Marrakech can be a very affordable city... or a real pain if you click on the first cheap hotel without looking at the details. Between the lively medina, modern districts like Guéliz, hostels for backpackers and small neighborhood hotels, it's easy to get lost.
In this guide, we're going to talk the real deal: how much you should budget to sleep in Marrakech on a budget, which neighborhoods to look in, which cheap riads in Marrakech, cheap hotels and hostels in Marrakech are really worth it... and what compromises you'll have to accept (noise, comfort, distance, stairs, shared bathrooms, etc.).
Marrakech on a tight budget: what this means in practice
What's the minimum budget per night?
Prices vary according to the season (Christmas, bank holidays, school vacations, events), but to get a realistic idea of where to stay in Marrakech at a reasonable price :
- Dormitory in hostel From around €10-15 per night per person in low season for a bed in a single dormitory, sometimes including breakfast.
- Very simple double room (Medina or Guéliz) The price: often around €30-45 a night for something clean but without fuss.
- Small, simple riad For a couple, expect to pay €40-70 a night for a real minimum of comfort (private room, private or decent bathroom, breakfast).
- Appart-hotel or large apartment The price: interesting for families or groups of friends who share the price, sometimes €60-90 for 3-5 people, which is cheaper than several separate rooms.
Below this range, you'll quickly come across very basic addresses, sometimes poorly maintained, or very remote. When looking for cheap accommodation in Marrakech, it's important to bear in mind that a little more budget can really change the experience (bedding, hot water, cleanliness, noise...).
Which compromises to accept (and which to avoid)?
Looking for a cheap place to stay in Marrakech means accepting a few compromises. Some are normal, others should be avoided:
- Small rooms In the medina, many rooms are compact, with windows opening onto interior patios rather than onto the street.
- Noise Calls to prayer, scooters in the alleyways, neighbors or rooftop parties... that's Marrakech. Earplugs highly recommended, especially in the medina.
- Dated decoration In many budget hotels, the decor is clearly from the 90s/2000s, but if it's clean, it's not necessarily a problem.
- Shared bathroom common in hostels and some budget rooms. Check it out if it suits you.
- Stairs A lot of riads don't have elevators, and the stairs can be steep. If you have mobility difficulties or strollers, this is a real point to check.
On the other hand, even on a small budget, avoid accommodations where reviews speak of questionable cleanliness, recurrent hot water problems, borderline security or scams (imposed tours, forced commissions, etc.). If a place seems too good and too cheap to be true, take the time to read recent reviews before booking.
Which neighborhoods offer the best value for money?
For a cheap place to sleep in Marrakech, consider the following :
- The medina This is where you'll find lots of small, simple riads, hostels and inexpensive guesthouses. Great for being in the heart of the action (Jemaa el-Fna, souks, monuments), but noisier and sometimes confusing for a first-timer.
- Guéliz The “new center” of Marrakech, more modern, with inexpensive hotels, apartment-hotels, cafés, local restaurants and supermarkets. Convenient for cabs, often a little more comfortable than a cheap riad in the medina.
- Agdal / Peripheral wintering There are a number of hotels and aparthotels with swimming pools and larger rooms, especially in the off-season. On the other hand, you'll almost always have to take a cab to get to the medina.
The Palmeraie is more often associated with more upscale hotel clubs or villas, so rarely the best option for a real budget once you add in the cost of travel.
Cheap accommodation in Marrakech Medina
The medina is the most “picture-postcard” option for sleeping in Marrakech on a budget: narrow streets, the smell of spices, the sounds of the souk... and everything within walking distance. There are cheap riads in Marrakech and numerous hostels. The downside: more noise, alleyways that are sometimes difficult to navigate with a heavy suitcase, and cab access that often stops just a few minutes' walk away.
Riad Marrakech Medina
Riad Marrakech Medina is a small guesthouse in the heart of the medina, on a fairly quiet street just a few minutes from the souks. The rooms are simple but colorful, the rooftop is a nice place to get some fresh air after the crowds, and the atmosphere is friendly, without being a very festive hostel.
This is a good budget option for couples or small groups who want a cheap Marrakech riad with a real local atmosphere without blowing the budget. Please note before booking: insulation is limited (as is often the case in the medina) and showers are basic, so we come for value for money, not luxury.
Riad Medina (ex-Kif-Kif)
Formerly known as Kif-Kif, Riad Medina remains a popular address for budget travelers who want to be right in the center but in a cool, no-fuss atmosphere. It's close to the main sights, with a rooftop offering a lovely view over Marrakech.
