Welcome to the incredible historical and cultural city of Fes, Morocco! If you are considering adding the Rif Mountain region of North Morocco to your itinerary there are plenty of unique things to do in Fes, Morocco that are truly a sight to behold and explore.
The old city of Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with iconic architecture. Or there is the bustle and energy of the vibrant souks that make you feel like you really have been transported back in time.
It is a great destination in Morocco to experience the history and culture.
Here is everything you need to know about visiting the city including what to see, where to eat and stay and all about the best things to do in Fes, Morocco.
- About Fes
- History of Fes, Morocco
- Best Time To Visit?
- Things To Do in Fes, Morocco
Fes el Bali (Old Town)
Bou Inania Madrasa
Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II
Chouara Tannery
Place Seffarine
Al Attarine Madrasa
Mellah
Ville Nouvelle (New Town)
Hammam
Al Aachabin Souk - Do You Recommend a Guide?
- Getting Around
- Getting There
- Where To Eat in Fes
- Where To Stay in Fes
A Little Bit About Fes, Morocco
Fes – also spelled Fez – is the oldest city in Morocco and was the first capital of the country. The history of the city of Fes dates to the 9th century.
Today it is the second most touristic city in the country after Marrakech.
For visitors, it is an incredible experience to wander the historic city that in many places feels largely as it might be unchanged for centuries.
Fes comprises of three main areas. The medina is the Old City and is the iconic maze of winding streets and alleyways. Mellah or the Middle Town is the Jewish Quarter, and the Ville Nouvelle (New Town) continues to develop today.
The Medina is known as Fes el Bali. It is one of the best-preserved old towns of the Islamic world, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A brief history of Fes and the Rif Mountain region of Morocco
The city of Fes is often referred to as the ‘cultural capital’ of Morocco.
The history of Quranic scholarship spans over a millennium since its founding in the 9th century by Idris.
Fes fast become a centre of Islamic learning and culture before becoming a centre of prosperity and influence in the 12th to 14th centuries and the medieval age.
What Is It Like to Visit Fes?
Today, Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. For a traveller, it feels like stepping into a city with a perpetually prolonged past that is a rare privilege to experience.
Given its deep roots in Moroccan history and Islamic culture, it remains one of the most essential destinations in the country.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
To get the most out of your trip to Fes and Morocco, we recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons of both tourism and weather.
- Spring (March to May) & Autumn (September to November): These are the ideal windows. You can expect beautifully warm, sunny days that are perfect for exploring without the intense heat of the summer.
- Winter (December to February): While daytime temperatures can still be quite pleasant, keep in mind that the days are much shorter. During the Moroccan winter, the sun sometimes doesn’t rise until nearly 8:00 AM!
But whatever time of year, Fes offers a timeless experience that is hard to find anywhere else.
How Long Do You Need in Fes, Morocco?
Fes is one of those places where its uniqueness becomes instantly engrained in memory with even a short visit well worthwhile.
I suggest two nights in Fes. You need at least one complete full day to explore the old city, Ville Nouvelle and Mellah area.
With two days in Fes, you can see all the highlights of the historic old city and new city too.
Is It Safe to Visit Fes?
Fes is generally a safe destination for travellers. We didn’t feel unsafe or concerned.
As always it pays to be aware of your surroundings. Especially take care in the ultra-busy and crowded areas of the old city, as petty crime or pickpocketing can happen anywhere in the world.
Make sure to adhere to and respect the local culture and customs. Fes is more conservative than other cities of Morocco, despite having a big tourist presence. Thus, of course, there are the usual touts and hawkers.
Overall, Fes is a friendly city. It does after all have a history of welcoming travellers that dates back literally centuries! 🙂
Do You Need a Guide or Tour in Fes, Morocco?
Whether you should hire a guide for Fes depends on your travel style and how much time you have. While we explored the medina and the New Town independently over three days, we’ve also spent eight months traveling throughout Morocco. If this is your first visit, a half-day or morning tour on your first day is a great way to get your bearings and see the city’s highlights with ease.
While most sites are within walking distance and can be visited on your own, a guide offers a much deeper, stress-free experience. If you walk the streets alone, you will almost certainly be approached by many locals offering their services. Many of these people are not official or registered guides, so it can be hit-or-miss.
To get the best value—especially on a short trip—we recommend booking a registered, well-reviewed guide in advance rather than hiring someone on the street.
Tip: Expect to pay around 25 EUR per person for a private half-day tour. You can easily find and book reputable guides through platforms like GetYourGuide.
Things To Do in Fes, Morocco
In no particular order, here are 10 Things To Do in Fes, Morocco.
1. Fes el Bali Medina – Things To Do in Fes
Fes el Bali is the heart of the city and home to the oldest medina in North Africa. The Medina dates back to the 9th century, and it stands as one of the oldest continuously inhabited walled cities in the world.
There is an estimated 600,000 people still living within its ancient fortifications!
Most visitors begin their journey at Bab Bou Jeloud, the iconic ‘Blue Gate‘ famous for its stunning tilework and horseshoe arches. Once you pass through the gate, the best way to experience the medina is to embrace the maze and get gloriously lost in its thousands of winding alleys.
The Fes Medina is organised around two primary arteries:
- Talaa Kebira (“Big Slope”): One of the longest and most important streets, packed with shops and stalls.
- Talaa Seghira (“Small Slope”): A slightly smaller but equally bustling thoroughfare that runs parallel to the main street.
Inside the Medina is the University of Al-Karaouine which is recorded as having been founded in the 859 AD. The school is considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world.
Between the historic landmarks and the vibrant, traditional atmosphere, the labyrinth of Fes el Bali is easily one of the most exciting places to explore in Morocco!
2. Bou Inania Madrasa
One of the most famous sights within the Fes Medina is the Bou Inania Madrasa.
Constructed between 1351 and 1357, this landmark served as both a mosque and a Quranic school. It is particularly unique among the city’s many madrasas because it is the only one in Fes that features a full mosque and minaret integrated into the complex.
While the mosque remains active and is reserved for Muslim visitors, the madrasa itself is open to everyone. It is a stunning example of Marinid architecture, featuring intricate woodwork and tile.
As you walk through, you can explore the small rooms around the courtyard that once served as classrooms, while the upper floor historically provided living quarters for the students.
Visitor Information
- Location: Situated on Talaa Kebira Street in the heart of the medina.
- Cost: 20 MAD (approximately 2 EUR).
- Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Fridays. Please note that the site closes briefly during daily prayer times.
3. Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II
The Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II is the sacred tomb of the founder of Fes and is widely considered one of the holiest shrines in all of Morocco. The area immediately surrounding the mausoleum is a hive of activity, constantly humming with vendors selling colorful candles, incense, and various spiritual items to pilgrims.
While the mausoleum is open to Muslims 24 hours a day, followers of other religions are restricted to viewing the site from the outside. Despite this, it remains one of the most popular landmarks to visit in Fes. It is well worth stopping by just to experience the vibrant hustle and bustle of the sacred district and to admire the intricate doorway.
If you prefer to take it in from a distance, you can easily spot the site while navigating the medina’s winding streets. Its minaret is one of the tallest in the old city, making it both a beautiful architectural feature and a helpful landmark for orienting yourself during your walk.
4. Chouara Tannery – Fes, Morocco
The Chouara Tannery is the oldest leather tannery in the world and remains the most iconic image of Fes. In operation since the 16th century, this historic site offers a glimpse into a medieval industry that has changed very little over the hundreds of years.
The Tannery was renovated in 2016 though it still totally has the traditional and medieval atmosphere.
Albeit the process of visiting the tannery is a bit unconventional. To see the famous stone pits filled with vibrant dyes, you must enter one of the surrounding leather shops and climb a narrow staircase to reach their rooftop viewing terraces.
As you walk through the nearby medina, you will likely be accosted boldly approached by salesmen inviting you in to see the view. While this can feel a bit overwhelming, it truly is the only way to access the vantage points.
Once on the terrace, the staff will often explain the natural dyeing techniques used (such as using pigeon droppings and saffron), but keep in mind they will expect a tip or a purchase in return for the tour.
- Cost: Technically free to enter the shops, but a tip for the terrace access is expected (usually around 10–20 DH).
- Hours: Roughly 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
- Location: Deep within the labyrinth of Fes el Bali.
Tip: Most shopkeepers will hand you a sprig of fresh mint as you enter. Hold this close to your nose—the smell of the tanning pits is incredibly pungent, and the mint helps mask the odor!
5. Place Seffarine
This is one of the iconic but small town squares in Fes and is home to one of the oldest libraries in the world. If you have already been to Marrakech, this square is the equivalent of the busy Djemaa El Fna.
Place Seffarine has been an important meeting point in the city since medieval times.
The square takes its name from the word Seffar which refers to the colours of the metals pounded by the Moroccan Jewish coppersmiths.
It is filled now with copperware shops and artisans still pounding their wares right then and there.
- Tip: Abdullah Touati has run a tea counter in Fez Medina since 1969, just off the metalworkers’ Place Seffarine. If you haven’t yet tried Moroccan tea or you are looking for this morning’s first sweet and tiny glass, this is a great local place to experience it.
6. Al Attarine Madrasa – Things To Do in Fes
This is just around the corner from Place Saffrine and is another of the old Quranic schools in Fes.
Al Attarine Madrasa was established as a school in 1325 and is now one of the most visited landmarks in the city.
It is stunning! The designs along the walls are so intricate and the attention to detail is incredible.
- Open: Daily from 8.30am-12.30pm and 2.30-6.30pm
- Cost: 20 MAD
- Location: Rue Talaa Kebira, Medina (near Place Saffarine and Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque)
7. Mellah – Fes, Morocco
Considered holy by Arabs, Fes was the first Moroccan city to establish a Mellah — Jewish quarter — in the 15th century, in response to southern Spain’s Jewish expulsion.
Many of the Moroccan cities have a Mellah. But none are as old or historic as Fes.
It’s here you’ll find the Aben Danan, a 17th-century Synagogue built for the Jews who were pushed out of Spain at the time.
Fes el-Jdid became a refuge for the Jewish community and was originally home to 250,000 Jews. The Mellah in Fes is full of history and Jewish-style architecture and is well worth a wander.
8. Ville Nouvelle (Fes New Town)
Ville Nouvelle is literally the ‘New Town’ and is a relatively modern central district of Fes. It was created by the French in the early 20th century,
Fes el Jdid, or (new Fes) is much smaller than the old Fes (El Bali) or medina. The streets are wider, there are less tourist shops and you will pleasant eateries and modern amenities of the city.
It is mix of French colonial architecture with bustling markets. Though this is a part of the city that is conversely more local.
I always believe that in visiting a new city to get a better feel of the culture it is worth stepping out of the touristic hub.
The Ville Nouveau is not as famous as the historic things to do in Fes. But it is great for a wander 🙂
9. Try a Traditional Moroccan Hammam in Fes
If you haven’t experienced a Moroccan Hammam yet, you are missing out on one of the country’s most essential traditions. These steam baths, which evolved from Roman bathing culture, combine deep heat, massage, and an intensive body scrub.
Which – after eight months of traveling through Morocco – I can honestly say I became addicted to the routine!
A Hammam is more than just a spa treatment; it is a way of life. Moroccans of all backgrounds visit their local hammam at least once a week for hygiene and to catch up on social news. It is an incredibly authentic experience that will leave you feeling fresher and cleaner than ever before.
In Fes, you have two main options depending on your comfort level:
- Local Hammams: These are public bathhouses. They are very authentic and budget-friendly, though they require a bit of courage if you aren’t used to the process.
- Tourist Spas: These offer a more private, high-end experience in a beautiful setting, often within a renovated riad.
If you are looking for the perfect middle ground, we highly recommend Hammam Mernissi. Located right in the medina, it offers a wonderful, authentic Moroccan experience that is accessible to visitors.
10. Al Aachabin Food Market – Fes, Morocco
Fes was the first Moroccan city to establish a Mellah (Jewish Quarter), and that legacy has turned the city’s cuisine into a true cultural melting pot.
This historic blending of traditions is why Fes is celebrated as the birthplace of many of Morocco’s most famous signature dishes, including savory-sweet pastillas and slow-cooked tagines.
While you can find these dishes in any tourist restaurant, we reckon the best way to experience the local flavours is to head into the Al Aachabin food section of the Fes El Bali Medina and try the street food.
Must-Try Street Food:
- Barbecued Meats: Enjoy succulent meats marinated in traditional spices, often served conveniently as a sandwich.
- Babouche (Snails): If you’re feeling adventurous, try this herbed snail broth—it’s one of the most popular street snacks in the country!
