Whatever kind of travel you partake in, whether it be backpacking or relaxing on luxurious beaches, Morocco is a destination that offers something for everyone.
But one thing is for sure—Morocco is a destination that is filled with a rich culture, intriguing experiences, and most of all amazing food and hospitality.
This certainly rings true for the most popular accommodation choice in Morocco—the riad.
Keep reading to learn more about why you should stay in a riad, the best riads in Fez, and what to explore in the city when you venture out.
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What is a riad?
A riad is a traditional Moroccan home that features a central courtyard or garden within its interior.
The word “riad” comes from the Arabic word for “garden.” These types of buildings were typically built by wealthy families as a place to relax and entertain guests.
They are often found in the medina, or old city, of Moroccan towns and cities and have been transformed for use as a bed and breakfast style or guesthouses in recent years.
Why Visit Fez
Before we tell you what is so amazing about staying in a riad, let’s start off with a little bit about the amazing city you’ll be staying in.
Fez is often referred to the cultural capital of Morocco, the mix of centuries-old styles and neighborhoods transfers you back in time one minute, then back to modernity the next.
See Fez el Bali—the oldest areas built around the eighth century, Fez el Jdid—built near the thirteenth century, and explore Ville Nouvelle that was built by the French in the twentieth century.
With all the different buildings, both newly revived and modern come together and bring a mash-up of new and old Morocco.
This city is the perfect introduction to Morocco for any new traveler.
The city has an endless amount of things to do. Our favorite activities that really stand out as highlights include visiting the Tanner’s Quarters, wandering along the old gates and walls, visiting the numerous bakeries along the medina, seeing the palace Dar el Makhzen, relaxing in the gardens, and sipping mint tea (of course!) in the large square.
Fez is also home to one of the biggest open air markets in all of Morocco.
Be prepared for some aggressive shop owners and to be overwhelmed with scents and sounds of spices, snake charmers, and street performers amidst the dazzling goods offered in the souks.
Why Stay in a Riad?
These beautiful, ancient homes offer a unique place to stay that is unlike any western-style hotel that you may find. The houses are large, some even considered mansions.
All the rooms and terraces face a luxurious inner courtyard, a relaxing retreat so opposite from what’s outside the walls.
Decorated in splendid Moroccan style, the architecture, pottery, rugs, cutlery, and even the decorations that fill the riad all resemble traditional Moroccan style and flair.
Your stay in a riad is a must during a trip to Fez, as riads are becoming more and more popular and easy to find as homeowners convert or upgrade traditional homes.
Riads are a large part of the cultural flair and renewed vibe felt in Fez these days.
Best Riads in Fez
When it comes to riads in Fez, there are many to choose from that fit all types of budgets. What you choose definitely depends on your style of travel—whether you are looking for a place to just rest your head, or if you want something luxurious when you need a reprieve from the city.
Here are our top choices for riads in Fez.
Dar Roumana
A traditional riad that overlooks Fez with striking views of the city. The riad prides itself on including local artistry, and you’ll notice this in the hand-painted details, mosaic floors, and the rich feel to each suite and the shared areas.
This luxurious riad offers a perfect breakfast to start each day.
If you are looking to get a traditional dinner as well, this can be added to your cost and you can experience fine home-style cooking in the courtyard or the rooftop terrace.
Dar Roumana has a lavish rooftop terrace, and this is the best spot to overlook the medina and beyond to the Atlas Mountain range.
Staying at Dar Roumana gives you all the modern comforts you desire while staying close to the culture and vibe of the city.
Riad Fes
A premier choice for the traveler with lofty expectations. The moment you walk in, you will be greeted with bold features and exquisite detailing in the walls, floors, and handpicked furniture.
This is considered a luxury riad, and it shows.
The inner garden and pool are the perfect places to escape the heat and relax under orange and lemon trees. The private hammams are a flawless getaway for luxurious relaxation and comfort.
Riad Fes has four different patios, each with their own style giving you have the option to choose where to relax each night.
The restaurant is one of the best in Fes for fine Moroccan cuisine, though the feel is quaint and comforting.
You can even partake in a cooking class in the kitchen with the chefs themselves.
The suites at Riad Fes are as grand as the rest of the riad.
Each room is unique, and they offer luxuries and comforts expected by any modern hotel, but finished with amazing Moroccan decor.
If you are in the mood to splurge, the Royal Suite will truly make you feel grand with a private terrace and a bathroom and sleeping area fit for a king.
Riad Idrissy
Situated in the heart of the Medina, the riad feels as alive as the streets and the interior is chock full of beautiful architecture and history.
Restored and updated, the entire riad feels as though you are on a private tour of a historical site, yet this is your home to relax.
The inner courtyard leads to a sitting area and there are places to lounge everywhere you look.
The Ruined Garden, restored from crumbling buildings, is a highlight and unique feature of this riad.
The suites in Riad Idrissy are traditional, comforting, and warm. It truly gives you the feeling that someone has invited you into their home.
The roof terrace is quaint with a great view. This is the perfect place to relax with breakfast before a day in the city.
Riad Laaroussa
A grand riad with a palatial entrance. Though it feels grand, once you enter you will notice the intimate setting, with only four suites in the home section of the riad, Maison Laaroussa.
This area has been designed for your comfort, with warming fireplaces, enchanting sitting areas, and a large lounging area on the rooftop patio.
The rest of the riad offers eight more suites
Riad Laaroussa offers a traditional hammam experience, complete with marble rooms and aromatic massages.
They are also adding to the charm and popularity and will be opening a pool this summer.
With a traditional breakfast and proximity to the rest of Fez, this riad is sure to please.
Riad Andalib
One of the most popular riads in all of Fez, Riad Andalib offers luxurious service in the centre of the city. The riad has been restored, and its beauty is showing to its full potential.
The rooms are decorated with a more modern Moroccan look, and are spacious and comfortable.
Riad Andalib is perfect for travelers that want to be near the medina while still enjoying the comforts of a modern riad.
With a sprawling breakfast and a relaxing courtyard, your morning is guaranteed to start off well.
If you want an excellent traditional Moroccan meal, then service on the rooftop restaurant gives you great views and excellent food.
The service at Riad Andalib is second to none, and the staff will ensure your stay in Fez is one you will never forget.
In conclusion, Fez is a city that offers something for every traveler, with its rich culture, intriguing experiences and amazing food and hospitality.
Staying in a riad is a must-do experience as it offers a unique and traditional way to immerse in the local culture.
The best riads in Fez are Dar Roumana and Riad Fes, both offer luxury and comfort while being close to the city’s vibe and culture.
With the endless amount of things to do, from visiting the Tanner’s Quarters to wandering along the old gates and walls, Fez is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.