In the Land of Contrasts, the Sweetest Spots

Marvelous Marrakech Hostels

Many Marrakech hostels are known as riads, or ancient, elaborately decorated houses built around restful gardens. Even the more basic Marrakech hostels serve as tranquil oases from the constant activity on the bustling, exotic streets of the town.

Take a desert tour from Marrakech or head to the Atlas Mountains, but be sure to spend a few days inside the walled Medina, the old fortified city. Here, you can do some bargaining in the souks (traditional markets) for a beautiful array of spices, fine furniture, pottery, jewellery…the wares are endless.

Spend a night in Djemaa el Fna, one of the busiest squares in Morocco, for great food and street-level entertainment like dancing, music, snake-charming and storytelling. For a deeper look at Marrakech culture, visit the landmark Koutoubia Mosque, the Dar Si Said Museum and the Saadian Tombs, or splurge on a hammam (see the link for proper etiquette) and a massage before returning to your Marrakech hostel for a relaxing cup of sweet mint tea on the rooftop.

Riad Rahba Hostel

Centrally located near the souks, the Riad Rahba is a great Marrakech hostel for relaxation. It is family run and employs traditional Moroccan hospitality at budget prices. Dorm beds aren’t available, only single, double and triple rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms and fans.

Enjoy views of the city and the Atlas Mountains from the terrace rooftop of this hostel in Marrakech’s medina. Here, you can sip delicious traditional Moroccan mint tea or eat your continental breakfast, included in the rate. Or, drink your tea and smoke a shisha at the hostel’s atmospheric, candlelit Salon de Thé.

Riad Rahba Hostel also offers 2, 3 and 4-day guided desert tours, including accommodation in Berber desert camps, meals and camel rides.

Heart of the Medina Backpackers Hostel

The Heart of the Medina hostel, Marrakech’s first centrally located backpackers hostel, opened in 2007. This basic, inexpensive hostel is near Riad Rahba Hostel, and guests are welcome to use the Salon de Thé, terrace, free WIFI and new soft drink bar over there, as well as participate in their tours. The hostel’s free breakfast is also taken at Riad Rahba, just a minute away.

Riad Jddi Hostel

Riad Jddi is a favourite among the hostels Marrakech offers. Located near the Bab Doukalla souk and mosque, this Marrakech hostel is just 5 minutes from the Djemaa el Fna and main souk. Its rooftop terrace overlooks the Koutoubia minaret and gardens and offers views of the Atlas Mountains. A wonderfully cooked breakfast and welcome drink are free, and traditional Moroccan dinner is also available at this hostel in Marrakech’s Medina.

There’s even room service if you want it. Guests of the Riad Jddi recommend it for its cleanliness and terrific, friendly staff. Airport transfers and Internet are available, reception is 24-hours and families are welcome. Pets are welcome too, so long as they are friendly with the hostel’s cats!

Riad Medina Azahara

This romantic, traditionally decorated Marrakech hostel is located in the Heart of Marrakech’s medina, a stone’s throw from souks and the Djemaa el Fna. Riad Medina Azahara is actually three riads offering a range of accommodation from simple dorms to luxury suites. Perks include a hammam and massage area, a pool and garden, open-air living rooms and traditional Moroccan dinner buffets (with music) twice weekly. This hostel in Marrakech also organizes desert tours. Breakfast, though not included with your bed night, is excellent, and the staff are known for charm and helpfulness. There is even a bar serving beer, an unusual find in Morocco.

HostelsClub proudly offers other great accommodation options in Marrakech to make your experience a memorable one!

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