Ville Nouvelle
Step back in time in Fes, Morocco's spiritual and cultural heart, with its ancient medina, vibrant souks, and rich artisanal traditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Ville Nouvelle
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Fes, Morocco's spiritual and cultural heart, with its ancient medina, vibrant souks, and rich artisanal traditions.
"Fes is a city that truly transports you to another era, a living museum of Moroccan history and culture."
🎯 Hire a Local Guide
Essential for navigating the medina's maze and understanding its history. Negotiate the price beforehand!
💰 Bargain Respectfully
Haggling is expected in the souks, but do it with a smile and respect. Start at about half the asking price.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tanneries Chouara
Fes el-Bali Medina
Witness the ancient art of leather dyeing in these iconic, colorful pits. The smell is strong, but the visual spectacle is unforgettable.
Al-Qarawiyyin University
Fes el-Bali Medina
Explore the world's oldest continuously operating university, a stunning example of Islamic architecture and a spiritual heart of the city.
Bou Inania Madrasa
Fes el-Bali Medina
Marvel at the intricate zellij tilework and carved stucco of this beautifully preserved 14th-century Islamic college.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Medina Maze
Respectful Dress and Customs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hire a Local Guide
Essential for navigating the medina's maze and understanding its history. Negotiate the price beforehand!
💰 Bargain Respectfully
Haggling is expected in the souks, but do it with a smile and respect. Start at about half the asking price.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water. Street vendors offer refreshing mint tea too.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hire a Local Guide
Essential for navigating the medina's maze and understanding its history. Negotiate the price beforehand!
💰 Bargain Respectfully
Haggling is expected in the souks, but do it with a smile and respect. Start at about half the asking price.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Prioritize comfort!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, carry water. Street vendors offer refreshing mint tea too.
📸 Respect Photography
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in the medina.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Fes is widely praised for its incredibly rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, particularly within its ancient medina. Visitors are captivated by the sensory experience of the souks and the unique craftsmanship. However, some find the intensity of the medina, including persistent vendors and the labyrinthine layout, to be overwhelming at times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fes is accessible by air via Fes–Saïs Airport (FEZ), which has connections to major European cities. You can also reach Fes by train from other Moroccan cities like Casablanca and Marrakech, or by bus.
Within the ancient medina (Fes el-Bali), walking is the only way to get around due to its narrow, winding alleys. For areas outside the medina, petit taxis (small, metered taxis) are readily available and affordable.
The medina of Fes is famously labyrinthine. While getting lost is part of the experience, many travelers find it helpful to hire a local guide for their first day to get oriented.
When using petit taxis, ensure the meter is running or agree on a price beforehand to avoid overcharging. For longer distances or airport transfers, grand taxis or pre-booked services are options.
No, private vehicles are not allowed inside the Fes el-Bali medina. Parking is available at the entrances, and you'll need to proceed on foot or hire a donkey cart for luggage.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many historical sites like madrasas and palaces require an entrance fee. The medina itself is free to wander, but specific attractions have ticket prices. It's wise to purchase a combined ticket if available for multiple sites.
Opening hours can vary, especially for religious sites. Generally, attractions are open during daylight hours, but it's best to check locally or with your guide. Many close for prayer times.
While there isn't a single official 'Fes Pass' like in some European cities, you can often purchase combined tickets at major attractions, which can offer a slight discount. Inquire at the first site you visit.
You can visit the Tanneries Chouara independently, but many shops surrounding it offer access to viewing terraces. Be prepared for shopkeepers to encourage you to buy leather goods.
Wandering through the bustling souks and alleyways of the medina is a free and immersive experience. You can also admire the exterior of many mosques and historical buildings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Tanneries Chouara for its unique spectacle, the historic Al-Qarawiyyin University, and the stunning architecture of the Bou Inania Madrasa. Exploring the vibrant souks is also essential.
Embrace getting lost! Wander through the narrow streets, discover hidden squares, and soak in the atmosphere. Hiring a local guide for at least half a day is highly recommended for context and navigation.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or exploring the medina. Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees is advisable.
While Fes is generally safe, it's advisable to stick to well-lit main streets if you're out after dark, especially in the medina. It's best to be with a group or a local guide.
