Riads are one of the best places to stay in the historical and cultural city of Marrakech. In the busy streets of the medina, you can find peaceful and luxurious riads to stay in. After exploring souks and other historical sites with family, these furnished homes, including comfortable beds, peaceful sitting lounges, beautiful courtyards, and rooftop terraces, allow you to feel refreshed and regain your energy.
However, not all the riads are good for every family. Especially for families with kids, you should choose your place to stay wisely. In this Marrakech family-friendly riads guide, we will explore different riad options and cover all the essential details you need to choose the best place to stay in Marrakech for your family.
Is a Riad Actually Right for Your Family?
Before you book a riad for your trip, you need to know whether a riad is right for you. A riad is a traditional Moroccan house built around an interior courtyard. It generally includes rooms with large beds, terraces with lounge areas, pools, and some other facilities such as WiFi, Laundry, Spa, and hot or cold water.
But some things make riads risky for families with kids, such as an open pool, multiple connected stair levels, bedrooms around shared spaces or terraces with minimal protection. Moreover, if a riad’s door opens in front of the souks, it could be dangerous with kids or small children. Therefore, for families with older children or teenagers, these characteristics may be part of the adventure.
But for families with toddlers or babies, they can become practical concerns.
The Best Areas to Stay in Marrakech With Kids
Medina
For families who want to explore classical Marrakech, the medina is the top choice. In the heart of the city, you can easily access souks, explore historical buildings, restaurants, mosques, and other famous places. However, it’s difficult to travel by car in the medina, so before booking any place in the medina, keep in mind your kids’ ages and their physical condition.
But if your children are old enough to walk through the souks and crowded narrow lanes, the medina is the right place to stay.
Kasbah
Kasbahs give you a historical, architectural, and natural vibes with their gardens. So, for those who love history and want to explore nature and architecture in a single place, Kasbahs are best. Moreover, it is a relatively peaceful destination compared to the medina. Therefore, if you want more peace, comfort and proximity to nature, kasbahs are a premium option.
Outside the Medina
Families who value space, gardens, privacy, and easy access by car may prefer staying outside the Medina. You can find numerous private villas outside the medina to enjoy privacy, luxury, and comfort. Additionally, instead of working around a compact riad layout, you can have several bedrooms, outdoor space, a private pool, and dedicated staff.
9 Best Riads in Marrakech for Families
Now we are going to explore the best riads in Marrakech for families.
1. Riad Yasmin
It is one of the most peaceful, luxurious and beautiful riads in Marrakech, located in the Medina. Its central patio and turquoise pool are among its most recognizable features. This boutique riad interior has a quiet courtyard surrounded by Moroccan architectural details and greenery. The blue zellige-tiled swimming pool, rooftop terraces, and carved stucco ceilings give you a breathtaking view.
For families, Riad Yasmine offers a range of convenient facilities, including a spacious 220 m² terrace where guests can relax in the shade and enjoy the views. Families can also enjoy breakfast and meals on the terrace, along with a comfortable reading area, laundry facilities, air conditioning, and hot and cold water.
2. Riad Chambres d’Amis
Located in the historic Medina, the property occupies a house built in 1905, giving the accommodation a genuine connection with Marrakech’s older residential architecture. In my opinion, this is one of those riads that are favourites for all families. Riad Chambres d’Amis dream location and facilities make this the best for families with kids, older children and couples.
Along with gardens, terraces, dining, and other features, 24-hour reception, furnished family rooms and a children’s indoor swimming pool make it family-friendly. Moreover, they also offer airport transfer services to further facilitate families.
3. Riad Sakkan
In this list of family-friendly riads in Marrakech, Riad Sakkan is a more sophisticated, calm, and peaceful riad. Located at the edge of the medina, this historical building also offers almost similar facilities such as a courtyard, pool, and terraces. Keep in mind, there are no dedicated children’s facilities, although some rooms can accommodate an extra bed and certain rooms have mezzanine areas suitable for older children.
For families with older children who value design, calm, and space, Riad Sakkan is the premium choice.
4. IZZA
It is an excellent choice for those seeking a classic yet modern riad with a unique, attractive design. Hidden behind the medina, this masterpiece is a perfect example of Moroccan craftsmanship and contemporary art. Multiple courtyards, rooftop spaces, a pool, and luxurious beds make this riad suitable for couples and families with older children.
However, several staircases and a room layout designed specifically for couples make it hard for families with toddlers. So while IZZA is visually impressive, it is not necessarily the easiest choice for a family with toddlers.
