Quick Answer
The best way to get from Fes Saiss Airport (FEZ) to the University of Al Quaraouiyine in the Fes medina is by taking an official Petit Taxi (small taxi). The journey takes approximately 20-40 minutes depending on traffic and costs around 100-150 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) ($10-$15 USD). For budget travelers, the public bus (Line 16) is the cheapest option at about 4 MAD ($0.40), taking 45-60 minutes. There is no direct train from the airport.
Taking a Taxi from Fes Airport to Al Quaraouiyine University
The most straightforward and commonly used method is the Petit Taxi (small, beige-colored taxi). They are licensed to operate within the city of Fes.
Step-by-Step Guide & Key Details:
- Finding the Taxi: Exit the arrivals hall at FEZ. The official taxi rank is directly outside. Only use the metered taxis waiting in the official queue. Avoid individuals offering rides inside the terminal.
- Fare & Negotiation:
- By law, taxis must use the meter (“compteur”). Ensure it is reset at the start of your journey.
- The approximate daytime fare to the Bab Bou Jeloud or Batha area (main gates near the university) is 100-150 MAD. Late-night rides (after 8 PM) may incur a 50% surcharge.
- Have small bills (20, 50 MAD notes) ready. Drivers often claim not to have change for large notes.
- Journey Specifics: The route takes you on the main road towards Fes Ville Nouvelle (new city), then into the ancient medina. Cars cannot enter the narrow streets of the medina, so you will be dropped at the nearest accessible gate (Bab), requiring a short walk.
- Grand Taxis: These are larger, older Mercedes cars (usually white or cream) used for inter-city travel. They are not recommended for this airport-to-city trip as they are more expensive and don't use meters for such short distances.
Best For: Travelers with luggage, first-time visitors, small groups (max 3 per taxi), and those prioritizing door-to-door convenience.
Public Bus from Fes Saiss Airport to City Center (Line 16)
For the ultra-budget conscious, the public bus offers a reliable but slower alternative.
Comprehensive Bus Guide:
- The Route (Line 16): This bus connects FEZ Airport to the main city bus station, Gare Routière CTM Fès, located in the Ville Nouvelle. It does not go directly to the medina.
- Finding the Bus: The bus stop is a 2-minute walk to the left after exiting the terminal. Look for a blue and white bus with “16 - Aéroport ⇆ Gare Routière” signage.
- Schedule & Frequency: Buses run approximately every 30-60 minutes from around 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Schedules can be irregular; always allow extra time.
- Fare & Payment: The flat fare is 4 MAD per person (exact change preferred). Pay the conductor on board.
- The Final Leg: From the Gare Routière CTM, you will need to take a Petit Taxi to the medina gates near the university (approx. 15-20 MAD, 10 mins). Total door-to-door time: 45-75 minutes.
- Luggage: Limited space is available. Large suitcases may be problematic during peak hours.
Best For: Solo travelers or couples on a tight budget, those with light luggage, and travelers not in a rush.
Private Airport Transfer & Car Rental
Pre-Booked Private Transfer
For maximum comfort and predictability, book a private transfer in advance through a reputable company or your hotel.
- How it Works: Your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name sign. They assist with luggage and drive you directly to your specified location near the medina.
- Cost: Significantly higher than a taxi, ranging from 250 MAD to 500+ MAD ($25-$50+ USD) depending on the vehicle type and service level.
- Providers: Reliable international platforms like Booking.com Transfers, GetTransfer, or local agencies like Fes Taxi or Fès Voyages.
Best For: Families with children, large groups (4+), travelers with significant mobility issues or lots of luggage, and those arriving late at night.
Car Rental at Fes Saiss Airport
Renting a car is an option, but not generally recommended for visiting the University of Al Quaraouiyine within the medina.
- Considerations:
- Parking is Impossible inside the medina. You would need to park in a guarded lot outside the walls (cost: ~30-50 MAD/day) and walk.
- Driving in Fes can be chaotic for visitors unfamiliar with local rules and narrow streets.
- Useful only if you plan extensive travel outside Fes immediately after arrival.
- Rental Agencies: International brands (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) and local firms have desks in the arrivals hall. Pre-booking online often yields better rates.
Final Access: Entering the Medina & Finding the University
Regardless of your transport choice, all vehicles stop at the gates of the Fes el-Bali (old medina). The University of Al Quaraouiyine is located deep within this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Main Entry Gates: The closest and most scenic gates are Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate) and Batha. Tell your taxi driver one of these.
