A Complete Guide to Moroccan Riads in Fes 2026 – How to Choose the Perfect One & the Best Ones Right Now
Fes has more authentic riads than any other city in Morocco. Over 400 restored 14th–19th century merchant palaces are now boutique guesthouses hidden behind plain wooden doors in the world’s largest car-free medina. Each one is unique, but they all share carved plaster, zellige floors, painted cedar ceilings, and a central courtyard that feels like stepping into another century.
This 2026 guide tells you everything you need to know before booking — plus the current top riads in every price category (actually visited and vetted in 2025–2026).
What Makes a Riad in Fes Different?
- Built 300–600 years ago as wealthy family homes
- Inward-facing architecture (no windows to the street for privacy)
- Usually 5–15 rooms only → intimate and quiet
- Location inside the medina = you live the real Fes (but you’ll walk 5–15 min to a taxi)
- Breakfast on the rooftop with 360° medina views is standard
The 4 Main Riad Neighborhoods in Fes Medina
- Ziat / Batha – Quietest, closest to museums and Bab Bou Jeloud (perfect first-timers)
- Rcif – Vibrant local life, morning markets, 5 min walk to Rcif gate for taxis
- Douh – Central, close to Al-Qarawiyyin, lots of restaurants nearby
- Talâa Kebira / Souk area – Deep medina, most atmospheric but furthest from parking
Current Best Riads in Fes 2026 (Personally Re-Visited)
Luxury (250–600 € / night)
- Palais Amani (Ziat) – 1930s Art-Deco palace, huge garden, hammam, cooking school, family suites
- Riad Fès Maya – Relais & Châteaux (Batha) – 5 pools, panoramic rooftop bar, most spectacular suite in Fes
- Karawan Riad (Rcif) – 7-suite only, minimalist-chic meets 17th-century opulence, incredible food
- Riad Idrissy & Ruined Garden (Talâa) – Bohemian luxury, famous restaurant, unbeatable vibe
Mid-Range (120–250 € / night)
- Riad Laaroussa (Ziat) – Orange-tree courtyard, big pool, warmest owners in Fes
- Dar Seffarine (Seffarine Square) – Right next to copper artisans, stunning zellige, rooftop sunrise views
- Riad Anata (Rcif) – Huge rooftop pool, modern-Berber design, excellent value
- Dar Bensouda (Douh) – Hidden palace with two courtyards, hammam, very peaceful
Boutique & Budget-Chic (70–140 € / night)
- Riad Tara (Rcif) – Bright blue theme, friendly staff, great breakfast
- Dar Fès Medina (Ziat) – Simple but spotless, fantastic terrace
- Riad Zaitouna (Talâa) – New 2025 opening, already a favorite for location and price
- Funky Fes Hostel-Riad – Private rooms from 45 €, pool, young vibe, still feels like a real riad
How to Choose the Right Riad for You
- Traveling with kids? → Palais Amani, Riad Laaroussa, or Hôtel Sahrai (5-star with kids club, 10 min from medina)
- Want total silence? → Ziat or Batha neighborhoods
- Foodies? → Karawan Riad, Riad Idrissy, or any place with Fatima or Hassan cooking
- Honeymoon / anniversary? → Karawan suite, Palais Amani Gold Suite, Riad Fès Maya Royal Suite
- First time in Fes? → Stay near Bab Bou Jeloud (blue gate) the first 2 nights, then move deeper if you love it
Booking Tips for 2026
- Book directly with the riad → free airport transfer + best rate
- High season (March–May & Sept–Nov) sells out 6–9 months ahead for the top ones
- Always confirm exact location on Google Maps — some “Fes riads” are 20 min outside
- Ask for a room with a real window or balcony (some classic rooms are internal only)
Ready for the Most Magical Nights of Your Morocco Trip?
Let We Road Morocco match you with the perfect riad based on your dates, budget, and vibe — plus airport transfer, private guide for your first day, and 24/7 local support.
Contact us right now:
📱 WhatsApp: +212 667-499757 (send “Best riad Fes” and we’ll reply with 3 perfect options in minutes)
✉️ Email: weroadmorocco@gmail.com | contact@weroadmorocco.com
✓ We personally know every owner on this list
✓ Instant confirmation & honest reviews
✓ Special welcome gifts at our partner riads
Sleeping inside a 500-year-old palace while the call to prayer echoes at dawn is something you’ll never forget.
Your riad is waiting behind an unmarked door in Fes.
Let us show you which one.
B’seha w raha – Sweet dreams under cedar ceilings! 🏛️✨