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! |
Fes History
- Fes el-Bali - This Fes neighbourhood is like taking a time machine to the past.
- Medina of Fes - The best place to see historical mosques and mausoleums.
- Fes Mellah - These walled cities date back to the 14th century.
- Kairaouine Mosque - This is one of the largest mosques in Fes and was built in 857,
- Cherratin Medersa - This historical site has some amazing woodwork and carved plaster.
Fes Art & Culture
- Café Clock - This Fes establishment acts is a great place to meet local writers and artists.
- Orientalist Art Gallery - This gallery offers modern works of art by local artists.
- Cinema L’empire - This is the most important film venue in Fes.
- French Institute Library - This library offers books and cultural events celebrating the French influence.
- Cultural Centre - This centre houses the main library of the city, as well as unique local artwork.
Fes Shopping
- Allal’s Art Gallery - One of the best places in Fes to buy local crafts and very high-end metalwork.
- Souk - This market is famous for its coppersmiths, and you can watch the work.
- Talaa Kabira - One of the best shopping districts in Fes for ceramics and local handicrafts.
- Made in Medina - This shop features products made entirely by the local artists.
- Fes el-Bali - The shopping center of Fes, one can find all types of locally made handicrafts.
Gay & Lesbian Fes
- Le Diamant Noir - This is one of Fes’ top gay and lesbian dance clubs.
- Riad dar Dmana - This hotel caters to the gay and lesbian traveller.
- Riad Myra - This hotel in the heart of town offers a warm and cosy atmosphere.
- Riad Verus - This gay friendly hotel offers a mix of traditional Fes and modern conveniences.
- Riad Damia Fes - The central patio area of this hotel is a great place to meet new people.
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- Overview
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Place Batha Istiqlal Fes
Offering comfortable accommodation and excellent services, Batha Hotel Fes is ideal for all type of travellers... More hotel details
De La Paix Hotel Fez
3 Stars- Overview
- Description
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44 Avenue Hassan Ii Fez
De La Paix Hotel Fez provides you all the modern facilities and conveniences required for a wonderful and an enjoyable... More hotel details
Fes Inn Hotel Fez
3 Stars- Overview
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47 Rue 2 Sidi Brahim Villa Meuvelle Fez
Offering excellent accommodation and convenient facilities, this property is an ideal place for you to reside... More hotel details
Barcelo Fes Medina Hotel
4 Stars- Overview
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53 Avenue Hassan II Fes 30000
Barcelo Fes Medina Hotel is a peaceful refuge in the heart of the medina and a hotel located on the edge of Fes, Imper... More hotel details
Menzeh Zalagh Hotel Fez
4 Stars- Overview
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10 Rue Mohamed Diour Fez 30000
Offering ultimate luxury and excellent services, the Menzeh Zalagh Hotel Fez makes your stay a truly memorable one... More hotel details
Riad Dar Dmana
4 Stars- Overview
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20 Rue Salaj Douh Batha Fez 30000
Offering comfortable accommodation and convenient facilities, the Riad Dar Dmana provides you with all of the quality ... More hotel details
Riad Yacout Hotel Fes
4 Stars- Overview
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Derb Guebbass Batha Fes Medina Fes 30200
Riad Yacout Hotel Fes is a former private residence of a wealthy merchant of the early last century. It enjoys an idea... More hotel details
Sidi Harazem
4 Stars- Overview
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Sidi Harazem Fes 30000
With its suitable accommodations and gracious service, Sidi Harazem offers travellers a comfortable base while in Fes.... More hotel details
Wassim Hotel Fez
4 Stars- Overview
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Avenue Hassan II Rue Du Liban Fez 30000
Whether you are in Fez for business or pleasure, the Wassim Hotel is a perfect place to stay, offering good value for ... More hotel details
Palais Alfirdaous Fes Hotel
5 Stars- Overview
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10 Rue Zenjfour Bab Guissa Fez 30200
Featuring luxurious accommodation and excellent facilities, Palais Alfirdaous Fes Hotel is a chic haven of peace, whic... More hotel details
Other Recommended Hotels
| Ramada Hotel Fes | 5 Stars |
| Riad Arabesque Fez | 5 Stars |
| Riad Dar Al Andalous Fez | 5 Stars |
| Riad Fez Yamanda Hotel | 5 Stars |
| Riad Sara Hotel Fez | 5 Stars |
| Sofitel Fes Palais Jamai Hotel | 5 Stars |
| Zalagh Parc Palace Hotel Fez | 5 Stars |
| Dar Calipau Fez | 3 Stars |
| Zahrat Al Jabal Hotel Fez | 3.5 Stars |
