Riad Siham — A Charming Escape Inside El Jadida’s Historic Cité Portugaise
Tucked inside the ancient walls of El Jadida’s UNESCO-listed Cité Portugaise, Riad Siham is the kind of hidden gem that makes a trip memorable before it even begins. With its beautifully restored architecture, warm Moroccan hospitality, and an unbeatable location just steps from the city’s most iconic landmarks, this riad quickly felt like home during my stay. If you’re planning your Moroccan adventure, you can check availability and guest reviews directly on Booking.com.
From the moment I arrived at the riad’s charming entrance on 4 rue 13 cité portugaise, I knew this stay would be something special. The narrow historical streets, the sea breeze drifting through the stone corridors, and the warm welcome instantly set the tone for a peaceful and inspiring visit.
First Impressions and Arrival Experience
Reaching Riad Siham is a small adventure in itself—one I recommend savoring rather than rushing. The Cité Portugaise is a pedestrian-friendly zone filled with cobblestone paths, ochre stone walls, and historic gateways that transport you centuries back in time. As I wandered through the fortified entrance, I couldn’t help but slow down and admire the surroundings: fishermen chatting near the gates, children playing football at sunset, and the sound of waves echoing from the Atlantic.
When I arrived at the riad, I was greeted with a warm smile, mint tea, and an effortless check-in process. There’s a homely calmness inside Riad Siham that contrasts beautifully with the rugged medieval exterior of the neighborhood. Soft Moroccan lanterns, traditional tiles, and earthy tones make the courtyard a peaceful sanctuary.
The manager offered helpful tips about the area—where to buy fresh pastries, the best time to visit the Portuguese cistern, and how to reach the beach in just a few minutes. It felt more like being welcomed by family than checking into a hotel.
As I climbed the staircase to my room, the smell of freshly baked msemen (Moroccan pancakes) from the kitchen below made me even more excited for the morning.
Rooms and Comfort
My room at Riad Siham was a warm blend of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship and simple, contemporary comfort. The décor leaned into authenticity—wooden carved furniture, soft Berber carpets, geometric tiles—but nothing felt overly ornate or heavy. It was the kind of space that encourages you to unwind and truly settle in.
When I opened the windows, I could hear faint sounds of daily life: footsteps on cobblestones, the distant call of street vendors, and seagulls gliding above the ramparts. It felt distinctly local and wonderfully immersive.
Sleeping Comfortably in the Heart of History
The bed was surprisingly comfortable, with fresh linens and soft pillows that made falling asleep easy. The temperature inside the room remained pleasant throughout my stay—a huge benefit, especially considering the sometimes unpredictable Moroccan coastal weather.
Bathroom and Amenities
The bathroom was spotless and well-maintained, offering plenty of hot water and clean towels. The small touches made all the difference: natural soap, soft lighting, and a layout that felt thoughtful rather than cramped.
A Quiet and Peaceful Stay
One thing I appreciated was how quiet the riad felt at night. Even though the Cité Portugaise has tourists strolling around during the day, evenings are beautifully serene. Sleeping inside a 16th-century fortress city gives a special sense of calm—and Riad Siham enhances that experience effortlessly.
Dining and Food Experience
Breakfast at Riad Siham was one of my favorite parts of the stay. Each morning, a beautifully arranged table awaited me on the terrace, overlooking the historical rooftops of El Jadida.
A Moroccan Breakfast to Wake Up Happy
The spread included:
- Freshly baked msemen
- Warm khobz (Moroccan bread)
- Honey, amlou, and homemade jams
- Olives and cheese
- Seasonal fruits
- Fresh orange juice
- Hot mint tea and coffee
Everything tasted homemade and lovingly prepared. Sitting in the early sunlight, with the city slowly waking up around me, was a peaceful ritual I looked forward to each day.
Local Dining Recommendations
While Riad Siham does not operate a full restaurant service, its location makes it easy to reach some of El Jadida’s best dining options within minutes:
- La Portugaise Restaurant – traditional Moroccan dishes with a sea view
- Ali Baba Fish Grill – known for incredibly fresh seafood
- Snack Riad – great for quick bites and local flavors
- L’Iglesia Restaurant – ideal for romantic dinners in a historical setting
The staff at the riad happily shared recommendations based on preference and budget, which I found very helpful.
