Things To Do
in Fès
Fez (Fès) is one of Morocco’s oldest and most atmospheric cities, anchored by a UNESCO-listed medina whose maze-like streets are lined with kus-kus of crafts, tanneries, and centuries-old mosques. The city blends spiritual heritage with artisanal prowess, evident in its leather workshops, ceramic tiles, and ornate madrasas. The soul of Fez lives in its neighborhoods, where travelers stumble upon midnight markets, tranquil courtyards, and the cadence of bargaining in Darija, French, and Arabic.
A visit reveals a living atlas of Moroccan history, from the Qarawiyyin University to the age-old souks that still hum with commerce and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a traditional Moroccan breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh bread, olives, and mint tea. After breakfast, wander through the narrow streets of the medina, where you'll encounter vibrant souks filled with intricate handicrafts. Be sure to visit the iconic Bou Inania Madrasa, admiring its stunning architecture and intricate tile work.
For lunch, enjoy a hearty meal at a quaint restaurant, sampling local dishes such as tagine and couscous. Post-lunch, explore the ancient tanneries, where you can observe the fascinating process of leather-making and the vibrant colors of the dye pits. Conclude your afternoon at the Dar Batha Museum, which houses a collection of Moroccan art and artifacts.
As the sun sets, head to a rooftop terrace for a panoramic view of the city while enjoying a refreshing drink. Experience the lively atmosphere of the medina as street performers and musicians bring the night to life. Finally, indulge in a traditional Moroccan dinner at a restaurant, complete with live music and local delicacies.
Kick off your day with a workshop in traditional Moroccan pottery, learning techniques passed down through generations. Afterward, visit a local artisan's workshop where you can observe the intricate art of zellij tile-making up close. Enjoy a mid-morning break at a nearby café, sipping on aromatic Moroccan coffee.
For lunch, try a local specialty like b’stilla, a savory-sweet pie filled with pigeon or chicken. Spend your afternoon at the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts, where you can marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of wooden artifacts. Engage with artisans as they demonstrate their skills, gaining insight into their creative processes.
In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the medina as the streets come alive with lights and activity. Dine at a charming restaurant that offers a mix of traditional and contemporary Moroccan cuisine. Wrap up your day by enjoying some local music or a traditional dance performance in a nearby cultural venue.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $1-3 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $6-12 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short hop) | $2-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Vibrant souks and craftsmanship
- Warm hospitality and flavorful cuisine
- Crowded medina can be overwhelming
- Very hot summers; plan accordingly
- Some areas can feel touristy and ease up on bargaining
- "Salam, kif dayr?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Choukran" - Thank you
- "Afak, mumkin?" - Please, is it possible?
- "Mafi mushkila" - No problem / It's okay
Places to Visit in Fès
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic blue-tiled gate framing the entrance to Fez’s medina; best during golden hour for color and texture.
A palette of dye pits visible from multiple viewpoints; early morning light and a few steps away for a closer shot of workers and vats.
Carved wooden facade and a charming fountain square—the feel of old caravanserais and city life.
Intricate Moorish architecture with zellij and stucco that photographs beautifully in daylight.
Winding lanes, doors, and markets provide endless candid and architectural opportunities.
Food in Fès
Fès Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature Fez dish blending savory lamb with sweet prunes, often finished with almonds and cinnamon.
Must-Try!
A delicate, layered pastry pie balancing savory meat with sugar and cinnamon on a flaky crust.
A hearty, vegetable-forward couscous common in Fez households and restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market street offering spices, olives, breads, and quick street bites.
Vibrant stalls along the lanes where you can sample chickpea stews, grilled seafood, and savory pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially near religious sites; ask permission before taking photos of people; showing respect in holy places is important.
Haggling is a normal part of market life; do so politely and with a smile.
If invited to a home, accept tea and snacks; it’s customary to greet elders with a respectful tone.
Safety
Tipping in Fès
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 5-10% is customary if service is good; round up taxi fares; small tips to guides or waiters are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash is widely used; many merchants accept credit/debit cards in larger establishments; ATMs are common in the city, but carry smaller notes for markets and stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; ideal for walking the medina and gardens.
Hot days (often above 30°C/86°F); plan outdoor activity for early mornings or late afternoons and hydrate well.
Pleasant weather with cooler evenings and fewer crowds; great for long strolls and photography.
Cool to cold days; nights can be quite chilly; indoor museums and riad courtyards are comforting refuges.
Fès at Night
Hiking in Fès
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ancient cedar forest with scenic trails and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Alpine-style scenery, lakes, and cedar forests; ideal for day hikes from Fez.
Airports
How to reach Fès by plane.
Main airport serving Fez with both international and domestic flights; taxi or airport shuttle to the medina.
Major hub about 2.5–3 hours by car or rail from Fez; frequent international connections.
Smaller regional option closer to Meknès; useful for some itineraries around northern Morocco.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of Morocco’s oldest universities attracts a large student population; the city supports a scholarly atmosphere.
Residents in the medina and surrounding quarters maintain traditional life with modern touches.
A steady mix of culture seekers, photographers, and long-stay visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport; watch local leagues or join informal matches in community fields.
Popular on the outskirts or during desert excursions; scenic and photogenic.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fès.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Fez; look for lentil, chickpea, and vegetable tagines. Ask for veggie stock and avoid meat broths; many places will accommodate with a mezze-style spread or vegetarian couscous.