Fes Saiss Airport Transfers (FEZ)

Welcome to Fes, the cultural heart of Morocco! As you descend into the ancient imperial city, you are preparing to step back in time. Your journey into a captivating world of bustling souks, medieval history, and intricate artistry begins at Fes Saiss Airport.

Navigating the route from the airport to the city's ancient medina can be a challenge for a first-time visitor. This is where our premier Fes Saiss Airport Transfers service transforms your arrival. Bypass the taxi queues and the confusion of public transport; your private, pre-booked airport pickup is waiting to ensure your journey is seamless, comfortable, and stress-free.

This guide from TravelThru navigates Fes Saiss International Airport (FEZ) and the city of Fes. We'll provide a comprehensive airport walkthrough and highlight the most convenient transportation to your hotel or riad.

FEZ Airport Overview

Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) is the primary gateway to Fes and the surrounding region. It is a modern, clean, and efficient airport that is surprisingly easy to navigate. After a major expansion, the airport features a single, well-organized terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights.

Its compact and modern design means you can move from the arrival gate, through immigration, and to the baggage claim hall quickly.

Fes Saiss Airport Lounge Options

The main lounge at Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) for international flights is the Aspire Executive Lounge, also known as the Pearl Lounge. You'll find it after you pass through security and passport control.

This lounge is open to all travelers. You can get in by using a lounge membership like Priority Pass, by paying for access at the door, or by flying in a premium class on many airlines. Inside, you can escape the main terminal and enjoy complimentary snacks, coffee, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. It also offers comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and charging stations for your devices.

Fes Airport also has a separate Pearl Lounge in the arrivals area—a rare find—where you can relax and have a drink right after you land.

Parking at Fes Saiss Airport

Parking at Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) is straightforward, with a single main parking lot available for all travelers, conveniently located right in front of the terminal building.

This lot is set up to accommodate both short-term and long-term parking needs.

• Short-Term Parking: If you're just dropping someone off or picking them up, this is the perfect option. The first 5 minutes are typically free. After that, you pay a small hourly rate.

• Long-Term Parking: If you plan to leave your car for a day or more, you can use the same main lot. There is a daily rate, which is usually around 40 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) for a 24-hour period.

When you're ready to leave, you simply take your ticket to the payment booth (caisse) located at the exit of the car park to pay for your stay.

Hotels near Fes Saiss Airport

An important thing to know is that Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) is located about 13-15 km (a 15-20 minute drive) from the main city of Fes. Unlike many large international airports, there are no major hotels located directly on the airport grounds or within walking distance.

Your best options are either staying at a nearby guesthouse (just a few minutes' drive away) or, more commonly, staying at a hotel in the city of Fes that offers a convenient airport shuttle.

FEZ Airport Transportation Options

The most important thing to know about your airport transfer to Fes is that the historic Fes el-Bali (the old medina) is one of the world's largest car-free urban zones. Its 9,000 alleys and winding streets are accessible only on foot.

This is where a premium service is essential. Public taxis and shuttles will drop you at the nearest gate, leaving you to navigate the maze-like streets with your luggage.

TravelThru Transfer Service

Our private chauffeur service is designed to eliminate this stress. Your professional driver will greet you inside the arrivals hall, assist with your luggage, and escort you to a modern, air-conditioned vehicle.

We will drive you directly to the closest possible entry point to your riad (hotel) in the medina, such as the famous Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate) or Place R'cif. We will then coordinate with your riad's staff, who can meet you at the gate with a cart to guide you and your luggage directly to their door. This seamless, coordinated private transportation is the most sophisticated and relaxing way to begin your Moroccan adventure.

Other Transportation Alternatives

• Airport Shuttle: A public airport shuttle (Bus 16) runs from the airport to the Fes-Ville train station. It's an affordable option, but it can be slow and requires a second taxi ride to get to the medina.
   
• Airport Taxi Transfers: "Grand Taxis" (cream-colored sedans) are available at a fixed rate. Ensure you agree on the price before you depart. They can only take you to the edge of the medina.

Things to Do in Fes, Morocco

• Get Lost in Fes el-Bali: This is the main event. Wander through the 9,000-year-old medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of a medieval city.

• Visit the Chouara Tanneries: Witness the ancient and famously pungent process of leather dyeing from a viewpoint on a surrounding terrace—a truly iconic Fes experience.
   
• See the Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate): The ornate and beautiful main entrance to the old medina.
   
• Explore the Madrasas: Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa or the Al-Attarine Madrasa, ancient Islamic schools showcasing breathtakingly intricate tilework and architecture.
   
• Al-Qarawiyyin University: Glimpse the courtyard of the world's oldest continuously operating university.

How to Get Around Fes

TravelThru Chauffeur Service

While the medina is for walking, our luxury chauffeur service is at your disposal for exploring the world beyond the walls. Let us provide a private car and driver for a day to visit:

• The Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen): Admire its magnificent seven golden gates (you cannot go inside).
   
• The Mellah: The city's historic Jewish Quarter.
   
• Borj Nord: A hilltop fortress offering the best panoramic views of the entire medina.
   
• Day Trips: We also offer comfortable day trips to nearby wonders like the Roman ruins of Volubilis or the charming "blue city" of Chefchaouen.
   

Other Options

• Petit Taxis: These small, red taxis are perfect for trips within the new city (Ville Nouvelle). They are metered and very affordable. Remember, they cannot enter the medina.
   
• Walking: The only and best way to explore the old medina. Wear comfortable shoes and prepare to be enchanted.