Trying to figure out where to stay in Fes can get overwhelming VERY quickly. There are sooo many beautiful riads, hotels and different places to stay, but for your first trip, I recommend staying in the historic Medina, Fes el-Bali.
You’ll be within walking distance of the souks, restaurants, tanneries and many of the main things you’ll want to see in Fes.
And when it comes to a riad vs. hotel? Definitely a riad!
I honestly spent so much time in Morocco and fell in love with staying in riads. For my hotel guides, I do all the research for you on the best hotels, riads and places to stay, but personally, I LOVE riads. They’re so unique. I love plants, courtyards, pools and all the beautiful Moroccan architecture…so obviously they’re my thing lol.
For Fes, I’d recommend 2–3 nights. This gives you enough time to wander around without feeling too rushed. I HATE cramming a million things into one day without having time to actually relax. If you plan on taking any day trips from Fes, tack on another day.
Where to Stay in Fes: Best Hotels & Riads at a Glance
If you’re in a rush and just want to know where to stay in Fes, start here.
| Hotel/Riad | Best For | Area | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux | Luxury/Splurge | Fes Medina | $$$$ |
| Riad Sidrat Fes | My Pick/Couples | Fes Medina | $$–$$$ |
| Riad Laaroussa | Overall Experience | Fes Medina | $$$ |
| Dar Seffarine | Moroccan Design | Fes Medina | $$$ |
| Riad Rcif | Traditional Riad | Fes Medina | $$–$$$ |
| Dar Bensouda | Couples/Mid-Range | Fes Medina | $$$ |
| Riad Tizwa Fes | Mid-Range | Fes Medina | $$ |
| Medina Social Club | Budget/Solo | Fes Medina | $ |
Prices and availability change throughout the year, so always check current rates for your dates.
Where to Stay in Fes
Fes el-Bali — Best Place to Stay in Fes for First-Time Visitors
For your first visit, I think Fes el-Bali is the best place to stay in Fes.
It puts you right in the middle of the historic Medina. You can literally walk to so many of the things you’ll want to see.
Read my 10 Best Things to Do in Fes Morocco to get a better idea of what to see while you’re here.
Just know…the Medina is truly a maze.
Cars cannot access many of the narrow streets, so don’t assume your taxi will be able to pull directly up to your riad. This happened to us.
Check with your accommodation about arrival transfers and instructions before you get there. Many riads can also arrange someone to help you with your luggage.
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, solo travelers and basically anyone who wants the full Fes experience.
Ville Nouvelle — Best for a More Modern Stay in Fes
I understand the Medina may sound overwhelming, so Ville Nouvelle gives you a much more modern side of Fes. There are wider streets, more conventional hotels and easier vehicle access.
Would I stay here on my first trip?
Personally…no.
I think it takes away from some of the authentic experience of Fes. Yes, the Medina is chaotic, but that’s also part of the beauty of this city and Morocco in general.
Butttt…to each their own. No judgment here 🙂
Best Riads in Fes
If you’re looking for the best riads in Fes, these would be at the top of my list.
Riad Laaroussa
Riad Laaroussa has sooo many beautiful Moroccan details, and obviously I love the access to the pool too.
They can arrange transportation and assistance getting through the Medina, which is VERY helpful when you’re arriving with luggage. The food gets great feedback, the rooms are comfortable and the property itself is beautiful.
Best for: Couples, first-time visitors and travelers looking for something special.
Dar Seffarine
The Moroccan architecture FOR SURE.
If you’ve been reading my Morocco blogs, you already know I will not stop talking about how much I love Moroccan architecture.
Dar Seffarine has a very traditional design and historic atmosphere, making the actual riad part of the experience.
Best for: Architecture lovers and couples.
Riad Rcif
Another option for stunninggg Moroccan interiors.
The tilework here is absolutely phenomenal. It literally feels like a museum inside. Plus, the location feels quieter, which can be VERY nice after spending the day wandering around Fes.
Oh, and they have a pool.
I love a pool. Always.
Best for: Couples and travelers looking for a traditional Moroccan stay.
Best Luxury Hotels & Riads in Fes
Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux
If you’re looking to SPLURGE, this is one of the luxury hotels in Fes I would look at.
It seriously feels like you’re royalty staying here. From the beautiful archways to the Moroccan tilework, the entire property feels luxurious.
It’s also located in the Medina, and assistance with luggage can make arriving sooo much easier.
Best for: Luxury travelers, honeymoons and special occasions.
Riad Sidrat Fes
Riad Sidrat Fes is another beautifully designed riad with sooo much attention to detail.
It feels comfortable, clean and still has all the Moroccan charm I’m looking for. The hospitality is a huge selling point, breakfast is highly rated, and you’re close to many of the things you’ll want to see around the Medina.
This is actually my pick for where to stay in Fes from this list.
