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

Should you visit Fez or Washington?

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 Washington 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 colorful, cultural, and ancient city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Washington

Washington is a diverse, active, and monument-filled city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Fez and Washington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Good for hiking
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Fez or Washington?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Washington than Fez. While Fez is larger than Washington, Washington has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Washington is very popular for its theatre productions, nightlife, music, hiking, and quaint atmosphere, while Fez attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Washington is more touristy than Fez and is known for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House. Fez is famous for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes.

How is Fez different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Washington 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 Washington?

Fez
Washington

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Fez and Washington.

The museums and tourist attractions in Fez are world-renowned. 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.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Washington on the map. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.


Is Fez or Washington Better for Theater?

Fez
Washington

Washington is an excellent place to visit for its theatre productions. However, Fez is not a theatre destination.

Washington attracts a wide-range of world-class performances. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Fez is not a theatre destination.

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

Fez
Washington

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

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.

Eat your way through Washington, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Fez or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Fez
Washington

Washington is an excellent place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Fez is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

Washington has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.

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 Fez or Washington Better for Music?

Fez
Washington

Washington is a city with good options for its live music scene. However, Fez is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Fez is not a live music destination.

Is Fez or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Fez
Washington

Fez is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

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

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Fez or Washington Better for Hiking?

Fez
Washington

Washington is a decent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Fez is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

Fez is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Fez or Washington?

Fez
Washington

Fez is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Fez. 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Fez or Washington Better for Christmas?

Fez
Washington

Washington is a must-visit destination for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Fez does not offer Christmas activities.

Known for its popular Christmas activities, Washington draws large crowds. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Fez does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Fez or Washington Better for Families?

Fez
Washington

Washington 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, Washington is very family-friendly. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Fez or Washington Better for Couples?

Fez
Washington

Both Fez and Washington are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Fez makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

Couples visit Washington frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Fez or Washington Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fez
Washington

Fez is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Washington is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Fez. 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.

Washington is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it is an international travel destination, the city often isn't at the top of most backpacker's lists. There are some affordable accommodation options available though if you know where to look.

Is Fez or Washington Better for Students?

Fez
Washington

Washington is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Fez is not popular with students.

Washington is a very popular city for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Fez is not popular with students.


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

Fez
Washington

Washington is a must-visit destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Fez is lacking in options for its public transit.

Washington has a world-class public transit network to take passengers everywhere in the city. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington a more walkable city?

Fez
Washington

Washington 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 Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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 Washington Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Washington or Fez?

How long in Fez or Washington?

Both Fez and Washington have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Washington than in Fez. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Fez, and 3-7 days is enough time in Washington.

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

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


  • How many days in Fez or Washington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Fez 3-5 
    Washington 3-7

One day in Fez or Washington?

When visiting Fez, people usually allow for lots of time. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With museums and theater around the international big city of Washington, there's plenty to do. 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.


A weekend in Fez or Washington?

When visiting Fez, people usually allow for lots of time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many people visit Washington for a weekend. With theater and nightlife around the active city of Washington, there's plenty to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Fez or Washington?

Fez, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this city. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With nightlife and live music around the big city destination of Washington, there's plenty to do. Many people spend five days here. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Fez or Washington?

Fez is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Washington, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Morocco, The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Washington 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 Washington is $198. 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 Washington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Fez $28
    Washington $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Fez $56
    Washington $226
Compare Hotels in Fez and Washington

Looking for a hotel in Fez or Washington? 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 Washington


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 Washington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Fez $4.94
    Washington $47
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 (FES) Airport to Chefchaouen: $293
  • Private Transfer from Meknes to Casablanca (CMN) Airport: $293
  • One-Way Transfer from Fez to Marrakech: $275
  • One-Way Private Transfer from Fes to Casablanca: $274
  • Transfer Fes Airport to Safi: $257
  • Transfer Fes Airport to Marrakech: $257
  • Fes to Chefchaouen: Private Transfer (English Speaking Driver): $244
  • Transfer Fes to Agadir: $242
  • transfer from Fez to Marrakech Airport or city.: $231
  • transfers from Fez to Marrakech (Airport or city/Door to Door): $231
  • One-Way Transfer from Fez to Tanger via chefchaouen : $220
  • Transfer From Fez To Tangier (Private): $218

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Washington, DC: Airport Transfer to/from DCA or IAD: $350
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • Washington to Newark Airport Departure Private Transfer: $187
  • Washington to NY Kennedy Airport(JFK)- Departure Private Transfer: $199
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA): Transfer to Washington: $174
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $52
  • Washington DC: Private Transfer to Airports or Baltimore: $160
  • Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110
  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Washington Airport (DCA) to Washington RoundTrip Private Transfer: $116

Is it cheaper to fly into Fez or Washington?

Prices for flights to both Washington 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
    Washington $38
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: $42
  • 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
  • Tour to Fez Morocco with Lunch or Dinner: $53
  • The Best Cooking Class in Fez: $55
  • Cooking Local Tajine Class in Fez: $55
  • fez cooking tour: $57
  • Full Day Fes Cooking Class Experience: $59

Typical Food Prices in Washington

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Washington:


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $69
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
  • Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $85
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise: $144
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $152
  • Private Traditional Filipino Cooking Class Near Washington DC : $154

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Fez $6.19
    Washington $24
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:

  • Fez day Tour with Local Guide & driver : $72
  • Private Tour with official guide & Driver for Fez city: $132
  • 2 Day Luxury Desert Tour from Fes to Fes or Marrakech: $124
  • 2 Days / 1 Nights, Fes To Fes Desert Tour: $277
  • 2 Days Merzouga Desert Tour from Fes: $177
  • 2 Days luxury desert tour from Fes: $285
  • 2 days Fes to Fes desert tour via Merzouga Sahara: $241
  • 2 days tours from Fez to Fez: $283
  • 2-Day Merzouga Desert Tour from Fez: $186
  • 2-Day small group desert tour from fes: $186
  • 2-Days Fes Desert Tours with Overnight in Luxury Camp: $285
  • 3 Days 2 Magic Night Merzouga Desert Tour From Fes & Back to Fes: $182

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • See DC In A Day: Guided Small Group Ultimate Day Tour : $99
  • 2 For 1! DC Highlights & Arlington Cemetery Tour Bundle: $84
  • 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill: $55
  • 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour in Washington DC: $25
  • 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour : $75
  • 2-Hour National Mall Walking Tour from Washington DC: $25
  • 4 Hours Washington Tour with Boat Cruise: $169
  • A 9D Salt Cave Experience: $95
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Washington DC's Monumental Marvels: $25
  • Admission & Guided Tour of Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria: $99
  • African American History Private Tour w/ Museum Entry: $450
  • African American History Tour with Museum Admission: $89

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Fez -
    Washington $19

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: $252

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.: $59
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
  • Full-Day Private Virginia Wine Tour Experience from Washington : $242
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Fez and Washington, we can see that Washington 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 Washington is in North America, 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 Washington would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Washington 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 Washington Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Fez or Washington?

Fez has a larger population, and is about 75% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Fez and Washington, 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.