Best hotels in Marrakesh

An intriguing history? Check. Criminally opulent design? Check. And those one-of-a-kind details that really make a hotel sing? Check! Known as the most storied hotel in Marrakesh, the gardens at La Mamounia began as a royal wedding gift in the 18th century and during the 'Roaring 20s', the palace was turned into a hotel that sets the standard. Its backstory is told throughout the salons with tubular glass chandeliers and ornate hammams, and a decor that blends Berber tapestries and Moroccan accoutrement with an Art Deco style. It's rather easy to see why La Mamounia inspired some of the greatest musicians of the 70s!

Down a snaking lane in the Medina, not far from the steaming food stalls of Djeema El Fna and the Bahia Palace, Riad Farnatchi has all the makings of a home-away-from-home. One of the first riads to be turned into a hotel, you'll find all the staples of a Moroccan home. The dining room is elegant with a smattering of black and white photos on the wall, there are cushioned bhous (lounges) to recline in, and the rooftop terrace is just the place for relaxed drinks. And when we say the staff are impeccable, we mean it - Riad Farnatchi is a finalist for hotels that go above and beyond.

An Arabian mansion in the middle of buzzing Marrakesh, Les Jardins is a haven of leafy palms and orange trees and lazy moments by the pool. And nnowing that the bedlam of the city is just outside makes the hotel's breezy terraces, quiet lunches in the garden, and polished interiors all the more enjoyable! At the hotel, you'll be pampered in the stone hammam and sip cocktails on the rooftop terrace with its views over the Medina. Then, when you're ready, the city awaits, from the stunning gardens of the French quarter to the lantern-lit souk selling, perfume, silks and delicacies.

As Morocco's cultural hub, Marrakesh is a terracotta-hued city of dynasty relics, souks that fill your head with legends, and gorgeous riads - grand homes-turned-hotels. One of the most luxurious is La Sultana, which actually happens to be a complex of five riads, each designed to represent a different period in the city's thousand-year-old history. From its wonderful location in the royal Kasbah district, La Sultana is close to just about everything; from the gold-gilded Saadian Tombs to the iconic Djemaa El Fna square - a whirlwind of tantalising food stalls, snake charmers and storytellers. We'd happily raise a 'Midnight in Marrakesh' to that!

Experience the magic of the Red City from Nobu Hotel Marrakech. Moroccan craftsmanship meets Japanese simplicity and iconic Nobu cuisine at our serene sanctuary, nestled at the heart of the city’s luxurious Golden Triangle district, steps from the Marrakech Medina.

In the very centre of one of the oldest parts of the medina resides this traditional Riad. It is a true oasis amidst the vibrancy of Marrakech, seamlessly blending ancient traditions with modern luxuries.

Taking its name from the Arabic word for shadows, it is a place defined by peace and privacy. Hidden behind large wooden doors, its five residences are dappled in sunlight, which weaves through courtyard palms and a gentle fountain. Guests can step through the courtyard to their residence, and allow the resident curator to take them off-menu into the heart of Marrakech.

This ground-floor residence neighbours our building's courtyard, spa and kitchen, an active yet homely space with a private terrace of earthy orange rugs and fireplace.

Spend lazy mornings in your personal terrace area, accessible from your residence and adjacent to our elegant courtyard. As the neighbourhood cats stroll around at a relaxed pace you too can take it easy. Grab the day’s pastry from the kitchen and relax here, in the shade, with a good read and an authentic Moroccan mint tea.

This is a residence for those who want to wake up and immediately step out into the city.

Marrakech rewards a good base, and this one has the location right: sitting at Bab Doukkala, a short walk from Jemaa el-Fna Square and the souks, yet separated from the noise by walled gardens and a generous pool. The hotel runs to 85 rooms and suites plus 26 private ryads, each with its own plunge pool - making it an equally strong choice for a couple wanting a pool terrace or a large family who'd rather have their own front door. Interiors by Pascal Desprez weave carved plasterwork and warm ochre tones with something crisper and more French. The food is taken seriously.

The riads of Marrakesh all have a history behind them, but the Riad Kniza may be the most fascinating. Owned by the same family for nearly 200 years, it has hosted some recognisable names, from past US presidents to Hollywood royalty. Let's just say, the staff are masters in discreet service and making you feel like a celebrity. The owner, Haj Mohamed, is one of the city's most respected antiquarians, the spoils of which you'll enjoy in the lavish suites and alcoved bhous (sitting areas). Mohamed is an expert in the secrets and sights of Marrakesh, and he'll gladly introduce you to it all.

From the ever-present scent of the orange blossoms to the freshly-squeezed juice at breakfast and luxuriating massages with orange blossom mousse, La Villa des Orangers certainly lives up to its name. The atmosphere is a million miles away from the beeping and braying of the Medina, yet La Villa happens to sit at the foot of the Koutoubia Mosque, right in the heart of the winding streets of Marrakesh. Built in the 1930s and brought back to life by some of the city's finest craftspeople, the house forms its own oasis without forgoing any of its authenticity.

In the heart of the legendary Hivernage district, a few feet only from the rose-hued rampart of Marrakech, vibrate an urban boutique hotel with contemporary style and unique elegance: JADALI HOTEL & SPA. Masterfully imagined by the famous interior designer, Imaad Rahmouni, JADALI HOTEL & SPA holds its eclectic style and character from its idyllic location, a distinguished edifice that differentiates by a refined and minimalist architecture, embellished by a green façade, a true emblem of the legendary Hivernage. Order, colors and geometry, here the essence of the Art Deco style is brought to light where each space is a journey of the senses: contemporary aesthetics, vintage-inspired tailor-made furniture, sophisticated and warm color palettes, noble materials, and epicurean experience, panoramic views and a multi sensorial universe merge magically with impeccable service

Bathed in natural light and imbued with the aromatic scent of cedar wood, Riad Elegancia is designed around two idyllic patios where one is greeted by the gentle trickling of a 19th century fountain and the magic of ancestral architecture. Illuminated by magnificent chandeliers, a warm and enchanting atmosphere is created by the delicate play of light that sparkles throughout the atrium. An oasis of serenity and intimacy in the heart of the medina of Marrakech, Riad Elegancia is a charming hideaway distinguished by quintessential Moroccan craftsmanship. Experience the beauty of a traditional riad graced with modern luxury touches. Allow yourself time to relax and be indulged within this precious jewel of Moroccan hospitality.