11 Budget-Friendly Riads in Fes for an Affordable Stay
Looking for budget-friendly riads in Fes and affordable hotels? Explore this curated collection of cheap accommodation in Fes for couples, families and solo travellers.
Fes is one of Morocco’s most storied cities, with a rich history dating back to its establishment in the 8th century. This ancient imperial capital is wonderful to explore, with beautifully restored madrasas, colourful souks and one of the oldest universities in the world.
Every time I visit Fes, I feel like I’m being transported to another time and place. Wandering around the medina really is an immersive experience!
This is also true when it comes to accommodation. The city boasts an exceptional collection of traditional Moroccan homes (known as riads) that ooze old-world charm. Most are beautifully decorated with artisan treasures and feel like mini sanctuaries with their interior courtyards.
The best part is you don’t have to splash out to enjoy the experience, with plenty of budget riads in Fes to choose from.
Having visited Fes several times, I always love staying at different riads and feel like there is a seemingly endless choice. Whether you’re travelling solo, with a friend or have kids in tow, there are cheap Fes hotels that will not only provide atmospheric accommodation but welcome you like family.
In this article, I’ll share 11 of the best budget-friendly riads in Fes, all of which are either in or on the edge of the medina. This means you’re within walking distance of all the city’s historical attractions, including its legendary souks and and restaurants.
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BEST BUDGET RIADS IN FES
Don’t have time to read the whole article? These are my top recommendations for the best cheap hotels in Fes:
Riad Sara
Best budget riad hotel in Fes with a hammam
Riad Fes Aicha
Best affordable riad hotel in Fes for couples
Dar Dalila
Best affordable boutique hotel in Fes
Riad Le Moucharabieh
Best budget riad hotel in Fes for families
This recently renovated riad is the perfect budget-friendly Fes hotel for families thanks to its well-designed rooms and colourful atmosphere. It is run by a vivacious and welcoming owner who is always eager to offer guests local insights and recommendations.
If you’re travelling with kids in tow, you can opt for the loft-style family suite. It features a queen-sized bed as well as two additional single beds accessed via a wooden staircase.
Alternatively, the Deluxe King Suite features a curtained-off bedroom area where you can tuck the kids into bed before unwinding in the sitting area.
“Unique, quirky design, lovely food and staff, accommodating all of our needs.” – Izabela (read more reviews here)
Riad Fes Aicha
Best affordable riad hotel in Fes for couples
This affordable Fes hotel is tucked away in the maze-like streets of the medina, offering you a chance to fully experience the sights, sounds and scents of Fes without breaking the bank. Each room is beautifully decorated, combining traditional elements with modern amenities, such as satellite TVs and complimentary Wi-Fi.
All of the rooms are configured as either doubles or twins, making this a budget-friendly riad in Fes for couples. Stays include a homemade Moroccan breakfast served in the riad’s peaceful central courtyard or on the rooftop terrace.
What truly makes Riad Fes Aicha special is the warm hospitality of its owner, Omar, who consistently receives glowing reviews from all who visit.
“The best part of our stay was Omar. His genuinely warm care made us feel like family. Omar anticipated our needs and assisted us with a genuine smile and good humor.” – Diana (read more reviews here)
Riad 53 Fes
Best riad hotel in Fes for a budget stay
This budget Fes riad is conveniently located just outside the historic gates that lead into the medina, putting you on the doorstep of all the action. Its roadside setting allows for easy drop-offs and pick-ups. You won’t have to lug your bags through the medina!
The rooms at Riad 53 Fes include doubles, triples and suites, making it a good choice for small groups and families.
In the mornings, you can soak up the sun on the terrace while planning your day’s explorations over the included breakfast. Later, relax on the comfortable loungers in the elegantly adorned salons while chatting with the friendly staff.
The in-house chefs prepare delicious regional dishes. So you can don’t have to venture out for dinner after dark if you don’t want to.
“A true marvel in the medina.” – Katarina (read more reviews here)
Riad Sara
Best budget riad hotel in Fes with a hammam
Nestled in the heart of Batha, just a few steps from Bab Boujloud gate, this cheap Fes riad is a warm and inviting haven. Each of the seven spacious suites is individually decorated. There’s gorgeous tiling on the floors and plasterwork around the ceilings.
