Are Luxury Riads in Morocco Good for Solo Travel?
When I was younger, I always stayed at budget hotels and hostels – I wanted my money to stretch as far as possible. Then, once I had a steady income and a little cash to spare, I upgraded my accommodation to what most would call “mid-range”.
But it took a while longer before I felt I deserved a luxury stay, particularly as a solo traveller. I thought it was something reserved for couples and that I needed a partner with me to justify the experience.
Fast-forward to now and I will often indulge in a luxury riad or hotel, even if my husband isn’t with me. I definitely can’t afford to do it all the time. But it’s no longer something I will deny myself just because I’m travelling solo.
It goes without saying that Morocco’s riads are unforgettable places to stay. Many exhibit stunning architectural details (think zellige tiles, elaborate stucco work and carved wooden doors). And because of their historical significance, they are culturally immersive places to stay.
So if I’m going to splurge on a luxury stay in Morocco, it’s almost always at a riad. I also think the intimate nature of riads lends itself well to solo travel – we’ll get more into my reasons for this below.
So if you’re wondering: “Are luxury riads in Morocco good for solo travel?” my answer is yes!
In this article, I’ll explain some of the benefits of staying at a luxury riad during your trip to Morocco and highlight some of my favourites in Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira and Rabat.
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Defining a “Luxury Riad” in Morocco
Before we go any further, let’s define what a riad actually is.
A riad is a traditional Moroccan home, usually centred around an interior courtyard. While some are centuries old, others are “new builds”, but designed with all of the elements of their historic counterparts.
Historically, the interior courtyards were filled with gardens, orange trees and tranquil water features. Some still have these today, while others boast refreshing swimming pools and alfresco dining spaces.
Unlike big resorts and hotels, Moroccan riads are typically small (often 5–15 rooms). Combined with their intimate lounges and communal spaces, this changes the solo travel dynamic.
What sets a luxury riad apart from mid-range and budget options? It’s usually the amenities and the higher-end “feel” of the space.
The rooms and suites will likely be more spacious and better appointed, with things like coffee/tea making facilities, hairdryers and individually controlled heating/cooling systems.
Many luxury riads in Morocco also have on-site restaurants and lounges where guests can retreat. There are opportunities for socialisation with other guests on the rooftop terraces. But you can also keep completely to yourself, if that’s what you desire.
Generally speaking, the ambiance is quiet and peaceful, although that depends on the current crowd! Personally, I’ve never stayed in a luxury riad in Morocco that was noisy or had rowdy guests and the majority have been kid-free.
Concierge services are provided by a “host”, who can assist with restaurant reservations, taxi bookings and activity recommendations. They’re also a bit of a “cultural companion” – they’ll answer any questions you might have about Moroccan etiquette or customs.
One thing that I think really sets luxury riads apart from their cheaper counterparts (and something many people don’t consider) is the soundproofing.
Moroccan riads can be hit or miss in this aspect. Remember, heritage riads are often centuries-old and there were likely different expectations around soundproofing when they were built.
But luxury properties usually invest in rectifying soundproofing issues for the comfort of their guests. So if you’re someone who doesn’t want to hear their next-door neighbours, it’s worth spending a little more.
Safety and Comfort
One of the biggest advantages of staying at a luxury riad is the safety factor. When I’m travelling solo, coming home to a secure and welcoming place is important for my peace of mind.
This is not a reflection on Morocco or suggesting it’s a “dangerous” place (it’s not!) It’s just the way I feel about travelling solo anywhere in the world.
Most luxury riads in Morocco have staff present around the clock. Unlike big, chain hotels, where anyone can walk through the doors, the only way into a riad is if the security guard allows you through the gated entrance.
Most are located in well-lit, central areas, so you don’t have to walk long distances alone after dark. Disclaimer: this is not the case for every luxury riad in Morocco, so always check a property’s location on a map before booking.
