12 Best Riads in Essaouira

Visiting Essaouira and want to stay in a traditional Moroccan-style home? Then book a room at one of the best riads in Essaouira.

After all, the Medina is filled with incredible, multi-story homes with individually decorated rooms that surround an open-air courtyard.

Just be aware that every courtyard is different. So, some can be covered, some can have a fountain, and some can even come with a pool. Yeah, this is how the riads in Marrakech are, and it’s awesome.

Generally, though, most of the riad courtyards in Essaouira are pretty small since the Medina is itty bitty and the houses are older.

So, don’t expect a stunning, tile mosaic courtyard filled with elaborate fountains and swimming pools. You’ll find that in Marrakech, not Essaouira.

Yeah, the riads in Essaouira are a bit more low-key. They are beautiful in their own way but tend not to be over-the-top gorgeous. They have a more understated beauty.

I know this because I have been living in Essaouira since January of 2023 and have stayed in tons of Essaouira riads. I used to hop from one to another in an attempt to extend my stay and spend a little more time with my now partner.

Today, I have my own apartment but still stay in riads on occasion, like during Ramadan. So, I want to share my top picks for the best riads to stay at in Essaouira.

This way you can enjoy impeccable service, exquisite design/decor, and an amazing breakfast on a rooftop overlooking the city.

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Luxury Riads in Essaouira

1. Riad Emotion

⭐️ Rating: 9.4/10.0 (164 Reviews) Price: $148+ per night 📍Location: 18, Rue Malek Ben El Morahal, Medina, Ahl Agadir, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Okay, so let’s start with all of the reasons why I like this luxury riad in Essaouira. First of all, Riad Emotion is quiet and tucked away on a small side street in the Medina.

Secondly, they serve a stellar breakfast on the roof that is big and is something I looked forward to each morning.

It’s complimentary, is delicious, and you can dig in while taking in epic views of the city. The terrace also has HUGE day beds and is just a stellar place to hang out all day long.

The decor here is also lovely and this amazing fusion of modern pieces with traditional Moroccan decor makes this a place you want to sit and relax by the communal fireplace.

Additionally, the rooms are spacious and include enormous bathrooms with free toiletries, incredible sitting areas, large, comfy beds, and solid wifi.

“Gisele and Philippe have created a beautiful haven – everything is done to perfection from breakfast, service to decoration. Stunning riad, the architecture, art, rooms are all fantastic, lovely staff and an attention to small details that make it an incredible experience.”

Catherine (read more reviews now)

My one complaint is the service. I came here the man who answered the door was not very friendly. I understand he spoke minimal English (totally fine) but he was just not very helpful at all.

He made me feel like I was not welcome and like he was just waiting for me to leave. So, that definitely left a sour taste in my mouth.

However, that was just my experience and many other people have raved about their time at this luxury riad in Essaouira. So, I encourage you to visit for yourself and make up your own mind.

He also might not have been a regular employee and might have been subbing in for someone else. But, it’s well-located near some of the best bars in Essaouira and is a great home base if you want to do some fun day trips from Essaouira.

2. Les Terrasses d’Essaouira

⭐️ Rating: 9.2/10.0 (315 Reviews) Price: $100+ per night 📍Location: 1 Rue Mohamed Diouri, Kasbah, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Once an old home for a Jewish merchant, Les Terrasses Essaouira is now a luxurious riad in Essaouira with fifteen amazing rooms to choose from.

Five rooms sit on each of the three floors and include breakfast on a lovely terrace with exquisite views of the city.

Their Essaouira breakfast/Essaouira brunch is delish and includes fresh pastries, local pancakes, and coffee from their on-site coffee shop.

Packed lunches are also available if you’re looking for some grub before you do a cool day trip from Essaouira.

“Loved this place! Wish I had stayed longer but will definitely be back 🙂 Do not hesitate to book Yoga classes and Massage with Morgan he’s amazing! This place is done from the heart with lots of lovely finishing touches. The location is perfect and the staff are so friendly and helpful. Room was super comfy and was over the moon it also had a bathtub 🙂 I will be back for sure!”

Natalie (read more reviews now)

Each room is also spacious and comes well-appointed with free toiletries, comfy bed linens, plush towels, okay wifi, and more.

If you get a little bored, sign up for one of their awesome yoga classes and fitness classes that are conducted inside their fitness room.

