If you are asking yourself, “Is Fes worth visiting?” You are at the right place. This destination stands out in my handcrafted Slow Travel Itinerary in Morocco because of its uniqueness. Many consider it the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco. The essence, inhabitants, history, culture, and things to do in Fes make it an unmissable stop for anyone who wants to explore the traditional Moroccan culture.
Far from being a general Fes itinerary, I offer you the opportunity to dive into what makes this city so particular, exploring the mainstream things to see in Fes as well as the more hidden and local ones. Ready to uncover a fantastic travel experience?
If you are asking yourself, “Is Fes worth visiting?” You are at the right place. This destination stands out in my handcrafted Slow Travel Itinerary in Morocco because of its uniqueness. Many consider it the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco.
The essence, inhabitants, history, culture, and things to do in Fes make it an unmissable stop for anyone who wants to explore the traditional Moroccan culture.
Far from being a general Fes itinerary, I offer you the opportunity to dive into what makes this city so particular, exploring the mainstream things to see in Fes as well as the more hidden and local ones. Ready to uncover a fantastic travel experience?
The best time to visit Fes
The best time to visit Fes is from September to May. During this time, the weather is comfortable, and the city is in the middle of Morocco. It is not too hot or cold and allows ideal conditions for your Fes itinerary. Temperature ranges between 15 and 25 degrees with a lot of sunlight.
The months from June to August see a tourist peak making it hard to navigate within the Medina maze and narrow streets. The temperatures are unbearable and make the things to do in Fes not enjoyable.
Best time to visit Fes: September to May
The best time to visit Fes is from September to May. During this time, the weather is comfortable, and the city is in the middle of Morocco.
It is not too hot or cold and allows ideal conditions for your Fes itinerary. Temperature ranges between 15 and 25 degrees with a lot of sunlight.
The months from June to August see a tourist peak making it hard to navigate within the Medina maze and narrow streets. The temperatures are unbearable and make the things to do in Fes not enjoyable.
Best time to visit Fes: September to May
How long do you need to visit Fes?
The city and things to do in Fes are so intriguing that you need at least 4 days to visit Fes. I stayed almost a week there and felt I still had things to see in Fes. Overall, the longer, the better if you understand what it means to be a Slow Traveller.
However, be aware of the intensity in the Medina of Fes. This is probably something you have never experienced. Not that the level of harassment is higher than in Chefchaouen or Tangier, but the old town is gigantic! Its enormous size might feel overwhelming for some travellers, but nothing bad will happen to you there.
The ideal time to stay in Fes: 4 to 7 days
The city and things to do in Fes are so intriguing that you need at least 4 days to visit Fes. I stayed almost a week there and felt I still had things to see in Fes. Overall, the longer, the better if you understand what it means to be a Slow Traveller.
However, be aware of the intensity in the Medina of Fes. This is probably something you have never experienced. Not that the level of harassment is higher than in Chefchaouen or Tangier, but the old town is gigantic!
Its enormous size might feel overwhelming for some travellers, but nothing bad will happen to you there.
The ideal time to stay in Fes: 4 to 7 days
Best Places to Stay in Fes
During my Fes itinerary, I had the chance to stay at two different riad/hostels The first one lacked atmosphere, so I will not extend about it, but it’s called BackHome Fes. But the second one was fantastic, and I can only advise it to you.
Despite being tricky to find in the Medina, this place to stay in Fes is called the Moroccan Dream Hostel. It is a quiet, charming haven for solo travellers or more. Karim the owner is incredibly welcoming and offers great local insights to Slow Travel.
He helped others to get to the place when they arrived at night, guiding them through the old town maze in person. The beds are comfy, the terrace is splendid, the inside decoration of this riad is amazing, and you can cook your food, making it very affordable. The quality-price ratio makes it one of the best places to stay in Fes and one of my favourite Slow Travel Hostels in Morocco.
Where to stay in Fes: Moroccan Dream Hostel
During my Fes itinerary, I had the chance to stay at two different riad/hostels The first one lacked atmosphere, so I will not extend about it, but it’s called BackHome Fes. But the second one was fantastic, and I can only advise it to you.
Despite being tricky to find in the Medina, this place to stay in Fes is called the Moroccan Dream Hostel. It is a quiet, charming haven for solo travellers or more. Karim the owner is incredibly welcoming and offers great local insights to Slow Travel.