A highlight of Riad Sara is its traditional hammam where you can experience an authentic Moroccan bathing ritual.
In addition to its wellness amenities, Riad Sara also boasts a restaurant. Its menu draws on Moroccan and Mediterranean influences, crafted with produce from the property’s own garden.
An added bonus of staying at this affordable Fes riad is its easy accessibility by car. There’s a secure, guarded parking lot conveniently located nearby.
“My stay at Riad Sara was truly exceptional and went beyond all my expectations.” – Kaeko (read more reviews here)
Riad Green House
Best budget riad hotel in Fes for incredible hospitality
Skim through reviews for Riad Green and one thing will immediately stand out. The hospitality and welcome that guests receive here is second to none. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure every guest, from the youngest to the oldest, feels welcomed and cared for, tailoring experiences to suit individual needs and preferences.
Not only that but it’s architecturally gorgeous. The tile designs embellishing the central patio are stunning and several rooms, such as the Family Suite, feature balconies overlooking the medina.
The onsite restaurant serves gourmet meals using locally sourced ingredients and is attentive to various dietary needs.
“Charming, spacious, very comfy riad that you’ll feel at home because of the staff.” – Arun (read more reviews here)
Riad Al Bartal
Best cheap riad hotel in Fes
Set around a plant-filled courtyard, this budget-friendly Fes riad is where I stayed on my last visit to the ancient city. Honestly, it’s an experience I’ll never forget.
Architecturally it embodies the Arab-Andalusian style, with the central patio flanked by columns at each corner and a gallery that spans the perimeter. Blue zellige tiles adorn the floors, while the walls feature stucco lace accented by carved cedar wood.
When you return from the hustle and bustle outside, you can retreat to the library lounge of this affordable Fes riad. Alternatively, climb to the terrace where you’ll be treated to a striking view of the surroundings.
Conveniently located in a quiet and serene area of the medina near Bab Ziat, Riad Al Bartal is deservedly one of the most highly-rated budget hotels in Fes.
“An excellent place to stay in Fes.” – Sandeep (read more reviews here)
Riad Al Makan
Best budget spa hotel in Fes
Tucked away behind a small door on the edge of the medina is this affordable Fes riad with a spa, which provides a welcome escape from the energised pulse of the city. Its thoughtfully-designed interiors are a feast for the senses. The beautiful tilework, ornately-carved furnishings and soothing water features create a luxurious atmosphere (but with affordable rates).
Each morning, guests are treated to a filling breakfast. It’s the perfect way to begin a day of exploration in Fes. Return in the afternoon to indulge in a pampering treatment at the on-site spa (including a hammam) before enjoying a meal on the rooftop terrace.
In addition to the rooms in the main riad, there’s an annex across the street that offers the same level of comfort and service.
“Beautiful and calming stay, it was the highlight of our visit to Fes.” – Rafael (read more reviews here)
Riad Dar Cordoba
Best breakfast at a budget Fes riad
Step inside the central patio of this affordable Fes riad and you’ll be left speechless. Not only by its architectural splendour but also by how little you pay for the privilege of staying here. Handmade textiles decorate the walls and floors of its budget-friendly rooms, which are spacious and with options for couples and travel buddies.
Riad Dar Cordoba is conveniently located just two minutes’ walk from a taxi stand and staff will meet you there to lead you through the medina.
Mornings at this budget-friendly Fes riad begin with a delicious breakfast featuring breads, fresh fruits and eggs. Nights are best spent enjoying a drink on the breezy rooftop terrace.
“The most beautiful riad in Fes!” – Quiriconi (read more reviews here)
Dar Dalila
Best affordable boutique hotel in Fes
Driven by a deep appreciation for Moroccan heritage and culture, owner Geoffroi embarked on a labour of love to create the haven that is Dar Dalila. It has been beautifully renovated by master craftsman and the detail here does not go unnoticed. Neither does the exceptional hospitality of the staff.
Dar Dalila is ideal if you’re looking for an affordable yet luxurious boutique stay in Fes, with just three rooms and suites to choose from. Each has been impeccably decorated with traditional pieces and comes with an ensuite adorned with mosaic-like zellige tiles.
