Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Fes gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from FEZ to the city takes roughly 70 minutes by Airport Taxi / Local Bus, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of FEZ:
- Can you legally enter Morocco? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 70-minute journey each way by Airport Taxi / Local Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MAD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Exploring Fes on a Layover
If you head into Fes, here are two things worth checking out:
Chouara Tannery is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Bab Bou Jeloud (The Blue Gate) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside FEZ — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Fes Saïss Airport VIP Lounge
- Duty-Free Shop Fes Saïss
Transport from Saïss Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Taxi / Local Bus | ~70 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~90 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Airport Taxi / Local Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Fes: Restaurant Dar Tajine and Café Clock Fes. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Main Restaurant or Cafeteria & Snacks Fes Airport. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Fes, budget roughly $22 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $7 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and FEZ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Fes and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Storing Your Luggage at Saïss Airport
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At FEZ, you’ll find bag storage at No dedicated luggage lockers available at the airport..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at FEZ include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Morocco also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Fes count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave FEZ. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.