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Best family hotels in Marrakech: find child-friendly resorts and riads for your next holiday with the kids
Choose Marrakech as your next family holiday destination and step into a different world. We've got the lowdown on the best hotels, resorts and riads that are great for a kids, whether you're staying in the heart of the medina or in the lush Palmeraie.
By Nela Lukic | Last updated Feb 16, 2024
When looking for a family-friendly place to stay in Marrakech (or Marrakesh!), you first need to choose between a hotel and a riad.
A riad is a traditional Moroccan home turned into a guesthouse. Typically located in the medina, the city's old town, riads are perfect for exploring the historic centre and its souks. However, this setting might not be suitable for younger children. There's limited room to play and run around, the small and winding streets can be chaotic and most areas are not really geared up for kids (and prams).
Hotels and resorts offer more space and better amenities for young children, but most of them are situated outside of the city in the lush Palmeraie, the city's answer to Beverly Hills. Therefore, you need to factor in frequent taxi journeys if you're planning to spend time exploring the souks.
As a rule, hotels and riads offer air-conditioned accommodation with breakfast, and usually have at least one restaurant on the premises.
Famed for its vibrant souks and vast deserts, Marrakech may not be your typical family holiday destination but it certainly shouldn’t be overlooked. From exploring the Saadian Tombs, to strolling around the beautiful Jardin Majorelle gardens and sampling delicious food in bustling Djemaa El Fna, there’s plenty for all ages to see and do here.
If you're considering a city break in the sun, we've got handy guides to the best family hotels in Barcelona, the best family hotels in Lisbon and the best family hotels in Dubrovnik.
Best family hotels in Marrakech at a glance
Best overall: Four Seasons Resort Marrakech | Book now
Best budget: Hotel & Spa Riad Dar El Aila | Book now
Best for babies and toddlers: Fawakay Villas | Book now
Best apartments: In Club Palmeraie Resorts | Book now
Best for luxury: Les Jardins De La Koutoubia | Book now
Best all-inclusive: Kenzi Club Agdal Medina | Book now
Best boutique hotel: 2Ciels Boutique Hôtel | Book now
Best family resort: Hotel Eden Andalou | Book now
Best with a garden: Jardins de la Medina | Book now
Best riad: Riad Noos Noos | Book now
1. Best overall family hotel: Four Seasons Resort
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Our verdict
Situated between the ancient Medina and cosmopolitan neighbourhoods of Marrakech, Four Seasons Resort boasts vast grounds filled with impeccable Moorish gardens.
With a host of facilities at your disposal, including two swimming pools (one of them for children), a spa, two tennis courts, a bar, rooftop terrace, billiards, table tennis, and more, you will never get bored. There is live music and entertainment in the evenings, and you can choose between three excellent restaurants.
Four Seasons Resort is also very child-friendly. They have a kids’ club for youngsters (4 to 12 years old) and a centre for older children and teens. You can get special toiletries for babies and children, cribs, infant bathtubs and high chairs, among other things.
Pets are allowed in Four Seasons Resort on request, at no extra charge.
All that makes Four Seasons the best overall family hotel in Marrakech. There is only one downside: it is pricey! Also, some guests found it irksome that the resort charges an additional fee for tennis equipment (racquets and balls).
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2. Best budget city accommodation: Hotel & Spa Riad Dar El Aila
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What Mumsnet users say
"We stayed at the Riad Dar El Aila in Medina 3 years ago for 3 nights. It’s in Medina and was very authentic, clean and we thought it was gorgeous and had great reviews" - SJane45S
Our verdict
Riad Dar El Aila has everything a good riad should have. It is in the centre of Marrakech, only 15 minutes on foot from the famous main square in Medina. Even though you are right in the middle of the city bustle, when you enter Riad Dar El Aila, you enter a peaceful oasis. The riad has an inner courtyard with lush vegetation, a swimming pool, a rooftop terrace, and a spa and wellness centre. The rooms are spacious and decorated in traditional Moroccan style.
