Fes Morocco Travel Guide: Things to Do & Where to Stay
Plan your visit to Fes with the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, day trips, transport advice and practical tips for exploring Morocco’s historic imperial city.
Fes Morocco is Morocco’s oldest imperial city and one of the country’s great centers of religion, learning, craftsmanship and traditional urban life. Its historic heart is the UNESCO-listed Medina of Fes, including Fes el Bali, a vast pedestrian old city of narrow lanes, workshops, mosques, madrasas and markets. For most first-time visitors, two full days is the right amount of time to explore Fes without rushing.
Fes rewards travelers who spend time understanding the city instead of simply moving between monuments. A licensed local guide is especially useful on your first day, both for navigation and for understanding the history behind the buildings, craft districts and daily life inside the medina.
Fes at a Glance
- How many days: Plan 2 full days for a first visit.
- Best time: Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable conditions for long days of walking.
- Where to stay: Choose a riad in or near the medina for atmosphere, or the Ville Nouvelle for easier vehicle access.
- How to arrive: Fes has an international airport and rail connections with Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier and Marrakech.
- Guide: A licensed local guide is highly useful for your first exploration of Fes el Bali.
Fes also works well as the end of a journey through southern Morocco. Travelers coming from Marrakech can combine the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara and Fes on a private Marrakech to Fes desert tour, avoiding the need to backtrack across the country.
Why Visit Fes Morocco?
Fes is one of the best places in Morocco to experience a historic medina that still functions as a residential, commercial, religious and craft center. Residents live beside bakeries, workshops, food stalls, mosques, fountains, hammams, schools and family-run businesses.
Fes el Bali contains about 9,400 narrow streets. Many are too narrow for vehicles, so goods still move through parts of the medina by handcart or pack animal. The change from the roads outside the walls to the pedestrian lanes inside is immediate.
The city’s identity is closely tied to scholarship, religion and craftsmanship. Metalworkers still work around Seffarine, leather is processed in traditional tanneries, and carved cedar, zellij, plasterwork, textiles and ceramics remain visible throughout historic buildings and working craft districts.
Fes and Marrakech often appear on the same Morocco itinerary, but they offer different experiences. Marrakech has a larger concentration of modern restaurants, nightlife and resort-style accommodation. Fes is especially rewarding for travelers interested in historic architecture, traditional crafts, religious heritage and the daily life of an old medina.
Top Things to Do in Fes
Most major sights are concentrated in Fes el Bali and Fes el Jdid. Distances can look short on a map, but the old city’s lanes curve, narrow, climb and divide, so moving between places often takes longer than expected.
1. Enter the Medina Through Bab Boujloud
Bab Boujloud, often called the Blue Gate, is the best-known entrance to Fes el Bali and a practical starting point for a first walk through the medina. Modern road traffic quickly disappears after you pass through the gate and enter the pedestrian streets of the old city.
Talaa Kebira and Talaa Seghira are two of the main routes descending from this part of the medina. Small lanes branch away from them toward homes, souks, food stalls, workshops and religious buildings.
Take a moment at the gate before continuing. It is one of the easiest places to understand the transition between the modern roads outside the walls and the much older urban structure within them.
2. See Chouara Tannery From Above
Chouara Tannery is one of the most recognizable sights in Fes. Visitors look down from terraces in surrounding buildings onto the stone vats used during different stages of leather preparation and dyeing.
There is no single public observation platform. Several leather businesses have elevated terraces overlooking the tannery. Visitors are commonly offered a sprig of fresh mint because the smell from the leather-working process can be strong.
Most terrace visits finish inside a leather showroom. Looking does not create an obligation to buy. If you are interested in a jacket, bag, slippers or pouf, inspect the leather, stitching, lining, hardware and overall finish before discussing the price.
Prices vary according to leather type, size, quality and workmanship. There is no need to make a quick decision. Decide what the item is worth to you and politely walk away if the quality or final price does not suit you.
3. See Al Qarawiyyin
Al Qarawiyyin is central to the religious and intellectual history of Fes. Founded in 859, the educational institution associated with the mosque is recognized as the oldest existing and continually operating educational institution in the world.
It remains an active religious complex rather than a conventional tourist attraction. Non-Muslim visitors generally see the mosque interior from its doorways and surrounding lanes instead of entering the prayer areas.
This is one of the places where a knowledgeable guide adds considerable value. Its importance lies not only in the architecture visible from outside, but also in its long role in scholarship, religion and the development of Fes.
4. Visit Bou Inania Madrasa
Bou Inania Madrasa is one of the best places in Fes to examine Moroccan decorative architecture at close range. The courtyard combines carved cedar, geometric zellij, stucco and calligraphy in a compact space.
