Affordable Guesthouses in Morocco: Best Budget Riads & Local Stays by City
Traveling to Morocco doesn’t have to break the bank. Some of the country’s most authentic experiences can be found not in luxury hotels, but in charming guesthouses and budget riads hidden inside the medinas. I still remember my first stay in a small riad in Marrakech tiled courtyards, the smell of mint tea, and a rooftop terrace with a view of the Koutoubia Mosque. It cost less than a mid range hotel back home, yet offered so much more atmosphere.
If you’re searching for affordable yet authentic accommodations in Morocco, this guide covers the best budget guesthouses and riads across major cities. Whether you’re backpacking, traveling as a couple, or simply looking for value for money, these stays combine comfort, culture, and warm Moroccan hospitality.
^-^Why Choose Guesthouses or Budget Riads in Morocco?
Before diving into the best cities, let’s explore why guesthouses and riads are such a smart choice for travelers:
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Authentic Experience 🏡 Guesthouses are usually family run, offering a glimpse into Moroccan daily life.
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Affordable Prices 💸 Rooms can start from $20-$40 per night, far cheaper than luxury hotels.
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Unique Architecture 🌿 Riads often feature beautiful courtyards, mosaic tiles, and rooftop terraces.
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Warm Hospitality ☕ Expect mint tea upon arrival, homemade breakfasts, and personal travel tips from hosts.
Marrakech - Affordable Riads in the Red City
Marrakech, often called the “Red City,” is famous for its chaotic souks, vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and stunning palaces. While luxury resorts exist outside the medina, budget riads inside the old city provide the most atmospheric and affordable stays.
Top Affordable Stays in Marrakech
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Riad Dia - Popular with backpackers, offering dorms and private rooms just steps from Jemaa el-Fnaa.
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Riad Joya Budget Rooms - A budget friendly section of a stylish riad with traditional interiors.
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Dar Naima - Family-run guesthouse with cozy rooms, friendly staff, and rooftop views.
💡 Traveler Tip: Stay inside the medina for the full Marrakech experience but bring earplugs, as the call to prayer and night markets can be noisy.
Price Range: $45-$200 per night for budget riads.
*Plenty of budget riads and hostels near Jemaa el-Fnaa, perfect for backpackers.*
⇨Explore affordable guesthouses in Marrakech on Hotels.com⇦
Fes - Budget Guesthouses in Morocco’s Cultural Capital
Fes is Morocco’s spiritual heart, home to the world’s oldest university (Al Quaraouiyine) and the labyrinthine Fes el-Bali medina. Accommodations here range from high-end riads to affordable guesthouses run by local families.
Recommended Budget Guesthouses in Fes
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Dar Rabha - Simple but charming riad, great for solo travelers and backpackers.
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Riad Verus Budget Rooms - Vibrant atmosphere, rooftop terrace, and dorm style options.
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Dar Elinor - Affordable guesthouse with clean rooms, Moroccan décor, and friendly staff.
💡 Traveler Tip: The medina of Fes is huge and confusing - choosing a guesthouse with easy medina access saves hours of getting lost.
Price Range: $35-$166 per night.
*Affordable riads and guesthouses in Fes el-Bali, great for cultural travelers.*
⇒Check budget guesthouses in Fes on Hotels.com⇐
Meknes - The Imperial Charm
Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities, combines grand historical sites with a relaxed, authentic vibe. From monumental gates and royal stables to traditional souks, it offers plenty to explore. Budget guesthouses in the medina provide cozy, affordable stays with a true Moroccan atmosphere.
Top Affordable Stays in Meknes:
Riad Zahraa - Budget riad with a lovely courtyard and authentic atmosphere.
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Riad Yacout Meknes - Affordable option with Moroccan décor and rooftop dining.
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Riad Malak - Simple, clean, and budget friendly, close to the medina.
💲 $35 - $166 Per night
*Budget riads inside the old medina, often family-run with authentic décor.*
Chefchaouen - Guesthouses in the Blue Pearl
Chefchaouen, the enchanting "Blue Pearl" of Morocco, is a paradise for budget-conscious travelers. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, this town is famous for its sky blue streets, relaxed vibes, and stunning viewpoints. Guesthouses here are often family run, offering a cozy stay and warm Moroccan hospitality.
Casa Amina - Small and affordable, with blue-decorated rooms in the heart of the medina.
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Hostal La Joya - Budget guesthouse with mountain views and cozy Moroccan interiors.
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Dar Zman - Traditional Moroccan guesthouse at a friendly price point.
💡 Traveler Tip: Ask your host to guide you to local rooftop spots the sunset views over the blue medina are breathtaking.
💲 $32 - $195 per night
*Cheap and cozy guesthouses in the blue medina, often with mountain views.*
⇛Find affordable guesthouses in Chefchaouen on Hotels.com⇚
Essaouira - Budget Stays by the Atlantic Coast
Essaouira is Morocco’s breezy coastal gem, known for its whitewashed medina, fortified sea walls, and lively fishing port. Budget guesthouses here often come with sea view terraces and easy access to the beach. Surfers and art lovers especially enjoy the laid-back vibe of this bohemian town.