You get all that at an affordable price, which makes Hotel & Spa Riad Dar El Aila a very good budget family hotel in Marrakech.
What’s more, Riad Dar El Aila is pet-friendly. Just let them know in advance. They do not charge extra for pets. Do note that upper floors are accessible by stairs only.
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3. Best for babies and toddlers: Fawakay Villas
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What Mumsnet users say
"We took our DC in December 2018 - so DC were 6 and 3.5. We stayed in a family friendly small hotel (Fawakay) just outside the city. So where we were staying was peaceful and had a pool, but we could do day trips by taxi to the medina and the new city, gardens, camel rides etc. No hassle that I recall. DC loved it and still talk about it, especially the snakes and monkeys and camels!" - Minipie
Our verdict
Fawakay Villas is a cluster of stylish villas surrounded by gardens. This serene resort is wonderfully child-friendly and fully deserves to be awarded the title of the best hotel for babies and toddlers in Marrakech. Just let the hosts know in advance, and they will prepare for you a long list of baby and toddler necessities such as cots, highchairs, baby monitors, toys, DVDs, and more.
There are loads of activities for little ones in Fawakay Villas, from pizza making, dabbling in arts and crafts, princess pampering, riding on donkeys, to splashing in a dedicated kiddies pool. Your children will also love making friends with their chickens, tortoises, peacock, guinea fowl, dogs and cats.
You can enjoy lazing by the wonderful central pool, take a fitness class, or relax in the steam room. Or you can head off to the bustling centre of Marrakech, about 20 minutes away by car.
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4. Best apartments with kitchen: In Club Palmeraie Resorts
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Our verdict
Longing for peace and quiet with the exotic within reach? Choose In Club Palmeraie Resorts for your next family holiday!
Club Palmeraie Resorts is 10 minutes away from Medina by car and about as close to a paradisiacal setting as you can get. Nestled in the heart of a palm grove, this resort has two swimming pools, one of which is for kids, a tennis court, children’s outdoor play area, and a picnic area. Children can enjoy a special kids’ menu.
The apartments come with private terraces and some feature a fully-equipped kitchen. This family-friendly hotel in Marrakech is also pet-friendly, and you won’t have to pay extra for your pet either.
However, several guests have complained of poor general maintenance, pointing out that equipment is too old and too worn and in need of a refresh.
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5. Best riad: Riad Noos Noos
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What Mumsnet users say
"We’ve stayed at the Riad Noos Noos. It’s in a great location in the spice market and if you do have children, they were one of the few riads I found that had a room with separate sleeping places for the children (split level room). It is absolutely beautiful! No pool but good air conditioning and fabulous rooftop terrace. Great breakfasts. Was very reasonable priced as well, I thought." WickedGoodDoge
Our verdict
Riad Noos Noos is set in the old Jewish quarter in the middle of the spice market, a 10-minute walk from the main square in Medina.
This beautifully decorated riad, lovingly restored by the owner, welcomes you with its friendly and warm atmosphere. Here one feels like a part of the family.
Each of the nine spacious and comfortable rooms has a distinct colour and decor scheme. There are also two family rooms designed for two adults with a child, but it is possible to accommodate an additional child.
The hosts can prepare Moroccan cuisine on request. And the food at Riad Noos Noos is, by all accounts, simply delicious!
A rooftop terrace, a spa and wellness centre, billiard room, library full of books, a bar, and games room are some of the facilities available at this riad. Pets are allowed at no extra charge. Upper floors are accessible by stairs only.
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6. Best luxury family hotel in the city: Les Jardins De La Koutoubia
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What Mumsnet users say
"Would recommend Les Jardins De La Koutoubia, very central but an absolute oasis in the mayhem that is Marrkech, choice of restaurants and fabulous spa" - mypoosmellsofroses
Our verdict
This beautiful property is tucked within the 18th-century walls of a riad, it is right in the Medina, but make no mistake: Les Jardins De La Koutoubia is a luxury hotel with more than 100 rooms and suites.