Spend time looking at how the tile, plaster and timber work together. A licensed guide can also explain how madrasas functioned and why institutions of religious learning became so important to the history of Fes.
5. Visit Al Attarine Madrasa
Al Attarine Madrasa offers another close look at the wood carving, zellij and plasterwork associated with historic Fes. Its smaller scale makes individual details particularly easy to study.
Visiting both Bou Inania and Al Attarine is worthwhile if architecture is one of your main interests. Seeing them on the same day also makes it easier to recognize decorative techniques that recur throughout the city.
6. Stop at Nejjarine Square
Nejjarine Square is known for its decorated fountain and its connection with traditional woodworkers. The surrounding lanes form part of the medina’s historical craft network, where particular trades became concentrated in particular areas.
The nearby Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts provides more context on carved doors, tools, architectural woodwork and the role of carpentry in Moroccan buildings.
7. Listen to the Coppersmiths at Seffarine Square
Seffarine Square remains closely associated with metalworking. Craftspeople hammer trays, pots and other pieces in workshops around the square, and the repeated sound of metal is often what tells you that you are getting close.
The workshops are working businesses rather than demonstrations created only for tourists. This makes Seffarine one of the clearest examples of the medina’s continuing craft economy.
8. See the Royal Palace Gates and the Mellah
Fes el Jdid gives you a different perspective on the city. The Royal Palace, or Dar el Makhzen, is not open as a conventional visitor attraction, but its monumental exterior gates are worth seeing for their scale and decorative metalwork.
The nearby Mellah is the historic Jewish quarter of Fes. Walking through this district introduces another part of the city’s history and helps explain the Muslim, Jewish and Andalusian influences that shaped Fes over time.
9. See the Medina From the Merenid Tombs
The Merenid Tombs sit on higher ground overlooking the old city. From here, the density and scale of Fes el Bali are much easier to understand than they are while walking between its high walls.
Late afternoon is a good time to visit because the lower light gives more definition to the rooftops, minarets, city walls and surrounding hills. The viewpoint is also popular around sunset.
If you remain until sunset, arrange your return transport instead of relying on finding the easiest walking route after dark.
10. Take a Break in Jnan Sbil Garden
Several hours inside Fes el Bali can be tiring. Jnan Sbil Garden provides open space and a quieter setting between periods of sightseeing.
It works particularly well when you are moving between the medina and Fes el Jdid. A short garden break is also helpful in warmer weather, when several consecutive hours on foot can become exhausting.
Exploring the Medina With a Licensed Local Guide
You do not legally need a guide simply to walk through Fes el Bali, but a licensed local guide is extremely useful on a first visit. Navigation is only part of the reason. A good guide explains why different craft districts developed where they did, identifies religious and educational buildings and gives context to streets that can otherwise look like ordinary passages.
A half-day guided visit can cover Bab Boujloud, the main medina lanes, Bou Inania Madrasa, Al Qarawiyyin, Nejjarine, Seffarine, the souks and the tannery area. A full day allows more time for Fes el Jdid, the Royal Palace gates, the Mellah, viewpoints and slower stops.
Arranging a licensed guide in advance also reduces one of the most common visitor frustrations: unsolicited people offering directions, guiding or a shortcut before expecting payment or directing travelers toward a particular shop.
If you want a guided Fes visit included in a private Morocco journey, you can contact Complete Morocco before arrival.
What to Eat in Fes
Food deserves time in a Fes itinerary. One dish particularly associated with the city is pastilla, a pastry that combines a savory filling with spices and a lightly sweet finish.
You may also come across bissara, a thick fava bean soup; khlii, preserved meat often served with eggs; harira; grilled meats; Moroccan breads; olives; and a wide range of pastries and sweets.
For a broader introduction to dishes you will encounter around the country, read our guide to traditional Moroccan food.
Small medina eateries and food stalls work well for lunch. Look for places with steady local turnover and food being prepared fresh. For dinner, allow at least one evening for a riad or traditional restaurant where dishes requiring longer preparation can be enjoyed at a slower pace.
Best Day Trips From Fes
Meknes and Volubilis
Meknes and Volubilis combine well as a full-day excursion. Meknes is another of Morocco’s imperial cities, while Volubilis introduces a much earlier period through its Roman ruins, mosaics, columns and arches.
Ifrane and Azrou
Driving south toward the Middle Atlas brings a major change in landscape. Ifrane sits at higher elevation, while the cedar forests around Azrou are associated with Barbary macaques. Observe the animals from a sensible distance and avoid feeding them.
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is roughly 200 km from Fes and usually takes about 3.5 to 4 hours each way. A day trip is possible, but one night gives you more useful time in the town. See our Chefchaouen travel guide when planning the route.