He helped others to get to the place when they arrived at night, guiding them through the old town maze in person. The beds are comfy, the terrace is splendid, the inside decoration of this riad is amazing, and you can cook your food, making it very affordable.
The quality-price ratio makes it one of the best places to stay in Fes and one of my favourite Slow Travel Hostels in Morocco.
Where to stay in Fes: Moroccan Dream Hostel
The Best and Hidden things to do in Fes
Main things to do in Fes
Lose Yourself in the Medina
Navigating the Fes Medina might initially be a challenge, but losing yourself in its maze is one of the best things to do in Fes to grasp the city’s soul. Classified as a Unesco world heritage site, the old town is enormous!
With over 9,000 streets and alleys, its labyrinthine architecture is unlike anything in Europe. The size combined with many dark and deserted areas can feel intimidating.
Despite its daunting appearance, I never encountered any trouble in the Medina, nor did any other travellers I met. However, be aware of people offering to guide you to “better” itineraries. It is one of the biggest scams in Morocco for tourists.
Navigating the Fes Medina might initially be a challenge, but losing yourself in its maze is one of the best things to do in Fes to grasp the city’s soul. Classified as a Unesco world heritage site, the old town is enormous!
With over 9,000 streets and alleys, its labyrinthine architecture is unlike anything in Europe. The size combined with many dark and deserted areas can feel intimidating.
Despite its daunting appearance, I never encountered any trouble in the Medina, nor did any other travellers I met. However, be aware of people offering to guide you to “better” itineraries. It is one of the biggest scams in Morocco for tourists.
The magic of Bou Inania Madrasa
The Bou Inania Madrasa is a must-see religious building in your Fes itinerary. Built in the 14th century, it was once a school. Today, it is one of the few mosques in Morocco accessible to non-muslims (outside of prayer times). The best time to visit is early in the day, between 7 and 10 AM and entrance costs 20 MAD.
This is a chance to see one of the best things in Fes. Its extraordinary architecture, breathtaking marble courtyard, complex wood carvings, and captivating mosaic tilework are worth the detour.
The mosque is easy to access in the Medina centre. You can locate it by its green minaret, the tallest in town. Don’t miss out on this great thing to do in Fes.
The Bou Inania Madrasa is a must-see religious building in your Fes itinerary. Built in the 14th century, it was once a school.
Today, it is one of the few mosques in Morocco accessible to non-muslims (outside of prayer times). The best time to visit is early in the day, between 7 and 10 AM and entrance costs 20 MAD.
This is a chance to see one of the best things in Fes. Its extraordinary architecture, breathtaking marble courtyard, complex wood carvings, and captivating mosaic tilework are worth the detour.
The mosque is easy to access in the Medina centre. You can locate it by its green minaret, the tallest in town. Don’t miss out on this great thing to do in Fes.
Al Atterine or Attarine Madrasa
Madrasa refers to any kind of educational institution, religious or secular, in elementary or higher education (source: here). This one is small, but its beauty overtakes its size.
Once entering, you will see a wonderful courtyard in the centre, with diverse patterned tiles on the walls and floor.
The wooden carved doors make the immersion into one of the best things to do in Fes even better. It feels like stepping back in time. Usually calm, this hidden gem is located near the Kairaouine Mosque and the Chouara leather tannery. Its doors open from 8 AM to 6 PM, and entrance costs 20 Dhs.
Madrasa refers to any kind of educational institution, religious or secular, in elementary or higher education (source: here). This one is small, but its beauty overtakes its size.
Once entering, you will see a wonderful courtyard in the centre, with diverse patterned tiles on the walls and floor.
The wooden carved doors make the immersion into one of the best things to do in Fes even better. It feels like stepping back in time. Usually calm, this hidden gem is located near the Kairaouine Mosque and the Chouara leather tannery. Its doors open from 8 AM to 6 PM, and entrance costs 20 Dhs.
Visit the Chouara Tannery
This is one of the most popular attractions and things to do in Fes. Welcome to the Chouara Tannery! This place is an essential part of the soul and culture of Fes. You can see workers cleaning, dying, and drying the different skins later used to create leather goods and gears.
