For many first-time visitors to Morocco (especially those who are short on time), there’s a big decision to make - should you visit Fes or Marrakech? These two former Imperial cities share a lot in common and it can be difficult to set them apart. Both centre around UNESCO World Heritage-listed medinas and ooze old-world charm, with amazing souks (the shopping in both is great), gorgeous riads and welcoming locals who deliver exceptional Moroccan hospitality.
That being said, there are some distinctions in the Fes vs Marrakech comparison and if you don’t have time to visit both, there is one city that may be more appealing to you. This article is all about figuring that out by providing information on what you can expect in each destination and deciding (for you) which is better, Fes or Marrakech.
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VISIT FES if you want a more “authentic” cultural experience, with incredible architecture, photogenic tanneries and some stunning traditional riads. Fes is also the home of Fassi cuisine and has been dubbed the "Foodie Capital of Morocco”, making it a great place to do a cooking class.
VISIT MARRAKECH if you want buzzing souks, energised nightlife and more of a “worldly” feel, with globally-inspired restaurants and the footprint of influential individuals from around the world. This extends to Marrakech’s gardens and riads, several of which have been conceived by international designers.
Fes vs Marrakech: Reasons to visit Fes
Located in the northeast of Morocco (inland from Rabat and south of Tangier), Fes is the older (it was founded in the 8th century) and more traditional of the two cities. It lies along the banks of the Oued Fes near the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and has long been considered the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco.
Its sprawling medina, Fes El Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, set within ancient walls and historically an important centre of religious learning. Its labyrinth of narrow alleyways is dotted with ancient mosques, madrasas and bustling souks selling everything from colourful textiles to fragrant spices. Yes, it’s easy to get lost here but the same applies in the Marrakech medina!
In my opinion, Fes has a more laid-back and "intellectual" atmosphere. It boasts an abundance of fascinating historical sites, including one of the world’s oldest universities and several beautiful madrasas (Islamic schools), and I've been hassled far less here than in Marrakech. Fes is also the culinary capital of Morocco, with lots of local specialties based on Fassi traditions. In my opinion, Fes is one of the best places to do a cooking class in Morocco!
Fes overflows with cultural treasures - Medersa Bou Inania, Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and Al Attarine Madrasa to name just a few - and will appeal to those captivated by traditional Moroccan architecture. It’s also home to one of the oldest leather tanneries in the world, the Chouara Tannery, where you can watch hides being dyed as they have been for hundreds of years.
If you’re using Fes as a base, there are some wonderful day trips on offer, including to the Imperial city of Meknes, the holy town of Moulay Idriss and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. It can also be used as a gateway for visiting the blue-hued city of Chefchaouen, which lies in the Rif Mountains around 3.5 hours' drive to the north.
Fes vs Marrakech: Which city should you visit in 2025?
Fes vs Marrakech: Reasons to visit Marrakech
Perhaps more famous than Fes is Marrakech, which lies in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains around six hours drive southwest of Fes. It has been nicknamed the “Red City” due to its ochre-hued architecture and has captured the imagination of everyone from Winston Churchill to Yves Saint Laurent.
Surrounded by walls, Marrakech's densely packed medina dates from the 11th century when it was founded as the capital of the Amoravid dynasty and it’s packed with architectural gems. There are some gorgeous palaces here, such as Palais Bahia and Palais El Badi, as well as tombs dating from the Saadian era. Compared to Fes, I find the Marrakech medina much simpler to navigate, with many of the streets well-marked and several main thoroughfares where you can get your bearings.
Another major point of reference is Djemaa el-Fnaa, a huge square that serves as a meeting point. After dark, it transforms into a dining and entertainment destination, with food stalls, markets and street performers. While I think Djemaa el-Fnaa is worth experiencing if you’re in Marrakech, it can feel like a bit of a tourist-trap and I prefer soaking up all the action from a rooftop terrace overlooking the square.
Of the two cities, Marrakech offers more “luxury” experiences, from its five-star riads to its high-end hammams and fine-dining restaurants. Here, you can dine on food from around the globe, in addition to all the Moroccan favourites (often with a gourmet twist). At the other end of the spectrum, some travellers love Marrakech for its easily-accessible street food experiences - you can try everything from snail soup to harira soup and flaky b’stilla pastries filled with pigeon meat.
