The 7 best riads to sleep in Essaouira

On your way to Morocco? How about a superb riad in Essaouira for your stay? Discover our selection of the city's most beautiful riads!

Once named Mogador, the city of Essaouira is unique by its mix of cultures. The Portuguese heritage is linked to the Phoenician and Roman past. But don't get me wrong: you're in Morocco. And who says Morocco says... Riad! These traditional houses in the country have a very special architecture: floors that overlook an interior patio, often arranged with then, pools, plants and furniture covered with zellige, Moroccan tiles. The riads also have roofs to enjoy a tan session, observe the city seen from high and listen to the song of the muezzin. Here’s a tour of the riad in Essaouira, with our favourite selection!

Emeraude Riad

The Emerald Riad is a small jewel of the eighteenth century, located in the heart of the eve city. With its three floors, ten bedrooms, large patio and two terraces, it will be a choice residence to relax! Its interior decoration is refined: wood blends with traditional white and blue shades of Morocco.

Also, its location is convenient, since the Emerald Riad is close to the Bab Marrakech door. Thus, you will find nearby all amenities: parking, bus terminals, and taxi stations to go on a trip for example. Finally, you can also enjoy a delicious traditional breakfast on the roof terrace and enjoy an incomparable view of Essaouira.

Riad Al Medina

The Riad Al Medina, which is translated into French by the “riad of the old city”, is a pearl of elegance. There you will have the choice between simple rooms, family suites, and even a suite with direct access to the terrace. This riad in Essaouira will especially seduce you by its decoration: a patio with a fireplace, but also a hammam with the possibility to massage you. In addition, it also turns into a restaurant: you can enjoy tajinas, couscous and other Moroccan dishes. Bssaha (good appetite!)

In addition, the Riad Al Medina offers quick access to Essaouira beach, which is 200 metres away. Also, it is close to the ramparts and the Kasbah Gallery for a short artistic break.

Riad Dar Maya

You want a luxury riad? The Dar Maya will offer you an incomparable service. Also located in the historic city, this riad in Essaouira offers five bedrooms with marble bathrooms and fireplaces. The walls of the room are covered with a traditional lime and black soap coating: tadelakt. Dar Maya is also a haven of peace and relaxation. Indeed, you can spend a relaxing moment in the hammam and enjoy exfoliant care. And on the roof, a pool is waiting for you!

The Dar Maya offers a catering service, including a menu composed of three Moroccan dishes, which varies according to arrivals.

Riad Dharma

Would you prefer to book a riad in Essaouira outside the old town? No problem! While riads are traditionally medina houses, several riads have been built near the city. Riad Dharma is a 20-minute drive from the historic centre of Essaouira and is an oasis of relaxation. The place offers 7 air-conditioned rooms with bathrooms, fireplaces and all the necessary comfort.

The Riad Dharma also features Jacuzzi, swimming pool and a traditional steam bath. In short, you will be choyé.e.s, and even to the breakfasts that are carefully prepared by the riad cook.

Riad Laylati

If you like the Berber style pushed to its paroxysm: we found VOTRE riad in Essaouira. This authentic and welcoming riad of the old town plunges you into what Moroccan craftsmen do best: tadelakt coating and zelliges mosaics. The Riad Laylati offers 5 rooms on three levels, as well as a double terrace that offers a nice view of the medina.

And if you enjoy local crafts as much as Moroccan cuisine: you will be served.es! The breakfasts at Riad Laylati are renowned for being gourmet. For 65 additional dirhams per person, offer a tasty couscous or tajine at lunch or dinner.

Riad South House

This 18th century riad is located 300m from the ocean. It is therefore your ideal ally if you want to sting a head from the early hours of the day. It is also between two of the biggest commercial streets in the old town! But what will seduce you most in this riad in Essaouira is his story. Indeed, the South House was successively owned by rich commercial families first Jewish, then Muslim. The latter ensured the trade of goods between Europe, but also with Timbuktu. Also, the Riad Maison du Sud offers several services, including catering. Then choose one of the five rooms and travel through the centuries!

Dar Azma

A riad in Essaouira which is particularly cheap! Here, what matters is the atmosphere. Your host, Azdine, will receive you as if you were from his own family. A unique hospitality that will make you feel at Essaouira as at home. Guests can also enjoy all the benefits of a riad in Essaouira: breakfast in the sun on the roof, as well as a close proximity to the beach and the markets.

Don’t hesitate to ask your host about any excursions around Essaouira!

So you made your choice for a riad in Essaouira?