Fez has three distinct urban zones, each with a different character, history, and practical feel for visitors. Fes el Bali is the ancient walled medina (a UNESCO World Heritage site) and where you’ll spend most of your time. Fes el Jdid is the 13th-century royal quarter adjoining it. Ville Nouvelle is the French-built new city from the colonial era. Here’s a detailed guide to each neighborhood, including what they’re known for, who they suit, and average accommodation costs. For monthly temperatures and rainfall data, see our Fez weather by month. For accommodation recommendations, see where to stay in Fez. For a complete overview, visit our Fez travel guide.
Fez Neighborhoods: Fes el Bali (The Old Medina)
Fes el Bali is the oldest walled part of Fez, founded in the 9th century. It’s the largest car-free urban zone in the world, with 9,400 alleys that range from bustling market streets to quiet residential dead-ends. This UNESCO World Heritage site contains nearly all of Fez’s major attractions: the Bou Inania and Al-Attarine Madrasas, the Chouara Tanneries, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, and the Moulay Idriss II shrine. Getting lost is part of the experience; Google Maps is unreliable in the narrow lanes. The medina is divided into two main thoroughfares: Talaa Kebira (the larger street, more shops and restaurants) and Talaa Seghira (quieter, more residential). Accommodation here is almost entirely in riads, traditional courtyard guesthouses with 5 to 15 rooms. Average riad prices: 400 to 800 MAD (US$40 to $80) for mid-range, 1,000 to 2,500 MAD ($100 to $250) for luxury. Best for first-time visitors, photographers, and anyone who wants the immersive medina experience. Not ideal if you can’t handle stairs, narrow spaces, or persistent shopkeepers. To choose the best season for your trip, read our guide to the best time to visit Fez. Practical information is in our Fez travel tips guide.
Fez Neighborhoods: Fes el Jdid (The Royal Quarter)
Fes el Jdid (New Fez) was founded in 1276 by the Marinid sultans as an administrative and military extension of the old medina. It is calmer and more structured than Fes el Bali, with wider streets and less intense market activity. The area centres around the Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen), whose brass gates are a popular photo stop. The Mellah (Jewish Quarter) is adjacent, with a Jewish cemetery and the Aben Danan Synagogue (restored, open to visitors; entry 20 MAD). Fes el Jdid’s streets are easier to navigate and less crowded than the old medina. It has fewer riad accommodations but a handful of excellent options. Average riad prices: 350 to 700 MAD (US$35 to $70). Best for travellers who want to be near the medina but prefer a quieter, less chaotic base. Also good for those visiting the Royal Palace and Mellah. The walk from Fes el Jdid to Bab Bou Jeloud (the Blue Gate) takes about 15 minutes through the connecting streets. Find the top attractions in our guide to things to do in Fez.
Fez Neighborhoods: Ville Nouvelle (New City)
Ville Nouvelle was built by the French during the protectorate period (1912 to 1956) and sits southwest of the medina. This is the modern part of Fez, with wide boulevards, European-style cafes, bank branches, chain hotels, and the Gare de Fes train station. Avenue Hassan II is the main thoroughfare, lined with palm trees, restaurants serving alcohol, and patisseries. The neighbourhood has no medieval charm but offers reliable WiFi, air conditioning, ATMs that work, and bars (the medina has none). Hotels range from budget Ibis to the 5-star Palais Medina Riad Resort. Average hotel prices: 300 to 600 MAD (US$30 to $60) for mid-range, 800 to 1,500 MAD ($80 to $150) for upscale. Best for business travellers, those who want modern amenities and reliable internet, and anyone using Fez as a base for day trips (easy access to the train station and main roads). Not recommended if you want an atmospheric Fez experience; the commute to the medina by taxi costs 15 to 20 MAD (US$1.50 to $2) and takes 10 to 15 minutes each way. Our Fez events and festivals guide lists all major annual events.