Many tanneries exist in Morocco, but this is one of the oldest. The process is almost identical to the one used a hundred years ago. To get a great point of view over the open-air earthen pits, you must enter through one of the leather shops to access its terrasse. Be aware that the smell is strong!
Most importantly, you don’t have to pay! It is free, but many locals will try to extort you money. Stay your ground or ask beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.
This is one of the most popular attractions and things to do in Fes. Welcome to the Chouara Tannery! This place is an essential part of the soul and culture of Fes. You can see workers cleaning, dying, and drying the different skins later used to create leather goods and gears.
Many tanneries exist in Morocco, but this is one of the oldest. The process is almost identical to the one used a hundred years ago. To get a great point of view over the open-air earthen pits, you must enter through one of the leather shops to access its terrasse. Be aware that the smell is strong!
Most importantly, you don’t have to pay! It is free, but many locals will try to extort you money. Stay your ground or ask beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.
Witness the Blue Gates Bab Boujloud
The Blue Gate or Bab Boujloud might be the most iconic door to Medina. It was built by the French colonial in 1913, and its facades are a complex but fascinating display of colourful tiles.
Today, The Blue Gate is mostly a point of reference for those lost in the Fes medina. If it’s your case, follow the signs to the Blue Gate, and you will find your way out. This isn’t the only entrance to the Medina, but the easiest to spot.
The Blue Gate or Bab Boujloud might be the most iconic door to Medina. It was built by the French colonial in 1913, and its facades are a complex but fascinating display of colourful tiles.
Today, The Blue Gate is mostly a point of reference for those lost in the Fes medina. If it’s your case, follow the signs to the Blue Gate, and you will find your way out. This isn’t the only entrance to the Medina, but the easiest to spot.
Pass by Africa’s Oldest University: Kairaouine or al-Qarawiyyin
This is another UNESCO world heritage place and things to do in Fes: The University of al-Qarawiyyin or Kairaouine University. It is believed to have been founded by Fatima al-Fihri in 859 and is the oldest operating university in the world.
It was first a mosque before turning into a learning place and is today the second largest mosque in Morocco. Being a religious building, tourists aren’t allowed inside. However, it is worth the sight as you catch a glimpse through one of the entrances. From there, observe the stunning fountains, tile designs, wood carvings, and more!
This is another UNESCO world heritage place and things to do in Fes: The University of al-Qarawiyyin or Kairaouine University. It is believed to have been founded by Fatima al-Fihri in 859 and is the oldest operating university in the world.
It was first a mosque before turning into a learning place and is today the second largest mosque in Morocco. Being a religious building, tourists aren’t allowed inside.
However, it is worth the sight as you catch a glimpse through one of the entrances. From there, observe the stunning fountains, tile designs, wood carvings, and more!
Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II
From 807, Idriss II ruled Morocco and a mausoleum was built around his tomb. This is an interesting thing to do in Fes as he is considered to be the main founder of the city.
Only a few steps away from the Nejjarine Museum it is closed to non-Muslims. But you can still admire the beautiful decorations and architecture of this building. The whole structure dates back to 1308, but the minaret you see today is only from the 17th century.
From 807, Idriss II ruled Morocco and a mausoleum was built around his tomb. This is an interesting thing to do in Fes as he is considered to be the main founder of the city.
Only a few steps away from the Nejjarine Museum it is closed to non-Muslims. But you can still admire the beautiful decorations and architecture of this building. The whole structure dates back to 1308, but the minaret you see today is only from the 17th century.
Local and hidden things to do in Fes
Understand the Craftsmen Culture
During your Fes itinerary, one crucial thing to understand in the city’s history is the craftsman culture. Fes is considered, by many Moroccans, as their spiritual and cultural capital for a reason.
This is home to numerous programs and schools where young people learn various crafts, from wood carving to weaving.
Within the streets, you can witness craftsmen doing their work outside. Don’t hesitate to be curious and approach them with a smile, although they might wave you away doesn’t it matter? You can also visit the stunning wood museum which only costs 20 MAD.
During your Fes itinerary, one crucial thing to understand in the city’s history is the craftsman culture. Fes is considered, by many Moroccans, as their spiritual and cultural capital for a reason.
This is home to numerous programs and schools where young people learn various crafts, from wood carving to weaving.
