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Wondering where to stay in Fes? You’ve come to the right place!
Fes is one of Morocco’s most atmospheric cities, but choosing the right area can completely change your experience. There are two main areas to choose from, but they’re very different from each other, so we’re here to help you decide where the best base for you is.
And we’re not just here to help you find a great area — we’ve also got hotel and riad recommendations for every budget! So whether you’re looking for a cultural and atmospheric base or a calmer and more modern area, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is Fes Medina. Staying in the heart of Fes el-Bali puts you right inside the city’s living history.
Our top choice for this area is Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa! It’s a welcoming, mid-range riad that feels peaceful, authentic, and perfectly located for exploring the medina on foot.
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Fes
If it’s your first time in Fes, the first thing you should know is that the medina is where the magic happens! This UNESCO-listed old city is the cultural heart of Fes and one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. Staying in the medina puts you smack dab in the middle of Moroccan history, but it can also be busy and intense.
And Fes isn’t all narrow alleys and historic charm. Ville Nouvelle offers a very different experience. This area was built during the French colonial period, and it offers more modern hotels and easier road access.
The good news is that you can easily combine both experiences by staying in one area and visiting the other by taxi. Still, choosing the right base will certainly make your time in Fes far more enjoyable. To help you decide, here is a quick look at the best areas to stay in Fes and a top hotel in each.
- Fes Medina – This area is the place to be for cultural immersion and traditional riad stays. Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa is a lovely riad with a hammam bath and scenic rooftop terrace.
- Ville Nouvelle – We think that this area is best for families thanks to its wider streets and calmer atmosphere. Royal Mirage Fes Hotel is a spacious and comfortable hotel in a prime location.
Important Tip
Multiple Fes trips have taught us that this island doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Fes accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Fes Medina
BEST FOR CULTURAL IMMERSION
Pros
- Major sights within walking distance
- Traditional riads with peaceful courtyards hidden behind historic walls
Cons
- The medina is car-free, which can be tricky if you have a lot of luggage
- Can be busy and overwhelming
Fes el-Bali is the city’s ancient medina, and it’s actually the reason most people come to Fes in the first place! This is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited urban areas, and staying here places you right inside its living history. So if you’re envisioning spending time exploring narrow alleys and checking out artisan shops, I would definitely recommend staying here!
The medina is best suited to travelers who want to fully immerse themselves in Fes’s culture and history. It’s ideal for first-timers who don’t mind a bit of chaos in exchange for authenticity. Most major attractions are within walking distance. It’s easy to get lost, but that’s all part of the experience.
However, this does mean that the medina can feel very overwhelming. It has a maze-like layout and gets a lot of foot traffic, so it can feel overwhelming, especially at first. Still, if you book the right riad, you can still enjoy your own little sanctuary in the midst of all the action!
One more thing to consider is that, since the medina is car-free, accessibility can be tricky. Taxis can only drop you off at the gates, so bear that in mind when thinking about which luggage to bring with you. Still, if you’re happy with that trade-off, we think that staying in the medina is an unforgettable way to experience Fes.
Palais Nazha Fes – $$$
Palais Nazha Fes offers a more upscale riad-style stay inside the medina. It’s a great pick if you want that traditional Moroccan character but with a slightly more polished feel!
The biggest draw here is the setting. It’s right in the heart of the old city, so it’s easy to step outside and be in the thick of the souks, and you can walk to major sights within minutes.
Even though the medina can be intense, this property feels like a calm little hideaway once you’re inside. It suits couples and travelers who want a more elevated base, especially if you like the idea of coming back to somewhere peaceful after a long day of exploring. Rooms range between $100 and $200 USD per night.
Check availability and book this upscale stay here!
If Palais Nazha Fes is fully booked, Palais Chahd Luxury is a similarly upscale alternative, while Palais Houyam is another strong pick if you want something elegant with a classic medina feel.
Riad Rcif & Spa Originale – $$$
Riad Rcif & Spa Originale is one of those classic Fes riads. It’s definitely more than just a place to sleep! We love it because you get a traditional medina stay, but with a bit more comfort and space than many of the smaller riads around. And location-wise, you’re well placed for exploring the sights on foot.
Inside, the property has that traditional Moroccan look with plenty of detail, and it feels welcoming and easy to settle into. It’s a great base if you want the full medina vibe but still like the idea of having a bit more going on at your accommodation after sightseeing. Rooms typically range between $130 and $200 USD per night.
Browse options and reserve this riad here!
If Riad Rcif & Spa Originale is fully booked, Dar Tazi is a more traditional and intimate option, while Riad Hanael Garden & Spa is another good alternative if you want a comfortable and calm riad stay.
Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa – $$
Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa is a lovely mid-range riad in the medina. We love it because it makes Fes feel special without blowing the budget! The biggest draw here is that you get a traditional riad experience right inside the old city, so you can explore the medina early in the morning before it gets busy, then wander back easily whenever you need a break.
