Stay in a traditional riad

A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this is one of Marrakech’s most sumptuous properties – a handful of riads remodelled into one opulent complex, creating five courtyards around which rooms and suites are arranged.

The architecture and interiors are some of the Medina’s most ornate, with intricate stuccowork, detailed wooden carvings and richly decorative tiles. The dark wood, medieval brickwork, and terracotta and crimson walls lend it a warmth some other riads don’t have.

Just being in the hammam is an experience. An ornate traditional bathhouse, decorated in floor-to-ceiling pink marble, Oriental lanterns, with multiple columns, trickling water features, and even a crackling fireplace – it’s authentic and atmospheric.

Abundant amenities and mod cons will leave you wanting for nothing. It’s also close to the key sights, making it ideal for a first visit.

One of the first riads to open in the medina, and still one of the best, the Farnatchi oozes pared-down elegance, paring classic Moroccan touches – zelig tiling and smooth tadelakt walls, with a contemporary, Manhattan-does-Marrakech vibe.

The ten suites are spread over seven houses, all linked, in a quiet corner of the medina. The small number of bedrooms means the communal spaces – including the roof terrace, main patio with its shimmering, 7metre pool and the bhou (traditional outdoor seating area) never feel crowded.

Most locals wouldn’t be seen dead in a hotel spa, but this chic retreat is the exception. Airy and light-filled relaxation lounges segue into areas with striking vintage photography that covers entire walls. It offers a bespoke mix of Moroccan, Ayurvedic and Chinese wellness that’s a 100% winning formula.

It may be a cliché, but Farnatchi really does feel like an oasis among the freneticism of the medina.

One of the new breed of pared-down, minimalist riads, Antara is warmed by the original photographs from Paris Match that adorn the walls, giving a glimpse into the city’s Protectorate era.

The seven suites are chic and contemporary – this is not the place to come if you want traditional zellige tiling and rich colours – and from the rooftop terrace, guests can practically touch the neighbouring mosque. The Dar Si Said Museum and Bahia Palace are nearby.

In between sightseeing, grab a stool at the trendy rooftop bar, unwind with a hammam treatment, or cool off with a dip in the heated courtyard pool.

This refined, amenity-packed boutique hotel is housed in a former mansion, just around the corner from the Dar el Bacha Palace.

Tree-lined terraces and cosy nooks provide idyllic spots for dining in-house. In keeping with the colonial style, oversized birdcages and peacock chairs add decorative touches, alongside the photography collection and birds of paradise flowers.

An Alice Through the Looking Glass type-door leads to an exquisite spa, housed in its own multi-level riad, complete with steamy hammam.

The location – the Dar el Bacha neighbourhood has been dubbed the Mayfair of Marrakech – couldn’t be better; steps away from the Secret Garden, interior design and fashion boutiques, and some of the medina’s best restaurants.

Home to the most Instagrammable pool in Marrakech, a shimmering, aquamarine rectangle lined with traditional zellige mosaic tiling, Riad Yasmine dubs itself a home away from home.

Simplicity reigns in the rooms, where bejmat tiled floors, carved stucco arches and tadelakt walls display Moroccan craftsmanship. On the rooftop terrace, the medina views include both the Medersa Ben Youssef and Koutoubia minarets dotting the cityscape.

Located in Bab Taghzout, the main sights and souks are a bit of a walk, but this does give the riad a more peaceful atmosphere than those further into the medina.

Formerly two separate riads, Olema showcases traditional architecture – dating back to the 19th century in the Beldi riad – alongside a more contemporary feel in the Romi riad.

The rooms are decked out in muted tones – beige, grey, and blue – and, along with the peaceful, leafy courtyard, provide a pleasingly quiet contrast to the lively streets outside.

The on-site spa, means guests don’t have to venture far for a hammam or treatment, and the spacious rooftop is a lovely spot for a traditional Moroccan dinner (must be arranged in advance).

The location here is excellent, with the new city – home to the YSL museum and Majorelle Gardens – and the main historical sites within the medina both nearby.

Idiosyncratically decorated in an original combination of traditional Moroccan style, modern art, and vintage mid-century furniture, this little treasure is Marrakech’s best budget riad.

Established in the 1950s, its famous guests have included the legendary director Alfred Hitchcock, after whom the Italian owner has named a handsomely furnished room filled with antiques.

There’s a serene courtyard swimming (plunge) pool shaded by an orange tree, a stylish parlour, and enticing roof terraces. The terraces have sweeping views of the city rooftops, Koutoubia minaret and Atlas Mountains. Furnished with sofas, tables and chairs, they’re lovely for sundowners, sunbathing, reading, or stargazing.

It’s in an excellent location in the Medina, a short stroll to the main square. The only downside is that some of the rooms are tiny and cramped, but if that doesn’t worry you, then you’re all set.

As the name might suggest, Palais Blanc’s stark white interiors provide a distinct contrast to the colourful and bustling souks outside this former manor house.

Mixing Moroccan design with Italian touches, the size and scale of the palace mean this feels more like a traditional hotel than an intimate riad.

A small patio at the entrance to each room offers a private space to sit and enjoy the birdsong rising up from the courtyard, while the sizeable pool and terrace offer fantastic lounging potential after a morning in the souks.

The riad’s location at the northern end of the medina means it’s ideally placed for exploring the wide boulevards and boutiques of the Ville Nouvelle, as well as the city’s major historic sights, including the Ben Medersa mosque and the Koutoubia.

If you’re coming to Marrakech for art and design, no one does it better than El Fenn. Each of the 31 rooms are individually designed and straight off the pages of leading design magazines. What’s more, many furnishings are sold in the on-site shop.

Located at Bab Lksour, a happening area of the Marrakech medina, the hotel is steps from the colourful souks, artisan workshops, and historical palaces. This is a great choice for first-timers to the city, placing you right at the heart of the action.

On the laid-back rooftop terrace, sip cocktails as the sun sets and call to prayer sounds from the nearby Koutoubia Mosque. The on-site bar is a rarity in this part of town, as is the possibility of being dropped off right by the front door, rather than having to wind your way through a tangle of alleys.

This lovely riad set in lush gardens in the southern part of the Medina is a tasteful mix of Moroccan style and modern comfort.

The bright, light-filled rooms are spacious and stylish with all mod cons, including satellite TV and Wi-Fi. Gusts can relax around a lovely pool and in the superb spa (including a hammam).

The excellent cuisine here is Moroccan and international, with French and Moroccan wines.

It’s convenient for several top sights, but a fair stroll to the main square and souks.