unparalleled kindness and attention. We have never experienced the kind of hospitality we received here. The Riad provides every comfort, paying attention to cleanliness and high-quality interior decoration. We heartily recommend it to everyone
  
  What could be improved: Nothing

• A comfortable and delightful Riad to enjoy your stay in Marrakesh! – Susan from Spain – 14 May 2025 (10/10)

  Riad Zoraida is very well decorated, maintained and furnished to create a relaxing and traditional ambience. The owners and staff are exceptional, nothing is too much trouble and they are on-hand to help with any questions/information required. If you are looking for a traditional and well located Riad, you won’t be disappointed! 😀
  
  What could be improved: Everything was great!

Surroundings

Facilities