The hype
Guests universally adore the staff and the breakfast, calling it a 'home away from home' despite the small rooms.
Riad Assala
$120-220/ night
Book this if You want an authentic, intimate Medina sanctuary where the staff treats you like family, and you don't mind sacrificing some modern privacy for traditional charm.
Why People Love It
- Staff legends Ahmed and Mustafa who act as personal concierges
- Dead-center location (5 mins to Jemaa el-Fnaa) that feels miles away from the chaos
- Rooftop terrace sunrises with the call to prayer echoing over the city
Quick Take: A beautiful, authentic Riad that nails the hospitality but struggles with soundproofing and unheated plunge pools in winter.
Reviewed by @riadlovers: I honestly couldn't believe how quiet it was inside. Walking through that archway into the courtyard was my favorite part of the day—the fountain and greenery make it feel like a total secret garden right in the middle of the city.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Soundproofing is non-existent; you will hear conversations in the courtyard and the call to prayer at 5 AM.
- You value personalized service over hotel anonymity
- You want to be walkable to everything in the Medina
- You enjoy a traditional Moroccan breakfast on a sunny terrace
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.3
- Housekeeping: Daily and meticulous. Guests consistently praise the 'well-groomed' state of the Riad.
- Bathroom hygiene: Generally sparkling, though tadelakt (plaster) walls can show water marks that look like stains but aren't.
- Maintenance: Good condition, though some reports of finicky A/C units and slow-draining showers.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and clean, though towels can be on the stiffer, sun-dried side.
- Odors & scents: Inside smells of orange blossom and wax; outside alley can smell of the street.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Echoes from the central courtyard/kitchen
- Early morning Call to Prayer (nearby mosque)
- Other guests arriving/leaving (thin doors)
Before you book
Good to know
- Payment is Cash preferred (Euros or Dirhams); credit cards often incur a ~4% surcharge
- Airport transfer is ~€15-20 but essential for the first arrival to avoid getting lost
- Breakfast is included and excellent; dinner must be ordered in the morning
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential for the call to prayer)
- Warm pajamas (rooms can be chilly in winter nights despite heating)
- Cash (Dirhams) for the city tax (~€2.50/person/night) and tips
Room Genie
Best picks
- The 'Suite' (Douéria) for significantly more space (300+ sq ft) and a bit more seclusion
- Upper floor rooms for better light and slightly less courtyard noise
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor 'Standard' rooms—smallest size and right next to the breakfast/pool traffic
- Any room listed as 'Standard Double' if you are claustrophobic (approx 130 sq ft)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am looking forward to my stay. If possible, please assign a room on an upper floor away from the kitchen for better quiet. We would also prefer a room with a solid bathroom door if available.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
No. It is a refreshing plunge pool for summer, but bone-chillingly cold in winter.
Do they serve alcohol?
No, it is a dry Riad. You can usually have a glass of your own wine in your room, but don't expect bar service.
Is it safe to walk there at night?
Yes, but the alley (Derb Ouayhah) is narrow and dark. It feels intimidating at first but is generally safe; keep your wits about you.
How is the wifi?
Surprisingly good for the Medina; reliable enough for emails and social media, though video calls might lag in corner rooms.
Can I park a car there?
Absolutely not. The Medina is pedestrian-only. You must park at a public lot (like Riad Laarous) and walk/porter in.
Are the bathrooms private?
Hit or miss. Many rooms have open arches or curtains instead of solid doors. Ask specifically if this bothers you.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Ask Ahmed for his map of the souks—he marks the 'tourist traps' vs 'local pricing' spots.
- ✨
The rooftop has two levels; the upper 'high terrace' is the secret spot for sunset photos.
- ✨
Order the lamb tagine for dinner at least once; it's often better than the tourist restaurants nearby.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Standard' rooms are tiny—barely enough room to open a large suitcase.
💡You will hear your neighbors flushing the toilet due to the central atrium acoustics.
💡The 'scent' of the Medina (sewage/donkeys) can sometimes waft near the entrance alley.
💡Hot water is finite; if everyone showers at 8 AM, the last person gets a lukewarm rinse.
💡There are no TVs in the rooms (a pro for some, a con for others).
Local Playbook
Map
See where Riad Assala is located and what's nearby.