Fes Medina Guide: Best Things to Do in Fes
Fes is the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities and its cultural and spiritual heart. Its old medina, Fes el-Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. Walking through its narrow alleys feels like travelling back in time. Here are the best things to do in Fes.
1. Enter through Bab Bou Jeloud, the Blue Gate
The Blue Gate, covered in blue tiles on one side and green on the other, is the classic entrance to the medina. From here, the two main streets, Talaa Kebira and Talaa Seghira, lead down into the old city.
2. The Chouara tannery
The most famous sight in Fes: hundreds of stone pits filled with colourful dyes, where leather has been tanned the traditional way for centuries. Watch from one of the leather shop terraces around it, and take the sprig of mint they offer you: the smell is strong.
3. Al Quaraouiyine and the madrasas
Founded in the 9th century by Fatima al-Fihri, Al Quaraouiyine is considered one of the oldest universities in the world. Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but you can admire its courtyard from the doors. Nearby, the Bou Inania and Al-Attarine madrasas are open to visitors and show the finest carved wood, stucco and zellige in Morocco.
4. The souks and artisans
Fes is the city of craftsmen: coppersmiths on Seffarine Square, weavers, potters, leather workers and the Nejjarine woodworking museum. It is the best place in Morocco to see artisans at work.
5. Royal Palace and the Mellah
In Fes el-Jdid, admire the huge golden doors of the Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen), then walk through the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter with its wooden balconies.
6. Sunset at the Merinid Tombs
From the hill of the Merinid Tombs you get the best panoramic view over the medina. At sunset, the whole city turns golden as the calls to prayer rise from hundreds of minarets.
Day trips from Fes
- Meknes and Volubilis: an imperial city and the best-preserved Roman ruins in Morocco.
- Chefchaouen: the Blue City of the Rif mountains, about 4 hours away. Read our Chefchaouen guide.
- The Sahara desert: Merzouga is about 7 to 8 hours away. See our Fes to Merzouga guide.
Local tips for Fes
- Hire an official licensed guide for your first visit: the medina is a real labyrinth.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the alleys are steep and paved with stones.
- Stay in a traditional riad inside the medina.
- Make room in your bag for ceramics, leather and argan products.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Fes?
Two full days are ideal: one for the medina with a guide, and one for Fes el-Jdid, the viewpoints or a day trip to Meknes and Volubilis.
Is it easy to get lost in the Fes medina?
Yes, very easy. That is part of the charm, but a local guide will help you see the best places without wasting time.
Discover Fes with us
Start your Moroccan adventure in the imperial city: see all our tours from Fes or contact our local team for a tailor-made trip.