A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bali vs. Fez for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Bali or Fez?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bali and Fez can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bali

Bali is a cultural, stunning, and tropical island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Fez

Fez is a colorful, cultural, and ancient city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Bali and Fez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bali or Fez?

You'll generally find more things to do in Fez than Bali. Fez is bigger than Bali, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Fez is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Bali is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Bali is more touristy than Fez and is popular for its many temples, beautiful beaches, world class scuba diving, and cultural retreats. Fez is well known for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes. Also, Fez is famous for the Chouara Tannery.

The Chouara Tannery

How is Bali different from Fez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Fez and Bali. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bali or Fez?

Fez is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Fez are among the most recognizable in the world. Tucked into the medina are ancient mosques, historic universities, and beautiful gardens. Highlights of the city include Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, Dar Batha (a palace and museum), and Medersa Bou Inania (a former theological college). Another not to be missed sight is the tanneries. You'll likely smell them before you see them, but the history is truly impressive.

Bali does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Bali or Fez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Bali and Fez offer a number of amazing restaurants to choose from.

Bali has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is rich and diverse with a lot of spices and complex flavors. Turmeric is a common spice and many dishes use coconut milk. Popular local dishes include Nasi Ayam (a chicken dish), Satay (grilled chicken), and Babi Guling (a pork dish).

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Fez is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Some of the best food in Morocco can be found in Fez. Head away from the main gates and the major tourist routes to find more local restaurants. Every visitor must try tagine. It's not actually a recipe but instead a cooking pot and technique. If you order a tagine, you'll enjoy a stew like dish that's slow cooked and usually made with lamb or chicken although vegetarian options are often available. Other dishes to try include couscous and pastilla. Pastilla is a pastry covered chicken dish that is seasoned with cinnamon and sugar.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Nightlife?

Bali is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Fez is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Bali is a world class party destination. The island is known for its crazy raves and all night pool parties. There are multi-story dance clubs as well as upscale bars and beach clubs that host parties late into the night. The best nightlife areas are around Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Fez. It's a conservative city and the nightlife reflects that. You'll find some bars in the major hotel chains and you can often find alcohol at the more expensive restaurants.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Resorts?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its luxury resorts. However, Fez is not a resort destination.

Bali is a world class resort vacation destination. The island has resorts as well as private villas that cater to everyone from celebrities to families or even budget travelers. Private villas offer a more secluded vacation while resorts usually have more amenities and the opportunity to socialize with other guests. There are also many family-friendly resorts around the island.

Fez is not a resort destination.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Fez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Bali is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. The waters are crystal clear and the marine life is abundant making scuba diving and snorkeling popular around the island. There are many snorkeling day trips that you can arrange and there are also dive shops that will take you out on the water.

Fez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Beaches?

Bali is a must-visit destination for the beache. However, Fez is not a beach destination.

Bali is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island is large enough that it has a diversity of beach styles. There are popular beaches with water sports as well as secluded bays where you can enjoy a more peaceful setting. Some beaches are dramatic with limestone cliffs while others are lined with palm trees.

Fez is not a beach destination.

Is Bali or Fez Better for its Old Town?

Fez is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Bali does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Fez can be explored in its historical center. The walled medina offers a maze of streets that are lined with shops selling perfume, spices, street food, and trinkets.

Bali does not have a historic old town.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Hiking?

Bali is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Fez is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Bali. Walking on the island is beautiful and with its varied landscapes you can explore scenic rice paddies or pristine rainforests. You'll find the most challenging hikes in West Bali National Park, where a guide is recommended, but there are many other shorter hikes on the island that can be explored independently.

Fez is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bali or Fez?

Fez is a must-visit destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bali is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Fez make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to the medina and try your hand at negotiating. There are impressive art shops and hidden gems spread between more touristy shops selling souvenir trinkets.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Bali. A big appeal of shopping on the island is the affordability. There are many local items that are fun to bring home including jewelry, handicrafts, furniture, and clothing.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Families?

Bali is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bali is very family-friendly. The island has countless activities that kids can enjoy. There are watersports, snorkeling, surfing lessons and beautiful beaches. You can also expose your kids to the spiritual side of the island with kid-friendly yoga classes. Animals lovers will enjoy getting to see the monkeys up close and for a unique culinary experience, you can take a family cooking class.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Fez. Kids will enjoy wandering the medina, sampling Moroccan dishes, and trying their hand at bartering for a good price. There are several gardens that offer a quiet oasis from the chaotic streets. There's also baklava and other sweet treats that kids can taste. Many kids enjoy taking a tour to the nearby countryside where they can feed monkeys, hike, and visit local villages.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Couples?

Bali is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Bali is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful island offers stunning beaches, adventure sports, and world class snorkeling. There are beautiful resorts with spas as well as couples yoga classes impressive natural areas.

Couples visit Fez frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Bali and Fez are amazing destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Bali. Backpackers flock to this beautiful island for its stunning setting and affordable accommodation. There are many nice places where backpackers can hang out and get to know other travelers. If you want to get off the beaten path, it's best to head into the countryside and away from the main tourist hubs.

A large number of backpackers visit Fez, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. Prices are very affordable and there are riads that range in price and style. Many restaurants cater to different budgets and most of the entertainment involves wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere.

Is Bali or Fez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bali is a island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Fez is lacking in options for its public transit.

Bali has some public transit options. There are minibuses and tourist shuttle buses around the island. You can also hire a taxi or rent a car, scooter, or bicycle.

Public transit is generally limited in Fez. There's a basic public transportation system with buses and a train station, but you'll likely need to take taxis if you can't walk to a destination. Taxis are affordable and abundant.

Is Bali or Fez a more walkable city?

Fez is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Bali is not a good island for its ease of walking around.

Fez is a very walkable city. The medina can be explored on foot, but it's easy to get lost so allow a lot of time. There are several walking routes through the medina that are marked with colors but you'll likely find yourself wandering on and off the routes as you explore. Outside of the medina, you'll likely want to take a taxi.

Bali is generally not a very walkable island. There are some walkable towns and cities on the island, but many areas can be challenging to navigate on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Bali Worth Visiting? and Is Fez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fez or Bali?

How long in Bali or Fez?

In either Bali or Fez, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Bali than Fez because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Bali, and 3-5 days is enough time in Fez.

Families should spend more time in Bali than Fez. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bali, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Bali than Fez. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bali that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bali than Fez if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bali.

One day in Bali or Fez?

With nightlife and food around the stunning destination of Bali, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Fez is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bali or Fez?

Many people visit Bali for a weekend. With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the frequented island of Bali, there's plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Fez is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bali or Fez?

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Bali, there's plenty to do. Many people spend five days here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Fez is a colorful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

A week in Bali or Fez?

Bali, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

The cultural city of Fez offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Indonesia, The Best G Adventures Tours to Indonesia, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Morocco, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bali and Fez, we can see that Bali is more expensive. And not only is Fez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Bali is in Asia and Fez is in Africa, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Fez would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Fez and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Bali would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bali than you might in Fez.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bali Expensive? and Is Fez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bali or Fez?

Fez has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Bali. When comparing the sizes of Bali and Fez, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.