Facilities and Activities
While Riad Siham is a small boutique-style riad, it still offers thoughtful amenities that enhance the overall experience.
Rooftop Terrace
The rooftop is, without a doubt, the standout feature. With panoramic views over the Cité Portugaise and a glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s an ideal spot to relax, journal, enjoy breakfast, or watch the sunset.
Wi-Fi and Shared Spaces
The riad provides free Wi-Fi, which worked flawlessly for planning day trips or catching up on emails. The communal spaces on the ground floor are cozy and beautifully decorated, perfect for enjoying tea or reading.
Local Experiences
Staying inside this fortified neighborhood gives you easy access to unique activities such as:
- Guided tours of the Portuguese Cistern
- Walking the ramparts overlooking the sea
- Photography sessions in the old streets
- Visiting nearby artisan workshops
The staff can also arrange transportation, taxis, or tips for exploring the city.
Location and Nearby Attractions
Riad Siham boasts one of the best locations in El Jadida—rated 9.5/10 by guests—and it truly deserves this score. Everything is just a short walk away.
Here are some top attractions you can explore within minutes:
1. Portuguese Cistern (1-minute walk)
An atmospheric underground chamber famous for its mirror-like water reflections. It’s the crown jewel of El Jadida’s historical sites.
2. El Jadida Beach (10–15 minutes on foot)
A long sandy beach perfect for morning walks, sunbathing, or swimming. Local families often gather here, giving the beach an authentic and vibrant feel.
3. City Market (Souk)
Browse local spices, olives, pastries, and fresh produce. A great place to discover Moroccan flavors.
4. Old Port & Fishermen’s Wharf
Watch fishermen bring in the day’s catch or enjoy a fresh grilled fish meal at one of the small local eateries.
5. L’Iglesia Hotel & Cultural Center
A beautifully restored church-turned-hotel that hosts exhibitions, cultural events, and stunning photo opportunities.
6. Sidi Bouafi Lighthouse
A lovely coastal walk leads you to this iconic lighthouse overlooking the Atlantic.
Transportation
Taxis are easy to find around the Cité Portugaise, and the bus station is only a short ride away. Casablanca is approximately 1 hour by train, making El Jadida a convenient escape from the big city.
Why We Recommend This Hotel
After spending time at Riad Siham, here are the top reasons I genuinely recommend it to travelers:
- Exceptional location inside the UNESCO Cité Portugaise
- Warm, authentic Moroccan hospitality
- Comfortable rooms with charming décor
- Delicious homemade breakfast every morning
- Rooftop views, perfect for sunrise or sunset
- Peaceful atmosphere despite being in a historical area
- Great value for money in comparison to larger hotels
- Walking distance to all major attractions, restaurants, and the beach
For travelers seeking an authentic Moroccan experience without sacrificing comfort, Riad Siham is an excellent choice.
FAQs About Riad Siham and El Jadida, Morocco
1. Is Riad Siham located inside the Cité Portugaise?
Yes, it sits directly within the UNESCO-listed Cité Portugaise, offering a unique historical ambiance and easy access to major landmarks.
2. How far is the riad from the beach?
El Jadida Beach is about a 10–15 minute walk from the riad, making it very convenient for daily visits.
3. Does the riad offer breakfast?
Yes, a delicious Moroccan breakfast is included and served on the terrace or courtyard.
4. Are the rooms quiet at night?
Despite being in a tourist area, the riad is peaceful and quiet during the evening and night.
5. Is Wi-Fi available at Riad Siham?
Yes, the riad offers free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
6. What is the best season to visit El Jadida?
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather, though summer is also popular for beach lovers.
7. Can the riad help with transportation?
The staff can assist with arranging taxis, local tours, and travel tips.
8. Is the area safe for walking at night?
Yes, the Cité Portugaise is generally safe and well-lit, with tourists and locals strolling around until late.
Final Thoughts
My stay at Riad Siham was one of those experiences that remind you why travel is so magical. It’s not simply about comfort or amenities—it’s about connection, atmosphere, and feeling like you’ve stepped into a story. This riad blends authenticity with warm hospitality, making it the perfect base to explore El Jadida’s hidden beauty.
If you’re dreaming of wandering ancient streets, waking up near the ocean, and enjoying true Moroccan charm, I highly recommend checking availability at Riad Siham through the official Booking.com link.
Your peaceful escape to El Jadida might be just one click away.
