We list the best hotels, hostels, B&Bs, riads and guesthouses in Fes as recommended by travel experts from CNN, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, Fodor’s, New York Times and more. All hotel recommendations have been referenced with customer reviews and we only listed places that have at least a 4 out of 5-star customer review rating.
Best cheap hotel in Fes: Palais De Fès Dar Tazi
Best boutique hotel in Fes: Riad Laaroussa
“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.”
Shortlisted in New York Times’ 36 Hours in Fez, Morocco.
“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.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Fez.
“Meticulously restored, this delightful riad’s triple-height courtyard and five rooms are resplendent with dazzling zellij tiles and ornate stuccowork. It’s been beautifully furnished with antiques from all over the country, but the comforts are contemporary, with rain showers in the en suite bathrooms and free Wi-Fi throughout.”
“The House of the Pomegranate is a sumptuously restored residence, with four stunning suites that showcase the work of Fez’s famous artisans in their carved cedarwood doors and lofty ceilings, mosaic tile floors, and intricate plasterwork.”
“Attracting a global clientele, this maison d’hôtes with a French flavor is a serene experience from the moment you step through the ocher-color passageway into the luxuriant garden filled with sweet-scented jasmine and roses, as well as olive and citrus trees.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Fez.
“The nomadic French owners of this contemporary caravansary spent ten years reinventing this palatial 17th-century riad. Now seven sumptuous suites sit around a vast courtyard of soaring columns.”
Featured as Fodor’s Choice in Fez.
“An air of peace pervades the three linked houses that make up this riad. The 12 rooms (four around each courtyard) are like little jewel boxes, with traditional mosaics and antique cloisonné furniture. Meals can be taken on the roof terrace, though views are limited.”
“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.”
“On a hill near the Ville Nouvelle, this smart hotel is a world of its own, a retreat with style, space, a spa and restaurants – though you can dip into the medina on the hotel shuttle. Breezy modern architecture is trimmed with beautiful traditional Fassi decorations; understated rooms feature sunken tubs.”
“An old favourite, Mabrouka is a large, meticulously restored Arab-Andalucian townhouse whose owners go the extra mile for guests and strive to employ sustainable practices. There are eight rooms, all with little extras to make your stay more special.”
Recommended by:
New York Times, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, New York Times, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Recommended by:
Lonely Planet
Fes, also written and pronounced as Fez, is the capital of the Fas- Meknes region, in inland Morocco. It is called the ‘Mecca of the West’. The city of Fes is also referred to, as the cultural capital of Morocco. Culinary practices are central to the city of Fes. This beautiful Moroccan city is the perfect blend of both, old structures and cultures, and new practices and lifestyle.
Ville Nouvelle
The neighbourhood of Ville Nouvelle is a contemporary style neighbourhood. One can spot several shopping locations, cafes and restaurants in this neighbourhood. One of the must-visit site of this neighbourhood is Majorelle Garden.
Fes El-Jdid
The neighbourhood of Fes El-Jdid is the central neighbourhood of the district. The main street of this neighbourhood, called the Grand Rue De Fes El- Jdid, is quite popular. There is a fine leather shop on this street. The neighbourhood of Fes El-Jdid is well known for its historical touch.
Fes El-Bali
This neighbourhood is one of the oldest regions of Fes. It was once the capital of the Idrisid dynasty. This region of Fes is also the world's largest car-free zone. Fes El- Bali is home to the oldest university in the world, University of Al- Karaouien. This neighbourhood is famous for its mint tea and magnificent gardens. The neighbourhood of Fes El- Bali is symbolic of the Moroccan heritage.
Nejjarine Square
The area of Nejjarine is more than a neighbourhood. It makes for a great tourist attraction. This area also houses a popular museum and several shops that sell wood and cabinet work.
Mellah
This neighbourhood is the Jewish Quarter of Fes. This beautiful area is abundant is dainty houses with iron windows and quaint balconies and porches.
Also check out our guide about the best areas to stay in Fes.
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.
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. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels 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.
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.
Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Fes, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
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.
Looking for a good and affordable private room or cozy dorm in? Check out Riad Verus. The hostel has been highly rated by backpackers. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Fes.
