Table of Contents
Introduction
Walking through the narrow lanes of the Medina in Marrakech, I arrived at Riad Soulmate at Derb Aiyad n°12, Quartier Ben Salah, 40000 Marrakech. Instantly I felt the contrast between the busy outside world and the calm courtyard within. After spending several nights here, I’m excited to share my full travel-blogger review—what stood out, what to know, and whether you should include this riad in your plans.
Location & Accessibility
Address: Derb Aiyad n°12, Quartier Ben Salah, Medina, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco. Booking.com+1
Google Maps: View on Google Maps
Riad Soulmate’s location inside the Medina gives it a fantastic combination of authenticity and convenience. On Booking.com the location is rated “Excellent – 9.3/10” in guest reviews for its central yet quiet spot. Booking.com
Getting there
- From Marrakech-Menara Airport, a taxi to the Medina is about 15–25 mins depending on traffic.
- Since the riad lies within the Medina’s narrow alleys, you’ll likely be dropped at a nearby gate and walk the last few minutes through small lanes. The staff offered clear instructions ahead of arrival.
- Free parking isn’t typically in-door (given Medina constraints); if driving, ask for the nearest pay-parking zone.
Neighborhood vibe
The Quartier Ben Salah area is lively during the day with local shops and ways to discover hidden corners, yet at night the derb calms down. From the rooftop terrace you can hear the call to prayer and see the rooftops stretching out toward the Atlas Mountains on a clear day.
This area is within walking distance of major Medina sights: the Orientalist Museum, Palais de la Bahia and the souks. Riadsoulmate+1
Tip: It’s worth saving the riad’s exact map location offline on your phone (or ask the riad to WhatsApp directions) so you can easily find the way back after dusk.
Rooms & Comfort at Riad Soulmate
Room Types & My Booking
Riad Soulmate offers well-reviewed rooms equipped with modern comforts while retaining traditional Moroccan architecture. The listing describes air-conditioning, a terrace and a pool. Booking.com+1
I booked a Double Room with Private Bathroom and Pool View.
My First-Person Impressions
- Entering the room, I was greeted by softly lit lanterns, zellige-tiled floors and a calm palette. The bed was comfortable with quality linens.
- The air-conditioning and blackout curtains were a blessing after a full day exploring Marrakech in the sun.
- The bathroom was modern, clean, with a rainfall‐shower‐head and good water pressure.
- From the small balcony/window I had a view of the pool courtyard—perfect for early‐morning coffee or an evening wind-down.
- WiFi worked reliably throughout my stay, which was helpful since I worked a bit remotely. On guest review breakdown, WiFi scores at this property were also high (≈9.3/10) on Booking.com. Booking.com
Comfort & Considerations
- Given the riad’s Medina setting, rooms tend to be more intimate rather than hotel-suite sized. If you travel with large luggage ask for a ground‐floor room or assistance.
- Some rooms face the internal courtyard rather than full city views. If you want “sunset” or “roof-view”, indicate when booking.
- Because it’s a restored traditional building, you might find slight differences in door-thickness or insulation compared to modern hotels—but in my stay it wasn’t a disturbance, more part of the charm.
Overall, I found the comfort level to exceed expectations for a riad in this price‐range and location—beds, climate control, bathroom all performed very well.
Amenities & Facilities
Riad Soulmate offers a strong set of amenities for a riad in the Medina.
- Outdoor Pool – The listing mentions an outdoor pool open year-round. Riadsoulmate+1 I used it for a quick swim after a hot day—it’s modest in size but well maintained, with loungers nearby.
- Rooftop Terrace – One of my favourite spots. After dinner I returned to the terrace for mint tea and watched the medina rooftops turn golden.
- Free WiFi – Solid performance throughout the property; vital for blogging, social media updates.
- Air-Conditioning & Heating – Good climate control in rooms; important in Marrakech’s warm days and cooler evenings.
- 24-hour Reception & Concierge – Helped with taxi bookings, excursion recommendations and local tips.
- Breakfast & Restaurant – The property serves breakfast and offers (or arranges) meal options in a relaxed on-site space.
- Non-smoking rooms, family room options – Good for those with children or extra guests. Agoda
Tip: If you arrive early morning (before check‐in time), ask the staff about early check‐in or storing your luggage so you can head out straight into the city.
Food & Dining Options at Riad Soulmate
On-site & Breakfast
During my stay, breakfast at Riad Soulmate took place in the courtyard or on the terrace (weather dependent). I enjoyed fresh breads, Moroccan pancakes (msmen), local jams, olives, juice and coffee, in a calm setting before starting the day. Many guest reviews praise the breakfast as “exceptional”. Booking.com
If you like the idea of staying ‘in’ for a relaxed morning, this breakfast worked well.
Nearby Dining
Given the riad’s central location, the best restaurants in the Medina are within walking distance: small Moroccan tagine houses, rooftop cafés for sunset views, and casual local eateries. The staff provided a map of local favourites and help making reservations.