Generally speaking, Marrakech has more points of interest - you could probably spend longer here than in Fes - and there’s a greater diversity of attractions (historic madrasas, cultural museums and design-led gardens). It can also be used as a base for visiting the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou, the film studios of Ouarzazate and the Sahara Desert on an overnight trip. Alternatively, you can travel between Marrakech and Fes on a multi-day Sahara adventure, taking in the gorgeous Dades and Todra gorges along the way.
Fes vs Marrakech: Which city should you visit in 2025?
Accommodation in Marrakech vs Fes
Whether you’re visiting Marrakech or Fes, you have some incredible accommodation options at your disposal. Both cities are renowned for their riads (historic homes that have been transformed into hotels) and staying in these stunning abodes really is a not-to-miss Morocco experience (in my opinion at least).
Hidden behind the modest entrances of riads are exquisite architectural features (colourful tilework, elegant arches and decorative plasterwork), as well as central patios that serve as a social heart. With their enchanting atmospheres and boutique feel, staying in a riad is a really special experience that stands in stark contrast to that of run-of-the-mill hotels.
Compared to Marrakech, the riads in Fes tend to be more traditional - most have been lovingly restored while highlighting original features. You can find everything from budget riads to luxurious properties, complete with opulent spas and rooftop restaurants. Due to the hilly nature of Fes, the views from many of its riad terraces are incredible, with the medina sprawling all around you!
In contrast, Marrakech has a greater diversity of riads - you can find traditional residences as well as more contemporary properties designed by acclaimed international creatives. The blending of historic features and modern design elements is inspiring and I love discovering a new Marrakech riad every time I stay.
While some have a bohemian feel to them, others are filled with original artworks and several have plunge pools (perfect for summertime visits!) The views from the rooftops are also wonderful, with some offering panoramas of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. Some of my best memories of Marrakech are sitting on a riad terrace at sunset listening to the call to prayer ring out across the city.
When it comes to the question: “Which is better, Fes or Marrakech?” it’s a bit of a stalemate on the accommodation front. My only advice would be to steer clear of the international chain hotels located outside the medinas and take the plunge on a riad stay - it really is a quintessentially Moroccan experience and Fes and Marrakech deliver some of the country’s best!
Fes vs Marrakech: Which city should you visit in 2025?
Getting around Marrakech vs Fes
Travelling to both Fes and Marrakech is relatively straightforward, with both cities served by their own international airports - Fes–Saïss Airport and Marrakech Menara Airport. That being said, most of the flights to Fes are from domestic or European destinations, so if you’re coming from further afield, you’ll need to fly into Casablanca or Marrakech first. Marrakech Menara Airport handles a far greater number of flights, including to/from major transit hubs like Doha (for those coming from Asia and Oceania) and North American destinations.
Casablanca's Mohammed V International Airport serves as the country's main international hub, with the greatest number of global flights landing daily. It has direct connections from several destinations in the Middle East (Dubai and Abu Dhabi included), as well as major African cities. Whether you travel by road or train, Casablanca is around three hours from both Fes and Marrakech, so it may be logistically easier to arrive there, then travel overland.
Once in Morocco, both Fes and Marrakech are well-connected to other major cities via an extensive network of trains and buses. If you’re travelling between the two cities, it’s 530 kilometres (329 miles), with the journey taking around six or seven hours. The train is usually the most comfortable option, although there are multiple buses a day between Fes and Marrakech with CTM. It’s also possible to fly directly from Fes to Marrakech with RyanAir, with a flight time of 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Fes vs Marrakech: Which city should you visit in 2025?
Weather in Fes vs Marrakech
When it comes to weather, the inland cities of Fes and Marrakech share many similarities, but also a few notable differences. Both cities experience an extreme climate characterised by hot, dry summers and cool winters. However, as Fes is located slightly further north, it is usually a couple of degrees cooler, making it a good choice if you’re visiting in July or August.
