With its unique tapestry of Arab, Berber, and French cultures, opulent palaces, and orange blossom-scented breezes, Marrakech has long cast its spell on adventure-seeking travelers and young bohemians. Dreamscape gardens, like Yves Saint Laurent’s Jardin Majorelle, provide places of creative restoration while their labyrinthine souks brimming with spices, handcrafted textiles, and treasures echo centuries of trade and artistry.
Tucked away in the quiet northwest corner of Marrakech’s medina, just a short stroll from those souks, soulful sanctuary IZZA swiftly became the city’s most talked-about place to stay after opening just under two years ago. Comprising seven interconnecting and exquisitely restored riads and 14 rooms, every corner of the property pays homage to its namesake, Dalla Izza, the Berber woman whose home once stood on the site, and whose spirit of hospitality still lingers.
But it’s the influence of fêted American interior designer Bill Willis—who redefined Marrakech’s aesthetic in the 60s and 70s—that truly weaves through IZZA: plush, traditional Moroccan details meet a pared-back Western sensibility. Walkways and winding staircases lead to shared yet private-feeling spaces, from palm-shaded pools and courtyards with zellige tile waterfalls to a cozy second-floor library.
In guest rooms, you’ll find handwoven textiles and the softest linens, plus charming touches like babouche slippers and IZZA monogrammed Egyptian cotton bathrobes. Named for iconic freewheeling creatives who once made Marrakech their playground, including socialite Talitha Getty and Rolling Stones muse Marianne Faithfull, each room evokes the spirit of the city’s bohemian heyday. None more so than the top floor suite, Yves, finished in a palette of textured dusky pink hues, it features a vintage study desk and Juliette balcony overlooking the main pool.
Dubbed the “Museum in the Medina,” IZZA also doubles as a living gallery, and art enthusiasts will be captivated by its remarkable $6.5 million art collection. Highlights across guest rooms and public spaces include striking pop art by Moroccan contemporary icon Hassan Hajjaj, framed prints from Brazilian photographer Sebastião Selgado’s ‘Amazonia’ NFT release at Sotheby’s, and evocative moving images from Ethiopian collective Yatreda. In keeping with IZZA’s “House of Friends” ethos, its artist residency program also helps foster local talent.
IZZA delivers on dining, too. After courtyard cocktails at Bill’s Bar—an intimate space adorned with photos celebrating the design legend’s glamorous life—head upstairs to the newly launched rooftop restaurant Noujoum, named after Willis’ cherished Marrakech home. There, head chef Ahmad El Hardoum serves shareable plates that celebrate Morocco’s culinary heritage with a European twist.
The monkfish tagine and mechoui confit lamb chops are standouts, though every dish highlights local ingredients—from souk-sourced produce and organic farm goods to herbs grown in IZZA’s rooftop garden. The rooftop is also the perfect place to start the day with breakfast: Moroccan m’semen flatbread and beghrir pancakes, seasonal fruit, and a fresh detox juice. In-room dining, or meals served on the sun terrace or in one of the serene courtyards, are also delightful options.
At IZZA, no detail is overlooked. Whether arranging a private tour or organizing car service, the team provides assistance with thoughtful ease. Before checking out, stop by the boutique to shop artwork, bespoke IZZA ceramics, apparel, and those signature slippers—and don’t miss a final visit to the spa. The treatment menu includes massages and scrubs, but the Royal Hammam Ritual, featuring a ghassoul clay wrap and honey face mask, is a standout.
Whether sipping on an IZZA Spritz poolside, curling up with a book in the library, or dining under the stars at Noujoum, this riad-turned-hotel redefines the art of escape in Morocco’s Red City.
Top Takeaways
Location: Marrakech, Morocco
Rating: 5-Star
The vibe: A sophisticated artists' enclave imbued with a glamorous counterculture spirit.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: How its captivating lantern-lit courtyards, inviting pools, and art-filled interiors provide an intimate hideaway in the heart of the medina.
Food + Drink: From cocktails in the courtyard at Bill’s Bar to the new DJ-backed “Soul Brunch” on Saturday mornings at Noujoum, IZZA serves up a stylish drinking and dining edit.
Amenities: Rooftop Restaurant, Bar, Tea Salon, Spa and Hammam, Fitness Center, Retail Boutique, Library, Art Collection, Three Pools, Sun Terrace with Pergola Day Beds.
What’s nearby? Marrakech's most famous shopping street (Souk Semmarine), Ben Youssef Mosque, Jemaa el Fna Square, and the ornate 19th-century palace complex, Le Jardin Secret.
Any personal neighborhood recommendations? A five-minute car ride from IZZA, modernist suburb Gueliz is home to the Musée Yves Saint Laurent and Jardin Majorelle, plus cool concept stores like Moro Marrakech and historic brasserie, Grand Cafe de la Poste.
Rooms: 14 rooms, including three lavish suites
Pricing: Rates from $300 to $995
Closest Airport: Marrakech Menara Airport
.jpg)
