Fes is a blend of old and new, famous for its rich culture and history. Founded in the 8th century, its medina is a marvel of over 1200 years of history. The Blue Gate, Bab Boujeloud, leads to a maze of colorful streets and lively souqs.
Visitors are drawn to landmarks like the Medersa Bou Inania and the University of al-Qarawiyyin. It’s the oldest university in the world.
The markets in Fes are a feast for the senses, offering delicious food and handmade crafts. The city’s unique layout, with steep valleys, makes it stand out from places like Marrakech. This creates a special atmosphere that feels both cozy and grand.
The best hotels in Fes capture this spirit, offering a unique stay that connects you with the local culture. They provide a mix of exclusivity and personalized service.
Why Choose Fes for Your Next Vacation
Fes is known as the “Athens of Africa” for its rich history and culture. The city’s Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site with over 9,000 narrow alleys. These alleys form a complex maze that visitors love to explore.
Every corner of Fes offers something special. You’ll find important landmarks and lively local scenes. This makes your visit truly memorable.
Visiting Fes lets you dive into Moroccan traditions. The University of Al Quaraouiyine is the oldest university in the world, dating back to 859 AD. It shows the city’s deep educational roots.
Joining in local celebrations adds to the fun. The Mid al-Adha festival is a big event with hundreds of goats being sacrificed. It’s a unique experience that shows Fes’s cultural heart.
Don’t miss out on trying local food. Places like Dar El Ghalia offer traditional meals. These meals are served in multiple courses, encouraging socializing.
For relaxation, try a Hammam experience. Prices range from $60 to $160. Fes values wellness and beauty, making it perfect for a unique vacation.
Exploring the Best Hotels in Fes, Morocco
Fes, Morocco, is famous for its rich history and lively culture. It has many great places to stay. Whether you’re looking for something fancy or something more affordable, Fes has it all. These hotels are great for exploring the city’s streets and historical sites.
Top-Rated Hotels in Fes
The Riad Fes is a top choice, located in the city’s heart. It’s known for its beautiful craftsmanship. It has fourteen rooms, a pool, and a spa, perfect for unwinding.
Hotel Sahrai is another great option. It’s in the hills, offering stunning views and an infinity pool. Its modern style stands out against Fes’ traditional charm.
Luxury Accommodations in Fes, Morocco
The Riad Norma is a luxury spot with seven rooms and a shared plunge pool. It mixes Moroccan style with modern comforts. Riad Idrissy, run by a former Maitre D’ of The Ivy, has five stylish rooms for a unique stay.
Each hotel focuses on comfort and is close to major sights. This makes your visit to Fes even better.
Boutique Hotels in Fes
Boutique hotels in Fes stand out for their unique design and personalized service. They are often found in beautifully restored riads. These places show off local architecture and culture, bringing visitors close to Moroccan heritage.
For those who prefer a cozy stay, boutique hotels are a great choice. They offer a more intimate experience compared to big hotels.
Unique Features of Boutique Hotels
Boutique hotels in Fes Morocco are known for their attention to detail. They feature charming Moroccan tile work and ornate furnishings. The service is also more personal, with staff ready to meet your needs and give you special tips.
Guests can enjoy rooftop terraces, relaxing patios, and spa experiences. These add to the stay, offering peace in the busy medina.
Recommended Boutique Hotels
Riad Fès is a top pick for those looking for a special stay in Fes Morocco. It’s known for its mix of traditional and modern, earning a spot on Forbes’ list of Morocco’s “Sexiest Hotels.”
It has a 14-meter pool, a rooftop with amazing views, and a patio for relaxation. The food is a mix of French and local Fassi dishes, offering a taste of Morocco. Riad Fès also focuses on luxury and wellness, with spa treatments by Cinq Mondes & marocMaroc.
5-Star Hotels in Fes
Fes, Morocco, is home to several top-notch 5-star hotels. These places offer the best in luxury and service. The Palais Amani is a standout, with a 90% average rating from 425 reviews. It combines old-world charm with modern comforts for today’s guests.