But my favorite part? This is one of the best riads in Essaouira that comes with a jacuzzi! Yup, talk about amazing. It’s small but perfectly placed in a shady spot on the rooftop terrace.

It’s also a great place from which to partake in some of the best free activities in Essaouira after traveling to Essaouira from Agadir.

3. Riad Dar Maya

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10.0 (473 Reviews) Price: $120+ per night 📍Location: 33, rue Oujda, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on booking.com now!

If you’re looking for one of the best luxury riads in Essaouira then you cannot beat Riad Dar Maya. Not only are the staff insanely helpful, but the rooms are HUGE

We’re talking full terracotta bathrooms with large soaking tubs, giant bedrooms with working fireplaces, plush robes, high-end toiletries, and more.

There’s even a warm hot tub on-site (it’s not super hot though) as well as a library and a rooftop terrace where you can enjoy a delicious Continental or Moroccan breakfast.

“The location is great- heart of the medina but quiet. All of the staff working there were friendly and helpful. Youssef sorted out transfers from our previous hotel and back to Marrakesh for us. The light coming into our room on the top floor was wonderful- lovely big windows and doors. Breakfast was good.”

Claire (read more reviews now)

Honestly, everything from the decor to the service to the breakfast is super elegant and top-notch. So, you 100% not regret staying here.

It’s not the most homey riad I have ever stayed in, but that’s not really what this place is about. They’re about giving you your privacy so that you can enjoy the finer things in life, like their on-site spa.

The wifi was also awesome, making this a nice option if you want to chill in the common area and do work after enjoying some kitesurfing around Essaouira.

4. Riad Perle D’Eau

⭐️ Rating: 8.9/10.0 (365 Reviews) Price: $110+ per night 📍Location: 64, Rue du Koweït, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This high-end riad in Essaouira sits right along the city walls with rooms overlooking the ocean. Just have a look at their eight, 4-star rooms and opt for a sea view if that’s something you’re interested in.

But, I mean really, who doesn’t want a sea view? Plus, breakfast is included with your stay at Riad Perle D’Eau and is served to you on a rooftop that directly overlooks the ocean. They even have lovely lounge chairs up here for you to relax on.

So, the views could NOT be better. And the food is pretty good too since it includes eggs, bread, croissants, msemen, baghrir, and more.

When I visited, I loved the interior courtyard since it was overflowing with plant life, and had tons of light streaming in through several skylights above the central courtyard.

“Amazing service, fab breakfast food, amazing view and bedroom, cant wait to go back. Staff couldn’t do enough for us and were so helpful. Really cant recommend it enough, great experience.”

Elmear (read more reviews now)

That’s mainly because the Swiss and Austrian owners of this riad have well-outfitted the building with modern decor that extends into the bedrooms.

They come outfitted with leather-armed chairs, plush robes, complimentary toiletries, embroidered bedding, large sitting areas, and spacious bathrooms.

As an added bonus, they have a hammam on-site, with a hot tub and massage services. So, check that out and save time for a treatment when figuring out how many days in Essaouira.

Local Tip: This is the best riad in Essaouira if you’re looking for an amazing view of the ocean. The views from the rooms and the rooftop are reason enough to book a stay. Just pack a travel adaptor for the plugs in Morocco.

5. Heure Bleue Palais – Relais & Châteaux

⭐️ Rating: 8.9/10.0 (448 Reviews) Price: $500+ per night 📍Location: 2 Rue Ibn Babouta – Bab M Rrakech, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This riad in Essaouira is very much NOT cheap. So, if you are looking for 5-star luxury and money isn’t an issue then book a room at Heure Bleue Palais.

It’s a beautiful 19th-century riad in the Medina that is built into the city walls. It’s so nice that the king stayed here.

I love this place to stay in Essaouira because the staff are warm and welcoming. The interior courtyard is also gorgeous and filled with massive palm trees that make you feel like you’re in a secret garden.

The entire building has a very Colonial feel that includes, candle-lit lamps, wicker furniture, velvet seats, tile floors, large windows, and dark wood accents.

“The amazing staff so friendly and welcoming. The hotel manager in his orange scarves. The pool, the amazing staff at the Spa so good I went twice. The breakfast has a wide selection and I have a very good omelette.”

