Home to the dunes of culture, grains of traditions, and the peak of history, Morocco is a land that’s a testament to multi-faceted innovations of human civilization. Millions of people from all around the world swarm to Morocco each year to dive deep into its vast landscapes of diverse natural beauty, historical landmarks, and the hospitable and warm tradition awaiting to greet them at each alley they turn to.
Morocco has many destinations that invite tourists all year round with attractions unlike any other place. This is why many people, especially first-time travelers, find it overwhelming to decide which city to explore first. One of the hardest questions these tourists find themself asking is “Is Fez better than Marrakech, or is it the other way around?”.
The best way to determine this is to evaluate what each city has to offer. From the diversity of places to visit to the travel affordability, we’ve compiled a thorough overview of each city to help you find the answer to the raging debate of “ Is Fez better than Marrakech?” and pick a city that’s likely to suit your travel tastes better.
Is Fez Better than Marrakech: A Comparison of Two Incredible Cities
While both Marrakech and Fez are Morocco’s prominent cities, both have a different feel, in terms of local culture, attractions, affordability, etc. Both cities present an excellent opportunity for tourism activities but it’s important to know the differences between them to know the value of traveling to both of Morocco’s premier cities. Here’s everything you need to know to determine is Fez better than Marrakech, or is it the other way around:
An Overview of Marrakech
Traveling to Marrakech offers an insight into the deep-rooted history, culture, and food scene, and gives a glimpse into why this city has various UNESCO World Heritage sites. When it comes to the debate of “Is Fez better than Marrakech”, while Fez may take the cake in offering unique attractions, Marrakech wins with a silver lining for offering destinations brimming with rich architecture that reflects the transition of various eras of the city.
Both history and culture are easily reflected in Marrkaech’s wonderful architecture, bustling bazaars, and busy streets. Whether it’s taking a stroll in the Jemaa-el Fnaa and breathing the wonderful smells there, or relaxing in the Jardin Majorelle gardens, you’re unlikely to have a boring time in the Heart of Morocco.
Places to Visit in Marrakech
- Koutoubia Mosque and Minaret: This mosque and minaret are prominent landmarks of Marrakech and a visit to these sites is a must for any travelers coming to the city.
- Bahia Palace: Bahia Palace symbolizes the city’s royal heritage and is known for its iconic blue mosaics that leave visitors in awe.
- Saadian Tombs: The tombs are the resting place of former rulers of Morocco, with the most prominent among them being the tomb of Sultan Ahmed Mansur.
- Botanical Gardens: Le Jardin Secret Botanical Gardens are a place of refuge and tranquility from the busy streets of the city and are one of the best spots to visit in Marrakech.
- Jemaa el-Fnaa: Jemaa-el Fnaa is also known as the Heart of Marrakech and gives tourists a direct glimpse into the local tradition and culture of the city.
Accommodation
Being a primary tourist destination, Marrakech has a lot of options for travelers in terms of accommodation, with luxury accommodation options starting from 340$, moderate ones ranging to 180$, and the cheapest rooms starting from 25$ a night for a single room.
Transportation
As a prominent tourist destination of Morocco, Marrakech naturally offers an abundance of transportation modes littered throughout the city. Whether it’s cheap taxis or rental cars, you’re unlikely to be wasting your time searching for ways to get around in Marrakech.
An Overview of Fez
The city of tanneries, Fez is another sought-after place in Morocco’s list of unending travel destinations. Whether it’s the wonderful souks or the fascinating historical places in Fez, there is nothing that will leave you disappointed as you seek to explore its diverse locations.
Boasting the title of being a capital in ancient times, Fez’s significance and history can easily be felt by its reputation of housing a UNESCO World Heritage site. While Marrakech is home to lively souks and palaces, Fez’s serene spiritual ambiance and tranquil landscape might lead some to ask: Is Fez better than Marrakech for a relaxing travel experience ?
Places to Visit in Fez
- Al Attarine Madrasa: This madrasa was built in the 14th century and is one of Fez’s important religious centers and a top landmark of the city.
- Fez Souk: Buying clothing related to traditional culture is one of the best ways to connect with the local culture, and in Souk el-Tsabit in Fez one can easily achieve that.
- El Glaoui Palace: This palace reflects the majestic feel of the royal era in its gorgeous architecture.
- Fez Medina: Fez’s Medina is the heart of the city and the best place tourists can travel to get a natural feel of the local culture and warm hospitality.
- Chouara Tannery: One of Fez’s most easily recognizable landmarks is its tanneries and Chouara is one of the most prominent of them.
Accommodation
The accommodation scene in Fez is much cheaper than in Marrakech, with luxury room prices starting from $150 to the budget ones ranging at 20$ and onwards.
Transportation
Fez sees its fair share of tourists throughout the year. Tourists can easily travel in local taxis or buses to get around the city with comparatively lower fares than in Marrakech. When it comes to the question “Is Fez better than Marrakech for cheap transportation?”, the answer’s always a yes.
Is Fez Better Than Marrakech: The Clear Winner
When it comes to travel destinations, there’s no “better” destination among two options. Travel tastes are subjective and while one option might be better suited to your travel aspirations, another might be the right option for people of varying tastes. However, in terms of travel affordability, cheaper transportation, and accommodation, Fez emerges as the clear winner for the “Is Fez better than Marrakech” debate. For diverse and rich landscapes and lively tourist attractions, Marrakech is the right choice.
To get the chance to learn which city is the better choice yourself, why not visit them both with iLinkTurkey’s comprehensive and affordable Fez and Marrakech tour packages? From guided tours to exclusive accommodations, explore the gems of Morocco and enjoy a travel experience of a lifetime.