The Marrakech hotels are many, which has a lot to do with the fact that this dynamic city is the top Moroccan tourist destination. For some visitors, splitting time between two Marrakech lodging establishments is part of the plan. This allows for a few days in the old city, or medina, and a few days in the ville nouvelle. The ville nouvelle, or new district, boasts attractive cafes and exudes a more European feel. Since there are so many hotels in Marrakech between the new and old parts of town, it can be difficult to choose accommodations. For those who don't mind being outside of the city, staying in the nearby Ourika Valley can be an attractive thing to consider.

It is estimated that some 600 riads can be found in Marrakech's medina, and these Moroccan guesthouses range from upscale establishments to budget-friendly abodes. As is the case in Fes, most travelers turn to the riads when searching for hotels in Marrakech, and one of the best is the Riad Farnatchi. In addition to nine beautiful guest units, this upscale riad also boasts an ideal location on the edge of the souks in the medina. The Riad Farnatchi is actually a collection of riads that were restored and re-opened by an award-winning hotelier in 2004. It's all about comfort in the Riad Farnatchi guest units and suites. The décor in the suites could be defined as elegant Arabian, and soft, Egyptian sheets help to encouraged a good night's sleep. Other amenity highlights include air conditioning for the summer months, heating for the winter guests, stereos with CD players, Bose iPod docking stations, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV. As if the glorious rooms weren't enough, guests at the Riad Farnatchi will also enjoy free access to the sparkling, new hamman, which is akin to a wellness center. As is typical at the Morocco riads, breakfast is included in the rates at this Marrakech lodging gem.

The Riad Kniza is one of the other upscale Marrakech hotels that deserves a nod, and this has a lot to do with its striking traditional architecture. Family-run for 200 years, the Riad Kniza (pictured) has seen its fair share of distinguished guests, much like the Riad Farnatchi. Since one of the family hosts is a renowned antiques dealer, the décor throughout the hotel is splendid. In addition to a renowned antiques dealer, the staff also features a competent travel guide, who has arranged personal tours for the likes of US presidents and movie stars. This kind of local knowledge can be priceless. There are seven total guest units at the Riad Kniza, and they are all spacious and elegant. Fireplaces can be found in all of the rooms, save for one, and wireless internet access is available throughout. Other amenities that can be enjoyed in the rooms include safes, air conditioning, heating, and satellite TV. Outside of the rooms, guests will find an inviting restaurant, a pool, an alluring spa, and a rooftop terrace with shaded lounge areas.

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Whether travelers spend the day exploring the historic streets of the medina, hiking in the nearby mountains, or enjoying any other number of things during their Marrakech vacation, returning to the La Mamounia Hotel for some R&R can prove to be ideal. This upscale Marrakech lodging gem can be found outside of the medina in the ville nouvelle. Many of the upscale and mid-price Marrakech hotels in this area are frequented by travelers that have package deals. These deals also tend to include flights. One of the grandest hotels in the country, La Mamounia can satisfy the needs of even the most discerning guests. Recent renovations have brought this landmark hotel up to speed with the other luxury establishments, and the overall facilities include a spa, a swimming pool, plenty of patio space with lounge chairs, and four restaurants. In addition to Moroccan cuisine, the restaurants at La Mamounia also specialize in French and Italian fare. As for the guest units, they range from rooms and suites to larger, multi-unit villas that are ideal for travelers who want the full experience. All of the guest units are lavish and cozy, with marble bathrooms being one of the main features. Modern conveniences abound, and they include internet access, satellite TV, and air conditioning.

The upscale Marrakech hotels are numerous, but the mid-range hotels in Marrakech can also be very attractive. Many of the city's mid-range lodging establishments offer a considerable amount of amenities, and such is the case at the Riad Nejma Lounge. This excellent riad is located in the lively medina, and it offers six delightful rooms to choose from. All of the rooms feature clean, private bathrooms, heating and air conditioning, and internet access, which is all that some travelers will need. While the rooms at the Riad Nejma Lounge aren't the most luxurious in town, the rates are very reasonable. Also helping to make this a popular Marrakech lodging choice is the hip rooftop terrace, which is especially popular with the younger crowd. Good rooms, good rates, and an excellent location make this hotel worth a look. Those who want to stay in the ville nouvelle area should take a look at the Hotel Oudaya.

Travelers looking to spend less on their accommodations have plenty of discount options. One of the best cheap accommodations in Marrakech is the Jnane Mogador Hotel, which is also one of the larger riads in town. There are seventeen guest units at this discount hotel in the medina, and they overlook a spectacular central courtyard. The décor in the guest units is decidedly Moroccan, and it is rather elegant for the price. The in-room amenities include satellite TV, private bathrooms with showers, and telephones. One of the guest units is a larger suite, and it also boasts a private terrace. Internet access is available throughout the Jnane Mogador Hotel, and the overall facilities include a café, a hamman, a communal lounge with a fireplace, and a rooftop terrace that looks out towards the High Atlas Mountains. The Jnane Mogador Hotel offers proximity to the Jamaa el Fna Square, and this is also part of the reason why the rooms tend to go fast.