Is it safe to stay in a riad in Morocco?

Riads are generally safe, especially in well-known areas like the Medina. I recommend booking a Riad with excellent reviews and clear safety measures. Look for features like 24/7 staff availability and secure entrances.

Are Moroccan riads safe?

Let's get straight to the point: driving in Morocco is NOT dangerous. It's much easier and safer than many think, and it's a fun and relaxing way to see this beautiful country.

Should you stay in a riad in Morocco?

Riads strategic location will give you a quick access to Medina. I recommend you stay at a Riad at least for a couple of days, experience a Moroccan Hamam therapy and appreciate the slow life that Marrakesh promises beyond the overstimulating Medina!

What is the difference between a riad and a hotel in Morocco?

What is the difference between a Riad and a hotel? A Riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard or garden, offering an intimate and authentic experience, while hotels are more modern, often with larger facilities and standardized services.

What area of Marrakech is best to stay in?

Morocco Riad or Hotel: Which Is Better? Pros and Cons (Marrakech Travel Guide 2025)

Can you drink alcohol in a riad in Marrakech?

Regarding the liquor license: we have an exclusive alcohol licence from the Moroccan authorities (which is very rare) which allow us to sell alcohol within the Riad, so only alcohol bought inside the riad is permitted. Food & drinks bought outside the Riad are not allowed also inside the Riad.

Where to stay in Marrakech riads?

What to look for in a riad?

One of the major components of most riads is the large courtyard in the center with an open ceiling. For smaller riads, you're likely to find a fountain or two. And for the larger riads, it's common to have a swimming pool for their guests to use.

Should you tip riad staff in Morocco?

Tipping in Accommodations

When staying in Moroccan hotels or a riad in Morocco, tipping is polite for staff such as porters and housekeeping. Porters often expect a small gratuity per bag, with 10-20 dirhams being the suggested amount. Housekeeping can be tipped a similar amount per day.

Are riads cheaper than hotels?

Riads are a great option! I travel with a team for nonprofit work and we always pick riads in Morocco because the cost is cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms. It's really nice having a courtyard, kitchen and communal spaces too. I would just advise looking into the location before booking.

Which part of Morocco is safest?

Tetouan is one of the safest cities in Morocco. It is a unique city where Andalusian and Berber cultures blend. Tetouan is an ideal destination for visitors who want to enjoy nature and traditional architecture. It is famous for its old city, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Where not to stay in Marrakech?

Don't Stay Outside of the Medina

Most of the sites you'll want to see in Marrakech, like the souks, Bahia Palace, and Jemaa el Fna Square are inside the medina. If you stay outside the medina, you'll need to walk long distances, or take a cab to reach the main tourist sites in Marrakech.

Is riad expensive?

Staying in a Moroccan riad is not cheap. With only a few rooms and the constant upkeep that a riad demands, staying in a riad is not quite what one would call a budget accommodation. Having said that, it's still cheaper compared to what one would pay for a boutique hotel in San Francisco.

Is Morocco safe for UK tourists?

The short answer: Yes—provided you're informed, prepared, and respectful of local customs. This Morocco travel guide will help you stay safe and make the most of your adventure—from avoiding scams and navigating cities, to staying healthy with food and water tips.

Can two unmarried couples stay in a hotel in Morocco?

Can unmarried couples sleep together in Morocco? While it is not permitted for an unmarried Moroccan couple to share a room, as non-Moroccans you won't encounter any problems (unless the establishment itself chooses not to allow it).

Is riad safe?

Absolutely! Riads are generally safe, especially in well-known areas like the Medina. I recommend booking a Riad with excellent reviews and clear safety measures. Look for features like 24/7 staff availability and secure entrances.

Is it better to stay in a riad or hotel in Marrakech?

A riad lets you stay right in the heart of the city, live like a local, and enjoy some genuine Moroccan hospitality, which is by far friendlier and more genuine than the glossy customer service of some of the larger hotels.

Is alcohol served in riads in Morocco?

While many riads are just small guesthouses without facilities like a bar, there are a handful that do. Some of the best riads with bars serving alcohol are: Riad Kheirredine: Offering a fusion of Italian and Moroccan influences, this riad has vibrant decor and stunning courtyards around every corner.

What to look for in a riad in Marrakech?

Can you hold hands in Morocco?

Public displays of affection in Morocco should also be kept to a minimum, as Morocco is a largely conservative culture. Hand holding between members of the same sex is considered platonic. Older men, particularly from the countryside, often hold hands.

How much money should I take to Morocco for 2 weeks?

How much spending money should I take to Morocco? How much money to take to Morocco will hugely depend on how lavish, or budget-friendly your holiday to Morocco is to be, but to generalise, you should probably aim to take around £40-£50 per person per day (£280-£300 per week) in Morocco.

What is the cheapest month to visit Morocco?

Morocco is home to several cultural festivals in January and February, such as the Marrakech International Film Festival and the Almond Blossom Festival. This is the low season in Morocco, which means that prices for flights, accommodation, and activities are typically lower.

What does riad mean in Morocco in English?

WHAT IS A RIAD? A Riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an indoor garden and courtyard. They are located within the old city “Medina” walls.