Within the streets, you can witness craftsmen doing their work outside. Don’t hesitate to be curious and approach them with a smile, although they might wave you away doesn’t it matter? You can also visit the stunning wood museum which only costs 20 MAD.
Learn About the History of Fes
Fes is worth visiting for its history. “Fes” means pickaxe in Arabic and was called after this name because of the craftsman’s legacy. What is the best way to learn about the city’s history during your Fes itinerary? Talk to the locals!
Many are eager to share stories, especially the craftsmen and elders. Once you get them to talk, you better have a seat and listen carefully.
My tip? Bring some pastries and tea to share. Nowadays, it is still a wonderful way to connect. Especially if you display your best smile.
Fes is worth visiting for its history. “Fes” means pickaxe in Arabic and was called after this name because of the craftsman’s legacy. What is the best way to learn about the city’s history during your Fes itinerary? Talk to the locals!
Many are eager to share stories, especially the craftsmen and elders. Once you get them to talk, you better have a seat and listen carefully.
My tip? Bring some pastries and tea to share. Nowadays, it is still a wonderful way to connect. Especially if you display your best smile.
Head to Royal Palace and the Jnan Sbil Gardens
One of the main attractions in Fes is the Royal Palace of Dar El Makhzen. Don’t miss this marvel of traditional Moroccan architecture.
The colourful beauty with the mountains as a backdrop is breathtaking. Even if you cannot enter the building (Who tf you think you are?), the view alone is worth it.
Afterwards, the nearby gardens are perfect for relaxing with a book or picnic. On the east side of the palace, you can follow the minaret of the el-Jdid mosque to find it.
Immerse in this green oasis, ideal to escape the heat thanks to its 3,000 plant species, shady paths and fountains. You might also spot one or two peacocks and doves.
One of the main attractions in Fes is the Royal Palace of Dar El Makhzen. Don’t miss this marvel of traditional Moroccan architecture.
The colourful beauty with the mountains as a backdrop is breathtaking. Even if you cannot enter the building (Who tf you think you are?), the view alone is worth it.
Afterwards, the nearby gardens are perfect for relaxing with a book or picnic. On the east side of the palace, you can follow the minaret of the el-Jdid mosque to find it.
Immerse in this green oasis, ideal to escape the heat thanks to its 3,000 plant species, shady paths and fountains. You might also spot one or two peacocks and doves.
Try Local Food
Is there a better way to visit Fes than by trying the local food? I don’t think so. Start by heading to the food and restaurant neighbourhood in the heart of the Fes Medina. Here, you will get a sensory experience, and your taste buds will thank you.
Another local place to do so is the Market Alley neighbourhood in the northern part of Medina. Wander between the vendor shops, try the olives, sandwiches, pastries, and especially the Bissara soup made from fava beans.
The best places to buy one are from the corners where workers go. In my opinion, it is one of the best soups on Earth. A must-do during your Fes Itinerary.
Is there a better way to visit Fes than by trying the local food? I don’t think so. Start by heading to the food and restaurant neighbourhood in the heart of the Fes Medina. Here, you will get a sensory experience, and your taste buds will thank you.
Another local place to do so is the Market Alley neighbourhood in the northern part of Medina. Wander between the vendor shops, try the olives, sandwiches, pastries, and especially the Bissara soup made from fava beans.
The best places to buy one are from the corners where workers go. In my opinion, it is one of the best soups on Earth. A must-do during your Fes Itinerary.
Visit The Maristan of Sidi Frej's hidden square
Within the buzzing medina is hidden a peaceful Oasis and one of the things to do in Fes. Look for the maristan of Sidi Frej, and around a corner, you will end up in a little square seemingly out of a different city.
There, it feels like all the intensity has gone, and vendors are less insistent about everything. A big tree overhangs the place, bringing shadow and regulating the temperature.
There, I met Mohammed with whom I chatted for hours about the city, its history and legends. He is highly knowledgeable, and I can tell that I learned a lot, spending time with him. A Fes travel Guide I would have liked to have.
Within the buzzing medina is hidden a peaceful Oasis and one of the things to do in Fes. Look for the maristan of Sidi Frej, and around a corner, you will end up in a little square seemingly out of a different city.