5. Riad Brummel Medina
Riad Brummel Medina is ideally located for families planning to spend more time exploring Marrakech. Situated in the heart of the city, this architectural gem offers easy access to the souks and many historic attractions, allowing families to explore several places on foot.
However, it’s small and offers limited facilities as compared to other riads. But for families who are looking for a riad in the heart of Marrakech to explore souks, Dar El Bacha, Le Jardin Secret, and other historical places, Riad Brummel Medina is the top choice.
6. Riad El Aaioun
Riad El Aaioun represents another side of the Marrakech experience: smaller-scale accommodation where the architecture and atmosphere are part of the stay. It combines the character of an old Moroccan house with modern design, artwork, and carefully selected furnishings.
Along with essential facilities such as 24-hour security, airport transfers, and an on-site restaurant, Riad El Aaioun offers a standout feature for guests. Its rooftop swimming pool provides a relaxing space, complemented by a sun terrace, comfortable loungers, and umbrellas.
7. Riad Atay
The quieter and more comfortable atmosphere is the speciality of this beautiful riad. It has five rooms and suites, traditional Beldi craftsmanship, a patio plunge pool, and a spacious rooftop terrace. It is located in the medina, just 400m from Dar El Bacha Museum, 600m from Jemaa-El-Fna, and 5 minutes walk from Le Jardin Secret.
To keep the environment noise-free, Riad Atay only welcomes guests aged 16 and over. So, it is not for families with toddlers and young children. However, best for families with older teenagers aged 16+ who want an intimate and peaceful Medina stay.
8. Riad Les Yeux Bleus
Located in Bab Doukkala, Riad Les Yeux Bleus is another excellent option for families. Its enclosed and secure layout creates a peaceful environment, while the rooms opening onto a central courtyard add to the traditional riad experience. Larger rooms can comfortably accommodate families, and the spacious rooftop terraces provide plenty of space to relax and enjoy time together.
Guests can also benefit from daily housekeeping, convenient laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. These services make the stay more comfortable and ensure that families can easily get assistance whenever they need it. Riad Les Yeux Bleus is one of those riads that are suitable for families with young children and kids.
9. Riad Jardin Secret
Riad Jardin Secret does not stand out in terms of facilities. However, its pink rooftop blends with historic architecture, zellige, and stucco. Along with its unique design, a sense of calm is its biggest attraction. After wandering through the Medina’s souks, it is the top place to relax in a peaceful environment.
However, Riad Jardin Secret has a few limitations to consider. It does not have a courtyard or swimming pool, does not offer spa services, and does not provide dinner on-site. So, it’s good for families who want a peaceful, character-filled retreat in the Medina.
Riad vs Private Villa: Which Is Better for a Family Holiday?
The best thing about many riads is their prime location. Many riads are located in the heart of Marrakech near the historical attractions. During your stay, you can explore lively souks, historic streets, and beautiful examples of traditional Moroccan architecture. For couples and families travelling with older children, riads can be an excellent choice for experiencing Marrakech’s culture while enjoying a comfortable stay.
Private villas offer greater privacy and a luxurious setting for families. You can stroll through the gardens, relax in spacious outdoor areas, and enjoy a refreshing pool day together. Depending on the property and staffing arrangement, families may also have access to a private chef, flexible meals, childcare or babysitting support, and activities arranged around the children’s needs. So, for families with toddlers and young children, villas are a premium choice.
Final Verdict:
At the end, I would say if you want to explore medina souks and other historical places on foot, Riad Brummell Medina, Riad Yasmine, and Riad Les Yeux Bleus are top choices. For families with toddlers and young kids, Riad Chambres d’Amis and Riad Yasmine are best. For couples and those who have older children, Riad Sakkan, Riad Jardin Secret, Riad Brummell Medina, and Riad Yeux Bleus are premium options.
FAQs
Are riads in Marrakech suitable for families?
Yes, but families should consider the children’s ages, stairs, pools, and room layout before booking.
Which area of Marrakech is best for families?
The Medina is best for sightseeing, while Kasbah and areas outside the Medina offer more peace and space.
What should families consider before booking a riad?
Check pool safety, stairs, room size, accessibility, and child-friendly facilities.
Which riads are best for families with toddlers?
Riad Chambres d’Amis and Riad Yasmine are among the better options on this list.
Which riads are best for families with older children?
Riad Sakkan, Riad Yasmine, Riad Jardin Secret, and Riad Les Yeux Bleus are good choices.