It feels relaxed and welcoming, and it’s a great fit for first-timers who want to stay in the medina but don’t want anything too intimidating or over-the-top. If your plan is full days of sightseeing with a peaceful base to return to, this is a great shout. Rooms start from around $90 USD per night.
Don’t miss out—book your stay at Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa here!
If Riad Al Makan Fes & Spa is fully booked, Riad Tizwa Fes is a lovely alternative with a similar traditional vibe, while Riad Loudaya and Spa is another good option if you want something comfortable and good value in the medina.
Hotel & Spa Dar Bensouda – $$
Hotel & Spa Dar Bensouda is a long-time favourite in the medina. It’s dependable and well run, but it still oozes that classic riad charm. It feels traditional and tucked away, so it’s a good option if you want somewhere that feels calm and boasts a lot of character.
Plus, this hotel has a lovely rooftop terrace which offers amazing views of the medina. It’s a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the sunset after exploring. Rooms start from around $130 per night, including breakfast.
Check availability for your travel dates here!
If Hotel & Spa Dar Bensouda is fully booked, Riad Zitouna is a charming alternative with a similar feel, while Riad Fes Aicha & SPA is another great pick if you want a boutique feel without going full luxury.
Riad Damia Suite & Spa – $
Riad Damia Suite & Spa is a good budget-friendly option in the medina if you want location and atmosphere without paying luxury prices. The biggest draw here is that you still get that traditional riad setting right inside the old city, which means you can spend your days exploring on foot and keep your travel logistics simple.
The hotel has gorgeous Moroccan mosaics everywhere you look and a very traditional spa. I mean, combining culture and relaxation is a big plus in my book! If you want an affordable base that still feels quintessentially “Fes”, this one fits the bill nicely. Rooms typically range between $60 and $150 USD per night, depending on your dates and room category.
Book this budget-friendly stay in the medina here!
If Riad Damia Suite & Spa is fully booked, Dar Golden Ziat is another good-value medina option, while Riad Layla is a solid alternative if you want something simple, traditional, and well-located.
Related Read: Pair your stay with the perfect plan — our 3-day Fes itinerary covers everything you need for an unforgettable visit.
Ville Nouvelle
BEST FOR FAMILIES AND MODERN COMFORTS
Pros
- Wider streets with taxi access
- Larger hotels with more space and modern amenities
Cons
- Less historic atmosphere than the medina
- Most major sights require a short taxi ride
If the medina sounds a bit overwhelming to you, then we think that Ville Nouvelle (aka “New Town”) is a great alternative. It’s a great choice for families, especially since it’s more modern and easier to navigate. We also think it suits those who have visited Fes before, as it’s a little further from the main sights, but it’s definitely more relaxing.
This area was developed during the French colonial period, and it feels very different from the medina. The streets are wider, the buildings are newer, and the overall layout is much easier to navigate! The medina feels a lot like a rabbit warren, but in Ville Nouvelle, it’s all about palm tree-lined boulevards and wide roads.
One of the biggest advantages of staying in Ville Nouvelle is comfort and convenience. The hotels here are generally easier to access, which is especially helpful if you’re traveling with young kids or have mobility issues. It also makes life a lot easier if you’re arriving with luggage!
Taxis are easy to find, and getting to the medina usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on traffic. If you’re not keen on navigating narrow alleyways or want a calmer place to unwind after sightseeing, staying in this area makes a lot of sense.
Ville Nouvelle is a great fit for travelers who want a slower pace at the end of the day, or who prefer modern amenities over historic surroundings. While you won’t be surrounded by major sights, you can use it as a base for visiting the medina during the day and then retreating to a quieter and more spacious part of the city when you’re ready to unwind.
Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace – $$$
Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace is one of the most well-known high-end hotels in Ville Nouvelle. We think it’s a good fit if you want a classic resort feel but with plenty of Moroccan touches throughout the property. This is a large hotel, but it feels relaxed, not hectic.
The layout is spacious, and it’s a good option if you like having everything you need in one place. It has a big pool and six bars and restaurants on site, so you really don’t need to leave if you don’t want to! Rooms start from around $175 USD per night and can go up to around $500 USD, depending on the level of luxury you choose.
Book this high-end stay in Ville Nouvelle here!
If Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace is fully booked, Menzeh Zalagh 2Boutique Hôtel & Sky is a good alternative with a similar full-service feel and great views of the medina, while Riad Raouia HAMMAM & SPA offers a slightly more intimate option in the wider Ville Nouvelle area.
Hotel Sahrai – $$$
Hotel Sahrai is a stylish, design-led hotel that stands out for its contemporary look and polished atmosphere. If you love a clean, modern aesthetic, you will love this hotel! It’s chic and minimalist, but it still feels unmistakably Moroccan.
This is truly one of the best options in Fes if you want a hotel that feels sleek and current rather than traditional. It feels a bit more urban and grown-up, and it’s ideal if you’ve already experienced the medina and want something different this time around. Rooms range between $300 and $700 USD per night.
