Live prices for your dates · free cancellation on many rooms

Riad · Essaouira · Marrakesh–Safi

Riad Zawia

A 4-star riad in Essaouira's medina, steps from the ocean and Bab Doukkala, with a sun terrace, spa, and attentive service.

  • 150 m from Bab Doukkala, a short walk to the ramparts and sea
  • Rooftop terrace with views over the medina and ocean
  • Spa & wellness centre with Turkish bath and massages
9 Perfect 789 reviews Booking.com 9 · 789 reviews

About

Riad Zawia

Riad Zawia sits in the heart of Essaouira's medina, 150 metres from Bab Doukkala and within easy walking distance of the ramparts and the sea. The property blends traditional Moroccan design—tiled floors, colourful rugs, and intricate details—with modern comforts like soundproofed rooms, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs.

Guests can unwind on the sun terrace, book a treatment at the spa and wellness centre, or explore the city from this central base. The staff are frequently praised for their attentiveness, and breakfast is a highlight with fresh orange juice, coffee, breads, and preserves.

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Concierge desk

In brief

What works, what to weigh

+

Strengths

4 reasons to book
  • Exceptional staff — Guests repeatedly mention the friendly, attentive, and diligent service, with one host going above and beyond.
  • Prime medina location — 150 metres from Bab Doukkala, with easy walking access to the ramparts, ocean, and city attractions.
  • Sea and city views — The rooftop terrace offers views over the medina and the sea, with some rooms having private balconies.
  • Comfortable, decorated rooms — Rooms are described as cozy, tastefully decorated, with flat-screen TVs, safes, and soundproofing.

Worth weighing

3 to weigh
  • Check-in window is narrow — Check-in is only available from 14:00 to 18:00, which may be inconvenient for late arrivals.
  • No pets allowed — The riad does not accept pets, so travellers with animals will need to look elsewhere.
  • Limited on-site parking information — No parking details are provided, which can be a challenge for guests arriving by car in the medina.

01 — Rooms

Rooms & rates

High season: summer dates usually book out a few weeks ahead.

Superior King Room

  • 1 King-size bed

02 — Amenities

Services & amenities

Everything included at this stay — the facilities and essentials, at a glance.

General

  • Wi-Fi
  • No smoking on site
  • Safe deposit box
  • VIP check-in/ -out
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • Concierge desk
  • 24-hour security
  • Luggage storage
  • Locker room
  • Currency exchange
  • Hairdresser
  • Coffee shop
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key access

Services

  • Paid airport shuttle
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Car hire
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Tours/Ticket assistance

Room & Comfort

  • Heating
  • Soundproofed rooms
  • Sitting area
  • Patio
  • Terrace
  • Dining table
  • Ironing facilities
  • Free toiletries
  • Sink
  • Outdoor dining area
  • Flat-screen TV
  • AM/FM alarm clock
  • Cots

Food & Drink

  • Special diet menus
  • Outdoor dining area

Spa & Wellness

  • Spa & wellness centre
  • Turkish bath
  • Pedicure
  • Manicure
  • Waxing
  • Body scrub
  • Facial
  • Treatment room
  • Back massage
  • Full body massage
  • Foot massage
  • Public Bath
  • Make up services

Beach & Outdoor

  • Beach access
  • Sun loungers
  • Sun terrace

Activities

  • Wind surfing
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Horseback riding
  • Fishing
  • Live entertainment
  • Leisure/ TV room

03 — Reviews

What guests say

Recent verified reviews from guests who stayed here.

9
Perfect 789 reviews

Guest-rated 9/10 from 789 reviews

Booking.com · 9 · 789 reviews
9Verified guest

“Perfect for relaxation, with exceptional views of the ocean and city. The staff were diligent and the host welcoming. The location is amazing, within walking distance of Essaouira Ramparts. I'd definitely stay again in this peaceful area.”

9Verified guest

“Really enjoyed my 6-night stay. Everyone was super friendly and diligent. The double room had a bathroom, sea view, and delicious breakfast. Location was good, next door to the ramparts, ocean, and city.”

9Verified guest

“Location just off the medina, with a great coffee shop and a vegetarian restaurant nearby. The room was tastefully decorated and comfortable, with a flat-screen TV, safe, and seating area. Made for a great stay.”

9Verified guest

“Located in the medina close to the ocean, with a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. The rooftop terrace offers a wonderful view of the medina and the sea.”

9Verified guest

“Ideal and excellent location for exploring this quiet area, next to the ocean and city. Situated on the seafront with a great coffee shop nearby. Restaurant Dar Abi is within walking distance for a nice lunch.”

9Verified guest

“Comfy rooms with a nice terrace with sea view and a sublime view from the bathroom. Thank you for an incredible stay.”

04 — Location

Getting around Essaouira

The property sits in Essaouira.

Location: In the heart of Essaouira's medina, 150 metres from Bab Doukkala. The ramparts and ocean are within walking distance.

Nearby dining: A great coffee shop with pastries is next door, and Restaurant Dar Abi is within walking distance for lunch.

28 Rue Touahen, Essaouira, Marrakesh–Safi, 44000, Morocco

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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 14:00-18:00
Check-out
By 08:00-11:00
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
6 rooms

06 — Questions

Frequently asked

What are the check-in and check-out times at Riad Zawia?

Check-in is from 14:00 to 18:00, and check-out is from 08:00 to 11:00.

Does Riad Zawia allow pets?

No, pets are not allowed at the property.

Is there parking available at Riad Zawia?

No parking details are provided for the riad, so it's best to enquire directly about options.

Does Riad Zawia have a spa?

Yes, the riad features a spa & wellness centre with a Turkish bath, massages, and beauty treatments.

What breakfast options are available?

Breakfast includes fresh orange juice, coffee, breads, and preserves, with a variety of options.

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The bottom line

Riad Zawia is a well-located, comfortable choice in Essaouira's medina, offering strong value and warm service. Its sea views and spa make it a relaxing base, though the narrow check-in window and lack of pet-friendly policy may require planning.

9Best for travellers seeking a central, peaceful riad with sea views and attentive staff.

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