Sharon (read more reviews now)

Additionally, there is an amazing, heated (24°C) pool on the roof that offers sweeping views of the Medina.

FYI, this is also where you can enjoy a sumptuous, complimentary breakfast buffet of savory vegetable cakes, omelets, fresh figs, bread, and pears with syrup.

Yeah, if money wasn’t an issue (I wish) I would 100% stay here since the amenities and rooms are stellar, even if the facility is a bit big and impersonal.

But, all rooms are outfitted with African, Arab, and Asian-inspired decor that includes dark wood furniture, Moroccan tile floors, and marble bathrooms with walk-in showers. Some high-end suites even have a fireplace.

So, choose this riad in Essaouira if you love a bit of luxury and want to be well-located inside the Medina.

Local Tip: If you don’t have the budget for this riad but still want to spend the day here then try booking a day pass.

You can use the pool all day and enjoy lunch at their rooftop restaurant for just 450 Dirhams. Just make a reservation in advance on their website.

Mid-Range Riads in Essaouira

6. Ryad Watier

⭐️ Rating: 9.7/10.0 (367 Reviews) Price: $63.00 + per night (for a single room) 📍Location: 16 Rue Ceuta, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Ryad Watier is by far and in a way my all-time FAVORITE riad in Essaouira. The staff easily make this the best riad in Essaouira since they always go out of their way to make sure you have an incredible stay.

One time I tried to stay here and they didn’t think it would fit my budget, so one of the employees actually started creating a list of other riads for me to stay at and started calling them on my behalf.

Yeah, that’s how amazing the all-female staff is (#girlpower) here.

There is also a hammam on-site and the rooms are GIANT. Yup, this historic building used to be a madrasa (school) and it has been converted into an epic riad with ten huge bedrooms, massive sitting rooms, and incredible bathrooms.

It’s also well-located down a quiet alley, so need to worry about ambient noise from the street ruining your beauty sleep.

“We had an amazing stay in Ryad Watier. We booked for 2 nights and then we stayed 2 more. The staff at the property were great, Hayat, Raschid, Fatiha were amazing. Raschid brought us to the local fish market, we bought several different fish and then grilled them in a specific place in Essaouira. We had one of our best dinners. We loved every corner of the Ryad, the room was spacious, the bed was comfortable, and the room had an amazing shower. The breakfast on the rooftop was very delicious, and we had a great time watching the sunset from the rooftop. All in all, we had an amazing stay in the Ryad and definitely we will come back!”

Eniko (read more reviews now)

Breakfast is also incredible and you can enjoy it on their spacious, rooftop terrace. I also love that there is an enclosed, coworking area up here.

So, you have a place to eat even if it’s cold and the weather sucks. You also have a place to work since the Wifi is FAST.

TBH, I have stayed at a lot of riads in Essaouira but this one is my all-time fave. I highly recommend booking a room here, especially if you’re a solo traveler from Marrakech since they have a single room too.

This way you don’t have to pay extra money for a double you won’t use. Plus, the manager lives on-site and is happy to assist you with anything you need during your 24 hours in Essaouira.

7. Riad Lyon-Mogador

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10.0 (876 Reviews) Price: $84.00+ per night 📍Location: 39 Rue Ceuta Médina, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Riad Lyon Mogador is right across the street from Ryad Watier. I don’t like it AS much since it’s a bit smaller and the staff aren’t as over-the-top nice.

But, it’s still an excellent mid-range riad in Essaouira since it has five floors and is one of the tallest buildings in the Medina. So, you’ll enjoy unparalleled views while eating a complimentary breakfast on a comfy couch on the rooftop terrace.

Breakfast is also really good and includes a good range of local and international products that you’ll love.

Additionally, the rooms have a very light and airy feel to them, even if they are a bit small. Sure, the sitting areas and bathrooms are sleek and modern, but the rooms are so narrow I had trouble getting into bed.

“I loved the beautifully understated elegant Riad. The staff were so helpful and calm whilst at the same time not intrusive. They were very genuine and thoughtful. The view from the roof terrace is also amazing. The fresh breakfast was very good as well!”

Caroline (read more reviews now)

But, the showers are made out of clay and have this unique Moroccan feel to them that I love. Plus, Table d’hôte meals can be prepared upon request as long as you give staff twenty-four hours’ notice.

All in all, it’s a great riad and one of those places to stay that makes Essaouira worth visiting.

