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

Should you visit Fez or Sestri Levante?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Fez and Sestri Levante can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Fez

Fez is a ancient, winding, and busy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a relaxing, quiet, and scenic seaside town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food and beaches.

Fez and Sestri Levante: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Fez or Sestri Levante?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Fez. Although Fez and Sestri Levante are both popular with visitors, Fez has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Fez is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Sestri Levante is known for its resorts, beaches, and small town charm. Fez is popular for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes. It is also home to the Chouara Tannery. Sestri Levante is popular for its two bays and coastal setting.

the Chouara Tannery
The Chouara Tannery

How is Fez different from Sestri Levante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Fez or Sestri Levante?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Fez is renowned for its historical sights. However, Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Fez has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Fez
Sestri Levante

Fez is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Fez have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sestri Levante makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

Is Fez or Sestri Levante Better for Nightlife?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Neither Fez or Sestri Levante offer decent nightlife.

Fez doesn't offer many options. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sestri Levante. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Fez or Sestri Levante Better for Resorts?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a seaside town with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Fez is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Sestri Levante makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

Fez is not a resort destination.


Is Fez or Sestri Levante Better for Beaches?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a seaside town with good options for the beache. However, Fez is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Sestri Levante. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Fez is not a beach destination.

Is Fez or Sestri Levante Better for its Old Town?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Fez is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Sestri Levante does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Fez is one of the most recognized in the world. The walled medina offers a maze of streets that are lined with shops selling perfume, spices, street food, and trinkets.

Sestri Levante does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Fez or Sestri Levante?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Fez is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Fez specifically to go shopping. 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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Fez or Sestri Levante Better for Families?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Both Fez and Sestri Levante are good to visit with kids.

Fez is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Sestri Levante. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

Is Fez or Sestri Levante Better for Couples?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Fez is great for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

Fez is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.

Is Fez or Sestri Levante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Fez is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Fez, as it is a very popular city 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.


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

Fez
Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a seaside town with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Fez is lacking in options for its public transit.

Sestri Levante has some public transit options. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

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 Fez or Sestri Levante a more walkable city?

Fez
Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Fez is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Sestri Levante. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

Fez is a very walkable destination. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Sestri Levante or Fez?

How long in Fez or Sestri Levante?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Fez and Sestri Levante. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Fez than in Sestri Levante. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Fez, and 1-3 days is enough time in Sestri Levante.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fez than Sestri Levante 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 Fez.


  • How many days in Fez or Sestri Levante? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fez 3-5 
    Sestri Levante 1-3

One day in Fez or Sestri Levante?

Because Fez is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Visiting the old town is also a must. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Sestri Levante is a small town with plenty to do. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Fez or Sestri Levante?

Fez is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many people visit Sestri Levante for a weekend. Sestri Levante might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Fez or Sestri Levante?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fez. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Because Sestri Levante is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. It offers something for everyone. Five days 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.

A week in Fez or Sestri Levante?

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the city of Fez. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Sestri Levante, a popular seaside town, is full of activities for travelers. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Morocco, The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, and The Best Historical Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Sestri Levante or Fez?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Fez is $53, while the average daily cost in Sestri Levante is $153. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Fez and Sestri Levante in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fez $28
    Sestri Levante $80
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fez $56
    Sestri Levante $160
Compare Hotels in Fez and Sestri Levante

Looking for a hotel in Fez or Sestri Levante? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Fez


Hotels in Sestri Levante


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Fez Hotel Prices and Sestri Levante Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fez $4.95
    Sestri Levante $60
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Fez

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Fez:


  • Taxi Ride
    $1.99

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fez

Also for Fez, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Fes to Casablanca: $294
  • Private Transfer from Meknes to Casablanca (CMN) Airport: $291
  • Private Transfer Casablanca - Fes / Fes - Casablanca: $291
  • One-Way Transfer from Fez to Marrakech: $274
  • Fes to Chefchaouen: Private Transfer (English Speaking Driver): $244
  • Transfer Fes to Agadir: $241
  • transfers from Fez to Marrakech (Airport or city/Door to Door): $230
  • One-Way Transfer from Fez to Tanger via chefchaouen : $219
  • private one-way transfer from Fes to Marrrakech: $218
  • One Way Private transfer from Fes to Chefchaouen: $213
  • Private one-way transfer Fes to Marrakech : $209
  • Transfer from Fez to Casablanca (private): $202

Is it cheaper to fly into Fez or Sestri Levante?

Prices for flights to both Sestri Levante and Fez change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Fez $18
    Sestri Levante $36
Typical Food Prices in Fez

For Fez, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Yogurt
    $0.60
  • Dinner for 2
    $11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Fez

For Fez, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Lunch/Dinner with Moroccan family : $27
  • Moroccan Romantic Dinner in Fez: $33
  • Baking Workshops at Fez Cooking School at Palais Amani: $41
  • Private Home hosted Experience in Morocco with Dinner Included: $43
  • cooking classe in fes with ouliya: $44
  • Cooking Class with Bread Workshop and Pastry in Fes: $44
  • Cooking Class - Moroccan cuisine: $49
  • Fes Family Cooking Class: $50
  • Tour to Fez Morocco with Lunch or Dinner: $52
  • The Best Cooking Class in Fez: $55
  • Private 5 h Fez Cooking Class with a local family: $55
  • fez cooking tour: $57

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fez $6.21
    Sestri Levante $27
Typical Entertainment Prices in Fez

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Fez's activities, tours, and tickets:


  • Granary Fee
    $1.99

Tours and Activities in Fez

For Fez, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2Days Share Tour From Fes To Marrakech Via Sahara Desert Morocco: $133
  • Tour in The Most Beautiful Spots: $212
  • walking Tour in the oldest part of Fez (3-4 hours): $33
  • 2 Days / 1 Nights, Fes To Fes Desert Tour: $277
  • 2 Days Desert Tour From Fez To Merzouga Dunes & Camel Trek and back to Fez: $291
  • 2 Days Luxury Tour to Merzouga Desert from Fez with Small Group: $251
  • 2 Days Tour From Fes To Marrakech Via Merzouga Desert: $153
  • 2 days Fes to Fes desert tour via Merzouga Sahara: $240
  • 2-Day Merzouga Desert Tour from Fez: $185
  • 2-Day small group desert tour from fes: $185
  • 2D/1N Private Desert tour from Fez to Fez(Including luxury tent): $272
  • 3 Days 2 Nights Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech via erg Chebbi: $207

Tours and Activities in Sestri Levante

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sestri Levante.

  • Punta Manara Hiking Tour: $503

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fez -
    Sestri Levante $8.42

Sample the Local Flavors in Fez

Also in Fez, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Full-Day Boutique Winery and Wine Tasting Tour from Fez: $251


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fez and Sestri Levante, we can see that Sestri Levante is more expensive. And not only is Fez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Fez is in Africa and Sestri Levante is in Europe, 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 Sestri Levante would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sestri Levante 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 Fez Expensive? and Is Sestri Levante Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fez or Sestri Levante?

Fez has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Sestri Levante. When comparing the sizes of Fez and Sestri Levante, 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.