Fes can feel like several cities stitched together. There’s the ancient medina, the quieter royal quarter and the much more modern Ville Nouvelle. They all feel completely different. And where you stay can change the whole experience.
For most visitors, the big decision is whether to sleep inside the medina or outside it. Fes el-Bali is the historic heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It dates back to the 9th century and is packed with souks, workshops, mosques, madrasas and beautiful riads. The streets are famously maze-like, and cars can’t get into most of them. Getting slightly lost is practically part of the deal.
Then there’s Fes el-Jdid, the “new” Fes, which was actually founded way back in 1276. It’s home to the Royal Palace and the old Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter.
Prefer wide streets, cafés and modern hotels? Ville Nouvelle is a different world again. It was developed during the French Protectorate and is much easier to navigate.
We’ve broken down the best neighborhoods to stay in Fes, from atmospheric riads deep in the medina to comfortable hotels in the modern city.
In this travel guide:
Old Medina
Best area for: history, shopping, food
Let’s start with Fes el Bali, the ancient Old Medina of Fes. Founded in the 8th century, this place is legendary for being the largest pedestrian car-free urban zone in the world. Instead of cars, you share the narrow stone alleys with loaded donkeys and busy artisans.
The area functions as both a living residential neighborhood and a massive hub for travelers. Families hang laundry above bustling market stalls, while craftsmen hammer copper pans in tiny workshops right next to medieval mosques.
The main draw here is the sensory overload. We always make our way to the famous Chouara Tannery, where workers dye leather in massive stone vats just as they did hundreds of years ago. You also have to check out Al-Qarawiyyin, which holds the record as the oldest continually operating university on Earth.
When the maze gets overwhelming, we duck into Café Clock for lunch. Set inside a beautifully restored multi-story house, it offers an awesome rooftop terrace where you can sip fresh mint tea above the rooftops. Make sure to try their signature spiced camel burger while you recharge.
Best place to stay in Old Medina
Karawan Riad. Address: 21 Derb Ourbia Makhfiya، Fes 30000, Morocco.
Bab Bou Jeloud
Best area for: lively, history
Bab Bou Jeloud is a great place to start exploring Fes. The famous Blue Gate marks the western entrance to Fes el-Bali, the city’s huge old medina. It looks centuries old, but there’s a nice little twist to the story. The gate we see today was actually built in 1913 during the French Protectorate. The original gate was much simpler and stood nearby.
The area around the gate is busy from early morning. There are cafés, restaurants, small shops and plenty of people heading into the medina. It feels touristy, but it isn’t just a tourist zone. Locals use the area too, and the nearby Kasbah Bou Jeloud is a proper neighborhood rather than an open-air museum. The old Place Bou Jeloud was once used as a military parade ground and later became a place for caravans, promenades and evening entertainment.
Once we pass through the gate, the medina gets much more intense. Talaa Kebira and Talaa Sghira lead deeper into the maze of shops and workshops. The Bou Inania Madrasa is right by the entrance and is one of the first major sights worth visiting. Look back at the gate too. Its blue-and-green zellige tiles are beautiful, especially with the minaret of the madrasa framed through the arch.
For a casual meal nearby, we’d try Mida Kitchen on Rue Issescou. It’s right in the Boujloud area and a handy stop when we need food before heading back into the medina.
Best place to stay in Bab Bou Jeloud
Hotel Ryad Mabrouka. Address: 25 Derb el Miter, Rue Talaa Kebira، Aïn Zleten، Fes 30110, Morocco.
As Seffarine
Best area for: shopping, culture
We spend a lot of time taking in the intense energy of Seffarine Square, deep inside the ancient Fes el-Bali medina. This tiny, sunlit plaza dates back centuries and remains the legendary heart of the city’s coppersmith trade.
It is far from a quiet residential zone. You are stepping straight into a noisy, living workplace where local metalworkers hammer out giant brass cauldrons, tea trays, and copper pots right in the open. The ringing metal echoes off every wall. Sitting right alongside the craftsmen is the historic Al-Qarawiyyin Library, one of the oldest operating educational institutions in the world. The contrast between ancient scholarship and rugged manual labor is staggering.
Aside from watching the artisans shape metal using medieval techniques, the square sits right next to gorgeous historic madrasas and busy market lanes. The main attraction is truly the rhythmic, hypnotic atmosphere.
