The hype
Beautifully decorated and well-located, but maintenance issues and noise dampen the 'palace' vibe.
Palais Calipau
$80-160/ night
Book this if You want an authentic, photogenic Riad experience in the heart of the Kasbah without paying Royal Mansour prices.
Why People Love It
- Prime location steps from the Saadian Tombs
- Stunning traditional courtyard architecture
- Rooftop terrace with stork-nest views
Quick Take: A '5-star' local rating that translates to a charming but creaky 3.5-star reality—bring earplugs and lower your luxury expectations.
Reviewed by @jayneytravels: I honestly felt like royalty here. Finding a triple room for £100/night in such a stunning Riad was a total win. The courtyard pool is even prettier in person, and the terrace is the perfect chill spot after a long day exploring.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The photos look majestic, but up close, guests report peeling paint, cold rooms in winter, and a pervasive smell of damp in the ground-floor suites.
- You prioritize location over sleep quality
- You want that classic Moroccan courtyard Instagram shot
- You're on a mid-range budget but want a 'luxury' aesthetic
Cleanliness & Maintenance
5.5
- Housekeeping: Daily service, but often superficial. Dust bunnies under beds are common.
- Bathroom hygiene: Grout is often discolored. Reports of slow drains and lukewarm water.
- Maintenance: Aging infrastructure. Peeling paint and damp patches are frequently reported in lower rooms.
- Linens & towels: Clean but worn. Towels can be scratchy and graying.
- Odors & scents: Strong musty/damp smell in ground floor rooms, masked by heavy incense in the lobby.
Sleepability™
5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Early morning breakfast preparation (clattering dishes)
- Call to prayer from nearby loudspeakers
- Echoing voices from the pool area
Before you book
Good to know
- City tax of ~€2.50 per person/night is payable locally in cash
- Transfer service is overpriced; taxis are cheaper if you haggle
- Breakfast is carb-heavy (breads/cakes) with limited protein
What to pack
- Earplugs (non-negotiable)
- Warm pajamas (rooms have poor heating in winter)
- Slippers (tiled floors are ice cold)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Junior Suite (Upper Floor) for better light and less noise
- Superior Suite for actual privacy away from the courtyard traffic
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Double on Ground Floor (damp, dark, noisy)
- Any room directly adjacent to the pool
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a room on the FIRST FLOOR or higher. Please do NOT assign a ground floor room due to allergy concerns with dampness. A quiet corner away from the kitchen is preferred.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
No. It is a courtyard plunge pool that is refreshing in July but an ice bath in January.
Do they serve alcohol?
Yes, wine and beer are available for purchase, but prices are high compared to local shops.
Is it safe at night?
The Kasbah is generally safe, but the alley (Derb Ben-Zina) is dimly lit. Use a taxi for late returns.
Can I park my car there?
No on-site parking. You must park at a public lot near Bab Ksiba (7 min walk) for ~30-50 MAD/night.
Is there an elevator?
No. Steep, narrow stairs only. Not suitable for mobility issues.
How is the Wifi?
Surprisingly decent (claimed 99 Mbps), but signal struggles inside thick-walled stone rooms.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The rooftop terrace has a secret upper level that's often empty—perfect for sunset.
- ✨
Ask for 'Ms. Khadija' if you need help; reviews consistently cite her as the most helpful staff member.
- ✨
Don't book the hotel transfer; walk 2 mins to the main road and hail a 'Petit Taxi' for 1/3 the price.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Hammam' is onsite but often requires booking 24h in advance or it won't be heated.
💡Ground floor rooms have windows that open directly onto the breakfast tables—zero privacy.
💡The 'King' beds are often just two singles pushed together with a gap.
💡Hot water is finite; shower before 8 AM or after 10 AM to avoid a cold surprise.
💡Cats roam the property freely (pro or con depending on you).
Local Playbook
Map
See where Palais Calipau is located and what's nearby.