I found a rooftop restaurant within 7 minutes’ walk that I used one evening for a relaxed dinner with balcony view.
My Dining Tip
- For dinner: plan around 19:00–20:00 to capture golden hour on the terrace.
- For lunch: try a small café in the souk area, sample local salads, tagines and fresh orange juice.
- Use the riad as your “quiet base” and the city as your dining playground.
- Confirm whether you want a “vegetarian, vegan, halal” option—Riad Soulmate explicitly offers various dietary options. Booking.com
Service & Atmosphere
Service
The standout for me was the warm, personal service. The staff at Riad Soulmate is rated 9.9/10 by guests. Booking.com
They greeted me on arrival, explained the layout (rooftop, pool, breakfast times) and were available via phone/WhatsApp for questions.
From my own experience:
- They helped call a taxi and walked me to the exit lane, so I didn’t get lost in the maze of alleys.
- Upon return one evening after a late walk, they offered a pot of mint tea on the terrace even though the “dining hours” were over.
- At checkout they recommended an airport transfer option at good price.
Atmosphere
The feeling at this riad was calm, boutique and intimate. It’s not a large resort with hundreds of rooms—it has character. After a busy day in Marrakech I valued coming “home” to a tranquil courtyard and a rooftop with peace.
Guest reviews highlight comfort (9.8/10) and value (9.8/10) for this property. Booking.com
Value for Money
Given the central location, the pool, terrace, comfort and service, I found the value excellent. If I had to pick one type of traveller this suits best: couples and solo travellers who appreciate a bit of style and retreat in the medina.
Local Experiences & Nearby Attractions
Staying at Riad Soulmate gives you access to the best parts of Marrakech from a restful base.
The Medina & Souks
Since you’re in Derb Aiyad (Ben Salah quarter), you’re minutes away from the heart of the souks. I spent an afternoon wandering leather-works, lantern shops, spice stalls and small cafés. After 17:00 it calmed significantly.
Important: Carry a map, and practice a friendly greeting when entering alleys—makes the local experience smoother.
Jemaa el-Fnaa & Night Life
Riad Soulmate is close enough for an evening visit to Jemaa el-Fnaa (about 10–15 minutes’ walk or short taxi). The square at night is lively with food stalls, snake-charmers, storytellers. From the riad you can retreat to quiet zones while still being near the buzz.
Rooftop Views & Atlas Mountains
One afternoon I took the rooftop terrace and enjoyed the view over the medina rooftops and, in the distance, the looming Atlas Mountains—just enough to remind you you’re in North Africa.
If you like hiking or day-trips, the staff can help book a guided excursion outside the city.
Transport & Tips
- Use the riad’s recommended taxi driver for airport transfers: it costs slightly more but avoids scams or confusion.
- If walking out late, take a screenshot of the riad’s map and save the building’s marker offline.
- For the souks: comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, sun-hat recommended.
Why We Recommend Riad Soulmate
Here’s a summary of why this riad stands out:
- ✅ Prime medina location with excellent guest rating for location (9.3/10)
- ✅ Comfortable rooms & boutique feel — not a large anonymous hotel
- ✅ Excellent service — staff rated 9.9/10
- ✅ Nice amenities — pool, rooftop, terrace, good breakfast
- ✅ Excellent value for money given its category
If your goal is to stay in Marrakech in a place that feels special, authentic and convenient, Riad Soulmate is an impressive choice.
FAQ – Your Questions Answered
Q1: Is breakfast included?
A1: Yes, breakfast is offered on site. Guests rated it very highly. Booking.com
Q2: Is there a pool?
A2: Yes — an outdoor pool is available year-round. Riad Soulmate+1
Q3: Is WiFi reliable?
A3: Yes — WiFi is free and guest reviews show strong satisfaction (≈9.3/10). Booking.com
Q4: How far is the riad from Jemaa el-Fnaa?
A4: On foot about 10–20 minutes depending on your pace and route through the Medina.
Q5: Can the riad arrange airport transfers?
A5: Yes, the staff mention offering paid transfers and will help with taxi or private vehicle arrangement. Booking.com
Q6: Is this riad good for families?
A6: Yes — there are family room options and the riad welcomes children/families; check room type when booking.
Q7: What’s best time to stay?
A7: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) are especially pleasant—warm but not extreme heat. If staying in summer, the pool and rooftop are helpful for cooling down.
Book Your Stay at Riad Soulmate
If you’d like to secure a spot and experience Marrakech from this charming base, you can book via the affiliate-friendly link below:
Disclosure: This link is an affiliate link. If you book via this link, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions in this review are my own.
Conclusion
My time at Riad Soulmate in Marrakech was one of the highlights of my Moroccan trip: stylish rooms, rooftop peace, a pool to cool off in, and a medina location that made exploring easy yet restful. Whether you’re visiting as a couple, on your own adventure or simply seeking a memorable stay in Marrakech’s heart, this riad delivers.
I hope this review helps you decide. If you book your stay, I wish you incredible sunrises on the rooftop, peaceful moments in the courtyard and unforgettable Medina adventures.