When the clang of copper gets a bit too intense, we like to slip away to Place Seffarine’s edge for a pot of fresh mint tea. For a proper sit-down lunch, we stroll a few minutes over to Cafe Clock. They serve fantastic, inventive Moroccan dishes like their famous camel burger, crisp salads, and spiced spiced spiced spiced sweet treats on a breezy rooftop terrace. It offers the perfect view over the minarets after a busy morning in the plaza.
Best place to stay in As Seffarine
Hotel Palais Amani. Address: 12 Derb El Miter، Fes 30000, Morocco.
Nouvelle Ville
Best area for: families, upscale, nightlife
Situated to the southwest of the Old Medina, you will find Nouvelle Ville.
As the name suggests, this is where Fes gets on with modern life. The area was developed during the French Protectorate in the early 20th century, partly to keep the historic medina intact. Today, it is a mix of residential streets, offices, shops, hotels and cafés. It feels much more relaxed than Fes el-Bali.
Avenue Hassan II is the main artery. It is broad, green and lined with palm trees, fountains and plenty of cafés. Place de Florence sits at the junction with Avenue Mohammed V. It is a good spot to pause with a coffee and watch Fassis go about their day. The avenue was originally called Avenue de France, another little reminder of the neighborhood’s colonial past.
This isn’t really the part of Fes where you come to tick off one attraction after another. That’s part of its appeal. We can sleep here without the constant bustle of the medina, then take a petit taxi over to the old city. There are also plenty of modern restaurants and patisseries around the main avenues.
For coffee, we like Maison celeste on Avenue Allal Ben Abdellah. It opens early, so it works nicely for breakfast too. For dinner, the area has everything from Moroccan food to Italian and international restaurants.
Nouvelle Ville is a practical base, but it also gives us a glimpse of everyday Fes beyond the tourist postcard.
Best place to stay in Nouvelle Ville
Hotel Sahrai. Address: Dhar El Mehraz, 30 000، Fes, Morocco.
Fes el-Jdid
Best area for: history, culture
Fes el-Jdid is the newer part of the Old Medina. Of course, it was built in the 1200s, so, in fact, it isn’t that new. However, it is technically newer than the Old Medina. One of the big differences between the areas is that Fes el-Jdid has fewer alcoves and it isn’t as easy to get lost in the neighborhood.
Unlike the purely tourist-heavy areas, Fes el-Jdid hits a sweet balance. It serves as a bustling residential neighborhood filled with everyday Moroccan life, yet it holds incredible historic sights. You get real local energy alongside massive tourist landmarks.
The main draw here is the iconic Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen). People flock to marvel at its breathtaking, golden brass doors. Right next door lies the historic Mellah, the old Jewish quarter with its unique wooden balconies. We also love walking through the vibrant grand avenue of Rue des Mérinides to shop for local textiles.
For a quick bite, we duck into Café Clock near the edge of the quarter. We usually stop by for lunch on their breezy rooftop terrace. They serve a mean spiced camel burger alongside refreshing mint tea and fresh juices. Sitting up there with a view of the surrounding rooftops feels like the ultimate local reset.
Best place to stay in Fes el-Jdid
Riad Dar Nour. Address: 125 Kasbat Boujloud, 30000 Fes, Morocco.
Where travel critics stay in Fes
Want to know where travel critics from publishers like The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet stay in Fes? Check out our overview of all recommended hotels, hostels and B&Bs in Fes.
Budget
“Fez’ original, Spanish-owned hostel is still the best, offering up good cheap backpacker beds close to Bab el-Jdid. It’s a youthful and social place, with more dorm beds than you might imagine.” — Lonely Planet.
Address: 60, Arset Lamdelssi, Bab Jdid Fes Medina, Fes El Bali, 30110 Fes, Morocco.
Mid-range
“Built around a lush courtyard garden—a tranquil oasis from the medina’s mayhem right on the doorstep—this 17th-century palace had fallen into disrepair before being rescued and rebuilt by its French-American owners, utilizing the skills of the city’s finest craftsmen.” — Fodor’s.
Address: 3 Derb Bechara، Fes, Morocco.
Luxury
“The sumptuous 15-room Palais Amani was created by a charming Franco-Moroccan woman from Montpellier and her family, which explains why it offers the pleasure of magnificently renovated Fassi décor with modern comforts, including air-conditioning and internet.” — New York Times.
Address: 12 Derb El Miter، Fes 30000, Morocco.
FAQ: Fes hotel recommendations
If you’re looking for a budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Fes, or maybe your travel plans require a splendid hostel? Want to know which hotel serves the best breakfast? Here are all those answers and more about where to stay in Fes.
