Palais Amani

Palais Amani is a family-run hotel of 21 rooms set in the former home of one of the most prominent families of Fes. It lies on Derb El Miter in the Oued Zhoune area of the medina, behind the discreet doors typical of the old city. Inside, the house opens up around a peaceful courtyard with intricate zellij tilework, and the scale of the building gives it the feel of a small palace rather than a guesthouse.

Rooms are arranged in several categories, from Classic and Luxury Rooms to Junior and Senior Suites and the Grand Suite, and there are also the Misriah Apartments for guests who want more independence or are travelling as a family. The variety makes it a flexible choice for couples, friends travelling together and longer stays. Les Bains Amani provides a hammam experience, and the hotel can also organise hiking trips outside the city for guests who want a break from the medina.

What sets Palais Amani apart is its programme of experiences. The Fez Cooking School runs hands-on workshops in the hotel, and there are also food tours of the souks, calligraphy and henna sessions, a tea ceremony and guided medina tours, all arranged from the house. The hotel restaurant, Eden, and its bar mean you can eat and drink on site, and the hotel also hosts wine tastings and events. For a first visit to Fes, having these activities organised under one roof saves a lot of planning.

Being inside Fes el-Bali means the souks, madrasas and workshops of the old city are reachable on foot, and the hotel's own medina tours are an easy way to get your bearings. As with all medina riads, cars cannot reach the door, so ask the hotel how to arrive and for help with luggage. The lanes can be confusing at first, so take a card with the address when you go out.

Palais Amani suits travellers who want a characterful riad with plenty to do, especially food lovers who plan to cook or take a food tour during their stay. Book directly through the hotel to arrange classes and experiences at the same time as your room, and reserve dinner at Eden on your first night, when you may prefer not to navigate the medina after dark.