Daily costs per person in US dollars. Fes is one of Morocco's most affordable cities — these ranges cover the spectrum from budget backpacker to comfortable mid-range.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: MAD (Dirham) (Cash preferred in medina souks)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10–25 | $30–70 | $100+ | Hostel → riad → luxury riad |
| Food | $5–10 | $10–25 | $40+ | Street food → local restaurant → palace dining |
| Transport | $2–5 | $5–15 | $25+ | Walking → shared taxi → private car |
| Activities | $3–10 | $10–30 | $50+ | Self-guided → guided tour → private guide |
| Entry Fees | $1–5 | $5–10 | $10–20 | Most sites under 20 MAD |
| Daily Total | $25–55 | $60–150 | $225+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Stay in medina riads
Riads deep in the medina offer the best value and most authentic experience. A double room in a traditional riad with breakfast starts from 200 MAD ($20). Air-conditioned rooms in the Ville Nouvelle cost twice as much without the atmosphere.
Eat street food
Fes has some of Morocco's best street food at tiny prices. A full meal of harira, msemen, and brochettes costs 20–40 MAD ($2–4). Save restaurant dining for one or two special evenings.
Hire a half-day guide only
An official guide for a half-day orientation (300–400 MAD) teaches you to navigate. After that, explore independently. Avoid unofficial guides who approach at gates — they charge similar rates but may steer you to commission shops.
Use grands taxis for day trips
Shared grands taxis (large Mercedes) connect Fes to surrounding towns for 30–60 MAD per person. For private hire, negotiate before departure — 500–700 MAD for a full day trip is standard.
Bargain respectfully
In the souks, start at 40–50% of asking price and work toward 60–70% for a fair deal. Fixed-price shops (labelled "prix fixe") exist for those who prefer not to haggle. Either approach is fine.
Carry cash in small notes
Most medina vendors only accept cash. Withdraw from ATMs in the Ville Nouvelle and carry 20 and 50 MAD notes — breaking large notes is difficult in the souks.
