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

Should you visit Palermo or Fez?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Palermo and Fez 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a diverse, dynamic, and fun city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Fez

Fez is a ancient, winding, and busy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping.

Palermo and Fez: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Fez?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Fez than Palermo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Fez is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Palermo is known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Fez is popular for its ancient medina, gorgeous riads, and amazing local dishes. It is also home to the Chouara Tannery.

The Chouara Tannery

How is Palermo different from Fez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Fez is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Fez on the map. 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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Fez is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its 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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Palermo or Fez Better for Nightlife?

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

Palermo has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Fez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palermo is a city with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Fez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Fez is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palermo or Fez Better for Beaches?

Palermo is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Fez is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Fez is not a beach destination.

Is Palermo or Fez Better for its Old Town?

Fez is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Fez has a world-famous historical area. The walled medina offers a maze of streets that are lined with shops selling perfume, spices, street food, and trinkets.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Fez?

Fez is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for shopping.

Fez is a world class destination for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Is Palermo or Fez Better for Families?

Palermo 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, Palermo is very family-friendly. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or Fez Better for Couples?

Fez is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Fez is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who like an adventure will enjoy soaking up the medina, visiting the gardens, and taking a trip into the countryside.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Fez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Fez is very popular for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Fez is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or Fez Better for Students?

Palermo is a city with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Fez is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Fez is not popular with students.

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

Both Palermo and Fez offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Public transit is mostly 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 Palermo or Fez a more walkable city?

Palermo and Fez both are great when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Fez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Fez or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Fez?

In either Palermo or Fez, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Fez than Palermo because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Palermo, and 3-5 days is enough time in Fez.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Fez than Palermo 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 Palermo or Fez?

With museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Palermo, there's plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

Because Fez is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Palermo or Fez?

Many people visit Palermo for a weekend. With nightlife and food around the colorful city of Palermo, there's plenty to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Because Fez is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Palermo or Fez?

The destination of Palermo offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Fez is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Fez has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Palermo or Fez?

Palermo, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Fez. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Fez. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, 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 Palermo and Fez, we can see that Palermo is more expensive. And not only is Fez much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Palermo is in Europe 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 Palermo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Palermo 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 Palermo Expensive? and Is Fez Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Fez?

Fez has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Palermo. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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.