Whether you choose to dine alfresco on the rooftop terrace or opt for an intimate meal inside, the food at this affordable Fes riad is amazing!
“Dar Dalila is probably the most beautiful place we have ever stayed.” – Justyna (read more reviews here)
Riad Rayhana
Best budget riad hotel in Fes with cooking classes
This budget-friendly Fes riad has a light and airy ambiance that provides a welcome respite from the bustling energy of the surrounding streets. Ideally situated near the medina’s main thoroughfare, Riad Rayhana puts you just steps away from the centuries-old architecture and energised markets that make Fes such a captivating destination.
For those travelling with kids, the riad’s spacious family suite is a particular draw, as it can accommodate up to five guests.
But the true highlight of staying at this affordable Fes hotel is its exceptional cuisine. The on-site restaurant serves up mouthwatering examples of traditional Fassi fare. Guests rave about the exceptional quality and authentic flavours of the food, which can be explored firsthand during Riad Rayhana’s hands-on Moroccan cooking classes.
“Excellent value for money – prime location, spacious room, fabulous breakfast, hospitable staff.” – Sheung (read more reviews here)
Dar Shauala
Best budget riad near Bou Inania
Before I go any further, I just want to say that the hospitality and welcome from the staff at Dar Shauala is exceptional! This budget-friendly Fes riad is located smack bang on Rue Talaa Sghira, one of the most important thoroughfares in the medina. There’s no walking down dark alleys at night to reach it.
Despite its location, Dar Shauala is a peaceful retreat, with a range of beautifully decorated rooms designed for solo travellers, couples, groups of friends and families. The whitewashed walls are adorned with colourful textiles while the bathrooms are all spotlessly clean.
Additionally, there’s a rooftop terrace with wonderful views across the medina.
“The rooms were beautiful with a stunning mosaic design on the ceiling, and the balcony overlooked the old city with a charming view.” – Suraaiya (read more reviews here)
Tips for selecting a budget riad in Fes
If you’re considering a budget riad in the Fes medina, keep in mind that the area is pedestrian-only. This means you can’t simply drive up to drop off your luggage.
If you’re driving, there are several secure parking options near the medina entrances, staffed with attendants. It’s much safer to leave your rental car here than on an unattended street.
Once you make your reservation, your hotel or riad will usually reach out to inform you about the best parking options and how to walk to the property. They may even send someone to meet you at the parking area to ensure you don’t get lost.
If you’re taking a taxi from Fes-Saïss Airport, you can use Google Maps to identify the nearest gate (“bab”) to your accommodation.
Most riads and hotels in Fes also provide pickup services from the airport, train or bus station. I highly suggest arranging one for a hassle-free arrival. Alternatively, you can book a secure, fixed-price Fes airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
A driver will be waiting for you with a sign displaying your name. Plus, they will coordinate with someone from the property to assist you at the parking area, often with a luggage trolley, making it easier to navigate the medina. This is definitely more convenient than trying to find your way through the winding streets alone!
When selecting a budget-friendly riad in Fes, remember that the medina has many mosques and the call to prayer rings out multiple times a day. This starts at the break of dawn. If you’re sensitive to noise, it might be a good idea to choose a Fes riad that isn’t directly next to a mosque.
Top tip:
To ensure a good night’s sleep, I recommend bringing earplugs, especially if you’re a light sleeper.
Lastly, be aware that every riad in Fes charges a government-mandated tourist tax, which must be paid directly to the property. This fee is added to the nightly room rate and is usually settled during check-in or check-out.
In the past, this tax could only be paid in cash. But most riads in Fes now accept credit or debit card payments for the tourist tax. This small fee applies to each guest per night, with the exception of children under 12 years old.
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About Me
I’m Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I’ve developed an intense love for Morocco, its incredible landscapes, storied cities and the exceptionally generous hospitality of its people.
Malika in Morocco is a place to share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. As a resource for travellers visiting Morocco, I want to encourage others to experience this captivating destination the way they desire, whether that’s independently or under the expert guidance of local tour operators.
I believe strongly in supporting responsible and sustainable tourism initiatives while inspiring travel experiences that are life-impacting and mutually beneficial for both travellers and locals.
