King Suite
- 1 King-size bed
Riad · Essaouira · Marrakesh–Safi
Riad Al Zahia
A traditional riad in the heart of Essaouira's Kasbah, a short stroll from the beach and the medina's sights.
- 5-minute walk to the beach
- Rooftop terrace with sea views
- Free Wi-Fi in rooms
8.5
Great
556 reviews
Booking.com 8.5 · 556 reviews
About
Riad Al Zahia
Riad Al Zahia sits in Essaouira's Kasbah district, a 5-minute walk from Mogador Christian Cemetery and Spiaggia di Essaouira Public Beach. It's a 4-star property that blends traditional Moroccan design with modern comfort – think patterned tiles, carved wood, and airy rooms that open onto a central courtyard.
The riad is built around hospitality: a concierge desk, VIP check-in, and staff who go out of their way to help, whether that's booking a car or suggesting the local bus over a grand taxi. The rooftop terrace is a highlight, with sea views and a spot for breakfast or an evening drink.
- No smoking on site
- Parking
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Express check-in/ -out
- Concierge desk
- No pets allowed
In brief
What works, what to weigh
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Strengths
4 reasons to book- Attentive, welcoming staff — Guests repeatedly single out the team for going beyond – from recommending a bus over a taxi to serving breakfast with a smile.
- Rooftop terrace with sea views — A recurring highlight is the rooftop terrace, where guests enjoy breakfast or relax with views over the ocean.
- Prime Kasbah location — A 5-minute walk from the beach and close to the medina's sights and restaurants, it's easy to explore Essaouira on foot.
- Airy, quiet rooms with views — Rooms are described as spacious, clean, and peaceful, with some offering magnified views of the ocean.
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Worth weighing
4 to weigh- Check-in window is narrow — Check-in is only available between 08:30 and 23:30, which may be tight for late arrivals.
- No pets allowed — The riad does not accept pets, so you'll need to make other arrangements for your animal companions.
- Parking may be limited — While parking is available, the riad is in the Kasbah district – a traditional medina area – so you may find it easier to use the paid airport shuttle or car hire.
- Mixed value perception — While most guests find good value, a few reviews suggest the price can feel high for what's offered, especially if you're looking for luxury extras.
01 — Rooms
Rooms & rates
High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.
Suite
- 1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed
Family Room
- 1 King-size bed and 1 Sofa bed,2 King Size Beds
Family Suite
- 2 Single beds
Triple Room
- Sleeping arrangements for 3 persons
- Courtyard view
- Shower
- Heating
Double Room
- 1 Double bed,2 Single beds,1 Single bed
- Courtyard view
- Shower
- Heating
02 — Amenities
Services & amenities
Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.
Services
- Concierge desk
- VIP check-in/ -out
- Express check-in/ -out
- Paid airport shuttle
- Car hire
- Laundry
- Tours/Ticket assistance
Food & Drink
- Bar/ Lounge area
- Picnic area/ Tables
- Special diet menus
- Welcome drink
Wellness & Leisure
- Massage
- Solarium
- Leisure/ TV room
- Sun terrace
Family
- Cots
- Babysitting/Child services
- Board games
Activities
- Wind surfing
- Canoeing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Cycling
- Golf course
Common Areas
- Terrace
- Patio
- Garden furniture
- Picnic area/ Tables
Business
- Fax/Photocopying
Photos
Gallery
03 — Reviews
What guests say
Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.
Guest-rated 8.5/10 from 556 reviews
Booking.com · 8.5 · 556 reviews
8.5Verified guest“A relaxing stay with good Wi-Fi and a quiet, airy room that had great views.”
8.5Verified guest“The staff were incredibly friendly, the breakfast was generous, and the location was perfect – they even advised me to take the bus instead of a pricier taxi. The rooms feel open and have lovely ocean views.”
8.5Verified guest“I appreciated the traditional Moroccan evening meal offered at a very reasonable price.”
8.5Verified guest“An ideal spot for exploring Essaouira – the roof terrace has great views, the rooms are comfortable, clean, and quiet, and the people are welcoming and helpful.”
8.5Verified guest“A well-kept riad with beautiful room decorations and a peaceful alley location.”
8.5Verified guest“Very convenient location within walking distance of the main sights, beach, and excellent restaurants like M'Riste Jouhar next door and Sirocco around the corner. The rooftop terrace with sea views is lovely for breakfast or relaxing.”
04 — Location
Getting around Essaouira
The property sits in Essaouira.
Beach & promenade: Spiaggia di Essaouira Public Beach is a 5-minute walk away, ideal for a stroll or windsurfing.
Medina & sights: The riad is in the Kasbah district, within walking distance of the main sights and restaurants.
Getting around: Staff can arrange car hire or a paid airport shuttle; the central location means most places are reachable on foot.
4 Rue Med Diuri, Essaouira, Marrakesh–Safi, 4400, Morocco
05 — Good to know
Policies & conditions
Hotel details are shown for reference. Final rate terms are confirmed on the partner’s site at booking.
- Check-in
- From 08:30-23:30
- Check-out
- By 08:00-12:00
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation on many rates — terms on booking page
- Payment
- Pay-at-hotel available on many rates; final terms at booking
- Pets
- Not allowed
- Property
- 10 rooms
06 — Questions
Frequently asked
What are the check-in and check-out times at Riad Al Zahia?
Check-in is from 08:30 to 23:30, and check-out is from 08:00 to 12:00.
Does Riad Al Zahia have parking?
Yes, parking is available on site. The riad is in the Kasbah district, so you may also want to consider the paid airport shuttle or car hire.
Are pets allowed at Riad Al Zahia?
No, pets are not allowed at this riad.
Is there Wi-Fi available?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available in rooms.
Does the riad offer airport shuttle service?
Yes, a paid airport shuttle is available – the staff can arrange it for you.
What breakfast options are available?
The riad serves breakfast, and guests often enjoy it on the rooftop terrace with sea views. Special diet menus are also available on request.
The bottom line
Riad Al Zahia is a solid, well-reviewed choice for travelers who want a traditional riad experience in the heart of Essaouira's Kasbah, with a rooftop terrace and easy access to the beach. The staff and location are the standouts, though the narrow check-in window and no-pets policy are worth noting.
8.5A dependable pick for a beach-and-medina break in Essaouira.
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