Fez is Morocco’s cultural capital and a rewarding destination, but it helps to arrive prepared. The medina can overwhelm first-time visitors, and practical details like transport, money, and safety are different from coastal resort towns. Here’s everything you need to know before travelling to Fez, based on firsthand experience and local knowledge. For monthly temperatures and rainfall data, see our Fez weather by month. For a complete overview, visit our Fez travel guide.
Fez Travel Tips: Airport and Arrival
Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ) is 15 km south of the city centre. It’s a small, single-terminal airport served by Ryanair, Air Arabia, Royal Air Maroc, and seasonal European charter flights. There is no train station at the airport. Your options for getting to the city: To choose the best season for your trip, read our guide to the best time to visit Fez.
- Airport taxi: Official petit taxis wait outside the terminal. The fare to the medina is 100 to 150 MAD (US$10 to $15) and takes 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic. Insist on the meter or agree a fare before getting in. Taxis cannot enter the medina itself; you’ll be dropped at the nearest gate (Bab Bou Jeloud or Bab Rcif) and will need to walk or hire a porter for your luggage (20 to 50 MAD tip).
- Airport bus (line 16): Runs to the central bus station and Gare de Fes train station. Fare is 4 MAD (US$0.40). Buses run roughly hourly from 6am to 9pm. The journey takes 40 to 50 minutes. From the train station, take a taxi to the medina for 15 to 20 MAD.
- Private transfer: Most riads can arrange private airport pickup for 150 to 200 MAD (US$15 to $20). The driver will meet you in the arrivals hall, and many will arrange a porter to carry your bags to the riad door. Book at least 24 hours ahead.
Fez Travel Tips: Train Connections
Gare de Fes (Fes Ville) is the main train station, located in Ville Nouvelle. ONCF trains connect Fez to Casablanca (3.5 hours, 150 to 250 MAD), Rabat (2.5 hours, 100 to 180 MAD), Meknes (40 minutes, 30 to 50 MAD), Marrakech (6.5 hours, 250 to 400 MAD), and Tangier (4 hours via the Al Boraq high-speed line from Kenitra). The station has a cafe, ATMs, and a taxi rank. Trains are generally punctual and comfortable; first-class compartments cost about 30 percent more and guarantee a seat. Book tickets at the station or on the ONCF website (oncf.ma). The station is a 15-minute taxi ride from Bab Bou Jeloud (15 to 20 MAD). Find the top attractions in our guide to things to do in Fez.
Fez Travel Tips: Getting Around the City
Within the medina, you walk. Cars cannot enter Fes el Bali. The medina is a labyrinth; Google Maps is unreliable because GPS signals bounce off the narrow walls. Download offline Maps.me or OsmAnd (better for pedestrian alleys). Petits taxis (small red cars) operate outside the medina walls and in Ville Nouvelle. They take up to 3 passengers, are metered, and short trips cost 7 to 15 MAD (US$0.70 to $1.50). Grands taxis (old Mercedes sedans) run fixed routes and shared rides between cities. Buses are cheap (4 MAD) but crowded and slow. For day trips, hire a grand taxi for a half-day or full-day (300 to 600 MAD/US$30 to $60 depending on distance). Our Fez events and festivals guide lists all major annual events.
Fez Travel Tips: Money and Costs
The currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). As of mid-2026, 1 USD is approximately 10 MAD, and 1 EUR is approximately 11 MAD. Cash is king in Fez, especially in the medina. ATMs are available at Bab Bou Jeloud, Ville Nouvelle, and the train station. Most riads accept credit cards, but small shops, cafes, market stalls, and taxis are cash-only. Carry small bills (20 and 50 MAD notes) for taxis and tips. Foreign currency exchange is available at the airport and banks in Ville Nouvelle; rates are better in the city. Budget daily costs: backpacker 250 to 400 MAD (US$25 to $40), mid-range 600 to 1,000 MAD ($60 to $100), luxury 1,500+ MAD ($150+). Learn about each area in our Fez neighborhoods guide.
Fez Travel Tips: Visa and Entry Requirements
Visitors from the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. On entry, you’ll fill in a landing card (distributed on the plane or at the airport). No COVID-19 vaccination or test requirements are currently in place (June 2026), but check before travel as rules can change. For other nationalities, check with the Moroccan embassy or consulate in your home country before booking. For accommodation recommendations, see where to stay in Fez.
Fez Travel Tips: Safety and Scams
Fez is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams are common in the medina. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main issues to watch for:
- False guides: Men offering to show you the way to the tanneries or the best view will demand 50 to 200 MAD after leading you through a few alleys. Politely say “la, shukran” (no, thank you) and keep walking. If you do want a guide, hire an official one through your riad or the tourist office (300 to 400 MAD for a half-day).
- Overpricing: Assume the first price quoted in the souk is 50 to 100 percent above the real price. Bargaining is expected. Start at 30 to 40 percent of the quoted price and negotiate to about 50 to 60 percent. Be polite, smile, and don’t be afraid to walk away.
- Pickpocketing: Keep valuables in a money belt or zipped inner pocket. The medina’s crowded alleys around Bab Bou Jeloud and the tanneries are the hotspots. Avoid keeping phones or wallets in back pockets.
- Hashish offers: Men may offer to sell you hashish, particularly in the evening. It’s illegal in Morocco despite being common. Politely decline and move on.
- Women travellers: Fez is conservative. Dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered. Avoid eye contact with men on the street to discourage unwanted attention. Most women travellers report feeling safe during the day; avoid walking alone in isolated alleys at night.
Fez Travel Tips: Tipping and Etiquette
Tipping (baksheesh) is expected for many services. Restaurants: 10 percent if service isn’t included. Taxis: round up to the nearest 5 or 10 MAD. Porters: 20 to 50 MAD depending on distance and bags. Hammam scrub: 20 to 30 MAD. Tour guides: 50 to 100 MAD per person for a half-day. Street parking attendants: 5 MAD. Tipping is not obligatory but refusing to tip for genuine help (directions, carrying bags) causes offence. Use your right hand for eating, passing money, and greeting. The left hand is considered unclean.
Fez Travel Tips: Food and Water Safety
Tap water in Fez is chlorinated and technically safe, but most visitors drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues. Bottled water costs 5 to 10 MAD for 1.5 litres. Avoid ice in drinks from street stalls. Street food is generally safe if it’s cooked in front of you and turnover is high. Cafe Clock, The Ruined Garden, and Dar Roumana are reliable sit-down options. The medina’s food stalls in Place Rcif serve grilled meats, soups, and fresh juices. If you get diarrhoea, Imodium is available at pharmacies (20 MAD) without a prescription.
Suggested Hotels in Fez
Riad Fes – Relais & Chateaux
A 5-star riad set in a restored 14th-century palace with a rooftop pool, hammam, and cocktail bar. The architecture blends period details with contemporary comfort and Atlas Mountain views from the terrace. Best for couples and luxury travellers seeking the finest riad experience in Fez. Check rates and availability
Riad Laaroussa Hotel and Spa
An 8-room 17th-century riad with a large garden courtyard, hammam, and peaceful rooftop terrace. The owners personally manage the property and the service is consistently praised. Best for travellers who want a quiet, romantic riad with a personal touch. Check rates and availability
Riad Verus
A budget riad near Bab Bou Jeloud with dormitory beds from 80 MAD (US$8) and private rooms from 250 MAD ($25). Clean, social, and with a rooftop terrace and free breakfast. Best for backpackers, solo travellers, and anyone who wants a medina location on a hostel budget. Check rates and availability