If you're looking for a room with a view, then try the Hotel Sahrai, it offers some amazing views of Fes.
Try Hotel Ryad Mabrouka if you're looking for a delicious breakfast in Fes. The hotel has excellent customer review ratings for breakfast.
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
Small-Group Day Tour to Chefchaouen from Fes. Visit the Rif Mountain town of Chefchaouen on a small-group tour from Fes, and spend the day exploring the dreamy blue and white architecture, a picturesque medina, and local landmarks. Price: $45.
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 things to do in Fez
Fes is a city that will impress. It’s known for its unique blend of architecture, culture, and history. Fes is also often referred to as Fez, or Fès-Bilad-Al-Fes. It’s the second-largest city in Morocco with a population of over 700,000 residents. If you are planning a trip to Morocco, or want to expand your knowledge of this area before booking a trip, here is some essential information about Fes!
Fes has a rich and interesting history. It was occupied by the Muslim Berber dynasty of the Almoravids from 1056 to 1147 and again from 1148 to 1269, then by their successors, the Almohads until 1275. There is evidence of Roman settlements, which were later abandoned for unknown reasons. The city was then re-inhabited in the 9th century by people of Arab descent, who called it Fas or Fas El-Bali. By the early 13th century, Fes had become a major trading center and one of the most important cities in Morocco.
Fes is largely divided into two old Medina quarters; Fes el Bali and Fes Jdid and also divided into the modern urban area of Ville Nouvelle. Fes’ historic center is listed as one of the World Heritage Site and is regarded by many as the world’s largest urban car-free zone.
The city is also famous for its University of Al Quaraouiyine; the university was founded in 859 and is the oldest continuously functioning university in the world.
Fes has been described over the years as the “Mecca of the West” or sometimes the “Athens of Africa”. As a result of such names and other reasons, the city is one of the most visited on the continent of Africa.
Here are some essential things to know about Fes:
1) The Medina: The Medina refers to the old walled city of Fes. This area is a UNESCO world heritage site and consists mainly of parts from the medieval era with various houses and shops lining narrow streets (several mosques can be found here as well). You can explore the different areas by foot or by taxi. Some notable attractions include Dar M’Haqq, Medersa Bou Inania (founded in 1350), Saadian Tombs, Mellah Cemetery…
2) Museums: There are many museums located in the Medina that you can visit including Museum Badii Palace and Museum Dar Batha which offer insight into Moroccan culture. Some other notable museums you may want to visit are Museum of Moroccan Judaism and Museum of Traditional Arts.
3) Festivals: There are several festivals held throughout the year in Fes! One festival worth mentioning is Djemaa El-Fna which takes place every night at 9pm when musicians and storytellers.
For some, the cuisine of Morocco is unknown. Moroccan food is typically made up of a combination of meat, vegetables, and spices. There are many dishes that originate from Fes, but there are also dishes that have been adopted from other cultures in North Africa. One dish that reflects this is couscous. Unlike traditional couscous recipes, the Moroccan version includes meat and vegetables.
Fes is a big city. It has many districts that are not all in the traditional downtown region. You should definitely buy a map and orient yourself before taking your first step. For transportation, you can use taxis, buses, or the tram if you want to get around without getting lost!
As you plan your trip to Fes, don’t forget to pack some sunblock and an umbrella. You never know what the weather will be like in this region of the world! You should also make sure to wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes. The dress code in Fes is very different than it is in other parts of Morocco, so don’t forget that! Dress conservatively so you are not wearing anything inappropriate or offensive. If you are planning on exploring Fes on foot, make sure to pay attention to your surroundings. The city is full of winding streets, which can make it difficult to navigate without a map or GPS. When driving in Fes, always keep your windows rolled up and doors locked. It’s not uncommon for thieves to target cars in the city. There are plenty of taxis around if you need one! These tips will help you get the most out of your visit to this beautiful city!
Fes, Morocco is an amazing city that you’ll want to explore for days on end. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly authentic Moroccan experience.
Want to get to know the city a bit better? Check out our guide about where to stay in Fes, it includes recommendations about the best areas, museums, attractions and other things to do.
If you like our list of the best hotels in Fes, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Cape Town or the best hotels in Marrakech.