Fez, Morocco

Why You Should Go: Fez is considered the cultural hub of Morocco; it’s less commercial and less expensive than Marrakech.

Where to Sleep: Traditional houses with gardens called riads are tucked behind doors in the medina, the medieval walled city. Dar El Hana (doubles from $96, www.darelhana.com) has three bedrooms. Dar Seffarine (doubles from $102, www.darseffarine.com) has handmade copper sinks and views of the medina.

Where to Eat: Most restaurants offer hearty Moroccan tagines, slow-cooked dishes served over couscous. Sit on the terrace overlooking the medina at La Kasbah (meals are less than $10) or go to Dar Roumana, a hotel run by a chef (a three-course dinner costs about $32).