See all room options and reserve your stay here!
If Hotel Sahrai is full, Palais Medina Riad Resort is a more affordable alternative where your nightly budget can stretch further, or Across Hotels & Spa is a more modest option that still boasts great facilities.
Royal Mirage Fes Hotel – $$
Royal Mirage Fes Hotel is a solid mid-range option in Ville Nouvelle if you’re looking for comfort without paying luxury prices. The biggest draw here is value for money! You get a central modern-district location with easy access to shops, restaurants, and taxis.
The hotel itself is straightforward and easy to settle into, which makes it a good base if you plan to spend most of your time out exploring. It works particularly well for travelers who want a simple, dependable stay… but with a pool and sauna close at hand! Rooms typically cost between $100 and $150 USD per night, while suites start at $275 USD.
Browse room options and secure your stay here!
If Royal Mirage Fes Hotel has no availability for your dates, Ramada By Wyndham Fes is a reliable alternative nearby, while Hôtel Atlas Saiss Fès is a great option if you want a comfortable, well-located stay with modern amenities and easy access to the train station and airport.
Nour Plazza Hotel – $$
Nour Plazza Hotel is a well-located mid-range hotel that works nicely as a Ville Nouvelle base. The biggest draw here is the location because you’re close to cafés, restaurants, and shops, and it’s easy to get around the modern part of the city either on foot or by taxi.
It’s a good choice if you want something comfortable and reasonably priced without lots of extras. The hotel is fairly low-key and practical, but it’s modern and well-equipped, so you’ll have everything you need. There’s even a small rooftop pool, which will definitely come in handy when you need to cool off! Rooms start from around $150 USD per night.
Book your stay at Nour Plazza Hotel here!
If Nour Plazza Hotel is fully booked, Hôtel Volubilis is an even more affordable option in a similar area, while Barceló Fès Medina offers a more polished stay at a similar price point.
Riad Dar Ziryab – $
Riad Dar Ziryab is a budget-friendly option located between Ville Nouvelle and the medina. The biggest draw here is that you get a quieter, more local feel while still being well connected by taxi to both sides of the city, although I do love the old archways and tropical garden.
This is a good pick if you want a more classic riad feel in the new town. It’s also easy on the wallet, so what’s not to love? Rooms start from around $130 USD per night, including breakfast.
Check availability for your travel dates here!
If Riad Dar Ziryab is booked up on your desired dates, Hôtel Royal Urban Concept is another well-reviewed option nearby. Ibis Fes is also a modern and comfortable option with a nice outdoor pool.
Related Read: Looking for a more traditional stay? Don’t miss our guide to the best riads in Fes here, featuring beautiful courtyard stays inside the historic medina.
Top Activities to do in Fes, Morocco
Now that you know where to base yourself, it’s time to start planning how you’ll spend your days in the city. We loved how different Fes feels from the rest of Morocco, and the most popular activities certainly highlight that. So to make the most out of your time here, check out our favorite things to do!
- Take a cooking class – Love Moroccan food? Us too! So we couldn’t pass up this cooking class to learn how to make classic dishes, my favorite being Chicken Tajine! It was held in the luxurious Palais Amani Riad, which just added to the vibe as well.
- Relax with a traditional Hammam – This hammam experience is not only a great cultural experience, but super relaxing. It’s a purification ritual and spa treatment that’s been done for centuries, so they truly have tranquility down to a science.
- Explore the city with a local guide – Fes is full of history and hidden gems that are impossible to uncover without this locally guided tour. It made us feel confident to weave around the Medina, and we learned the history of the Royal Palace, the old Jewish Quarter, and more.
- Take a day trip to the Blue City – This day trip to Chefchaouen is a great way to see the Blue City if you can’t spend a few days there! You’ll see the highlights, take in the views, and learn the history, all while having transportation taken care of.
- Visit the Middle Atlas Mountains – Escape the city on this Middle Atlas Mountains tour for some outdoor adventure. You’ll visit an authentic Berber town and Azrou, Africa’s largest cedar forest, as well as other small villages and viewpoints along the way for an overall perspective of the region.
Related Read: Looking for more fun activities? See our blog about the best things to do in Fes, which includes these top picks and our personal favorite recommendations!
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Thanks for reading!
Fes is one of Morocco’s most unforgettable cities, where history, culture, and everyday life blend together in a way few places can match. Whether you choose to stay inside the atmospheric medina or opt for the calmer comforts of Ville Nouvelle, the right base will shape how you experience this incredible city. We hope this guide helps you confidently choose where to stay in Fes and find accommodation that suits your travel style and budget.
Before you go, don’t forget to check out our other Morocco guides here for more tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to plan an unforgettable trip. Or scroll below for even more travel inspiration to help plan your next adventure!
The 15 Best Riads in Marrakech, Morocco
How to Spend ONE or TWO Days in Chefchaouen, Morocco: 1 or 2-Day Itinerary