Plan your trip
Photo: Arnaud 25, CC BY-SA 3.0
Where to stay in Morocco
Riad or resort? Medina or new town? How to choose — and when to book for 2030.
Updated 22 October 2026 · By the World to Morocco editorial team
Quick answer
Book accommodation as soon as you have match tickets, ideally with free cancellation. For character, stay in a riad in the medina; for pools, parking and easy taxi access, choose a hotel in the modern districts. Rabat and Casablanca are 45 minutes apart by train, so either can be a base for their stadiums.
Riads vs hotels
| Riad | Hotel / resort | |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Intimate courtyard house, often 5–15 rooms | Larger, international standards |
| Location | Inside the medina, walk to sights | New town, beach or resort areas |
| Access | Often on foot only — staff help with luggage | Car and taxi to the door |
| Facilities | Rooftop terrace, small plunge pool | Big pools, gyms, spas, kids' clubs |
| Best for | Couples, culture lovers | Families, groups, late-night matchdays |
Best areas by host city
- Marrakech: Medina (riads), Gueliz & Hivernage (modern hotels, nightlife), Palmeraie (resorts).
- Casablanca: City centre near Casa Port (trains), Ain Diab (beach), Maârif (restaurants).
- Rabat: Hassan & centre (sights, trains), Agdal (modern, near stadium), Souissi (upscale).
- Tangier: Seafront (modern hotels), Kasbah & medina (riads), Boulevard Pasteur (central).
- Fes: Fes el-Bali (riads), Ville Nouvelle (hotels with pools and parking).
- Agadir: Beachfront & Founty (resorts), Taghazout & Tamraght (surf guesthouses).
Booking tips for 2030
- Book refundable rates early, then re-check prices as the tournament approaches
- Consider staying one city away from your match and travelling by train
- Ask riads about air conditioning — essential in Marrakech and Fes in summer
- Check the exact location: some 'medina' riads are a long walk from taxi drop-off points
- Licensed holiday rentals are a good option for groups
Frequently asked questions
What is a riad?
A traditional Moroccan house built around an interior courtyard or garden. Many have been restored as boutique guesthouses.
When should I book accommodation for World Cup 2030?
As soon as you know your matches. Choose free-cancellation rates so you can adjust if plans change.