Riad Aliya

Set in the ancient Kasbeh area, right in the heart of the Medina, this riad is a short walk from great ways to experience Marrakesh. It feels more like a bed and breakfast than a hotel, with a lovely taste of the local culture. My husband and I loved our stay. The staff were friendly, helpful, and trustworthy, and always ready to assist. They cleaned our room daily, which we hadn't expected, and had breakfast ready every morning with smiles and offers to help us plan the day. We ate there a few evenings too, and the meals were delicious. Make time for the rooftop lounge. Thanks to everyone at Riad Aliya for making our vacation so memorable!

My partner and I unfortunately wouldn't recommend this Riad. The rooms were basic but fine, but clothes and perfume went missing during our stay. Our room was kept locked except when it was being cleaned. I read previous reviews and saw that this seems to have happened to others too. I'd advise against booking.

I expected better from a 5star hotel with such good reviews. The staff were helpful and kind in some ways, bringing hot water when my boyfriend was sick and glasses for water we bought, but they were also really loud. Other guests and staff had loud conversations right outside our room at night and kept us awake. I didn't find the 'oasis' people describe. It may be nice for staff to chat, but having an extremely loud conversation 10m away while we ate breakfast wasn't my cup of tea. People were often sitting by our room, and because the doors didn't close properly, I worried someone might look in while I was changing. The room was very small, with few places to hide. In my opinion, the room wasn't clean enough: cockroaches were throughout the hotel, the wall paint was badly chipped, and the room didn't seem very clean overall. The swimming pool wasn't cleaned during our whole week. Breakfast was nice, but there were no options beyond pastries, sometimes repeated, sometimes a little varied, with jam, honey, and cream cheese. There was nothing for someone lactose intolerant or gluten-free, or for anyone who doesn't like a sweet breakfast. Dinner could be ordered, but it was really expensive compared with food outside, and had to be ordered at least 2h in advance. I don't know why a caeser salad and club sandwich need 2h. They were just kinda thrown together and nothing special for the price.

After busy days exploring, we ate here a few evenings and the fresh food was delicious. The staff were so friendly. It's a lovely quiet oasis, even though the hustle and bustle is just a few minutes' walk away. Absolutely loved this place and would definitely stay again.