Place Rcif
Fes's historic gateway to the ancient Medina, a lively square buzzing with local life and transport connections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Place Rcif
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Fes's historic gateway to the ancient Medina, a lively square buzzing with local life and transport connections.
"The main entrance to the old city where civilizations and history converge."
Check Construction Status
As of June 2024, Place Rcif is under renovation. Verify current access before your visit. :construction:
Medina Entry Point
This square is your main gateway to the Fes el-Bali Medina. :mosque:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gateway to the Medina
Entrance to Fes el-Bali
The historic square serving as the main portal to Fes's ancient walled city, a vibrant hub of commerce and culture.
Andalusian Quarter Access
Adjacent to Place Rcif
A starting point for exploring the rich history and architecture of the Andalusian quarter within the Fes el-Bali medina.
Local Life & Bustle
Place Rcif square
Experience the lively Moroccan atmosphere with fast food stalls, bars, and the general hustle and bustle of daily life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Place Rcif Construction
Medina Access & Transport
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Construction Status
As of June 2024, Place Rcif is under renovation. Verify current access before your visit. :construction:
Medina Entry Point
This square is your main gateway to the Fes el-Bali Medina. :mosque:
Travelled round Morocco for two weeks and one of my favourite places was Fes. This is a shot from a roof terrace!
Bus Hub
Connects to the Ville Nouvelle via local buses. :bus:
Late Night Transport
Taxis are best for late arrivals/departures due to limited bus service. :taxi:
Visiting Fes? How to get from Airport to Medina?
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Construction Status
As of June 2024, Place Rcif is under renovation. Verify current access before your visit. :construction:
Medina Entry Point
This square is your main gateway to the Fes el-Bali Medina. :mosque:
Bus Hub
Connects to the Ville Nouvelle via local buses. :bus:
Late Night Transport
Taxis are best for late arrivals/departures due to limited bus service. :taxi:
Observe Local Life
Find a quiet corner to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and daily rhythm. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Place Rcif is a historically significant square and the primary gateway to Fes's ancient Medina. Visitors appreciate its lively atmosphere and role as a transport hub, though current renovations (as of June 2024) impact its full accessibility. Some reviews note issues with chaos and a lack of adequate security measures.
"As of June 2024 the city gate & square are under renovation.
However, here is where you enter the Medina and where town buses go to the Ville Nouvelle.
Full of fast food stalls, bars, restaurants, and general Moroccan hustle & bustle."
David Smith
"Unfortunately, it's currently under construction. There's a nice view of the mosque from the square, and you can access the medina and the Andalusian quarter. A little further on, there are a few restaurants."
May lis
"Rif's Place in Fez: Gateway to the Old City
Rif's Place is one of the most important historical squares in the Moroccan city of Fez, located at the entrance to the old city. This square is famous for being the main gateway to the heart of the old city, where civilizations and history converge, and bears witness to the city's ancient history and commercial and cultural importance throughout the ages.
Importance of Rif's Place:
Medina Gate: The square is the main entrance to the old city, where merchant caravans arrived laden with goods from all over the world.
Commercial Center: The square witnessed a vibrant commercial activity, displaying various goods and handicrafts.
Historic Landmark: The square is distinguished by its traditional architecture and its large gate, which bears the Moroccan architectural style.
Strategic Location: The square is located in a strategic location connecting the old city and the newer neighborhoods.
Changes to the Square:
Rif's Place has undergone several changes over the centuries, experiencing periods of prosperity and decline. In recent years, the square has undergone restoration and renovation work to preserve its historical character and revive its role as the main gateway to the old city.
Challenges Facing the Square:
Chaos: The square suffers from some problems related to chaos and pollution, due to heavy traffic and the presence of street vendors.
Difficulty of Access: The square is difficult to access due to narrow streets and traffic congestion.
Preservation Efforts:
Efforts are ongoing to preserve and rehabilitate the sidewalk square through:
Restoration work: Restoring historic buildings and rehabilitating infrastructure.
Traffic regulation: Reducing the number of vehicles and regulating pedestrian traffic.
Street vendor regulation: Allocating specific spaces for street vendors.
The sidewalk square is an integral part of the identity of the city of Fez, a testament to its ancient history and rich cultural heritage."
Omar Fahd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Fes–Saïs Airport (FEZ), you can take a taxi directly to Place Rcif. The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes. For late-night arrivals (like 11:30 PM), taxis are the most reliable option as public transport may be limited. Buses are also available during the day, connecting to the Medina area.
While taxis are generally available, pre-booking a taxi for early morning departures (like 6 AM) is highly recommended to ensure you have reliable transport. You can often arrange this through your accommodation or a local taxi service.
Place Rcif is a major bus hub for Fes. Several local bus lines depart from here, connecting you to various parts of the Ville Nouvelle (the new city). Look for signs indicating bus routes and destinations.
Yes, Place Rcif is the primary entrance to the Fes el-Bali Medina. From here, you can easily walk into the heart of the old city and explore its labyrinthine streets.