8. Riad Baladin

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10.0 (808 Reviews) Price: $70+ per night (for a single room) 📍Location: Rue Sidi Magdoul 9, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on Booking.com now!

Riad Baladin is a popular, 10-room riad in the Medina. So, if you think this is the perfect mid-range riad in Essaouira for you then book your room well in advance since accommodations fill up quickly.

That’s mainly because each room has an enchanting, modern Moroccan feel with spacious bathrooms, comfy beds, and quaint sitting areas, even if the single rooms are a bit small.

“Very serene and clean hotel at a great central but nice and quiet location in Essaouira. Loved the room and the jacuzzi!”

Lennert (read more reviews now)

Rooms also overlook a central courtyard filled with plants and feature an outdoor sitting area that I haven’t seen in many other riads.

There’s also a hot tub on-site that I loved and used as much as humanly possible. It is surrounded by this cute little white pavilion and is just a great place to hang out. It’s not huge but a BIG perk of staying here.

Additionally, they have a lavish, multi-story rooftop where you can relax and take in impressive views of the city. There are cozy, shaded seats available on the roof and you can enjoy an amazing complimentary breakfast.

Breakfast is only served outside though which isn’t ideal on a cold and windy day.

I also loved the staff and thought that Felix and Esma were beyond helpful. I highly recommend this riad in Essaouira. It’s also great for any yogis out there since they offer classes that make this an epic yoga hotel in Essaouira.

9. Hôtel Emeraude Essaouira

⭐️ Rating: 8.5/10.0 (746 Reviews) Price: $50+ per night 📍Location: 228 Rue Chbanate, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on Booking.com now!

I recently stayed at Hotel Emeraude Essaouira and really enjoyed my time here. First of all, the decor was awesome, the staff was lovely, and the rooftop was superb.

Breakfast was also great and made to order from 8:30 am to 11:00 am. It included an omelet, yogurt, fruit, bread, OJ, msemem, jam, honey, and tea or coffee.

As you walk to the top floor, just let the staff know if you want coffee or tea and they will bring it up to you at your table.

My room was also nice. The bed was a bit hard and I thought it was a bit weird that there was no trash can or TV in my room. But, that definitely isn’t a deal breaker.

“Hôtel Essaouira was exactly what I was looking for – clean, sunny, with helpful and kind staff, and an excellent breakfast. Despite having to work during my stay, I found my room comfortable enough, and the rooftop areas provided a pleasant environment to concentrate and get the job done.”

Mariana (read more reviews now)

I still loved that the shower was warm and that the water pressure was great. Sadly, the wifi was hit or miss and the kids on the street outside could be super loud (not all the time but some nights).

All in all, I would definitely stay here again since I loved the feel of this cozy place. Plus, daily housekeeping was nice and kept my room and towels super clean.

Budget Riads in Essaouira

10. Chill Art Hostel

⭐️ Rating: 8.8/10.0 (848 Reviews) Price: $12+ per night 📍Location: Rue Lalla Hasna n18, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on Booking.com now!

If you are on a budget then you’ll love staying at Chill Art Hostel. It is a riad that doubles as one of the best hostels in Essaouira.

No, it’s not a party hostel (for that you’ll have to go to Essaouira Beach Hostel). But, it is a great place to get a good night’s sleep and meet cool, down-to-earth people.

Yeah, quiet hours start at 11:00 pm and are pretty strictly enforced since this is a residential area.

The riad is also stunning and located down this quiet side street in the Medina. Just follow the signs and you should be able to find it.

I have been here a couple of times and love the overall vibe of this place, even if the beds inside the 4. 6. and 8-person dorm rooms could do with an update, especially since there is no light/outlet by your bed.

“The authenticity and vibe of the hostel, the decoration, the super staff and the amazing central location! I would blindly recommend!”

Soufiane (read more reviews now)

The beds are those rickety iron bunk beds that I hate. But you do get privacy curtains and there are awesome murals on the walls that add to the fun vibe of this place.

Breakfast is also included with your stay and is pretty substantial with a baguette, chocolate croissant/msemen, hard-boiled egg, butter, jam, olives, and fruit/tomatoes all included.

If you want, add an omelet to your meal for just 10 more Dirhams ($10.00). Afterward, head up to their amazing rooftop terrace and take in impressive panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean.

