Here's our experience staying at Art Place, a stunning hotel and riad located in the heart of Marrakech, Morocco.
It’s not often that I find myself on this side of the world, so for my first trip to Africa, I wanted somewhere special to stay in Marrakech. I arrived first, and a friend from Lisbon joined me later. Together, we stayed at Hôtel & Ryad Art Place, a timeless property that blends luxury with traditional Moroccan charm.
Hôtel & Ryad Art Place Overview
Location: Marrakech, Morocco
Type: Luxury 5-star boutique hotel and riad
Best for: Couples, friends, small groups
Ideal stay for: Leisure and cultural travellers
Rating: 5/5
Airport Pick-up and Check-In
A driver arranged by the hotel picked me up from Marrakesh Menara Airport, and roughly 20 minutes later, I arrived at the property. While taxis have limited access to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square after 01:00 PM, private cars can still enter, allowing me to be dropped off right at the hotel entrance.
The staff welcomed me warmly, helped with my luggage, and served a refreshing welcome drink with some biscuits while they checked me in. As I had arrived a little early, my room was not yet ready. Thankfully, Art Place is located in the heart of Marrakech’s Medina, with many of the city’s attractions, souks, and restaurants within easy reach. I took the opportunity to explore the area for a bit, and by the time I returned, I was able to head straight to my room.
A Lavish Lounge Area
Before you get into your room, you will be greeted by an opulent lounge area that feels straight out of A Thousand and One Nights. Personally, I had never seen anything quite like it before, so to say I was blown away is an understatement. Every corner featured intricate decorations and beautiful pieces of Moroccan craftsmanship.
Inside Our Deluxe Room
The ornate carved door to our deluxe room already makes a statement before you even step in. The room had an elegant yet slightly mysterious feel, with its detailed adornments giving it plenty of character. Once inside, a comfortable king-sized bed and a sofa were waiting. The air-conditioned, non-smoking room was also soundproofed, making it ideal for rest and privacy. But my favourite part? The ensuite bathroom. With its marble-topped vanity and colourful zellige tilework, it felt every bit as stylish as the rest of the space.
Traditional Moroccan Breakfast
A hearty Moroccan breakfast! Photo: Lord Acuña
We opted for the hotel’s buffet breakfast the next morning. The spread included a variety of breads, Moroccan mint tea, coffee, and fresh juice. There was an egg station where they cooked them to our preferred style. We sat on the balcony and enjoyed our breakfast before heading out to explore Marrakech for the day.
Rooftop Swimming Pool
Photo: Hôtel & Ryad Art Place
The outdoor rooftop swimming pool offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. When we visited, we had the entire pool to ourselves. We took a dip in the afternoon to cool off while waiting for the day’s heat to ease. It’s not a large pool, but it offers a welcome spot to relax after sightseeing around Marrakech.
The Verdict
(L) The entrance to the hotel. (R) A quiet afternoon in the inner courtyard. Photo: Lord Acuña
Our 4-day stay at Hôtel & Ryad Art Place was worth every penny. From check-in to breakfast and all the way through to check-out, the staff’s hospitality was consistently excellent. The property itself exudes elegance and beauty, creating a true sense of royalty. Its central location was also very convenient, making it an excellent base for exploring the city.
Would I recommend this hotel? Absolutely – especially for first-time visitors to Marrakech.
Book through the link above or directly on their website.
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