While Place Rcif is a central point, direct car access into the Medina is restricted. Cars are generally not allowed within the ancient city walls. You'll likely need to park nearby and walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Place Rcif is a public square and does not require an entrance ticket. It serves as a gateway to the Medina, which is also free to enter.
As a public square, Place Rcif is accessible 24/7. However, the surrounding shops and stalls will have their own operating hours, typically closing in the evening.
As of June 2024, Place Rcif is undergoing renovation. While it remains a functional gateway, direct access and the full experience might be altered. It's advisable to check for the latest updates on construction progress.
There are no entry fees to access the Fes el-Bali Medina through Place Rcif. The Medina itself is a living city, and entry is free.
Yes, Place Rcif provides access to the Medina, and from there, you can navigate towards the Andalusian Quarter. It's a good starting point for exploring this historic part of Fes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Place Rcif is a lively square with fast food stalls, bars, and restaurants. It's a great spot to observe local life, enter the Medina, and access the Andalusian Quarter.
While generally safe, like any busy public space, be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure. The company mentioned in reviews lacks adequate security measures, so general caution is advised.
You'll find a variety of fast food stalls, local eateries, and some small shops selling everyday items. It's more of a functional hub than a dedicated shopping destination.
Yes, there is a nice view of a mosque from the square, offering a glimpse of Fes's religious architecture.
Simply immerse yourself! Grab a local snack, find a spot to sit, and watch the flow of people, vendors, and vehicles. It's a sensory experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Place Rcif has fast food stalls and some local restaurants offering Moroccan fare. For a more extensive dining experience, you'll find more options once you enter the Medina.
Expect typical Moroccan street food, quick bites, and casual dining options. It's a good place for a quick and affordable meal.
Many travelers enjoy the street food experience. As with any street food, choose vendors that appear busy and clean.
Yes, you'll find cafes and small eateries around the square where you can relax and enjoy a mint tea or coffee.
While specific recommendations are scarce for the square itself, once in the Medina, look for tagines, couscous, and pastilla.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant street life, the gateway to the Medina, and the architectural details of the surrounding buildings. The mosque view is also a good subject.
Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the colors and atmosphere. Mornings can be good for capturing daily life with fewer crowds.
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, always be respectful and ask permission before photographing individuals, especially women.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is useful for capturing both wider scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be great for the square's expanse.
Use a slightly slower shutter speed to blur motion and convey movement, or capture candid moments of people interacting. Patience is key.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when the atmosphere is vibrant but less overwhelming. Look for family-friendly eateries within the Medina that offer more comfortable seating. The historical aspects of the Medina, like the architecture and artisan workshops, can also capture children's imaginations if presented engagingly.
💰 Budget Travelers
Utilizing the local bus services from Place Rcif to the Ville Nouvelle is also a cost-effective way to explore. Walking into the Medina from the square is free and offers endless exploration opportunities. Be mindful of potential scams or overly persistent vendors, a common tip for budget travelers in busy tourist areas.
couples
From Place Rcif, you can easily venture into the romantic labyrinth of the Medina or explore the historic Andalusian Quarter. Consider booking a stay in a beautiful riad nearby, like the highly recommended Riad Rcif, for a truly enchanting experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Medina Gateway: Place Rcif's Role
Despite its historical importance, Place Rcif faces challenges like traffic congestion and the regulation of street vendors. Ongoing preservation and renovation efforts aim to revive its role and maintain its historical character. Visitors can still experience its lively atmosphere, observe local life, and use it as a launching point for deeper exploration into the Medina's wonders.
When visiting, be aware that as of June 2024, the square is under construction. This may affect direct access and the overall aesthetic. However, its function as a transit point and a glimpse into Fes's daily life remains. It's a place where history meets the present, offering a dynamic introduction to the city.
Navigating Fes: Airport to Medina
During the day, bus line 16 connects the airport to the city center, and from there, you can transfer to buses heading towards the Medina or Place Rcif. However, for late-night arrivals (like 11:30 PM) or very early departures (like 6 AM), relying on buses is not feasible. In such cases, pre-booking a taxi through your accommodation or a reputable service is highly recommended to avoid any last-minute stress.
Once you reach Place Rcif, you are at the doorstep of the Fes el-Bali Medina. The square itself serves as a bus hub for the Ville Nouvelle, offering further transport options if your accommodation is not within walking distance of the Medina. Understanding these transport links is crucial for a smooth arrival and departure experience in Fes.
The Charm of Riad Rcif
Staying at a riad like Riad Rcif offers an immersive cultural experience. These traditional houses, built around a central courtyard, provide a tranquil escape from the medina's energy. The lush greenery within the courtyard adds to the serene ambiance, making it a peaceful haven.
For travelers seeking an authentic and luxurious stay in Fes, a riad like Riad Rcif is highly recommended. It's not just a place to sleep but an integral part of experiencing the historical and artistic richness of the city. The attention to detail and the historical significance of such properties make them stand out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit