Hotels in Fès

Fès: Medieval Medina and Artisan Traditions

Fès is Morocco's oldest imperial city, founded in 789 CE by Idris I on the banks of the Jawhar River. The medina of Fès el-Bali — a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981 — contains over 9,000 lanes and is widely regarded as the largest car-free urban area in the world. The Chouara Tannery, visible from leather shop terraces near Rue Chouara, has operated since the 11th century, dyeing hides in stone vats using saffron, poppy, and indigo. The University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded 859 CE, is recorded by UNESCO as the world's oldest continuously operating university.

Where to Stay in Fès

Most hotels concentrate in two areas. Fès el-Bali (the old medina) offers traditional riads — courtyard guesthouses with hand-carved plasterwork — within walking distance of the tanneries and the Bou Inania Madrasa (14th century). Ville Nouvelle, the French colonial district 3 km west, holds larger modern hotels along Avenue Hassan II with easier vehicle access.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Fès-Saïss Airport (FEZ) receives direct flights from Paris, Brussels, and Amsterdam; the city centre is 15 km south.
• Getting around: the medina is pedestrian-only; petit-taxis cover Ville Nouvelle to medina gates for under 30 MAD.
• Best time to visit: April–May and September–October avoid summer heat above 38 °C.
• Currency: Moroccan dirham (MAD); most riads accept cash only.