Nestled in the heart of Morocco, Fez is a city steeped in history and regal charm, often regarded as the cultural and spiritual capital of the country. Founded in the 9th century, it boasts a legacy of dynasties, including the Marinids and Almoravids, who transformed Fez into a hub of learning, craftsmanship, and architectural splendor.
The city’s medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets brimming with centuries-old mosques, madrasas, and bustling souks. Known as the cradle of Moroccan royalty, Fez offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of sultans through its exquisite riads—luxury guesthouses that blend traditional Moroccan design with modern indulgence. If you’re looking for a stay fit for royalty, these best riads in Fez promise an unforgettable experience.
In This Review
What Is a Riad?
Most riads in Morocco hold a rich history, as they were once the homes of influential and affluent figures such as royal family members, high-ranking state officials, and prosperous merchants dealing in luxuries like spices, silk, and gold.
These residences served not only as homes but also as symbols of their owners’ prestige and refined taste. However, in Moroccan culture of the time, openly displaying wealth was considered improper. As a result, the exterior of these riads was deliberately understated, with plain walls and modest doorways that concealed the opulent beauty within.
Step inside, and you’ll find a stunning world of intricate zellige mosaics, hand-carved cedarwood, and breathtaking plasterwork. The central courtyard, often adorned with a fountain or garden, was designed as a private oasis, allowing families to enjoy their wealth discreetly and in harmony with cultural values.
Today, many of these riads have been thoughtfully converted into boutique hotels or guesthouses, offering travelers a chance to experience their historic charm. However, keep in mind that these buildings are centuries old, and their design reflects the traditions of a bygone era.ss beauty of Moroccan heritage.
Riads vs. Hotels
Riads and hotels offer distinctly different experiences for travelers in Morocco. Traditional hotels are typically designed for convenience, with features like multiple restaurants, expansive pools, and elevators. They cater to guests seeking modern facilities and a predictable experience.
In contrast, riads emphasize intimacy and cultural authenticity. Staying in a riad allows you to connect with Morocco’s rich heritage through unique decor, traditional architecture, and personalized service. Each riad has its own character, often showcasing handcrafted details and a serene atmosphere centered around an inner courtyard.
While riads offer charm and history, it’s essential to understand their limitations compared to modern hotels:
- No Windows to the Street: Riads prioritize privacy, so rooms generally open onto the courtyard rather than the street, resulting in softer, ambient lighting.
- Modern Conveniences: Many riads have adapted with amenities like air conditioning and hot showers, but architectural constraints often mean features like elevators or extensive facilities are not available.
Both options have their appeal, but a stay in a riad offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Moroccan culture and enjoy the historical charm of these preserved structures. As part of Fez’s UNESCO World Heritage medina, riads are a gateway to experiencing the city’s traditions and timeless beauty.
5 Best Riads in Fez
Riad Fès, Relais & Châteaux
Riad Fès, part of the prestigious Relais & Châteaux network, combines traditional Andalusian-Moroccan design with modern comforts. The property is an authentic example of Hispanic-Moorish architecture, featuring four intricately styled patios with sculpted doors, zellige tilework, stucco arcades, and marble basins. Its location in the heart of the Fez medina offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the Atlas Mountains and the bustling UNESCO-listed old city.
Accommodation and Amenities
The riad offers air-conditioned rooms and suites furnished with Oriental-inspired decor. Each room includes modern conveniences such as a flat-screen satellite TV, a seating area, a desk, a safety deposit box, and private bathrooms equipped with bathrobes and slippers. Unlike many traditional riads, Riad Fès accepts online payments and credit cards.
Dining
The on-site restaurant serves a blend of authentic Moroccan and international cuisine. Guests can enjoy meals in the elegant dining room or on the rooftop terrace, which provides striking views of the medina. The riad also offers a wine-tasting experience, adding a unique touch to its culinary offerings.
Facilities
- Spa and Wellness Centre: Guests can unwind in the hammam or indulge in a massage.
- Swimming Pool: The riad has two swimming pools. An outdoor pool offers a tranquil space to relax, and an indoor heated pool.
- Terrace: A panoramic terrace provides stunning views of the Atlas Mountains and medina.
- Additional Services: Parking, airport shuttle, currency exchange, tour desk, and free Wi-Fi are available.
- Bar and Lounge: A trendy lounge bar complements the riad’s sophisticated ambiance.
Location
Conveniently located 15 km from Fès International Airport, the riad is situated within walking distance of many key attractions in the medina. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the city’s cultural and historical landmarks.
Riad Fès Relais & Châteaux combines centuries-old architectural elegance with thoughtful modern enhancements, offering a luxurious stay for those seeking both cultural immersion and contemporary conveniences making it of the best riads in Fez.