Rooms are simple but generally clean, with unpretentious Moroccan decor. Please note before booking: stairs and traffic are typical of an old riad, so not ideal if you have a lot of luggage or mobility problems.
Riad Dia
Riad Dia is a well-known address among backpackers: a riad converted into a hostel in the medina, within walking distance of Jemaa el-Fna. Young, colorful atmosphere, lots of solo travelers, and a small pool in the center of the patio to cool off in.
Ideal if you're looking for cheap accommodation in Marrakech where you can meet people rather than somewhere very quiet. Please note before booking: some dormitories open directly onto the patio, so the noise (music, chatter) can last late. No need to come here if you're looking for absolute silence.
Mosaic Hostel
Mosaic Hostel is housed in a traditional house decorated with zelliges, in the medina, within easy reach of the Secret Garden and souks. There are dormitories as well as a few private rooms, more suited to budget couples or small families.
It's a good compromise if you want a hostel that's friendly but not necessarily in permanent party mode. Please note before booking: the building is old, some parts may seem a little dark, and bathrooms are shared for some of the rooms.
Equity Point Marrakech
Equity Point Marrakech is also located in the heart of the medina, close to several tourist sites, with a small swimming pool and fairly large common areas for an establishment of this budget. It's a cross between a hostel and a hotel, with dormitories and private rooms.
A good option if you want a little more communal space (pool, terraces) while keeping the price down for sleeping in the medina. Please note before booking: rooms overlooking communal areas can be noisy, and decoration is rather simple.
The Central House Marrakech Medina
The Central House Marrakech Medina is a more designer hostel/riad, still in the medina, with stylish dormitories and private rooms that remain affordable when compared to hotels of equivalent standing. It's one of the most modern Marrakech hostels, with a slightly more “boutique” atmosphere.
Perfect for travelers who want a more polished environment (coworking, decor, comfort) while retaining the social side of the dormitory. Things to know before you book: they're often a little more expensive than ultra-budget hostels, and the clientele tends to be young, but not necessarily into 24-hour party mode.
Hotel Ali
Hotel Ali is an institution right next to Jemaa el-Fna, with a rooftop terrace overlooking the square. The rooms are very simple, clearly not luxurious, but the location is hard to beat if you want to live to the rhythm of the medina.
This is an option for those who prefer practicality and centrality to decor. Please note before booking: the noise from the square (and the neighbors) is noticeable, and the hotel is showing its age. We recommend a night or two if you really want a front-row seat without spending too much.
Cheap hotels and aparthotels in Guéliz and Agdal
If you're looking for a cheap hotel in Marrakech with a little more “classic” comfort (elevator, large rooms, efficient air conditioning) and easy access to cabs, Guéliz and Agdal are very good candidates. You lose a little of the charm of the medina's narrow streets, but gain in practicality: supermarkets, cafés, fast-food outlets, local restaurants, shopping malls...
Here are a few interesting addresses if you're looking for Marrakech accommodation outside the medina.
Hôtel Racine (Guéliz)
Hôtel Racine is a well-located 3-star hotel in Guéliz, with a small rooftop swimming pool, comfortable rooms and often very good value for money for those who want a cheap Marrakech hotel but with a minimum of standing. We're just a short cab ride from the medina and the Jardin Majorelle.
Ideal for couples and travelers who want something simple, clean, air-conditioned, with good Wi-Fi. Things to know before you book: the decor is classic, the hotel can accommodate groups, and the atmosphere is urban (traffic, etc.).
Hotel Almas (Guéliz)
Hotel Almas is another 3-star hotel in Guéliz, very popular with travelers looking for a good compromise between price, location and comfort. Close to the Carré Eden shopping center and numerous restaurants, it offers simple rooms, a small rooftop pool and a good base for exploring the city.
Suitable for couples, families and business travelers on a budget. Please note before booking: the hotel is often very full, the street-side rooms can be a little noisy, and the decor is not very traditional - it's classic international.
Hotel Oudaya & Spa (Guéliz)
Hotel Oudaya & Spa is also in Guéliz, close to Avenue Mohammed VI and not too far from the Jardin Majorelle. It's a large hotel with an inner courtyard and swimming pool, convenient enough for those who want a reasonably-priced pied-à-terre with a little space.
A good choice for travelers looking for inexpensive accommodation in Marrakech with a pool to cool off in after sightseeing. Please note before booking: the hotel can be noisy (roads, groups, etc.) and some rooms are more renovated than others - read recent reviews and photos carefully.
Hotel Meriem (near the station)
Hotel Meriem is located near the Marrakech train station, convenient if you're arriving by train or bus and want to avoid a long transfer. The hotel offers simple rooms, a swimming pool and quick cab access to the medina and airport.
It's a decent option for one or two nights when you're mainly in transit. Please note before booking: the decor is dated and the environment around the station is less charming than a residential area, but for a cheap hotel with a pool, it does the job.
Kech Boutique Hotel & Spa (Agdal)
Kech Boutique Hotel & Spa is located in Agdal, a newer district just a short cab ride from the medina, with a shopping mall, restaurants and cafés nearby. The hotel is more modern, with a swimming pool, spacious rooms and a spa. Prices can be very attractive out of high season, especially if you share a room with two or three people.
It's a good option for couples or families who want a higher level of comfort while remaining budget-conscious. Before you book: you won't be walking in the medina, so you'll need to budget for cabs, and accept that the atmosphere is more modern hotel than traditional riad.
Palm Appart Hôtel Marrakech (Agdal)
Palm Appart Hôtel Marrakech is a large apartment hotel located in the Agdal district, close to a shopping center. The apartments are large, with kitchenette and balcony or terrace, and the residence has an outdoor swimming pool. This is an interesting solution for families or groups of friends who want to share a large apartment rather than take several hotel rooms.
If you divide the price by 3-4, you get excellent value for money in Marrakech when traveling with several people. Please note before booking: the atmosphere is more that of a vacation residence than a small, intimate hotel, and you'll have to rely on cabs to reach the medina.
Hostels and dormitories in Marrakech for backpackers
If your priority is to pay as little as possible and meet new people, Marrakech hostels are for you. Dormitory beds, a rooftop for chilling out, mint tea and an international atmosphere: this is the preferred formula for solo travelers, students and backpackers on a tight budget.
Before booking, always check: presence of lockers, reception hours, security (dormitory door, access), cleanliness of showers, whether dormitories are mixed or not, and recent comments on noise.
Hostel Marrakech Rouge
Hostel Marrakech Rouge is one of the city's best-known hostels, right in the center of the medina. Very colorful atmosphere, large terraces, lots of young travelers, entertainment and a very present team. Perfect if you're looking for a lively place where you'll never be alone for long.
Before you book: noise is almost guaranteed (music, rooftop chatter, comings and goings), and it's not the ideal option if you have to get up early for a flight. But for a cheap, social stay, it's a safe bet.
Riad Dia
We've already mentioned it above: Riad Dia is a central hostel/riad, with patio, pool and very backpacker atmosphere. It's a slightly more intimate alternative to some of the larger hostels, while remaining very social.
Please note before booking: some rooms overlook communal areas, so bring earplugs, especially if you're on the patio side.
The Central House Marrakech Medina
The Central House Marrakech Medina is clearly aiming for the new-generation hostel niche: designer dormitories, well-designed communal areas, good Wi-Fi connection, bar and a more boutique atmosphere than the average hostel. It's a good choice for those who want a little more comfort while staying in a dormitory.
Before you book: prices may be slightly higher than ultra-budget hostels, but the level of comfort follows.
Mosaic Hostel
Mosaic Hostel combines a central location, a pleasant terrace and a staff often praised for their friendliness. Here too, the atmosphere is friendly, with dormitories and a few private rooms.
Please note before booking: bathrooms are shared for some rooms, and the number of showers/toilets can be a little tight at peak times - a classic hostel feature.
Equity Point Marrakech
Equity Point Marrakech is often chosen by backpackers who want a little more space (swimming pool, large terrace, several chill-out areas) while staying in the medina. It's a good compromise between hostel and small hotel.
Things to know before you book: the atmosphere can be lively, the rooms closest to the common areas are more exposed to noise, and the decor is fairly simple.
Where to sleep in Marrakech at low cost according to your profile
Couple on a budget
If you're a couple on a tight budget, a cheap riad in Marrakech or a decent small hotel is often ideal:
- In the medina: addresses like Riad Marrakech Medina or Riad Medina (ex-Kif-Kif) offer a traditional atmosphere without breaking the budget.
- In the new town: hotels like Hotel Almas or Hôtel Racine offer comfortable, air-conditioned double rooms with breakfast, often at very reasonable prices.
If you're not sure which district to choose, take a look at our complete guide to where to stay in Marrakech to make finer comparisons according to your style of stay.
Backpackers and solo travelers
For backpackers and solo travelers, hostels are clearly the best option for cheap accommodation in Marrakech. Hostel Marrakech Rouge, Riad Dia, Mosaic Hostel or The Central House Marrakech Medina are great places to start, depending on whether you're looking for a very festive or more tranquil atmosphere.
If you're traveling for a long time in Morocco, the savings on dormitory nights will really make a difference to your overall budget. And for variety, you can treat yourself to a night or two in a small, simple riad found in our selection of romantic riads in Marrakech if you have a little more budget on certain dates.
Small groups of friends
With several people, the apartment-hotel becomes a very interesting way to sleep in Marrakech on a small budget. Establishments such as Palm Appart Hôtel Marrakech and some of the larger apartments in Guéliz allow 3-5 people to share a large apartment, complete with kitchen and communal areas.
Another option is to book several rooms in the same riad, or an entire riad when the budget allows (in low season, you can sometimes find very good deals). The important thing is to calculate the cost per person, including cabs to the medina.
Families on a budget
For families, the priority is often safety, cleanliness and space, rather than absolute charm. In this case, the hotels of Guéliz (Hotel Almas, Hôtel Racine, Hotel Oudaya & Spa) or the apartment-hotels of Agdal (Palm Appart Hôtel Marrakech, Kech Boutique Hotel & Spa depending on promotions) are often more practical than a small riad with narrow stairs.
Look at family rooms or apartments with several beds, and compare the total price with that of two separate rooms.
Practical tips for saving on accommodation in Marrakech
To optimize your accommodation budget in Marrakech, a few simple reflexes make a real difference:
- Play with dates: weekends, European school vacations and New Year-type periods all push up prices. Arriving during the week or outside the vacation period can significantly reduce the cost of cheap accommodation in Marrakech.
- Compare neighborhoods: agreeing to sleep in Guéliz or Agdal instead of the ultra-touristy Medina can give you a better level of comfort for the same price, or even less, especially if you're a couple or a family.
- Look at the walking distance: a very cheap hotel but 30-40 minutes' walk from everything also means a cab budget to add every day. Do the math.
- Read reviews intelligently: for a small budget, focus on cleanliness, hot water, noise and quality of bedding. If several recent reviews complain about the same things, move on to another address.
- Don't rely solely on photos: many establishments use photos taken a long time ago or retouched. Travelers' photos in reviews are often closer to reality.
- Accept simple decor: elaborate decor is expensive. A riad or hotel with a slightly dated decor can be a good place to sleep, if the rest follows suit.
Finally, bear in mind that some establishments in the medina are close to party venues (bars, rooftops, dinner shows). If you're sensitive to noise, check the “lively district” label or the comments on the sound of the clubs. And if you like to go out at night, take a look at our guide to atmospheric restaurants in Marrakech or the Marrakech's best rooftops.
FAQ: where to sleep in Marrakech?
Where's the cheapest place to stay in Marrakech?
For a real budget, the medina and certain areas of Guéliz offer the best options. The medina is often the most economical for hostels and small riads, while Guéliz offers inexpensive hotels with more modern comforts. The more touristy or upmarket areas (Hivernage central, parts of the Palmeraie) are generally more expensive.
Is it possible to find a cheap riad in Marrakech for a couple?
Yes, there are inexpensive riads in Marrakech suitable for couples, especially in low and mid-season. Addresses such as Riad Marrakech Medina or Riad Medina (ex-Kif-Kif) offer simple rooms, with breakfast, at reasonable prices. You'll have to accept a modest decor and a few imperfections, but the atmosphere remains very pleasant for a stay for two.
Are Marrakech hostels safe?
On the whole, yes, as long as you choose an establishment with a good rating and keep to the basics: use the lockers, don't leave valuables lying around, lock the locker properly and keep your important papers with you or in a safe if available. The big hostels in the medina welcome backpackers from all over the world and are used to this type of public.
What's the minimum budget for a night's sleep in Marrakech?
If you're really aiming for the ultra-budget, a dormitory bed in a Marrakech hostel is around €10-15 in low season. For a single double room in an inexpensive Marrakech hotel or small riad, it's more realistic to aim for €35-50, depending on the period. Below that, you really need to check cleanliness, safety and location.
Is it risky to choose the cheapest accommodation on the list?
It's not necessarily risky, but it's often synonymous with major compromises: noise, very basic bathrooms, tired mattresses, far from the center, etc. For a short stay, it's sometimes better to add €5-10 per night for a better-rated address, especially if you're traveling as a couple or with your family. The aim is not only to find a cheap place to stay in Marrakech, but also to avoid spoiling your stay for a few euros saved.