Hidden behind a door off one of the cobbled streets of Medina, amazing opulence awaits: the lush inner courts with fountains, fantastic pool, rooftop terrace, restaurants, piano bar, and more.
Every nook and cranny of Les Jardins De La Koutoubia is beautifully decorated. Guests can enjoy massage therapy or work out at the fitness centre. A Turkish bath is also provided on site.
Les Jardins De La Koutoubia offers a family-friendly environment from which to explore the heart of Marrakech. So, if you are looking for a luxury family hotel in the centre of Marrakech, you found your match!
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7. Best all inclusive hotel: Kenzi Club Agdal Medina - All Inclusive
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Our verdict
Just outside the old part of the city, Kenzi Club Agdal Medina is a great all-inclusive option for a family holiday in Marrakech. Set in immaculate gardens, the hotel has an indoor heated pool and two outdoor pools, one of which is for kids. The little ones will love the water slides! There is also a kids’ club and a playground.
You can take your pick between getting active at the tennis court or relaxing in the spa. And when you want to visit the city, it’s a 3-minute drive away.
Guests are especially impressed with a plethora of planned activities and the all-day lively atmosphere. The Kenzi Club Agdal Medina fantastic animation team never fails to get everyone up and dancing after the evening shows!
While some guests loved the food, others found that hot dishes available for the daily buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner tended to get cold.
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8. Best boutique hotel: 2Ciels Boutique Hôtel
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What Mumsnet users say
"We are going soon and have booked 2 Ciels boutique hotel. Riads are lovely but not many have pools for swimming lengths in. We love swimming so a plunge pool isn't any good for us. We booked 2ciels as it was walking distance from the centre (lots of big hotels have shuttle buses as its too far to walk)." Pittcuecothecookbook
Our verdict
2Ciels Boutique Hotel has many elements of a riad. It is beautiful and calming - an oasis from the outside world. But it also has all the amenities of a top class, modern hotel. There is an outdoor pool and kids’ pool, plus a spa, cocktail bar, rooftop terrace with lovely city views, a lounge and a fine restaurant that offers kids’ meals.
A little outside the bustling, busy centre, 2Ciele is a 7-minute drive from Medina. The art deco styled rooms are spacious, beautifully decorated and open to balconies. Some rooms have a seating area, and baby cribs are available free of charge.
For many guests, the favourite part of this family hotel in Marrakech are the restaurant with delectable dishes and the rooftop bar.
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9. Best family-friendly resort: Hotel Eden Andalou
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What Mumsnet users say
"We went to Eden Andalou nearly 3 years ago. It’s outside Marrakech but they have mini buses running in. They have a couple of pools (one heated) and a water park with slides for all ages. It’s very much a mid range hotel - not the grandest place we’ve ever stayed but absolutely fine with big rooms and bathrooms. There’s a kids club, mini disco etc. The food is all inclusive buffet style - our daughter is very fussy and there was plenty of beige food for her." SJane45S
Our verdict
This all-inclusive, family-friendly hotel features two outdoor swimming pools (plus one indoor) in the Andalusian-style gardens, a spa, as well as aerobics, archery, darts, table tennis and billiards.
In the evenings, they have live music and themed dinner nights. The kids' club and playground will keep your children amused, but what will really make them super happy is the Aqua Park, attached to the resort.
The hotel provides free shuttles to the city centre throughout the day, so that you can explore the enchanting Medina old town of Marrakech, which is a 15-minute drive away.
Pets are allowed in Hotel Eden Andalou, but charges may apply.
Do note that the electricity shuts down as soon as you leave your room and lock the door. That is great in case you forgot to turn off the lights, but it also means that the phone you left plugged in will not be charged.