Best for: Couples, first-time visitors and travelers wanting comfort with Moroccan charm.
Best Mid-Range Riads in Fes
Dar Bensouda
Dar Bensouda is a great option if you’re looking for somewhere romantic but don’t necessarily want to fullyyyy splurge.
The riad is spacious with a beautiful rooftop—especially for sunrise—and spacious rooms.
They also have a pool (yay!), which is amazing during those hot days in Fes. There’s also a hammam and spa if you really want to relax.
Best for: Couples and boutique-hotel lovers.
Riad Tizwa Fes
Riad Tizwa is another one to consider if you want the traditional Fes riad experience without needing five-star luxury.
It’s a good mid-range option to compare with the other riads on this list, especially if location and Moroccan character are more important to you than having a huge resort.
Best for: Mid-range travelers and first-time visitors.
Best Budget Place to Stay in Fes
Medina Social Club
If your priority is saving money AND meeting other travelers, Medina Social Club is a great option.
It’s inside a cute historic building with a sun terrace, restaurant and social atmosphere.
If you’re traveling solo, this is definitely one I would look into.
Best for: Backpackers, solo travelers and budget travelers.
My Pick for Where to Stay in Fes
If I had to choose one place from this list, I’d book Riad Sidrat Fes.
I love how authentic and charming the space feels. There’s lots of traditional Moroccan architecture, the hospitality gets amazing feedback and location is SUPER important to me.
If I’m staying in Fes, I want to be in the Medina and close to everything I came there to see.
My picks:
Luxury: Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux
Mid-range/My Pick: Riad Sidrat Fes
Budget: Medina Social Club
What to Know Before Booking a Hotel or Riad in Fes
Can a Taxi Take You Directly to Your Riad?
Not always.
The Medina is mainly pedestrian, and many of the streets are way too narrow for cars. Some riads can arrange someone to meet you and help with your luggage, so ask for arrival instructions beforehand.
Trust me…you do NOT want your first Fes experience to be dragging a suitcase through the Medina while completely lost lol.
Should You Book Breakfast?
Duh.
Moroccan breakfasts are one of my FAVORITE parts of staying in a riad.
Definitely check whether breakfast is included before booking, though, because every property is different.
Should You Arrange an Airport or Train Transfer?
If your riad offers one and it’s your first time in Fes…YES.
Arriving somewhere new can already be overwhelming, especially when you’ve had little to no sleep. You definitely don’t want to start your trip trying to navigate the Medina with luggage.
It’s not fun 😂.
How Far Ahead Should You Book a Riad in Fes?
If there’s a specific riad you absolutely want to stay in, I would book 3–6 months ahead when possible.
Many riads are much smaller than conventional hotels and have a limited number of rooms. That means your favorite can fill up.
Where to Stay in Fes FAQs
What Is the Best Area to Stay in Fes?
For most first-time visitors, I recommend Fes el-Bali. You’ll be surrounded by the historic Medina and within walking distance of many of the main things to see in Fes.
Is It Better to Stay in a Riad or Hotel in Fes?
You’re in Morocco…stay in a riad!!!
Honestly, staying in riads is one of my favorite parts of traveling through Morocco. They’re beautiful, unique and give you an experience you really don’t get from a regular hotel.
That being said, hotels can offer easier vehicle access and more conventional amenities. It really depends on what YOU want.
What Is the Best Riad in Fes?
There isn’t one best riad in Fes for everyone. It depends on your budget, location and what you’re looking for.
My personal pick from this list is Riad Sidrat Fes, while Riad Fès – Relais & Châteaux is my splurge option.
How Many Nights Should I Stay in Fes?
I recommend 2–3 nights in Fes for your first visit.
Add another night if you’re using Fes as a base for a day trip.
Should I Stay Inside the Fes Medina?
For your first trip, I would.
You’ll be close to many of the main attractions and get much more of that historic Fes atmosphere.
Is Fes Expensive?
It depends on the type of traveler you are.
Can you spend a LOT of money? Of course.
Can you visit Fes on a budget? Absolutely.
That’s one of the things I love about Morocco. You can find everything from hostels and affordable riads to some seriously luxurious properties.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Fes
For your first trip, I’d stay in the Medina and choose a riad. There are sooo many beautiful hotels and riads in Fes, but location and atmosphere would be my biggest priorities.
It’s SO easy to compare hundreds of different places, get overwhelmed and eventually give up because they all start blending together lol.
Luckily, I did the hard work for you.
Figure out your budget, pick your favorite and BOOK IT. You won’t regret it 🙂
And then go plan the fun part:
🔗 10 Things to Do in Fes Morocco
🔗 Morocco Travel Guide
🔗 Morocco Itinerary: 7, 10 & 14 Days
🔗 Morocco Solo Travel Guide