Be wary of unsolicited guides who approach you, offers of 'free' tours that lead to shops, and inflated prices. Always agree on prices beforehand and be firm but polite.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You must try tagine (slow-cooked stew), couscous (especially on Fridays), pastilla (savory-sweet pie), and harira (hearty soup). Don't forget to sample Moroccan mint tea!
Look for small, local eateries within the medina for the most authentic experience. Many riads also offer excellent traditional meals. Avoid tourist traps with overly aggressive touts.
Yes, many Moroccan dishes are naturally vegetarian or can be made so. Vegetable tagines, couscous with vegetables, and lentil soups are common and delicious options.
Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from your waiter or host. Many menus have English translations, but learning a few basic Arabic or French phrases can be helpful.
Street food can be a delicious way to experience local flavors, but choose vendors that look clean and busy. Freshly squeezed juices and grilled meats are generally safe bets.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tanneries Chouara offer incredible colorful shots. The intricate tilework and architecture of madrasas like Bou Inania, and the panoramic views from the Merenid Tombs are also fantastic.
Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially in the medina. Some people may ask for a small fee. Respect their privacy if they decline.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun. The golden hour before sunset can create magical shots of the medina.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Morocco, especially in urban areas and near historical sites, for security reasons. It's best to avoid bringing or using drones.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide medina scenes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for tight alleyways. A lightweight setup is best for walking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When it comes to food, many Moroccan dishes are kid-friendly. Simple grilled meats, couscous, and flavorful but not overly spicy tagines are usually a hit. Ensure you carry plenty of water and take breaks in shaded cafes. For accommodation, riads with courtyards can offer a safe and interesting space for children to explore.
💰 Budget Travelers
While hiring a guide for a day can be an investment, it can save you money in the long run by preventing you from getting lost or falling for scams. Bargain respectfully in the souks for souvenirs. Many of the most rewarding experiences, like exploring the medina, are free.
couples
Consider booking a stay in a charming riad, often featuring beautiful architecture and tranquil courtyards, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Enjoy sunset views from the Merenid Tombs or share a traditional mint tea at a rooftop cafe overlooking the medina.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Fes: Fes el-Bali Medina
Navigating Fes el-Bali can be challenging, and getting lost is almost inevitable, but it's also part of the charm. Many visitors find that hiring a local guide for their first day is invaluable. A guide can help you understand the layout, point out significant historical sites, and offer insights into the local culture and customs. They can also help you avoid common tourist traps and ensure you get a more authentic experience.
Within the medina, you'll find a wealth of artisanal workshops, bustling souks selling everything from leather goods and ceramics to spices and carpets, and numerous historical landmarks. The sheer density of activity and history packed into this ancient walled city makes it a truly unique destination.
Craftsmanship and Souvenirs in Fes
Beyond leather, Fes is a hub for intricate metalwork, particularly lamps and trays, as well as beautiful ceramics with distinctive blue and white patterns. You'll also find high-quality textiles, carpets, and traditional Moroccan clothing. When shopping in the souks, remember that bargaining is an integral part of the experience. Start by offering about half of the asking price and negotiate respectfully with a smile.
For those looking for specific items, the medina offers a vast array of choices. If you're interested in leather goods like bags or poufs, the tanneries area is a good starting point, but explore other shops as well. For ceramics, look for shops that showcase a variety of designs and quality. It's always a good idea to compare prices and quality before making a purchase.
Culinary Delights of Fes
Beyond these well-known dishes, Fes offers unique culinary experiences. Pastilla, a savory-sweet pie often made with pigeon or chicken and dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar, is a delightful surprise. For a lighter option, especially during Ramadan, the hearty lentil and tomato soup known as harira is a local favorite. And of course, no Moroccan experience is complete without indulging in the ubiquitous and refreshing mint tea, a symbol of hospitality.
When seeking authentic dining, venture into the smaller eateries within the medina, away from the main tourist thoroughfares. These hidden gems often serve the most delicious and traditional dishes at reasonable prices. Many riads also offer exceptional dining experiences, providing a more intimate setting to savor Moroccan flavors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit