Dar Bensouda

We first booked two years ago, when I visited with friends, and I had to bring my family of four back so my two young boys could experience it too. Riad Dar Bensouda added so much charm to this beautiful city. The architecture and the people working there make the stay feel special in every way, from the orange blossom scent as you walk in to the mint tea and sweets they greet you with. Mr. Yasin, the staff, and even Aziz, who carried our luggage, were genuinely kind and just wanted to help. They replied quickly from the moment we booked and arranged for our two rooms to be close together. The riad is minutes from major attractions and souks, and there’s a big rooftop where you should leave yourself time to relax. Breakfast was delicious too. Thank you, Riad Bensouda!

Our room was a little small for two adults and two kids, though they have many room types. The bed was very comfortable, and the bathroom products smelled great. The riad itself is simple and tastefully done, with intricate courtyards, a rooftop, and staircases that give it plenty of character. It’s right in the heart of the Medina. We used a hotel guide to visit because it’s easy to get lost. Have the hotel send someone to meet you and help with your luggage. Service was very professional, and the food was delicious. Have lunch or dinner there if you can. A friend recommended this fantastic Riad.

I expected a four-star stay, but this was nowhere near that level. At best, I’d call it a two-star riad, and the advertising is very misleading. I had a very bad experience and wouldn’t recommend staying here. For the price, it simply isn’t worth it. Getting there was exhausting. The riad is deep inside the old medina, where Google Maps doesn’t work properly, and finding it feels like going through a maze. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the nearest main road, a tiring trip every time you return after sightseeing. Going elsewhere in the city or leaving early in the morning isn’t practical. If you have a car, you also have to pay for parking each day, adding cost and hassle on top of the walk. Most staff were welcoming, but the porter was very disappointing. He behaved as if tips were required. When he thought the amount was “too small,” he refused it and showed visible anger, which felt uncomfortable and unprofessional. The rooms were tiny, poorly maintained, and smelled unpleasant. Cleanliness was unacceptable: the bedding looked extremely old and worn, as though it hadn’t been properly replaced in years. Hygiene didn’t meet even basic hospitality standards. Breakfast was very basic and repetitive, with no choice at all, exactly the same every day and nothing special or memorable.

The staff were kind, professional, and always ready to help, and the service was excellent from the day I arrived until I left. I had a wonderful time at the riad and would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a great experience.