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

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?

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?

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 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?

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?

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?

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 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 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 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?

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 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.

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.

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.