Karawan Riad
Located in the Andalusian Quarter of the Fez medina, Karawan Riad, one of the best riads in Fez is a restored palace offering a luxurious blend of history, culture, and modern comfort. This riad features seven individually designed suites, each reflecting unique Moroccan craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Its location within the UNESCO-listed medina places it in proximity to key landmarks, including the Karaouiyne Mosque, just 600 meters away.
Accommodation and Amenities
Karawan Riad offers seven spacious suites, each featuring king-size beds, high-quality linens, and working desks. Rooms are equipped with underfloor heating, discreet air conditioning, and luxurious organic toiletries. Guests will also find modern conveniences such as iPod docks, seating areas, and private bathrooms complete with bathrobes, slippers, and either a bath or shower.
While maintaining its historic charm, the riad ensures year-round comfort by providing effective climate control systems in each suite. Check-in is at 3 PM, and check-out is at 12 PM, though early check-in may be accommodated if the room is ready. Unlike many traditional riads in Fez, Karawan Riad also accepts online payments and credit cards.
Dining
The Karawan Restaurant offers fine dining inspired by local Moroccan traditions. Overseen by a talented young Moroccan chef, the restaurant serves gourmet dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a blend of exotic spices. Guests can enjoy their meals in an intimate and relaxed setting, embodying both luxury and authenticity.
Facilities
- Hammam: Guests can rejuvenate with ancient Moroccan beauty rituals in the on-site luxury hammam.
- Terrace: A serene rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the medina.
- Concierge Services: The riad provides personalized assistance with cultural tours, shopping trips, cooking classes, and heritage site visits. They can also arrange reservations at local restaurants and tickets for events.
- Laundry and Ironing: Laundry services are available, with items returned the next day.
- Private Transfers: The riad offers private chauffeur services for airport transfers and excursions to nearby attractions.
Location
Situated just 14 km from Saïss Airport, Karawan Riad provides a convenient base for exploring Fez and its surroundings. Its location in the Andalusian Quarter makes it easily accessible and ideal for immersing in the medina’s cultural and historical wonders.
Karawan Riad combines the grandeur of its historical roots with contemporary comforts, offering a refined experience that blends the mystique of Fez with modern luxury. Its attention to detail and commitment to hospitality make it a standout choice for discerning travelers, and one of the best riads in Fez.
Riad Dilar Fès & Spa
Riad Dilar Fès & Spa offers a traditional Moroccan charm, situated conveniently on the outskirts of the Fez medina. Located just 100 meters from Batha Square and 500 meters from Medersa Bouanania, the riad provides easy access to key landmarks while remaining a short walk from areas where vehicles can drop off passengers—a notable advantage in a medina largely inaccessible to cars. This strategic location makes it both accessible and peaceful for guests.
Accommodation and Amenities
The riad features a variety of rooms, including ground floor options for disabled guests. Each room and suite is equipped with a flat-screen satellite TV, and private bathrooms with showers and hair dryers. Linens and towels are provided in all rooms, and some units include a private patio overlooking the inner courtyard. Unlike many traditional riads, Riad Dilar accepts online payments, credit cards and bank transfers.
Dining
Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast with options including continental, vegetarian dishes and traditional Moroccan options, along with local specialties such as fresh pastries and tangines. Meals are prepared by Moroccan chefs using organic, locally sourced ingredients.
Facilities
- Airport Shuttle: A paid airport shuttle service is available 24h for guests traveling to and from Fès–Saïs Airport, located 17 km away.
- Dining: The riad features a restaurant serving lunch and dinner, offering authentic Moroccan and Fassi cuisine prepared using traditional cooking methods. For guests with special requests, the kitchen can accommodate dishes not listed on the menu, ensuring a tailored dining experience.
- Sightseeing Tours: The riad offers guided tours to explore the medina and surrounding areas.
- Additional Services: High speed WiFi, hammam, on site parking, and family-friendly accommodations are available.
Location
Riad Dilar, considered one of the best riads in Fez, is situated just outside the bustling heart of the medina, providing a quiet retreat while still being within a minute’s walk of the nearest transport drop-off point. Notable attractions, such as Bab Bou Jeloud (500 meters away) and the Royal Palace (1.8 km), are easily accessible, and Fès Railway Station is just 3.5 km from the property.
Riad Alassala
Riad Alassala is a restored 19th-century palace converted into a hotel blending traditional Moroccan heritage with modern comforts. Situated in the heart of Fez’s medina, the riad offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling streets, with an ambiance reminiscent of a noble Fassi family residence. Its location provides convenient access to iconic landmarks, including the Quaraouine Mosque, Bab Boujloud (the Blue Gate), and various historical sites, shops, and restaurants.