Oh, and if you forgot something on your Essaouira packing list then never fear because this hostel has towel rentals, laundry service, and locks rentals available.

This is also a great place to enjoy fun Essaouira activities since this hostel can book you Essaoura cooking classes, henna, Suping, kite surfing, surfing in Essaouira, camel riding, horseback riding, quad bikes, and a visit to an Essaouira hammam.

All in all, I love the friendly staff and the chill vibe of the place. I wish they would update the dorm rooms but other than that, this is a great budget riad in Essaouira.

Local Tip: Do not book a private room here trying to save money. If you book a room it will cost around 400 Dirhams per night.

It’s cheaper to book a room at a budget riad in Essaouira since you’ll get breakfast, towels, and a private bathroom for 200 Dirhams per night, depending on when you visit Essaouira.

11. Riad Sidi Magdoul

⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10.0 (258 Reviews) Price: $31+ per night 📍Location: 21 rue Abdesmih, Ahl Agadir, 44000 Essaouira, Morocco Details: Read more on Booking.com now!

Hidden away in the Medina right near the beach in Essaouira. Riad Sidi Magdoul is a budget-friendly accommodation in Essaouira that features lovely, slightly old-looking, private rooms.

This isn’t the nicest Essaouira riad on this list, but staying here is cheaper than staying in a private room in most hostels. Just don’t expect high-speed wifi since it is mediocre at best.

But, rooms do include en-suite bathrooms, towels, wifi, a terrace, and breakfast for 38 Dirhams ($3.80). If I am being brutally honest, the breakfast is okay and the rooms are pretty basic.

“The staff are amazing so helpful in every way possible- breakfast was really substantial and varied. Loved the location in the Medina close to shopping and beach.”

Cora (read more reviews now)

However, this budget-friendly riad in Essaouira is well-located and has an amazing communal area pictured above. It’s also a great place to get a feel for authentic, riad-style decor and architecture.

Plus, you can head to the rooftop to enjoy views of the city and relax on comfy cushions that are protected from the sun.

Yes, the rooftop did need a bit of work the last time I was here. But, the staff is lovely and this is a good spot to enjoy a short-term stay in Essaouira.

12. Riad Etoile D’essaouira

⭐️ Rating: 8.0/10.0 (390 Reviews) Price: $20.00+ per night 📍Location: 2, Rue Kadissiya, 44000 Essaouira, Maroc Details: Read more on booking.com now!

I stayed here my very first time in Essaouira and this budget riad in Essaouira has a very special place in my heart since this is where I met my partner. Yeah, he was the guy behind the front desk.

Anyway, Riad Etoile D’essaouira is nothing fancy.

However, I think this riad offers good value for your money since it’s well-located in the Medina and features clean, comfy rooms with en-suite bathrooms, towels, and breakfast for around 200 Dirhams per night ($20.00).

At least, that’s what I paid when I stayed here in January. I also had no problem with the wifi since I was on the second floor. But, I do know that signal strength can vary based on where you’re staying in the riad.

The breakfast was also nice and served to you on a charming, rooftop terrace. It includes msemen, mint tea, butter, jam, croissants, bread, and OJ.

“The room is very beautiful and spacious (a bed plus a sitting area) as well as the common area. The bed is comfy and with enough cover/blanket. The location is right in the Medina street! The staff is helpful with giving information and the necessary help with our special request to be able to make some healing tea.”

Katerina (read more reviews now)

I wish it included eggs but I always like just waking up and having breakfast before I start my day.

If you’re visiting in the winter, do ask for extra blankets since there was no heat in the rooms the last time I was here.

The views from the terrace are also okay but not stellar since the terrace is primarily used for serving breakfast.

Additionally, you need to return by 12:00 am to check into your room. After this, the front desk closes and you won’t be able to get in.

This wasn’t a huge issue for me since I am never really out that late, but it can be annoying if you want to go out at night.

All in all, I am putting this cheap Essaouira riad on the list because it is much more affordable than booking a private room in a hostel. Just temper your expectations and you’ll enjoy staying here.

Map of the Best Riads in Essaouira

That wraps up this guide to the best riads in Essaouira. Did your fave place to stay in Essaouira make the list? If not then let me know.

I hope you now have an idea of where to stay in Essaouira and feel free to join our email list and Facebook group for even more awesome Morocco travel tips.

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