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10. Best for a garden oasis: Jardins de la Medina
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What Mumsnet users say
"We stayed at the Jardins de la Medina in December with our 16 month old and it was fabulous. They made food to order for us that wasn't on the menu, but there were plenty of options anyway. The pool is heated but it was still a little chilly for DD in December temperatures to be honest. The staff were incredible too, so lovely with DD. Couldn't recommend it enough. Very central location too but the garden makes it an oasis away from the hustle and bustle." silkpyjamasallday
Our verdict
When you stay in Jardins de la Medina, you are a 15-minute walk away from the main square in the old town of Marrakech. This luxury family-friendly guest house has an outdoor swimming pool, a spa, a bar and a restaurant that serves a mixture of Mediterranean and Moroccan cuisine using fresh, local produce.
Jardins de la Medina has an exceptional garden, filled with beautiful lush plants and flowers. What gives this guesthouse a special charm are the many thoughtful touches, such as being able to pick a perfume for your room and toiletries, or little candles lighting up the walkways.
Most rooms open onto a shared patio, while a number of upgraded rooms and suites feature a private terrace with sun loungers. One child stays free when occupying the same room as their parent or guardian and using existing bedding. Guests of the hotel may request a crib or a cot.
Where can kids go in Marrakech?
Allow Marrakech to capture the imagination of your children, no matter their age. Yes, Marrakech is famous for its old riads, vibrant souks and vast deserts, but there is so much more to this magical city. Here’s a list of things to make sure you do with the kids in Marrakech:
See acrobats and magicians and much more at the open square of Djemaa el Fna in the early evening.
Experience the Old City via a horse-drawn carriage. Keep an eye out for palaces and souks.
Take in the desert scape on a camel, it’s a super fun way to experience the sandy dunes for kids of all ages.
Explore the Saadian Tombs where the founders of the Saadian dynasty and their families are buried.
Make memories with a Moroccan henna tattoo. It lasts a few days, so you and your kids can show yours off when you get home.
Is Marrakech family friendly?
Marrakech and Morocco are very child friendly, and the little ones are always welcomed with big smiles and open arms. There is so much in this magical country for the young ones to experience that will broaden their young minds. Despite being just three hours away from London, Marrakech is a whole different world.
Where in Marrakech is best for a family holiday?
While you may be tempted to stay in one of the very personal riads in the very centre of Marrakech, keep in mind that there are not many things for the kids to do when you’re not out and about.
Riads are generally small with 5-10 rooms, often have a small plunge pool, and are great for personalised service.
The hotels located a few kilometres outside the city centre might be more convenient for families with small children, as there are often large pools, slides and other entertainment for them.
Do I need to hire a car in Marrakech?
Hiring a car in Marrakech isn’t necessary if you’re planning to spend most of the time in Medina.
However, if you’re planning to visit other towns, the mountains or if you have any adventures planned, hiring a car would be the most cost-effective way to get around. The roads in Morocco are well maintained and driving there is not as difficult as you may think.
When is the best time to go to Marrakech?
There are two seasons that are ideal for visiting Marrakech, spring and autumn. The temperatures are consistently pleasant in the periods between March and May, and September and November.
In fact, May and September are the best months as they tend to have lower rainfall.
The summer months are unbearably hot and it is not recommended to visit Marrakech in June, July and August.
How we chose our recommendations
Our recommendations are based on feedback from real parents, our Mumsnet travel forums, customer testimonials, and review sites. Being parents ourselves helps us to understand what families need when booking a holiday, and we always offer unbiased, independent advice you can trust.
After we’ve collated our hotel picks, we then turn to the experts and consult the likes of TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Expedia to see what their recommendations include for family holidays to Marrakech.
Here we’ll also check what travellers are saying on these sites, taking into consideration both the positive and negative points of their trip to bring you a well-rounded and honest guide.
Lastly, we also consulted travel experts such as Lonely Planet, travel bloggers such as TraveLynn Family, and Morocco’s official tourism website Visit Morocco.
Why should you trust us?
We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.