Accommodation and Amenities
The riad features five suites and four bedrooms, combining traditional Moroccan design. Rooms are adorned with handcrafted decor and offer comfortable amenities. Guests can expect personalized service, including assistance with parking and luggage. The central courtyard showcases a classic 19th-century fountain surrounded by orange, lemon, banana trees, and palms, creating a serene and inspiring atmosphere.
Dining
The riad’s on-site restaurant serves a range of traditional Moroccan dishes in an authentic and intimate setting. Guests can enjoy their meals in the charming courtyard or one of the elegantly appointed dining areas.
Facilities
- Panoramic Views: A terrace provides stunning vistas of the Fez medina and the distant Atlas Mountains.
- Central Courtyard: The spacious patio, featuring lush greenery and a historic fountain, offers a peaceful retreat.
- Additional Services: The riad provides personalized services tailored to guest needs, including meticulous attention to detail for returning visitors.
Location
Riad Alassala considered one of the best riads in Fez, is centrally located, offering easy access to many of Fez’s most notable attractions. A short walk takes guests to the historic Quaraouine Mosque, Bab Boujloud, and various cultural and entertainment venues.
Combining centuries-old craftsmanship with modern hospitality, Riad Alassala provides an elegant base for those exploring the rich cultural and historical tapestry of Fez. Its central location and serene ambiance make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking both convenience and authenticity.
Riad Mayfez Suites & Spa
Riad Mayfez Suites & Spa, located in the heart of Fez’s UNESCO-listed medina, offers an intimate and exclusive experience, blending traditional Moroccan charm with modern amenities. This 19th-century palace, once owned by a Vizir, reflects a unique architectural style that combines Arabic-Moorish features with Art Deco influences. Carefully restored since its acquisition in 2006, the riad preserves its historical essence while catering to the needs of modern luxury travelers.
Accommodation and Amenities
With just seven suites, the riad emphasizes privacy and personalized service. Each suite is distinctively decorated, paying tribute to both Eastern and Western influences, with meticulous attention to detail in features like painted cedar panels and carved plaster. Modern amenities include air conditioning, a heated outdoor swimming pool, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, and a lift disguised as a travel trunk. A dedicated butler ensures that each guest’s stay is tailored to their preferences.
Dining
The riad’s restaurant serves Moroccan cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients, requiring advance orders to maintain the quality of dishes. Guests can enjoy their meals in the dining area, on the rooftop terrace, or as part of a picnic hamper for excursions. Snacks, homemade sorbets, ice creams, and biscuits are available throughout the day.
Facilities
- Heated Outdoor Swimming Pool: A black marble pool in the courtyard offers a serene retreat.
- Spa and Hammam: Guests can indulge in organic traditional treatments as well as Carita and Clarins services.
- Library and Billiard Room: Spaces for relaxation with books in multiple languages and recreational activities.
- Boutique: The in-house shop offers unique products such as homemade jams, biscuits, argan oil, black soap, and a collection of leather goods, jewelry, and ready-to-wear pieces inspired by Moroccan traditions.
Location
Nestled in the bustling medina of Fez, Riad Mayfez Suites & Spa, regarded as one of the best riads in Fez, is ideally situated for exploring the city’s historical and cultural landmarks. Its proximity to key sites makes it a convenient base for travelers.
Riad Mayfez combines the atmosphere of a private residence with the services of a luxury hotel, offering a unique blend of heritage, creativity, and exclusivity. With its thoughtful design and personalized service, the riad provides an exceptional experience for those seeking a balance between history and modern comfort.
Conclusion
Fez is a city where history and culture converge, offering a unique opportunity to explore Morocco’s architectural and artistic heritage. Staying in one of these best riads in Fez provides more than just accommodation; it allows you to experience the traditional Moroccan way of life in buildings that have stood for centuries. These properties, from the intricate design of Riad Fès to the intimate setting of Riad Mayfez Suites & Spa, reflect a balance of historical preservation and modern adaptations.
While these riads offer charm and authenticity, it’s important to approach your stay with an understanding of their historical context. The architecture prioritizes privacy and traditional values, which means modern conveniences like elevators or large windows may be limited. However, the cultural experience of staying in a restored palace or merchant’s home outweighs these small adjustments.
Choosing one of these best riads in Fez is a way to connect with the city’s history and gain a deeper appreciation for its architectural and cultural significance. These unique accommodations serve as a gateway to discovering the city, offering a stay rooted in the traditions and stories of Morocco’s past.
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