Matchmaker

Marrakech: Indagare Matchmaker

Rife with ancient history, fascinating culture and plenty of atmosphere, Marrakech is known for its larger-than-life hotels—many of which are reason alone to visit the desert metropolis. But choosing the right property is crucial. From lavish palace hotels to discreet riads, here is a breakdown of Indagare’s favorite hotels in Marrakech and who they’re right for.

Contact Indagare  for assistance planning a trip to Marrakech. Our specialists can book you at the hotel that is right for you, plan great meals, shopping routes and activities and arrange behind-the-scenes tours.

The Grande Dame: La Mamounia

The legendary La Mamounia, which has long offered both proximity to the medina and a parklike setting, was called by its designer, Jacques Garcia, a “modern day fairytale.”

Vibe: Lavish, glamorous, classic Best For: Couples and families seeking the amenities of a full-service resort, which includes tennis courts, a spectacular hammam and multiple dining venues. Room to Book: Opt for a room on a higher floor with a terrace to enjoy glorious views of the expansive gardens. Good to Know: La Mamounia is often described as over-the-top (though never gaudy). Those who prefer a quieter scene should opt for smaller, riad properties such as Villa Des Orangers or La Maison Arabe.

Read the full hotel review.

Related: Why Go Now: Marrakech

The Palace Retreat: Amanjena

Located 15 minutes outside the medina, Amanjena strikes a perfect balance, offering the best of Moroccan grandeur and Asian minimalism.

Vibe: Peaceful, pampering, resort Best For: Couples and families with well-behaved children who appreciate a serene escape after a day of exploring. The resort offers a number of amenities such as a golf course and large swimming pool. Room to Book: Couples should splurge for a one-bedroom ‘Maison’ with a private pool, while the two-bedroom accommodations boast large living rooms and heated pools and are perfect for families. Good to Know: For a nice contrast, consider combining a stay at Amanjena with another property within the medina.

Read the full hotel review.

Related: Love Letter to Marrakech

The Storied Classic: La Maison Arabe

Home to one of Marrakech’s most acclaimed restaurants, La Maison Arabe is a great choice for travelers looking for an authentic guest house in the medina.

Vibe: Boutique, traditional, historic Best for: Those who want a well-located and charming Marrakech base. Room to Book: The Noor suite in the old wing has a private balcony and lovely, old-fashioned Moroccan décor. Good to Know: La Maison Arabe offers guests a town-and-country experience with its ‘country annex’ just outside the city. This outpost has a large pool area surrounded by gardens.

Read the full hotel review.

Related: The Shopping Guide: Marrakech

The Secluded Oasis: Villa des Orangers

Combining French art de vivre with exquisite Moroccan detail, Villa des Orangers offers a sophisticated riad experience in the medina.

Vibe: Elegant, discreet, chic Best For: Couples and families with older children who look for exquisite service and surroundings but want an intimate, secluded hideaway in the medina. Room to Book: All 27 rooms are individually decorated. Our favorite suites are those that share access to the rooftop pool. Good to Know: Head to the dreamy courtyard, where cocktails are served and live music is performed before having dinner in the riad's excellent restaurant.

Read the full hotel review.

Related: Melissa’s Travels: A City in Revival

The Opulent Jewel: Royal Mansour

The Royal Mansour is the King of Morocco’s personal passion project and the most extravagant (and expensive) hotel in Marrakech.

Vibe: Elaborate, lavish, palatial Best for: Those with no budget considerations who appreciate the immersive experience of staying in your own riad. Room to Book: Opt for a riad that overlooks the central garden, which is complete with palm groves and olive trees. Good to Know: The hotel's design detail is dizzying and might be considered to be too over-the-top by some; nevertheless, no one can argue that the workmanship is not remarkable.

Read the full hotel review.

Related: Marrakech Sightseeing 101

The Stylish Boutique: El Fenn

Richard Branson’s sister, Vanessa Branson, opened this riad in the medina that brings a cheeky-yet-cozy option to the heart of Marrakech.

Vibe: Shabby-chic, hip, boutique Best For: Couples and groups looking for a riad experience with stylish, contemporary design. Room to Book: Each room varies in size and style, ranging from whimsical to sleek. Indagare members should consult their Travel Specialist to choose the best fit. Keep in Mind: The first-floor accommodations should be avoided, as the courtyard can get noisy at night.

Read the full hotel review.

Related: Culinary Q&A Marrakech

The Sleek Oasis: Mandarin Oriental

The brand’s first hotel in Africa, the Mandarin Oriental in Marrakech is a tranquil retreat known for its high design and ample outdoor space.

Vibe: Sleek, grand, family-friendly Best For: Travelers who value a resort oasis will be in heaven at this slightly removed (but still accessible) location. Room to Book: The Mandarin Pool Villa boasts a private pool and courtyard as well as gorgeous decorative touches throughout. Keep in Mind: The property is ideal for those who prefer all things understated, so guests seeking an iconic Moroccan experience or a palace hotel will be happier elsewhere.

Read the full hotel review.

Read Indagare’s Marrakech Destination Report.

Contact Indagare  for assistance planning a trip to Marrakech. Our specialists can book you at the hotel that is right for you, plan great meals, shopping routes and activities and arrange behind-the-scenes tours.

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We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities.

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