How much does it cost to stay in a Fes hotel?
For a 3-star hotel, you have to pay around $55 per night and for a 4-star hotel, you would be looking at $90 per night. If you’re after a luxury 5-star Fes hotel then you can expect to pay around $160 per night.
What is the best budget hotel in Fes?
If you’re looking for a cheap hotel in Fes, then book Palais De Fès Dar Tazi. It’s an excellent budget hotel offering great value for money. It’s in a good location, it’s been recommended by travel experts and the hotel has excellent customer reviews. Make sure you check our shortlist of the best cheap hotels in Fes.
What is the best boutique hotel in Fes?
You like some luxury but don’t like the famous chain hotels. If you’re looking for the best boutique hotel in Fes, you should check out Riad Laaroussa. It’s a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts. Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Fes, it’s a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
What is the best luxury hotel in Fes?
If money isn’t a problem and you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Fes, then go for Hotel Sahrai. The hotel offers excellent service, it’s in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it. Make sure you check our shortlist of the best luxury hotels in Dallas, it’s a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
What is the best bed & breakfast in Fes?
Looking for a cozy place to stay in Fes that serves you handmade and fresh breakfast in the morning? Go and check out Bed & Breakfast Funky Fes. The B&B has been recommended by well-known travel experts and recent guests have given it top ratings.
What is the best hostel in Fes?
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm? Check out Riad Verus. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Fes.
Which Fes hotel offers great views?
If you’re looking for a room with a view, then try the Hotel Sahrai, it offers some amazing views of Fes.
Which Fes hotels serve great breakfast?
Try Hotel Ryad Mabrouka if you’re looking for a delicious breakfast in Fes. The hotel has excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
Best time to visit Fes
The best time to visit Fes, without a doubt, is during the spring months of April and May. The weather during this period is nothing short of spectacular – warm sunny days, cool evenings, and just the right amount of breeze to keep you comfortable as you traverse the ancient medina.
Spring in Fes is also the season of festivities, with the city playing host to an array of events that are sure to leave you spellbound. Imagine attending the world-renowned Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, where artists from around the globe come together to celebrate spirituality through the universal language of music.
Or how about the Festival of Sufi Culture, a week-long event featuring mesmerizing music, dance, and poetry performances that delve deep into the mystical world of Sufism?
Best things to do in Fes
There are numerous things to do in Fes and surrounding areas, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should definitely do when you’re in and around Fes:
Fes Medina Guided Tour
This tour of Fes takes you through the intricate maze of streets of the medina. See the tanneries, Medersa Bouaanania, Nejjarine Museum and more. Price: $30. More info.
Small-Group Day Tour to Chefchaouen from Fes
Visit the Rif Mountain town of Chefchaouen on a small-group tour from Fez, and spend the day exploring the dreamy blue and white architecture, a picturesque medina, and local landmarks. Price: $45. More info.
3 Days 2 Nights Desert Trip to Marrakech from Fes
This trip from Fes to Marrakech takes you through the Cedars forest, Atlas mountains and deserts. Visit kasbahs, ride a camel and stay overnight in a Berber tent. Price: $300. More info.
Deciding where to stay in Fes
In conclusion, this travel guide has covered the best areas and hotels in Fes and how to get around. Now it is up to you to decide which area suits your needs the most.
Top 5 areas to stay in Fes
- Old Medina
- Fes el-Jdid
- Nouvelle Ville
- Bab Bou Jeloud
- As Seffarine
As you have seen in this travel guide, there are a lot of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Fes is important. Whether you stay in Old Medina, Fes el-Jdid, Nouvelle Ville, Bab Bou Jeloud or As Seffarine, all those neighborhoods are in good locations.
The atmosphere of the area, whether you travel for leisure or business, whether you travel with your family or friends, and proximity to the attractions you prefer to visit should probably be the deciding factors. Whatever your preference is, you’ll have a great time in Fes.
Fes overview
| 🏨 Hotel prices: | Cheap |
| 🛏 Budget hotel: | $50 |
| 💑 Boutique hotel: | $80 |
| ⭐ 5-star hotel: | $150 |
| 🌎 Best area for first visit: | Medina |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Nouvelle Ville |
| 💎 Best luxury hotel: | Hotel Sahrai |
| 👫 Best boutique hotel: | Karawan Riad |
| 💰 Best cheap hotel: | Palais De Fès Dar Tazi |
| 🎒 Best hostel: | Riad Verus |
More Fes guides
See our other guides about the best places to stay in Fes:
