A Travel Price Comparison for Morocco Marrakech vs. Fez for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Marrakech or Fez?

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

Should I visit Marrakech or Fez? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Marrakech

Marrakech is a cultural, high-energy, and fascinating 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 Marrakech is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums. See Marrakech travel costs.

Fez

Fez is a busy, colorful, and cultural city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. Fez is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and shopping. See Fez travel costs.

Marrakech and Fez: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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


Is there more to do in Marrakech or Fez?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Marrakech. Although Marrakech and Fez are both popular with visitors, Marrakech has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Marrakech is more popular for its nightlife, while Fez is known for its museums and attractions, food, and impressive beauty. Marrakech is more touristy than Fez and is known for its colorful medina, festive night market, and beautiful palaces. It is also home to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Fez is popular for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes.

How is Marrakech different from Fez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Marrakech
Fez

Fez is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Many visitors head to Marrakech specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While wandering the medina is an attraction in and of itself, there are also several sights that you should specifically check out. The iconic Djemaa el-Fnaa, or the city's main square, is best visited as the sun goes down. Other notable landmarks include Koutoubia Mosque, Majorelle Gardens, and Medersa Ben Youssef.


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

Marrakech
Fez

Fez is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Fez is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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, Marrakech makes for a great culinary experience. Moroccan food is amazing and you'll enjoy grilled meats, tagines, couscous, and more. The city is more touristy than some parts of Morocco so you'll find the quality of the food can vary a bit, but it's still a culinary delight. Marrakesh is also a great city for taking a cooking class.

Is Marrakech or Fez Better for Nightlife?

Marrakech
Fez

Marrakech is a city with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Fez is lacking in options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Marrakech. Although alcohol is hard to come by, you'll find it in most western style restaurants and high end hotel chains. The city has more bars and nightclubs than you'd expect. There's also a great nighttime energy with many locals heading outside in the evening. Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, comes to life with street vendors, performers, and people during the nighttime hours.

Fez is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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 Marrakech or Fez Better for its Old Town?

Marrakech
Fez

It's fun to wander around the terrific old towns in both Marrakech and Fez.

With a famous historical old-town, Marrakech offers plenty to see. The historic medina is filled with spices, antiques, art, and pottery. The culture and experience of wandering the medina will have you feeling like you stepped back in time.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Marrakech or Fez?

Marrakech
Fez

Shoppers can find a variety of terrific stores in both Marrakech and Fez.

Many people travel to Marrakech specifically to go shopping. Shop your way through the street stalls and sample perfumes, spices, produce, and more. You'll find everything from souvenir trinkets to local items and authentic antiques.

Fez is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Is Marrakech or Fez More Beautiful?

Marrakech
Fez

Fez is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Marrakech is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Fez is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The beauty of this city lies in its impromptu style and mazelike setting.

Marrakech is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It is most beautiful as the sun sinks low and the color become strikingly pink.

Is Marrakech or Fez Better for Families?

Marrakech
Fez

Marrakech 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, Marrakech is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring a new culture and wandering through the medina. The food is very kid-friendly and during the evening the main square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, comes to life with street performers, vendors, and entertainment. Families can also take cooking classes or head into the desert for a camel trek.

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 Marrakech or Fez Better for Couples?

Marrakech
Fez

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

Marrakech is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. There are many wonderful restaurants and fascinating places for couples to explores. Wandering the medina or visiting the gardens make for a romantic and adventurous getaway.

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 Marrakech or Fez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Marrakech
Fez

Marrakech and Fez are both terrific destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Marrakech, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city is very affordable and there are countless riads that are budget-friendly. There are enough backpackers around town that it's not hard to meet fellow travelers.

Fez is a mecca for backpackers and 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 Marrakech or Fez Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Marrakech
Fez

Visitors will find decent public transit in both Marrakech and Fez.

Public transit is mostly limited in Marrakech. While there are local buses, most people take taxis around town when they can't walk. Taxis are affordable and convenient.

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 Marrakech or Fez a more walkable city?

Marrakech
Fez

Marrakech and Fez are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Marrakech is a very walkable destination. The medina is the best area to walk around but it's very easy to get lost. Outside of the medina you'll want to keep your eyes open for motorbikes and the occasional donkey.

Fez is very walkable. 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 Marrakech Worth Visiting? and Is Fez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fez or Marrakech?

How long in Marrakech or Fez?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fez than Marrakech 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 Marrakech or Fez? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marrakech 3-7 
    Fez 3-5

One day in Marrakech or Fez?

When visiting Marrakech, people usually allow for lots of time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Fez. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Marrakech or Fez?

Many people visit Marrakech for a weekend. When visiting Marrakech, people usually allow for lots of time. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find museums and food around the busy big city of Fez. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Marrakech or Fez?

When visiting Marrakech, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the shopping. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find food and shopping around the colorful city of Fez. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.

A week in Marrakech or Fez?

Marrakech, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Visiting the old town is also a must. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Fez is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Morocco, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Morocco, The Best 2-Week Tours in Morocco, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Morocco.


Which place is cheaper, Fez or Marrakech?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Marrakech is $88, while the average daily cost in Fez is $92. 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 Marrakech and Fez in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marrakech $45
    Fez $34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marrakech $90
    Fez $68
Compare Hotels in Marrakech and Fez

Looking for a hotel in Marrakech or Fez? 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 Marrakech


Hotels in Fez


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: Marrakech Hotel Prices and Fez Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marrakech $13
    Fez $16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Marrakech

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

  • private taxi transfer on arrival from Marrakech airport to medina: $6.50
  • airport transfer from Casablanca to Marrakech : $160
  • VIP Moroccan Hammam & Relaxing Massage with Transfer - Marrakech: $5.00
  • Try find your better than us!Airport transfer service in Marrakesh HTL-APT (RAK): $13
  • Try find your better than us!Airport transfer service in Marrakesh APT-HTL (RAK): $13
  • Transfert de Marrakech vers Aeroport Mohamed 5 Casablanca: $126
  • Transfert Privée Aéroport Marrakech vers Essaouira : $103
  • Transfers from Marrakech airport to the city and the medina: $17
  • Transfer from el Jadida to Marrakech riad or hotel or Airport : $195
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Casablanca,Agadir,Essouira and Fez: $229
  • Transfer from Marrakech to Casa-Airport or Casa-Airport to Marrakech: $159
  • Transfer from Marrakech city or Marrakech airport to Casablanca city: $171

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Fez

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


  • Taxi Ride
    $2.15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Fez

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

  • private transfer from fes to Casablanca: $167
  • private transfer fes to casablanca: $121
  • private one-way Transfer from Fes to Casabanca: $130
  • Transfers from Fes Saiss airport to Fes Medina & other Cities: $23
  • Transfer from Fes to Tangier : $183
  • Transfer from Fes to Rabat: $166
  • Transfer from Fes to Rabat: $147
  • Transfer from Fes to Casablanca: $172
  • Transfer from Airport Fez to an Hotel in Fez (Including SIM Card): $11
  • Transfer from Airport Fez to an Hotel in Fez (Including SIM Card): $11
  • Transfer Private From Fes To Tangier: $192
  • Transfer Private From Fes To Marrakesh: $212

Is it cheaper to fly into Marrakech or Fez?

Prices for flights to both Fez and Marrakech 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
    Marrakech $28
    Fez $44
Typical Food Prices in Marrakech

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


  • Orange Juice on the Square
    $0.32
  • Breakfast
    $1.29
  • Dates
    $0.64
  • Olives
    $0.97
  • Sandwich
    $1.39
  • Souvenir Spices
    $6.66

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Marrakech

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

  • ATV Quad in Agafay desert, Dinner, Show & Camel Ride - Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Romantic Dinner in Agafay & Camel Ride with transfer - Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Chez Ali Fantasia folklore Show & Oriental Dinner - Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Agafay Desert Sunset & Romantic Dinner with Transfer – Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Agafay Camel Ride & Romantic Dinner with Transfer - Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Day Trip to Essaouira City with Cooking Class & Lunch - Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Cooking Class learn Full Day Adventure with Lunch - Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Essaouira City Tour with Cooking Class and Lunch - Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Agafay Desert Sunset & Romantic Dinner with Transfers - Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Chez Ali Fantasia Folklore Show With Oriental Dinner – Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Enjoy ATV Quad in Agafay Desert, Sunset Camel & Dinner-Marrakesh: $5.00
  • Delight Moroccan Cooking Class in Essaouira with Lunch- Marrakesh: $5.00

Typical Food Prices in Fez

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


  • Yogurt
    $0.64
  • Dinner for 2
    $12

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 : $29
  • Baking Workshops at Fez Cooking School at Palais Amani: $43
  • Cooking Class with Bread Workshop and Pastry in Fes: $46
  • Cooking Class in Fez with familly: $52
  • Moroccan Cuisine Fez Cooking Class : $52
  • Fez Souk 4-Hour Traditional Home Cooking: $56
  • Private 5 h Fez Cooking Class with a local family: $57
  • fez cooking tour: $60
  • Full Day Fes Cooking Class Experience: $62
  • Tagine cooking class in Fes: $63
  • Fez Street Food Tour: $66
  • Fes Food Tour: $74

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marrakech $11
    Fez $9.72
Typical Entertainment Prices in Marrakech

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


  • Palace Tickets
    $2.15
  • Golf at Atlas Golf
    $61

Tours and Activities in Marrakech

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

  • 2 nights desert tour marrakech: $300
  • 3-Day Marrakech to Merzouga Desert Experience and Camel Trekking: $126
  • Agafay Desert: Three Valley Guided Tour From Marrakech : $22
  • Agafay desert One Day Sightseeing tour by Quad: $240
  • Atlas Mountains Tour & three valleys with camel ride : $14
  • Desert Agafay and Atlas Mountains Day Tour & Camel ride From Marrakech: $17
  • Desert Thrills: Quad Biking Adventures in Palmeraie Marrakech: $52
  • Experience Spa Hammam Massage and Camel tour: $109
  • Experience the desert nomads in Marrakech!: $29
  • From Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Tour & Boat Ride: $24
  • Full Day Guided Tour in Ouzoud Waterfalls : $31
  • Half-Day Quad Bike Experience in Marrakech: $45

Typical Entertainment Prices in Fez

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


  • Granary Fee
    $2.15

Tours and Activities in Fez

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

  • A Unique Experience In Fez With A Guide And A Driver (Full Day): $206
  • Best Tour In Fez Médina With ( Private )Tour Guide: $46
  • Explore Chefchaouen on Shared Bus Tour from Fes: $37
  • Fes to Marrakech via Desert Tour 2 Days 1 Night : $120
  • Fez day Tour with Local Guide & driver : $76
  • Guided Full-Day Tour of Fez with driver&guide: $52
  • 1 night 2 days Desert tour From Fes back to Fes: $100
  • 2 Day Luxury Desert Tour from Fes to Fes or Marrakech: $126
  • 2 Days / 1 Nights, Fes To Fes Desert Tour: $277
  • 2 Days 1 Night Desert Tour from Fes to Marrakech (Luxury Camp ): $149
  • 2 Days Luxury Magic Morocco Desert Tour From Fes To Fes: $166
  • 2 Days Sahara Group Tour Fez to Marrakech via Merzouga: $137

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marrakech $10
    Fez $13


When comparing the travel costs between Marrakech and Fez, we can see that Fez is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Africa, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Marrakech or Fez?

Fez has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Marrakech. When comparing the sizes of Marrakech 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.