- The Walk: From either gate, it's a 10-20 minute walk through a maze of narrow, bustling alleyways (derbs) to the university. Signage is minimal.
- Essential Advice:
- Use Google Maps (Download Offline) or Maps.me for navigation. The path is not intuitive.
- Be prepared to ask shopkeepers for directions to “Al-Qarawiyyin”. Many will help; some may offer to guide you for a tip.
- Consider hiring an official guide (arranged through your hotel or a tourist office) for your first day if you are uncomfortable navigating alone.
- The university is primarily a religious school and library. Public access to interiors is very restricted for non-Muslims, but the surrounding area and architecture are stunning.
Fes Airport to Al Quaraouiyine: Cost & Time Comparison
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (MAD / USD) | Travel Time* | Convenience / Notes | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Taxi (Metered) | 100 - 150 MAD ($10 - $15) | 20 - 40 min | Door-to-gate, readily available, use meter. | Most travelers (Best Balance) |
| Public Bus (Line 16) + Taxi | ~20 MAD ($2) (Bus: 4 MAD + Taxi: 15 MAD) |
45 - 75 min | Two stages, walk to bus stop, wait time. | Budget travelers (Cheapest Option) |
| Pre-Booked Private Transfer | 250 - 500+ MAD ($25 - $50+) | 20 - 40 min | Meet & greet, no hassle, fixed price. | Families, groups, late arrivals. |
| Car Rental | 300+ MAD/day ($30+) + Parking | 20 - 40 min (drive) | Not practical for medina access. | Those touring outside Fes immediately. |
* Times are estimates and can vary greatly with Fes traffic, especially near the medina gates.
Essential Traveler Tips & Advice
- Money First: Withdraw some Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) from the ATM in the airport arrivals hall. While some taxis may accept Euros, the exchange rate will be poor.
- Sim Card: Consider buying a local SIM card (Maroc Telecom, Orange, Inwi) at the airport for data. This will be invaluable for navigation in the medina.
- Luggage Strategy: Pack light if possible. Navigating cobblestone streets and steps with wheeled suitcases is challenging. A backpack is ideal.
- Fes Medina is Pedestrian: Once at the gate, it’s just you and your luggage. Be mentally prepared for the walk and the sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells.
- Verify Your Drop-Off Point: Confirm with your taxi driver which Bab (gate) they are taking you to. Bab Bou Jeloud is the most central for tourists.
- Cultural Sensitivity: The University is in a conservative area. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) as a sign of respect.
FAQs: Fes Saiss Airport to University of Al Quaraouiyine
Is there a direct train from Fes Airport to the city or university?
No. Fes Saiss Airport does not have a train station. The nearest major train station, Fès-Ville, is in the new city and is only accessible by taxi or bus (Line 16) from the airport. Taking a train is not a logical option for this journey.
What is the best option if my flight arrives late at night?
For flights arriving after 10 PM, your safest and most reliable options are: 1) A pre-booked private transfer, or 2) An official airport Petit Taxi (expect a 50% night fare surcharge). The public bus may not be running.
Can I use Uber or Careem in Fes?
No. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem do not operate in Fes. Your only on-demand options are official Petit Taxis or Grand Taxis.
How do I avoid being overcharged by taxi drivers?
1) Use only taxis from the official airport queue. 2) Politely but firmly request they use the meter (“compteur, s'il vous plaît”). 3) Have an idea of the correct fare (100-150 MAD) and correct change. 4) If a driver refuses the meter, move to the next taxi in line.
Is it safe to walk from the medina gate to the university with luggage?
Fes medina is generally safe regarding personal safety, but it can be physically challenging with luggage due to crowds, uneven surfaces, and narrow passages. Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. For peace of mind, a hotel riad often offers to send a porter to meet you at the gate.
Can I visit the inside of the University of Al Quaraouiyine?
Access for non-Muslims is extremely limited and often not permitted. The university is a functioning religious institution and library. Visitors can admire the famous gates and exterior architecture, but entering the main prayer halls and library is typically restricted. Always respect posted signs and requests from guardians.
What if I have mobility issues?
The journey from the airport to the university is not wheelchair-friendly. The medina streets are cobbled, steep, and have steps. A private transfer to the closest gate and the assistance of a guide/porter is highly recommended. Consider staying in a hotel in the Ville Nouvelle (new city) which is more accessible.
Is the public bus (Line 16) reliable?
It is reliable in terms of safety and route, but not in terms of precise timing. Schedules are approximate. Allow plenty of extra time if you have a tight schedule, such as a flight to catch. For a stress-free arrival, the taxi is a more dependable choice.