Can You Visit the Sahara From Fes in One Day?
No. Merzouga and the Erg Chebbi dunes are roughly 460 to 470 km from Fes, and direct driving usually takes about 7 to 8 hours before meaningful sightseeing stops. A same-day return would leave almost no useful time in the desert.
Make the Sahara part of a multi-day journey instead. Our private Fes to Marrakech desert tour continues through the Middle Atlas to Merzouga before crossing southern Morocco toward Marrakech.
Where to Stay in Fes
For most first-time visitors, the main accommodation decision is whether to stay inside or close to the medina, or in the Ville Nouvelle.
A riad in the old city gives you the strongest sense of place. You step directly into the historic lanes, and many properties retain interior courtyards, carved wood, zellij and traditional Moroccan design. The tradeoff is access. Cars cannot reach most addresses inside Fes el Bali, so the final part of your arrival may be on foot.
Areas near Bab Boujloud and Batha can offer a useful balance between medina access and shorter walks from vehicle drop-off points.
The Ville Nouvelle suits travelers who prefer wider roads, conventional hotels, easy taxi access and a quieter base. The medina remains a short taxi journey away.
Top 3 hotels in Fes
Ask us for hotel options ›-
Riad Sara
★★★
A traditional riad choice for travelers who want to stay close to the historic medina.
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Palais Houyam
★★★★
A comfortable mid-range option for travelers wanting medina character with additional amenities.
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Palais Faraj Suites Spa
★★★★★
A premium choice for travelers prioritizing service, spacious accommodation and views over old Fes.
Getting to Fes and Getting Around
Fes-Saïss Airport
Fes-Saïss Airport is about 15 km south of the city. Driving to the medina usually takes roughly 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic and the gate closest to your accommodation.
If your riad is deep inside Fes el Bali, your driver will not be able to reach the door. Ask the accommodation which gate or parking area is best for arrival and whether somebody can meet you there. Porters can help carry luggage through the pedestrian streets.
Traveling to Fes by Train
Fes has rail connections with Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier and Marrakech. Marrakech to Fes takes roughly seven hours on many services, although schedules and exact journey times should always be checked for your travel date.
The railway station is in the newer part of Fes. From there, use a petit taxi to reach the road-accessible gate or drop-off point closest to your accommodation.
Getting Around the City
Petit taxis are useful for travel between the railway station, Ville Nouvelle, Fes el Jdid, viewpoints and the entrances to Fes el Bali. Walking is the practical way to move through most of the old medina.
Navigation apps can help with general orientation but should not be treated as perfect inside the medina. A route that looks simple on a screen may involve stairs, covered passages, busy markets or lanes that are difficult to recognize on the ground.
Is There Uber in Fes?
Do not plan your transport in Fes around Uber. Fes is not currently listed among Uber’s supported Moroccan cities. Petit taxis and pre-arranged transfers are more dependable options.
How Far Is Marrakech From Fes via the Desert?
A direct journey between Marrakech and Fes is very different from a route through Merzouga. Traveling via the Sahara covers roughly 900 km or more depending on the exact itinerary and is normally spread across at least three days.
The additional distance is part of the experience. The route crosses the Atlas region, southern valleys and Erg Chebbi before continuing north toward Fes.
Best Time to Visit Fes
Spring and autumn are generally the easiest seasons for sightseeing because a visit to Fes involves a great deal of walking. April, May, September and October are especially practical months to consider.
July and August are hot, with average daytime highs around 35°C and hotter days possible. Winter days can be comfortable for sightseeing, but nights are much cooler.
For planning beyond Fes, read our Morocco weather and climate guide.
| Month | Typical High / Low | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| January | 61°F / 42°F (16°C / 6°C) | Good for sightseeing, with cold evenings. |
| February | 63°F / 44°F (17°C / 7°C) | Cool and comfortable for walking. |
| March | 68°F / 47°F (20°C / 8°C) | A good early-spring option. |
| April | 71°F / 50°F (22°C / 10°C) | One of the best months for sightseeing. |
| May | 78°F / 55°F (26°C / 13°C) | Warm without peak summer heat. |
| June | 88°F / 62°F (31°C / 17°C) | Warm to hot during longer walks. |
| July | 95°F / 67°F (35°C / 19°C) | Hot. Plan outdoor sightseeing carefully. |
| August | 95°F / 68°F (35°C / 20°C) | Hot. Build breaks into the day. |
| September | 87°F / 64°F (31°C / 18°C) | A strong choice as summer heat eases. |
| October | 78°F / 58°F (26°C / 14°C) | One of the most comfortable months for walking. |
| November | 69°F / 50°F (21°C / 10°C) | Pleasant days with cooler evenings. |
| December | 63°F / 45°F (17°C / 7°C) | Good for sightseeing with warm layers. |
Practical Tips for Visiting Fes
Use a Licensed Guide, Not an Unsolicited Street Guide
Visitors may be approached by people offering directions, shortcuts or guiding services. Some later expect payment or lead travelers toward businesses where commissions are involved. Arrange a licensed local guide if you want a tour and politely decline unsolicited offers.