At the peak of summer, daytime temperatures in Marrakech often soar above 38°C (100°F), making sightseeing uncomfortable for some. During this period, finding a riad with air conditioning is an absolute necessity. The intensity of the heat is amplified by the cities' locations away from the moderating influence of the coast.
In contrast, winters can get quite chilly, especially at night, with temperatures sometimes dipping to as low as 5°C (40°F) in Fes and one or two degrees warmer in Marrakech. While neither city experiences a lot of rain, Fes tends to be wetter than Marrakech.
The best time to visit either Fes or Marrakech is during the spring or autumn, particularly during the months of April, May, September and October. At these times, temperatures are warm but not scorching and the weather is dry and sunny. If you’re sensitive to extreme heat and need to travel during the summertime, opt for Fes over Marrakech.
Which is better: Marrakech or Fes?
Should I visit Fes or Marrakech? Which is better for travel in 2025?
Both Fes and Marrakech are captivating destinations for travellers seeking to discover Morocco for the first time. The one that’s right for you depends on your interests, the experience you want to have and the season you plan on travelling.
Fes, with its labyrinthine medina seemingly frozen in time, offers a unique glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage. Wandering the narrow, winding alleyways, you'll encounter ancient mosques, historic madrasas and traditional craftsmen practicing time-honoured trades, from weaving textiles to dyeing leather in centuries-old tanneries. You can stay in authentic riads that have been beautifully preserved with original architectural features and benefit from slightly cooler temps at the height of summer.
In contrast, Marrakech pulses with a more cosmopolitan energy, seamlessly blending its storied past with modern sensibilities. In the bustling souks, you can haggle for everything from hand-woven rugs to glittering lanterns, while the city’s trendy restaurants serve up global cuisine with a Moroccan twist. Marrakech offers more for luxury travellers, with design-led riads and stunning hotels with palatial suites. As night falls, you can socialise at rooftop bars with sweeping views of Djemaa el-Fnaa or pulsing nightclubs that attract an international crowd.
Ultimately, the choice between Fes and Marrakech in 2025 depends on your travel style and preferences. If you crave a deeply authentic and immersive cultural experience, Fes is the perfect choice. But if you desire a more cosmopolitan and worldly adventure with a wider range of modern amenities, Marrakech is calling!
Which is better: Marrakech or Fes?
FAQs about visiting Marrakech vs Fes
Which is better Fes or Marrakech?
Both Fes and Marrakech are lively Moroccan cities with atmospheric medinas, colourful souks and wonderful architecture. While Fes is considered the cultural capital of Morocco and perhaps the more “authentic” of the two cities, Marrakech feels more tourist-oriented and “worldly”.
In the “Red City”, you’ll find a huge choice of luxury accommodation and globally-inspired restaurants, as well as a bigger nightlife scene. Fes tends to be more reserved, with beautifully preserved old riads, fascinating museums and historic madrasas dating from its time as a centre of Islamic learning.
Is Fes worth visiting?
Yes, not only is Fes one of Morocco’s oldest cities but its medina has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This huge pedestrianised zone is filled with souks, tanneries and architectural treasures, including some beautifully restored riad hotels. Fes is also considered the culinary capital of Morocco and home to unique Fassi cuisine.
How many days in Fes and Marrakech?
After deciding which city is better, Fes or Marrakech, I’d recommend you plan at least two nights (ideally three) in either. That will give you time to discover the highlights at a leisurely pace and enjoy some “downtime” at your riad.
If you want to make a day trip from either Fes or Marrakech, add extra nights onto your itinerary accordingly. I’d also suggest giving yourself at least an extra half day if you plan on doing some serious shopping in the souks, particularly if it involves big purchases like rugs, leather goods or hanging lamps. If you’re rushed into making purchases, you’re likely to spend more and end up with something that’s not exactly what you wanted.
How far is Fes from Marrakech?
Fes and Marrakech are approximately 530 kilometres (329 miles) away from each other. You can travel between these two Moroccan cities by car, train or bus, with the journey taking between six and seven hours. Whether you choose public transport or drive, you'll likely pass through Casablanca and Rabat along the way.
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About the author
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 majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.