The Riad Fes also shines, with a 94% rating from 541 reviews. It’s known for creating unforgettable stays in luxurious settings. The Palais Faraj is another gem, with an 85% rating from 292 reviews. It showcases Moroccan art beautifully, blending culture with luxury.
The Palais de Fes is unique, with a mix of three palaces. It offers a magical experience. Each detail is crafted with care, making it special.
These hotels in Fes offer more than just a place to stay. They provide a warm welcome, beautiful interiors, and top-notch service. Guests can enjoy these luxury stays and experience true Moroccan hospitality.
Best Places to Stay in Fes, Morocco
Fes is a captivating destination, and the right accommodation makes it even better. Exclusive accommodations in Fes let guests dive into Moroccan culture while enjoying unique comforts. Riad Fes and Hotel Sahrai are great examples, offering luxury and a rich history.
Exclusive Accommodations in Fes
Riad Fes is made up of five riads from the 17th to 20th centuries. It has 33 rooms with both modern and traditional designs. The pool is 14 meters long, a peaceful spot in the city.
Hotel Sahrai opened in 2014 and has 50 stylish rooms. It’s part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. The Givenchy Spa offers a luxurious experience with five treatment rooms and a heated Jacuzzi.
Benefits of Staying Near the Medina
Staying near the medina makes exploring Fes easy. Riad Fes is in the heart of Fes El Bali, close to attractions like the Chouara Tannery. There are many dining options, with riad restaurants serving gourmet Moroccan and international dishes.
Guests can try dishes like Quail Pastilla, inspired by Fassi tradition. The panoramic terrace at Riad Fes offers stunning views, especially at sunset. It makes for a memorable and culturally rich stay.
Luxury Accommodations in Fes
Luxury in Fes, Morocco, combines opulence with cultural heritage. The Palais de Fes opened in 2020, bringing together the Tazi family’s decades of experience. It offers five elegant suites and a private riad, blending modern comfort with 14th-century architecture.
The Dar Tazi restaurant is a symbol of Moroccan hospitality, serving gourmet dishes for over 40 years. It mixes French haute cuisine with Fassi flavors, showcasing the best of Fes Morocco’s hotels. The pool area, designed by Christophe Pillet, adds a modern touch to the historic setting.
The hotel boasts a 14-meter swimming pool and rooftop areas with panoramic views of Fes. It offers unique experiences like Yoga Retreats and romantic dinners. Guests can also enjoy a flexible cancellation policy for direct bookings.
A new extension is set to open in May, adding to Fes Morocco’s luxury offerings. The suites will have unique color palettes and a stunning 40-foot-high ceiling. Guests can look forward to a range of spa treatments for a rejuvenating stay.
Local Insights: Hotels Outside the Medina
Looking for a peaceful stay in Fes? Hotels outside the medina offer a calm retreat. Palais Faraj Suites & Spa and Palais Amani are top picks. They are close to the city’s lively center.
Palais Faraj Suites & Spa is in a 19th-century palace. It’s a 15-minute walk from Medersa Bou-Inania. It has a 4.9 rating from 13 reviews.
Riad Laaroussa is a 5.0-rated gem with 8 reviews. It’s in a 17th-century building. It’s a 10-minute walk from the medina’s main spots.
Riad El Yacout is a comfort stay. It’s just 5 minutes from Medersa Bou-Inania. These hotels offer history, gardens, and modern comforts.
Riad El Amine Fès is a luxury choice. It has a 4.5 rating. It’s close to key attractions. Staying here means comfort and easy access to Fes’s history and culture.
Conclusion
Fes is a city filled with history and culture. It has many places to stay, from luxury hotels to cozy riads. The Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux and Dar Seffarine are top choices. They offer more than just a place to sleep; they open doors to Fes’s rich heritage.
Travel tips for Fes include booking early. Riads are popular and often fill up fast. Also, try the local food, like at Palais Amani. There, you can take cooking classes and taste Morocco’s flavors.
Fes is a city that will capture your heart. Its architecture, markets, and people are all welcoming. Staying at one of the best hotels in Fes will make your trip unforgettable. It will be filled with memories that show the true spirit of this ancient city.
