Our Full Experience at Riad Baladin: The Best Boutique Riad in Essaouira for Travelers
Riad Baladin isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s where we found the best breakfast spread in Essaouira. We tested the rooftop jacuzzi, sank into the minimalist “Cannelle” room, and navigated the medina alleys to find this hidden gem. Our honest review of the boutique stay that feels like home.
Essaouria was our third destination in a long trip through Morocco. We decided for the first time to stay in a traditional Moroccan Riad. Well, not the usual way.
Riad Baladin might be one of the best riads we have stayed in. Unfortunately, only one night, but enough to enjoy all the amenities, the great breakfast, comfy rooms and incredible courtesy.
This guide will introduce you to one of the best riads in Essaouira. A full review of Riad Baladin, in the middle of Essaouira Medina. A boutique riad that seamlessly offers relaxing vibes and perfect service.
👋Toti & Ale here
London couple, 45+ countries, 300+ guides. We are full-time content creators, travelling as slowmads, spending quality time in places we love the most. We run this and several other blogs from the best places in the world. This guide is all about our night of luxury at Riad Baladin. We soaked in the rooftop jacuzzi, ate breakfast until tea time, and got lost finding the wooden door in Rue Sidi Magdoul. It was a one-night splurge that ruined us for other hostels.
January 16, 2026 This update reflects the latest room rates for the “Cannelle” suite, jacuzzi booking slots, and Felix’s top food recommendations. Non Less the Italian connection through the family brewery poster on the wall. No AI; all pillows tested
Is Riad Baladin the best boutique riad in Essaouira?
Yes, we stayed in Essaouira for four days, hopping from one accommodation to another, experiencing only the best the city has to offer. Not only, compared to other Riads we stayed on our long trip, Riad Baladin exceeded expectations. This is an old renovated Riad, made of two block houses with a wonderful joined terrace.
Starting from the bed, which was so comfy, trendy and stylish, the room was overall perfect. Taking bits of family traditions (the Baladin Family from Cuneo, in Italy, near Turin).
On the wall, I loved the poster of the launch of a new beer from the family-owned brewery. Anyway, we picked the Riad Baladin because the price matched the expectations. Already standing at Booking Reviews is excellent.
First Impressions: Where Is It, What’s the Vibe?
You’ll get to Riad Balladin, kind of getting lost in the maze of streets. Once we arrived at Bab El Mechouar from Taghazout, it was an easy walk through the medina. Even though we were with heavy backpacks, it was fine to get to our accommodation.
We walked on Rue Laalouj, full of riads and rug shops. Turned right on Rue Touahen, a narrow alley with much character. Rue Sidi Magdoul is even narrowed, but will end up at a wooden door with a big sign of Riad Balladin. Can’t get lost. This Riad is tucked away, which makes it better for a good night’s sleep, no scooters around, nor can you hear the call to pray, only sea gulls on the terrace.
Inside, you’ll walk through a mix of Moroccan style and African decor. The Riad is basically two in one; both have steep stairs, with a common ground area. The vibes are fantastic. There are only 8 rooms, so you’ll never get too busy with people around. Everyone respects privacy, and rooms are very scattered around.
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Riad Baladin is the best boutique Riad in Essouira
Definitely, Riad Baladin is one of the best in Essaouira. You’ll get the careful service, tailored for each guest, with the attention of a great hotelier group. In fact, even though it acts as a local boutique Riad, the family owns and runs similar conceptual activities in several countries, including Tanzania.
The Riad also runs an Italian restaurant nearby. Pasta Baladin (evocative name), offers a slice of the beautiful country in Morocco, right in the centre of the Medina. Of course, their best dishes are pasta in every sauce.
What’s the room at Riad Baladin like?
The rooms at Riad Baladin are minimalist with a very nice touch and decor. We were in the Cannelle room, where everything seemed to be in the right place. The light in our room exalts every minimal detail. The white bedding, with big pillows, the closet space, a nice balcony with actual space even to sit and read.
Don’t let me start with the bathroom. Even though something more could be done for lighting, it was cosy. The shower, with an entrance in pure Moroccan style, is a nice touch I didn’t expect. Shower pressure is hot and strong—absolute win. There are slippers, a hairdryer, and soaps. Nights are shockingly quiet.
Checking their rooms, the lovers’ room, with a bed in beldy style and actually a bath and not a shower, looks amazing.
