Fes Hotels

Unforgettable Fez
Fez (aka Fes or Fès) is, quite frankly, a little tired of being second best. Fez is the second-largest city in Morocco. It’s also the second most popular tourist destination. And it used to be the capital. Poor old chap. Still, there’s nothing second-rate about Fez as it lures you with the intoxicating aromas of North Africa, encouraging you to lose yourself (literally – it’s a medieval maze) in the magic.
And you thought it was just about those little red hats (which, admittedly, are named after the city)!
There are plenty of great sights to see in Fez, whether you’re spiritual or not. Try the Aben Danan Synagogue and the multi-coloured Bab Bou Jeloud gates. Learn a little at the University of Al-Karaouine, before relaxing atop a donkey (no, really!) or in one of the many bars, cafés and restaurants.
So come on, everyone, make Fez number one!
FEZ’S TOP 10
10. Dar Glaoui: Bet you wish you had married into the El-Glaoui family to share in this unbelievably decadent palace. |
5. Bou Inania madersa: A 14th century religious college. Perhaps you could learn a thing or two? |
9. Moulay Hassan Square: Surrounded by high walls and containing the beautiful Bab Sbaâ (or Lion Gate). |
4. Zaouia Moulay Idriss II: One of the holiest buildings in the city. Pack your respect. |
8. Berber pharmacy: Worth a visit, but don’t be fooled into eating anything you’re offered. You don’t even want to know why… |
3. Fez City Gates: There are a few to choose from, but the most photo-friendly is the brightly coloured Bab Bou Jeloud. |
7. Qaraouyine: This library/mosque is a sight for sore eyes. You need to be Muslim to enter. |
2. Tanneries: There are a few to see, but the most interesting is right near the Karaouine. Try not to hold your nose too obviously – it’s a bit on the whiffy side! |
6. Merenid Tombs: Amazing views right across the medina and much of the city. |
1. Karaouine Mosque: Only Muslims may enter, but the rest of you can take a peek! |
FEZ EVENTS
The Culinary Arts Festival chews into town in April. Fez is considered by many to be the capital of Moroccan cuisine.
June sings with the sounds of the World Sacred Music Festival, featuring religious and spiritual music from around the world.
June also brings the Cherry Festival. The harvest is celebrated over three days with music, dance and markets. They even elect a Miss Cherry!
The National Festival of Amazigh Culture ( that’s ‘Amazigh’, not ‘Amazing’, although the two are interchangeable!) rolls around in July and celebrates Berber culture with music, dance, traditional storytelling and exhibitions.
Get scatting in September with Jazz in Riad.Jazz concerts are held across the city.
WHEN TO GO
- The weather in Fez is quite extreme. From October to March, it is very, very wet, with rain for several days and then a week or so of grey, wet weather. Then it repeats!
- From May to October, though, there is hardly any rain whatsoever. In June, July and August, the temperature frequently reaches 37.5°C (100°F).
GETTING AROUND
- As far as buses go, you’ll only need to use them to get to and from the airport.
- You’ll see a lot of the city if you walk. Ask your hotel to arrange a guide for when in and around the big marketplaces, otherwise, the friendly local may lead you through the maze to his brother’s rug shop – and become vague on the directions out until you buy something.
HotelClub Blog
Batha Hotel Fes
3 Stars$41
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De La Paix Hotel Fez
3 Stars$53
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Fes Inn Hotel Fez
3 Stars$48
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Menzeh Zalagh Hotel Fez
4 Stars$94
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Riad Dar Dmana
4 Stars$134
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Riad Yacout Hotel Fes
4 Stars$121
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Sidi Harazem
4 Stars$90
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Wassim Hotel Fez
4 Stars$66
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Palais Alfirdaous Fes Hotel
5 StarsOn request
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Ramada Hotel Fes
5 Stars$137
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