Fez is Morocco's old and ancient capital, in many ways a rival to the power and popularity of Marrakech. Its old medina is just as cacophonous an assault on the senses with its 90,000 winding streets and alleyways and in some places, medieval lifestyles. And if anything Fez is more fiercely Moroccan. This city too has an ever growing list of chic riads, and it's amongst these where you'll find many of the best places to stay in Fez.

If you're here for the souqs and market the best places to stay are those within the ancient walls of Fès el-Bali - which is also the world's largest urban car-free zone. Within the medina you'll still find everything being transported by donkeys and handcarts.

What not to Miss

• Don't be put off by the colour, noise, orchestra of smells and spitting camels in the medina. And also don't let anyone convince you you'll be lost within it. There are plenty of gates and once you're outside you'll easily be able to get back to wherever you need to be. Just jump in and get involved! Pick through the nicknacks and you will find hidden treasures in Fez, just remember that haggling is a way of life with these entrepreneurially spirited vendors.
• You can also easily eat your fill from a wonderfully enticing spread of street food. Or get a shave - apparently this is one of the the great experiences of Fez.
• The tanneries and dyeing pits of Fez are also a fascinating place to visit, they're right in the midst of the medina, in this case it is best to find a 'guide' to show you around - there are any number of young boys who will offer to show you.
• Head to the quiet, shaded madrases if you need respite.
• Fez also has some of he world's most treasured Arabic architecture - this city is home to the world's oldest university, so learning and historically intricate architecture are intertwined here. The best examples non-Muslims will have access to is Bou Inania madrasa, built in the 14th century and still a religious college today. But even seeing the outside of the great buildings of Fez is an experience.
• It's worth plodding up the hills around the old city for the view, or paying for the privilege of a view of the medina at the Sofitel Palais Jamai.

Just remember that this is a destination which is growing in popularity, so if you want to book one of the best places to stay in Fez during the busy holiday periods, you'll need to get organised and plan well ahead. Otherwise book your trip off season, you'll find the medina much more manageable!

The Best Places to Stay in Fez

The Best Riads

• The Riad Numero 9 is a carefully decorated 18th century riad with beamed ceilings, large rugs and huge Venetian mirrors. There are just three rooms and the location is excellent so it’s quite a popular spot.
• Riad Fes is large and luxurious where modern decor has been blended seamlessly with the traditional to create a romantic atmosphere. There's a lovely terrace with incredible views of Fez and the Atlas mountains in the background, outstanding Moroccan cuisine and a lovely pool and spa.
• The three room Riad Al Bartal is one of the most architecturally impressive in Fez, situated in an excellent medina location. The marbled entrance hall leads through to corridors with intricately tiled floors and dark wood furnishings.
• The Riad Norma has a blend of French and Moroccan design including some beautiful stucco work, heavy carved furniture and detailed tiled floors. There’s a wonderful plunge pool shared between just seven rooms.

For Traditional Fez

• In a quiet spot, the Dar Roumana is a riad oozing traditional charm. The roof terrace is sunny and relaxing, there are some beautiful Moroccan antiques in the room and there’s a great menu.
• The Ryad Mabrouka is within walking distance of all the attractions of Fez, yet it’s quiet, the sunny roof terrace and pool are a great places to relax. The decor is traditional with antique furniture and ornate tiles throughout. There are just eight rooms.

Fez for Romantics

• The Riad Idrissy is a beautifully refurbished five bed riad brought to you by the former Maitre D’ of The Ivy. The main attraction is the Ruined Garden, chef Robert’s labour of love.
• If you’re looking for luxury then the Riad Alkantara, with its lush gardens and five exquisitely decorated rooms, complete with antique four-poster beds, is for you. Plus they’ll really look after you.
• If you’re here to eat, or to learn to cook, then the Riad Laaroussa is a good choice. There are just four traditionally decorated rooms. With terracotta floors, a stunning roof terrace and a relaxing hammam - and that Faasi cookery school.

Within the Medina

• The Palais Amani is a 17th century palace converted into a grand 14 room hotel. The decor is wonderfully ornate with stained-glass windows and a restaurant popular with the local literati.
• The Riad Anata is a bright, contemporary style riad in a wonderful location. There are just five rooms, each with plenty of charm.

Great Value

• The Riad Tizwa is a old family house with generously proportioned guest rooms and elegant four-poster beds. You’re right in the medina and there’s a great roof terrace with panoramic views.
• La Maison Maure is a beautifully restored riad in the heart of historic Fez. There are just six rooms, arranged around a pretty central courtyard, with traditional features. There’s also a stunning roof terrace. Rooms start from less than £60 per night.

For an Apartment or Villa

If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Fez ?

• Fès–Saïs Airport is a rapidly growing airport, so check for new connections, but currently you can fly direct to Gatwick, Stansted, Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, Marseille, Toulouse, Nimes, Amsterdam, Brussels and Dussledorf, among a few other European destinations. Trains between Marrakech and Fez are cheap and reliable if Marrakech-Menara Airport might be more convenient.
• If you want to hire a car - which we highly recommend if you’re staying in Fez and you want to visit the Atlas Mountains - we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.
• Fez is very hot in the summer - the maximum average for July and August is 34°C, so it’s a great winter or autumn warmth destination. If you’re basing your travel on the most pleasant weather and a lack of crowds, the best times to visit are probably during the shoulder seasons between March and May and September through November.

Still not sure?

• Consider instead one of the best places to stay in Marrakech?
• Or one of the best hotels near Marrakech?
• Or you could head up into the mountains and book into one of the best places to stay in the High Atlas Mountains?
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Fez