Service & Hospitality: Real Moroccan Welcome
The dream team here is led by Felix (the manager, in love with Essaouira) and, of course, Simba the cute ginger cat. When we first arrived, Felix helped us with tips about Essaouira, the riad Position, some of the best restaurants and his favourite cafes. It was actually his tips about the Brotherhood cafe, which is now our favourite coffee place in Essaouira.
In the evening, we signed up for a 1-hour slot in the Jacuzzi. This is located at the centre of the court, but kept private with curtains. It was romantic, and everything was prepared beforehand for the best experience.
The next morning, we wake up with a serene sky over Essaouira, climb the stairs to the terrace. Lovely ladies were waiting for an incredible, welcoming breakfast. It was served fast, prepared in the Moroccan way, where hospitality is sacred.
The Rooftop: White enclave and sunbeds
Baladin’s rooftop is every Instagrammer’s wish—but it’s also the real deal for lazy breakfasts or sunset chill. The view over the medina is one of a kind, but still secluded from other riad eyes. We took some shots, which are actually some of our photos of Essaouira.
Personally (I Toti), I am always behind the camera, but at this time, the photo above of the sign Baladin and me enjoying a rich blend of coffee is incredible. Anyway, if you just want to chill, there are many spots. By the shades if it is hot, or up to another level of the terrace on the sunbed.
The rooftop is one of those areas that is perfect when you want to chill out after a morning exploring, and wanna be out of your room too.
Breakfast on the rooftop
Breakfast is included and actually overwhelming (in a good way). Fresh fruit, eggs, msemen (Moroccan pancakes), heaps of mint tea. It got us through hours of Medina wandering with zero hangry moments.
I’ve learned that the coffee is from a premium roastery nearby. So local heroes here. Bokado, just a few steps away, is a renowned spice shop. They sell spices as well as coffee and supply many businesses, including Brotherhood coffee and Riad Baladin.
The Jacuzzi
Yep, we did indulge in some romance while in Essouira. Booking the Jacuzzi for one hour is complimentary, but you need to get your spot in advance. Not a secret that everyone wants their share, and we did score ours.
We walked through Essouira the whole day, with one sure plan. The Jacuzzi from 7 to 8, right before dinner. The bubble bath is in the main court; it was visible from our room. It is private, and you’ll close all the curtains. Soft lights and complimentary tea, too. That’s one of the main perks why we suggest booking at Riad Baladin Essaouira.
There is no lift
The Riad is perfect, but not fit for those who have mobility problems. We didn’t find any issue climbing the stairs, but these are typical of a Riad. There is no elevator to reach either the rooms or the terrace.
Perfect for digital nomads in Essaouira
While staying at the Riad Baladin, we couldn’t miss checking if digital nomads were approved. On the ground floor, there are communal areas with comfy cushions and great desks.
We sat on our laptops for an hour to check emails, and the connection was so fast. So it’s approved. For off moments, there were many games, including Uno, which we loved and was the perfect way to end the night.
READ MORE | Essaouira for digital nomads
Prices at Riad Baladin
If you look around on Booking.com, you’ll soon recognise that prices at Riad Baladin are actually convenient compared to other choices in town. Single rooms start from 550 Dh (£47 | $60 | €54). The double room prices start from 800 Dh (£68 | $90 | €78) and 860 Dh (£71 | $95 | €82) for the suites per night. Also, check the prices directly here to get a 10% discount!
Compared to other riads like Salut Maroc (one of the most beautiful we have seen in Essaouira), prices are actually perfect, even for budget-conscious travellers. A double room at Salut Marco costs up to 1,500 Dh (£130 | $170 | €150) per night.
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Riad Baladin Essaouira Review: Our Secret Tips
- Book in advance, there are only 8 rooms available. Check availability here
- Spend just a fiver more for a bigger and better room
- Ask for a room on the upper floors for more light and privacy
- Book the jacuzzi in advance—especially for night sessions (the most requested). The atmosphere alone is worth the up-sell
- Felix’s food and coffee recommendations were better than TripAdvisor
Would we stay again?
Absolutely. We loved almost everything. Riad Baladin is the best riad in Essaouira for couples. You’ll love the intimacy, the minimalist design, the staff care, the beautiful rooftop, the jacuzzi add-on and more.
Reviews on Booking for this Essaouira boutique riad say the truth, this is one of the best. It’s a boutique hotel with a pinch of family-run atmosphere. If you want soul, great staff, and breakfast that lasts until tea time, you’ll love it.