- Olives & Sweets: You’ll find endless stalls overflowing with local olives, flaky pastries, and honey-drenched Moroccan sweets.
Wandering through these stalls is a sensory experience that offers a much more authentic taste of Fes than any sit-down menu could provide.
Other Things To Do in Fes, Morocco
There are plenty of things to do in Fes including day trips and tours out of the city.
- Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Art and Crafts: Housed in a former 18th century Riad (accommodation), this museum focuses on traditional Moroccan woodwork crafts.
- Dar Batha: Located in the medina, this is a former palace that was turned into a museum in 1915 and showcases an amazing collection of traditional artefacts.
- Dar el Makhzen: The royal palace of Fes is not open to the public but is definitely worth seeing from the outside. The Moroccan royal family doesn’t live there, but they maintain a palace in every city for each of their visits.
- Marinid Tombs: If the steep and narrow alleyways of Fes haven’t given you enough of a workout, a short hike from the medina will take you up to the Marinid Tombs.
- Vollubilis: Take a daytrip to the historic Roman city of Vollubis near Meknes.
Getting There: Fes, Morocco
As one of Morocco’s primary imperial cities and a major tourist destination, Fes is well-connected to the rest of the country and beyond.
By Air
The Fes Sais International Airport is located about 13km from the city center. It handles frequent domestic flights as well as international routes from Europe and North Africa.
- Tip: To save on transport, the Line 16 bus runs from the airport to the city center every hour between 07:00 and 19:00.
By Train
Fes is easily accessible by rail via the Fes-Ville Station. There are regular daily services connecting Fes to Casablanca, Tangier, and Rabat.
If you are coming from Marrakech, the train route includes stops in Casablanca, Rabat, and Meknes, making for a scenic journey through the heart of the country.
By Bus
Morocco has an extensive network of long-distance buses that are both affordable and comfortable for mid-range journeys.
The two most reliable companies are CTM and Supratours. These carriers link Fes to almost every major city in Morocco, offering a flexible alternative to the train.
Getting Around in Fes
Once you’re there, the main things to do in Fes are within walkable distance in the city.
To explore outside of Fes, the best way to get around is to rent a car.
Where To Eat: Restaurants in Fes, Morocco
Fes is one of our favourite Moroccan cities for cheap local eats. There are designated ‘food streets’ in the Medina with food markets, sweets and pastries.
Plus, there is an abundance of tourist-friendly restaurants and cafes in Fes offering the typical Moroccan fare of Tagines and couscous along with fusion-dishes and more.
- Abdullah The & Café: A small retreat from the bustle of the medina and the perfect spot to experience a traditional mint tea ritual.
- Restaurant Almandar: A simple restaurant with rooftop tables serving traditional Fassi dishes, basic pizzas and burgers.
- La Cave: Traditional Moroccan restaurant with amazing décor inside and a fantastic atmosphere. We tried the Pastilla which we can recommend! Great service and they even give you a little bracelet when you pay!
- Grillade Nmiss: We were recommended to try here in the Mellah for a Kefta sandwich which was delish!
- Darori: A cosy courtyard restaurant with seasonally inspired Tajines and pigeon Pastilla.
- Ruined Garden: Understated by day but a dreamily romantic dinner choice in the Medina.
Did I mention the fabulous street food of Fes? Just head for the smells wafting through the medina!
Where To Stay: Accommodation in Fes, Morocco
For an authentic Moroccan experience, I would recommend taking the opportunity to stay in a traditional Riad in Fes. Most Riads are in the Medina or the nearby Mellah neighbourhood.
- Budget: Riad Dar Mansoura
Impeccable reviews and located just outside of the main Medina area. A cosy courtyard and Moroccan breakfast included.
- Mid-Range: Dar Seffarine
This is an impeccably restored Riad with home-cooked, communal dinners.
- Mid-Range: Riad Anata
A small boutique riad with splashy décor and communal rooftop space.
- Mid-Range: Dar Bensouda
Minimal mid-range riad style accommodation with a courtyard plunge pool.
- Mid-Range-Luxury: Riad Zamane & Spa
Situated right in the heart of the Medina. Only a short walk from the main gate Bab Boujeloud.
Useful Links For Travel in Morocco & Beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads. (Including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before embarking on all the great things to do in Fes, Morocco!