Where luxury riads really excel is in the level of comfort they offer – the mattresses are usually amazing and the linen is high-quality. Perhaps it’s an “age” thing, but getting a good night’s sleep is one of my top priorities…and I’m happy to pay a little more if it means an ultra-comfortable bed.
At some budget riads, the bathrooms will be shared facilities. But that’s never the case at a luxury property. You’ll always have an ensuite with hot water and good pressure and (if you’re lucky) you may even get a bathtub!
Social…But Not Overly
When it comes to the social atmosphere, I think luxury riads in Morocco hit a sweet spot for solo travellers. In my experience, they strike a nice balance between community and solitude – they can be social, but not overwhelmingly so. And you can be completely antisocial if you desire!
Because riads are small in scale, the staff remember who you are and there’s always a host on hand to chat to. There are opportunities to connect with other guests while sipping on tea in the courtyard or listening to the call to prayer ring out from a rooftop terrace.
But if you don’t want to socialise, there’s absolutely no pressure to do so. At hostels, I find it hard to find a quiet spot to read or relax. But that’s definitely not my experience at luxury riads in Morocco.
Cultural Immersion and Local Insights
If you’ve stayed at a few big-name, chain hotels, you’ll know that they all start to look and feel quite similar. Because riads highlight traditional architecture and/or contemporary design, every one is completely unique!
This creates a sense of place that big chain hotels rarely match. The traditional decor and craftsmanship all tell a story, meaning your stay will be culturally immersive from the get-go.
I particularly love the interior gardens and fountain courtyards, which are always so calming.
Adding to the experience is the presence of local hosts, who can share a wealth of cultural insights. Not only will they recommend restaurants, connect you with local guides and help with transport, but they’re on hand to provide tips on local etiquette and traditions.
In my experience, hosts at luxury riads in Morocco go above and beyond what you would expect of a hotel concierge. And as a solo traveller, this local support is invaluable and always appreciated.
Cost Considerations
Let’s be honest: luxury riads cost more than basic riads or hostels and they’re not within everyone’s budget. But if you’re choosing between a generic 4-star hotel and a luxury riad loaded with character, I know which one I would opt for as a solo traveller.
I would also add that I think they are often more cost-effective than hotels of similar comfort. Breakfast is automatically included and the central location of most riads helps reduce transport costs (most big hotels are located outside medinas).
Personally, I also think the local design and heritage elements add intrinsic value. Your stay is supporting the restoration of historic buildings and helping give them a new lease on life.
And when you stay at a locally-owned riad, your money is staying within the local community, rather than benefitting offshore owners and international stakeholders.
When Luxury Riads Are Perfect for Solo Travellers
Don’t get me wrong, staying at a luxury riad in Morocco is not for every solo traveller….or not for every solo traveller every night of their trip.
If you’re travelling on a tight budget, want a really social atmosphere or somewhere you can party into the early hours, it’s definitely not for you.
But if you’re a solo traveller who’s all about cultural immersion and is happy to splurge a little on your stay, then a luxury riad is ideal. It will provide a comfortable home base for exploring your destination and somewhere peaceful to retreat when the hustle and bustle of the medina becomes too much.
You can draw on local insights from the riad host whenever you need and there are always guests coming and going if you want to connect.
So if you’re a solo traveller looking for comfort with character, a luxury riad in Morocco is worth the splurge.
Luxury riads in Marrakech for solo travellers
Riad Livia
Riad 72
La Sultana
Luxury riads in Fes for solo travellers
Riad Al Bartal
Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux
Karawan Riad
Luxury riads in Essaouira for solo travellers
Heure Bleue Palais
Suite Azur Hotel
Mama Lova
Luxury riads in Rabat for solo travellers
L’Alcazar
Riad Amaris
Riad Zyo
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I’m Malika, an Australian-born travel writer with an intense love for Morocco. I first travelled here solo in 2014 and after meeting (and marrying) a local, I made this North African gem my home.
Over the last 10 years, I have explored the country extensively, travelling to all corners with my partner, friends and solo.
