Oujda sits in the far northeast of Morocco, close to the Algerian border and within reach of the Mediterranean coast. Its defining feature for a visitor is the old city at its centre, where narrow, winding alleys lead past traditional houses and markets such as the jewelry market and the leather market, with the Grand Mosque among the historic landmarks.
For planning where to sleep, the useful distinction is between the streets around Place du 16 Aout, the medina itself, and the area around the train station. This guide covers those areas, what kind of traveller each suits, and the accommodation levels you can expect in each.
Best areas to stay in Oujda
1. Place du 16 Aout and surrounding streets
This is the most practical base for a first visit and for budget travellers. The area has a concentration of decent, inexpensive hotels, and it puts you within reach of the old city and its markets rather than on the outskirts.
You will find simple rooms here, typically with a hot shower, and some properties are attached to cafés or patisseries, which makes breakfast straightforward. Expect basic, functional accommodation rather than polished comfort.
2. The medina
Staying inside the old city suits travellers who want to be among the narrow alleys, the souks and the traditional architecture, and who prefer to step out of their door directly into the market streets. It is the most atmospheric option.
Accommodation here tends toward small riad-style places, some with rooftop terraces overlooking the souk. Because the streets are narrow and winding, arriving with luggage is easier if you confirm the exact location in advance.
3. Around the train station
The station area suits travellers arriving or leaving by rail, and those who prefer a more modern style of accommodation. It is the base for the higher end of the market in Oujda.
Properties here are larger and more contemporary, with amenities such as pools and breakfast service, and the location makes day trips by train to the western part of the country simple. It is less atmospheric than the medina but more convenient for onward travel.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: small independent hotels, often clustered around Place du 16 Aout, with simple single rooms and hot showers; some have shared hallway showers and lower rates.
- Mid-range: riad-style guesthouses, including some in the medina, with clean rooms, breakfast, wifi and Moroccan decor; rooftop terraces are common.
- Splurge: larger modern hotels near the train station, with amenities such as pools, bars, breakfast buffets and, in some cases, spa facilities and a nightclub.
Best area for a first visit
Base yourself around Place du 16 Aout. It gives you the widest choice of inexpensive places to sleep and keeps you close to the old city and its markets, which are the main things to see in Oujda. Once you know the city, the medina or the station area may suit you better for a return trip.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Oujda?
The city is served by Angads Airport, with international flights to destinations including Lisbon, Brussels, Madrid, Marseille and Paris, plus domestic flights to Casablanca. It is also the endpoint of the main railroad from Casablanca via Fes and Taourirt, with several day and night trains.
Is Oujda a good base for the Mediterranean coast?
Tourists heading for Saïdia, on the Mediterranean, transit through Oujda's airport. The city itself lies inland, so the coast is a separate trip rather than a walk away.
What is the weather like through the year?
Winters are cool, tepid and wet, and summers are hot and dry. Snow is rare, though it does occasionally fall in winter.
Can I cross into Algeria from Oujda?
No. The border lies just east of the city, with Maghnia on the opposite side, but it has been closed since 1994.
Compare live prices for the areas above using the booking tools on this page.