There, it feels like all the intensity has gone, and vendors are less insistent about everything. A big tree overhangs the place, bringing shadow and regulating the temperature.
There, I met Mohammed with whom I chatted for hours about the city, its history and legends. He is highly knowledgeable, and I can tell that I learned a lot, spending time with him. A Fes travel Guide I would have liked to have.
Enjoy a Sunrise at the Marinid Tombs
For this last hidden attraction in your Fes itinerary, you will need to reduce sleep time. But, watching the sunrise from the Marinid Tombs is an incredible experience and a thing to do in Fes.
Founded in the 14th century, they are mostly ruins today but offer an unmatched view over Fes and its surroundings. Plus, seeing the Medina of Fes almost empty is a unique experience, contrasting with its daytime.
For this last hidden attraction in your Fes itinerary, you will need to reduce sleep time. But, watching the sunrise from the Marinid Tombs is an incredible experience and a thing to do in Fes.
Founded in the 14th century, they are mostly ruins today but offer an unmatched view over Fes and its surroundings. Plus, seeing the Medina of Fes almost empty is a unique experience, contrasting with its daytime.
Best things to do in Fes - FAQ
Is Fes safe?
Fes is worth visiting and globally safe. Although the Medina might be impressive and oppressive at first sight, once you “get to know it”, it is nothing more than many alleys and streets.
Fes is worth visiting and globally safe. Although the Medina might be impressive and oppressive at first sight, once you “get to know it”, it is nothing more than many alleys and streets.
Where is Fes located?
Fes is located in northern Morocco, a few hours away from Rabat and Tangier.
Fes is located in northern Morocco, a few hours away from Rabat and Tangier.
How to get around Fes?
The city has one of the largest car-free areas in Morocco, so you will probably only use your legs. But, if you need to move further to explore more of your Fes itinerary, you will need a taxi or to take the bus. To avoid scams, use this guide called How to travel Morocco by taxis, train, and bus.
The city has one of the largest car-free areas in Morocco, so you will probably only use your legs. But, if you need to move further to explore more of your Fes itinerary, you will need a taxi or to take the bus.
To avoid scams, use this guide called How to travel Morocco by taxis, train, and bus.
Is travelling slowly in Fes expensive?
Your visit to Fes will not be expensive. If you consume locally, whether it’s food, products, transport, or accommodations, you will end up with a very low price: 1000-2000 MAD for 5 days.
Your visit to Fes will not be expensive. If you consume locally, whether it’s food, products, transport, or accommodations, you will end up with a very low price: 1000-2000 MAD for 5 days.
How to reach Fes?
Fes can be reached from Tangier by the ONCF train or CTM bus from Chefchaouen. Both rides last between 3-5 hours and cost around 300 MAD.
Fes can be reached from Tangier by the ONCF train or CTM bus from Chefchaouen. Both rides last between 3-5 hours and cost around 300 MAD.
Where should I go after Fes?
After exploring the best things to do in Fes, it is time to embark on new adventures. The ideal will be to head to Ouarzazate, Tangier, or Figuig if you feel adventurous.
After exploring the best things to do in Fes, it is time to embark on new adventures. The ideal will be to head to Ouarzazate, Tangier, or Figuig if you feel adventurous.
Get the best of this Slow Travel Guide Fes Itinerary
You now have an idea of what the best things to do in Fes looks like thanks to this Fes Itinerary. It can be useful for 2 days or a week’s stay, the importance is for you to dive into the popular but also local and hidden gems. Fes possesses a particular identity, it’s either you like it or hate it, but one thing is sure: it is worth the detour.
Once you are done with this step, where will you go next? Are you tempted to uncover the best things to do in Ouarzazate, explore if Tangier is worth visiting, or dive into the hidden Figuig Oasis?
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect with heart.
You now have an idea of what the best things to do in Fes looks like thanks to this Fes Itinerary. It can be useful for 2 days or a week’s stay, the importance is for you to dive into the popular but also local and hidden gems.
Fes possesses a particular identity, it’s either you like it or hate it, but one thing is sure: it is worth the detour.
Once you are done with this step, where will you go next? Are you tempted to uncover the best things to do in Ouarzazate, explore if Tangier is worth visiting, or dive into the hidden Figuig Oasis?
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect with heart.
