Why travel to Fes? Fes is one of the most visited cities in Morocco. It is one of the most attractive and interesting destinations in the country and is famous for its ancient walled city. In Morocco there are 4 imperial cities: Rabat, Fez, Meknes and Marrakech. These 4 cities are thus known for having been a cultural and political center in the past, but also in the present time. And, at some point in history, they were also capital. Fez was the first imperial city and the oldest capital of Morocco, dating back to the 8th century. Fez has been able to adapt to modern life and keeps a culture alive and influential. In fact, it is known for being the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco.
Although in Fez we also find labyrinthine streets and souks in its medina, which has great charm for the visitor, it is true that it is a quieter city than Marrakech. Whoever comes to discover the city of Fez, soon realizes that they have managed to maintain its traditions and that it has one of the most authentic lifestyles in Morocco.
Fes, one of the essentials on your trip to Morocco
You will love walking its streets and discovering the architectural styles that characterize the city of Fez. It is a city that invites you to travel to the past, to delve into its customs and also to enjoy the hospitality of its people. You can do this visit freely, or choose a guided tour to take advantage of the entire itinerary and discover the secrets that only the natives know.
You might like to know that Fez offers one of the world’s largest car-free areas. The city is divided into two medinas and is also known as the ‘city of a thousand doors’. Of colorful labyrinthine streets and an enigmatic tradition that captures, Fez stands out as a splendid destination.
What to see in Fes. 8 places you can’t miss
- Bab Bou Jeloud: also known as the Blue Door. Its function was to give entrance to the Medina of el-Bali, the oldest part of the city surrounded by a wall that reaches up to 15 kilometers in length. Formed by 3 symmetrical arches and adorned with blue tiles that, depending on the time of day and the amount of light that is reflected, acquires different shades.
- The Medina of Fez: more than 9,000 Unesco Heritage alleys make up the city’s busiest shopping area. Stalls with the most characteristic products of Morocco whose aromas, flavors and colors surround the busiest streets, such as Rainbow Street with its multicolored cobblestones that connect Talaa es-Seghira and Taala el-Kebira, the two main arteries of the Medina of Fez.
- The great Bou Inania Madrasah: of incalculable beauty, this is one of the few mosques that can be visited in Fez. A madrasah is a type of school or training center. During the visit you will perceive the great architectural wealth of Fez as you cross the porticos and columns that support it. Listening to the sound of the water from the fountains in this place is magical.
- Mausoleum of Mulay Idris II: it is a sacred and important place of pilgrimage and devotion. The site that is attributed to Mulay Idris II, founder of Fez and king of Morocco, was found between 807 and 828.
- The Chouwara Tannery: one of the most outstanding places in Fez. This tannery is the largest of the four traditional tanneries that continue to operate in the Medina Fez el-Bali. It is one of the most picturesque panoramas you will find in the city. And, we warn you, the smell is very strong. The main function is the production and coloring of the lamb, ox, goat and camel leather. So the landscape that offers natural dyes is very colorful.
- Seffarine Square: it is the square that summarizes all the charm of Fez. It preserves the oldest trades in the city. It is really charming and worth including on your visits.
- The magic carpet: through the Bab Guissa Gate are the ruins of the Meriní tombs and mausoleums. Its panoramic views are a real luxury.
- The Jewish quarter: a more modern neighborhood outside the medina. The surprising thing about this neighborhood is discovering what it offers without looking for it. Its monuments appear with the possibility of enjoying them far from the hustle and bustle.
Complete your experience in Fes
Don’t leave Fez without delving into Moroccan gastronomy. Write down these essentials: flour soup, Cous-cous, Tagine, an exquisite Bastela and, of course, a Moorish tea. In the restaurants of Fez you will find many other options, but these are some of the traditional dishes that visitors love.
The location of Fez will allow you, if you have more days to travel around Morocco, to visit other cities and touristic attractions, with Fez being the starting point. You can enjoy Northern Morocco, and visit Meknes, another of the imperial cities; or else, the unmistakable town of Chaouen, with its charming and narrow blue streets. But, if you have never been in the desert, you cannot miss the excursion to the desert of Merzouga, one of the jewels of the country.
If you have already decided on your trip to Fez, start planning your adventure with these tips and recommendations that you should know before you travel to Morocco.
