Fes, Morocco, is a city that feels like it’s been frozen in time. Steeped in history, Fes offers an authentic window into Morocco’s past, with its medieval medinas, ancient universities, and rich cultural traditions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or a traveler seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Fes is bound to captivate you.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do in Fes, taking you through the must-see sights, cultural highlights, and experiences that will make your visit unforgettable.
The Fes el-Bali, or Old Fes, is the oldest part of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stepping into this medina feels like being transported back to the Middle Ages. It’s a densely packed maze of narrow, twisting streets—so much so that vehicles can’t enter, and everything from goods to groceries is transported by donkey.
Walking through Fes el-Bali is an adventure. The walls around you rise high, casting shadows that cool the narrow paths. The call to prayer echoes from the nearby mosques, blending with the hum of everyday life. You’ll see craftsmen working in small shops, the occasional glimpse of a hidden courtyard, and a flurry of activity as locals go about their business.
Fes el-Bali can be overwhelming for first-time visitors because of its labyrinthine layout, but that’s part of its charm. There are no easy landmarks to guide you—just winding alleys, tucked-away shops, and the occasional minaret towering above the rooftops. The best advice? Embrace getting lost.
Many visitors opt for a local guide, especially if you want to learn about the historical context and key sites hidden within the medina. Guides can help you explore places you might otherwise miss and explain the stories behind the architecture and the city’s unique layout.
In the heart of Fes lies the University of Al Quaraouiyine, recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world. Established in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, a woman visionary, the university played a critical role in the Islamic Golden Age, influencing the fields of science, philosophy, and theology.
Al Quaraouiyine stands as a testament to Morocco’s intellectual heritage. Although the university has modernized over the centuries, its original mission to be a place of knowledge, learning, and spiritual inquiry remains intact.
The university is not just a place of learning but also a remarkable piece of architecture. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself, you can still admire the grand courtyard and the stunning details of the exterior, including intricate zellij (mosaic tilework), carved wood, and arabesque designs. The peaceful atmosphere around the university is a welcome escape from the bustling medina streets.
Fes is home to several historic madrasas (Islamic schools), but none are as grand as the Bou Inania Madrasa. Built in the 14th century by the Marinid Sultan Bou Inan, it is considered a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture. The intricate wood carvings, geometric tile patterns, and finely detailed stucco plasterwork are simply breathtaking.
Unlike many religious buildings in Morocco, the Bou Inania Madrasa is open to non-Muslims, giving you the rare opportunity to explore its grand courtyard and classrooms. The madrasa’s minaret is also one of the few still standing in Fes, and it remains a striking example of Moroccan architectural elegance.
No visit to Fes would be complete without seeing the Chouara Tanneries, one of the oldest leather tanneries in the world. The sight of workers standing knee-deep in vats of dye, preparing leather hides using methods unchanged for centuries, is both fascinating and humbling.
From one of the nearby terraces, you’ll have a panoramic view of the circular stone vats filled with vibrant colors. The tannery is a testament to the city’s long-standing craftsmanship and the vital role that leather production plays in the local economy.
Fes is also famous for its pottery, and visiting a ceramic workshop is a must for anyone interested in traditional Moroccan crafts. The city is renowned for its distinctive blue-and-white pottery, and you can watch artisans shape and paint intricate designs by hand. Some workshops offer visitors the chance to try their hand at pottery, providing a memorable, hands-on experience.
For travelers looking to explore both the desert and the rich history of Fes, the Marrakech to Fes desert tour 3 days offers the perfect blend of adventure and culture.
Fes is a paradise for food lovers. The city’s cuisine is rich, aromatic, and deeply rooted in tradition. Some must-try dishes include:
• B’stilla (Pastilla): A savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, pigeon (or chicken), almonds, and dusted with cinnamon and sugar.
• Harira: A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb or beef, traditionally served to break the fast during Ramadan.
• Tagine: A slow-cooked stew made with meat (lamb, chicken, or beef), vegetables, and spices, served in a distinctive conical clay pot.
Fes is known for its use of spices like saffron, cumin, and cinnamon, which give its dishes a distinctive flavor.
Whether you’re dining in a luxury riad or grabbing a quick bite from a street vendor, the food in Fes will not disappoint. Some of the best places to experience authentic Moroccan cuisine include:
• Dar Hatim: A family-run restaurant located in a traditional Fassi home.
• Café Clock: Famous for its camel burgers and live music performances.
• Riad Rcif: A beautifully restored riad offering traditional Moroccan dishes in an intimate setting.
For a more casual experience, the street food in Fes is equally delightful. Try fresh M’smen (a layered flatbread), Makouda (fried potato cakes), or sip on a cup of sweet mint tea as you explore the medina.
While the Royal Palace of Fes (Dar el-Makhzen) is not open to the public, the palace’s golden gates are a sight to behold. These intricately designed doors, adorned with brass and woodwork, offer a glimpse of the architectural grandeur of Moroccan palaces. The surrounding gardens are lush and provide a peaceful setting, contrasting the busy city streets outside.
Nestled between the historic medina of Fes and the modern Ville Nouvelle, Jnan Sbil Gardens offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Established in the 18th century by Sultan Moulay Abdellah, this expansive garden is one of the oldest and most beautiful public spaces in Fes. Stroll along winding pathways shaded by towering palms and eucalyptus trees, or relax beside the serene waters of its ornamental lakes and fountains.
The garden’s carefully curated collection of exotic plants and flowers adds bursts of color to the lush greenery. You’ll also find beautifully landscaped areas with traditional Moroccan design elements, including geometric layouts and fountains that reflect the country’s timeless aesthetic.
The Al Attarine Madrasa, located near the bustling Al Qaraouiyine Mosque in Fes, is a shining example of the city’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Commissioned by Marinid Sultan Abu Said in the 14th century, this madrasa is celebrated for its intricate artistry and harmonious design. As you step inside, you’re immediately captivated by the beautiful cedar woodwork, the exquisite zellige tile mosaics, and the delicate stucco carvings that adorn every corner of the building.
The central courtyard, with its marble fountain and ornate arches, showcases the mastery of Moroccan craftsmanship. Each element is thoughtfully designed, from the colorful tilework to the carved inscriptions of Quranic verses that grace the walls. The madrasa’s intimate scale and attention to detail make it one of the most refined examples of Islamic architecture in Fes.
Located in the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter of Fes, the Jewish Cemetery is a solemn and deeply moving place that offers insight into the long-standing Jewish presence in Morocco. With its rows of white tombstones, some dating back centuries, this cemetery is the largest and most significant Jewish burial ground in the city. The cemetery is home to the graves of prominent rabbis, scholars, and community leaders, including the revered Solica (Suleika) HaTzaddikah, whose tomb attracts pilgrims seeking blessings.
As you walk through the peaceful grounds, the cemetery’s unique architectural layout becomes evident. Unlike many other cemeteries, the tombs here are low, horizontal, and often engraved with Hebrew inscriptions, offering a poignant reminder of the rich cultural and spiritual legacy of Fes’ Jewish community.
Originally built in the late 19th century as a royal palace by Sultan Moulay Hassan I, Dar Batha is now one of Fes’ most renowned museums, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Morocco. The museum is located just outside the medina walls, and its Andalusian-style architecture is a masterpiece in itself, featuring elegant arches, zellige tilework, and a beautifully landscaped courtyard garden.
As you explore Dar Batha, you’ll discover a stunning collection of traditional Moroccan art and artifacts, including intricately designed ceramics, woodwork, textiles, and calligraphy. The museum’s exhibits offer a glimpse into Morocco’s past, highlighting the craftsmanship and cultural traditions that have been passed down through generations. The vibrant blue-and-white Fassi pottery, for which Fes is famous, is particularly well-represented here, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Moroccan decorative arts.
Fes is a city unlike any other, where ancient traditions live on, and history is woven into every corner. Whether you’re exploring the medina’s labyrinth of alleys, marveling at the architectural beauty of its mosques and madrasas, or savoring the flavors of its world-renowned cuisine, Fes offers a truly immersive experience. It’s a city that invites you not just to visit but to experience and understand Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.