Verify Claims That a Lane Is Closed
Sometimes streets really are temporarily obstructed by work, deliveries or activity around prayer. At other times, a claim that the road is closed can be used to redirect visitors. There is no need to argue. Step aside and verify the route independently or with your guide.
You Do Not Have to Buy at the Tanneries
Tannery viewpoints are often accessed through surrounding leather businesses, but seeing the tannery does not obligate you to buy. If you are interested in something, examine the product first and negotiate only after deciding that you genuinely want it.
Dress Practically for the Medina
Fes el Bali contains homes, mosques, schools and neighborhood businesses as well as visitor sights. Clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is a practical, respectful choice for both men and women. Comfortable walking shoes matter because paving can be uneven.
Carry Some Moroccan Dirhams
Cards are accepted by many hotels and larger businesses, but cash remains useful inside the medina. Keep smaller notes available for taxis, food, small purchases and tips.
Expect Friday to Feel Different
Friday is the main congregational prayer day. The medina does not completely close, but some workshops and smaller businesses pause around midday prayer. Avoid depending on one specific shop being open at that time.
Fes FAQ
How many days do you need in Fes?
Two full days is the right amount for most first-time visitors to Fes. One day lets you see the main medina highlights, but two days gives you time for a licensed guided walk, the tanneries, madrasas, Fes el Bali, Fes el Jdid, and a slower meal or garden stop without rushing.
Is Fes safe for tourists?
Fes is generally safe for tourists who use normal precautions. The more common visitor problems involve persistent selling, unofficial guides, misleading directions or petty theft rather than serious crime. Keep valuables secure, arrange a licensed guide for your first medina visit, and use a taxi or arranged transfer when appropriate after dark.
Fes or Fez: which spelling is correct?
Fes and Fez are both correct names for the same Moroccan city. Fes is widely used in Morocco and in French-language contexts, while Fez is the traditional English spelling. You will see both versions in maps, guidebooks and travel websites, and both refer to the same place.
Do you need a guide in the Fes medina?
You do not legally need a guide to enter Fes el Bali, but a licensed local guide is highly useful for a first visit. The medina has thousands of lanes, and a good guide adds historical and cultural context while helping you reach workshops, monuments and neighborhoods efficiently without relying on unsolicited street guides.
Fes or Marrakech: which is better?
Choose Fes if your priority is historic medina life, traditional craftsmanship, madrasas and religious heritage. Marrakech offers a larger concentration of restaurants, nightlife, major visitor attractions and resort-style accommodation. For a first Morocco trip, the two cities complement each other well and are worth combining when your itinerary allows.
How far is Fes from Marrakech or Merzouga?
Fes and Marrakech are roughly 530 km apart by a more direct road, while the train journey is about seven hours on many services. Fes to Merzouga is roughly 460 to 470 km and about seven to eight hours of driving. A Fes to Marrakech route through Merzouga covers roughly 900 km or more and is normally spread across at least three days.
Can non-Muslims enter Al Qarawiyyin?
Non-Muslim visitors generally do not enter the mosque and prayer areas of Al Qarawiyyin and normally view the interior from its doorways. It remains an active religious institution, so visitors should respect barriers, worshippers and any instructions given at the entrances.
What is the best time to visit Fes?
Spring and autumn are the best periods for most Fes sightseeing because temperatures are more comfortable for walking. April, May, September and October are especially useful months to consider. July and August are hot, while winter has cooler days and cold nights, so your preferred season depends on how comfortable you are with heat.
Plan Fes as Part of a Private Morocco Journey
Fes deserves more than a quick walk through Bab Boujloud and a tannery photograph. With two full days, you can explore the medina with context, see traditional crafts still being practiced, visit historic madrasas, experience different districts and understand why the city has held such an important place in Moroccan cultural and religious life.
Fes also works well as the starting or finishing point for a wider private journey. If you are deciding how much of Morocco to include, compare our 7-day Morocco itinerary with our 10-day Morocco itinerary.
Complete Morocco creates private, tailor-made journeys based on your travel dates, interests and preferred accommodation level. To include Fes in your trip, contact Complete Morocco or message us on WhatsApp at +212 6 81081602.