💡Traveler Tip: Stay close to the medina gates if you want to explore both the beach and the bustling souks with ease.
Essaouira Top Affordable stays
Dar El Pacha Hostel - Budget-friendly with traditional Moroccan style and cozy common areas.
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Essaouira Beach Hostel - Popular with surfers and backpackers, offering shared dorms and a sea view.
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Riad Inna & Watersports Center - Affordable riad close to the medina, great for adventure lovers.
💲 $72 - $166 per night
*Affordable guesthouses inside the medina or close to the beach.*
↬ Browse affordable guesthouses in Essaouira on Hotels.com↫
Agadir - The Sun-Kissed Coastal City
Agadir, Morocco’s top beach destination, is known for its golden sands, oceanfront promenade, and year round sunshine. While the city has many modern resorts, travelers on a budget can find affordable guesthouses and hostels tucked away near the beach or in the bustling town center.
Top Affordable Stays in Agadir
Surf Hostel Agadir - Perfect for budget travelers into surfing, affordable rooms, and a rooftop.
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Riad Les Chtis d’Agadir - Simple and warm guesthouse with local Moroccan hospitality.
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Taghazout Surf House - Located in Taghazout village, budget friendly with sea views and surf vibes.
💲 $40 - $295 Per night
*Budget surf hostels and small riads, especially popular in Taghazout village.*
Casablanca - Guesthouses with a Modern Touch
While Casablanca is Morocco’s business hub, it also offers plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options. Guesthouses here combine traditional Moroccan décor with modern amenities, making it a practical choice for travelers exploring the Hassan II Mosque or the Ain Diab Corniche.
Recommended Budget Guesthouses in Casablanca:
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Hostel Central Casablanca - Backpacker-friendly, central location.
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Hotel Boustane - Simple budget option, close to public transport.
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Youth Hostel Casablanca International - Affordable dorms for budget travelers.
💲 $57 - $70 per night
^Budget guesthouses and hostels are limited compared to other Moroccan cities, but you can still find affordable stays in the Old Medina or near Casa Port station.^
💡 Traveler Tip: Choose a guesthouse near the Casa-Port train station for quick connections to Rabat, Tangier, or Marrakech.
⇨Check budget guesthouses in Casablanca on Hotels.com⇦
Tangier - Affordable Stays at the Crossroads of Continents
Tangier, where Africa meets Europe, is a city full of history and charm. Guesthouses here often overlook the Mediterranean or are hidden in the old Kasbah, giving travelers a chance to soak in the city’s unique vibe at a budget price.
💡 Traveler Tip: Opt for a guesthouse in the Kasbah for an authentic experience, but be ready for narrow, winding streets.
Recommended Budget Guesthouses in Tangier:
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The Medina Hostel Tangier - Backpacker-friendly, rooftop views, very social atmosphere.
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Dar Omar Khayam - Affordable guesthouse close to the beach and city center.
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Hotel Mauritania Centre Tanger - Basic budget stay right in the Medina.
💲 $45 - $75 per night
*Tangier, the “Gateway to Africa,” has plenty of budget guesthouses near the Kasbah and Medina, perfect for travelers exploring the city’s mix of Moroccan and European vibes.*
⇨ Explore affordable guesthouses in Tangier on Hotels.com⇦
Ouarzazate - Gateway to the Sahara
Ouarzazate, known as the "Hollywood of Africa," is the starting point for desert adventures and home to the famous Aït Benhaddou kasbah. Guesthouses here are perfect for travelers looking for a budget stay before heading into the Sahara. Many offer desert-style courtyards and rooftop views.
💡 Traveler Tip: If you’re planning a desert trip, choose a guesthouse that partners with local tour operators for hassle-free excursions.
Top Affordable Stays in Ouarzazate
Dar Rita - Family-run guesthouse with Moroccan charm.
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Ecolodge Amskou - Budget-friendly, eco style stay near Skoura oasis.
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Hotel Marmar - Affordable rooms, great value for short stays.
💲 $35 - $69 per night
*Known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” Ouarzazate offers affordable guesthouses near Ait Benhaddou and inside the town, ideal for desert explorers.*
↬Discover budget guesthouses in Ouarzazate on Hotels.com↫
Conclusion: Stay Smart, Spend Less
Traveling Morocco on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or charm. From the blue streets of Chefchaouen to the windswept beaches of Essaouira and the desert gateway of Ouarzazate, Morocco’s guesthouses offer an affordable and authentic way to explore the country.
By booking through trusted platforms like Hotels.com, you not only secure great rates but also ensure peace of mind with verified stays.
✈️ Ready to plan your Moroccan adventure?
↪ Book your budget-friendly guesthouse in Morocco today on Hotels.com↩
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