Fez is an ancient city that shrugs in the face of modernity and continues as it always has. You won’t find cars or fast food joints inside the city’s famous medina. Instead, prepare yourself for a bustling market scene, spices, Moroccan rugs, vibrant pottery, and stunning Islamic architecture in the form of mosques and beautiful riads.
Tourist Attractions in Fez
Fez (also spelled Fes, Fès, and Fās in Arabic) was founded in 789, making it the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities. It is a center of traditional crafts, trade, and agriculture.
The hills surrounding the city produce wheat, beans, olives, grapes, and all kinds of livestock. The medieval city today is much as it appeared in ancient times, composed of twisting side streets and alleys built to confuse invaders.
The streets are too narrow for cars (some are even too narrow for rickshaws), and the high walls of the surrounding buildings mean they are always in the shade. This is an important feature in the summer months when the alleyways remain cool.
Here are some famous tourist attractions in Fez:
The Medina of Fez (Fes el-Bali): This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the world's largest and best-preserved medieval cities. Wander through its labyrinthine alleys, bustling souks, and historical landmarks, including mosques, madrasas, and fountains. The Medina is a living museum where you can experience traditional Moroccan life.
Bou Inania Madrasa: Built in the 14th century, Bou Inania Madrasa is an architectural masterpiece. It is one of the few religious places in Morocco accessible to non-Muslims. The madrasa features exquisite tile work, carved wood, and stucco, showcasing the artistry of Islamic architecture.
Al-Qarawiyyin University and Mosque: Founded in 859, Al-Qarawiyyin University is recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records as the oldest existing, continually operating higher educational institution in the world. The mosque, part of the university complex, is one of the largest in Africa and a significant religious center.
Dar Batha Museum: Housed in a 19th-century palace, the Dar Batha Museum exhibits a rich collection of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts, including ceramics, woodwork, textiles, and jewelry. The museum's Andalusian garden offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Chouara Tannery: One of the oldest tanneries in the world, Chouara Tannery offers a unique glimpse into the traditional methods of leather production. Visitors can watch the process from nearby terraces and see the vibrant dyeing vats in action.
Merenid Tombs: Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the Merenid Tombs offer panoramic views of Fez and the surrounding countryside. Dating back to the 14th century, they are remnants of the Merenid dynasty that once ruled Morocco.
Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen): While the interior is not open to the public, the Royal Palace's magnificent golden gates are a must-see. The intricate design and grandeur of the gates reflect the opulence of Moroccan craftsmanship.
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts: Located in a beautifully restored funduq (inn), the Nejjarine Museum showcases a stunning collection of wooden arts and crafts. The building itself is a work of art, with its traditional Moroccan architecture and serene courtyard.
Jnan Sbil Gardens: Jnan Sbil Gardens is a green oasis in the heart of Fez. Established in the 19th century, it features lush vegetation, fountains, and walkways, providing a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Fez Mellah (Jewish Quarter): The Mellah, or Jewish Quarter, is a historic area offering insights into Fez's once-thriving Jewish community. Visit the Aben Danan Synagogue, one of the oldest in Morocco, and explore the distinctive architecture and narrow streets of the Mellah.
Seffarine Square: Known for its metalworking workshops, Seffarine Square is where you can see artisans creating traditional copperware and brassware. The square is a vibrant hub of activity, offering a fascinating look at Fez's craft heritage.
Top Activities to Enjoy in Fez
Fez offers diverse activities that allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the city's rich culture, history, and vibrant atmosphere. From hands-on workshops to exploring hidden gems, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this enchanting Moroccan city. Here are some top activities to experience in Fez:
Cooking Classes
Join a traditional Moroccan cooking class and learn to prepare authentic dishes like tagine and couscous. These hands-on sessions often include visiting the local market to source fresh ingredients, providing an immersive culinary experience.
Shopping in the Souks
Explore the bustling souks of Fez, where you can shop for handcrafted goods, spices, textiles, and ceramics. Each market area specializes in different products, offering a unique shopping adventure through the winding alleys.
Attending a Traditional Music Performance
Experience the soul of Moroccan culture by attending a traditional music performance. Venues like the Dar Tazi host live performances of Andalusian music and other Moroccan genres, offering an evening of enchanting rhythms and melodies.
Visiting Local Artisans
Visit the workshops of local artisans to see firsthand how traditional Moroccan crafts are made. From pottery and weaving to metalwork and wood carving, these visits provide insight into the city’s rich artisanal heritage.
Exploring Fez’s Hidden Gardens
Discover the hidden gardens throughout the city, such as the Jnan Sbil Gardens and private riad gardens. These green spaces offer a tranquil retreat and a chance to appreciate the lush beauty of Moroccan horticulture.
Taking a Guided Historical Tour
Embark on a guided historical tour to explore Fez’s numerous ancient landmarks and learn about the city’s storied past. Knowledgeable guides provide context and stories that bring the historical sites to life.
Participating in a Sufi Spiritual Experience
Join a Sufi spiritual session to gain insight into the mystical side of Moroccan Islam. These sessions often involve music, chanting, and poetry, providing a profound cultural experience.
Exploring the Fez Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
Stroll through the historic Fez Mellah to explore its unique architecture and visit significant sites like the Aben Danan Synagogue. This area offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Jewish community in Fez.
Visiting Museums and Cultural Centers
Spend time in Fez’s museums and cultural centers, such as the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts or the Batha Museum, to delve deeper into the city’s artistic and cultural heritage.
Enjoying a Traditional Hammam Experience
Relax in a traditional Moroccan hammam, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating scrub and massage. These bathhouses provide a unique cultural experience and a chance to unwind after a day of exploring.
Hiking in the Surrounding Hills
Take a hike in the hills surrounding Fez for stunning views of the city and the countryside. Trails like the ones leading to the Merenid Tombs offer picturesque scenery and a refreshing escape from the urban hustle.
Attending a Workshop on Calligraphy
Participate in a calligraphy workshop to learn the art of Arabic script. These sessions often include lessons on the history and techniques of traditional Moroccan calligraphy, offering a creative and educational experience.
Fez Tanneries are a Must-Visit
Fez is home to some of the oldest tanneries in Morocco, many of which have operated almost the same way for a thousand years.
The rooftop tanneries consist of huge stone vats with either a softening agent or colored dye. Various hides lie out and dry in the sun on the flats around the pots.
Some tannery workers work inside the pots, waist-deep in liquid to soften the hides with their feet, kneading the skins into the ammonia for three hours at a time.
You can get a good view of the tanneries from their shops, which are located on ledges around the stone vats.
A guide will explain the in-depth tanning process to you. It’s an experience that shouldn’t be missed, but don’t have a big lunch beforehand!
Some of the ingredients used to soften the hides, including pigeon poop and cow urine, make the tanneries very pungent places.
Fez to Marrakech Tour
A tour from Fez to Marrakech offers an enchanting journey through the heart of Morocco. It is best experienced over several days to fully appreciate the country's diverse landscapes and cultural landmarks.
Most people travel by train or go on a bus tour. Private cars are also popular and allow for more flexible itineraries, enabling stops at fascinating sites along the way.
During the trip, travelers can visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the imperial city of Meknes, and the stunning Middle Atlas Mountains. The journey also often includes stops in the charming town of Ifrane and the cedar forests of Azrou, home to Barbary macaques.
Once in Marrakech, visitors can explore the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the beautiful Majorelle Garden, and the historic Bahia Palace. The tour offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
A Gastronomy Tour of Fez
No trip to Fez is complete without a food tour to immerse in the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Morocco's oldest imperial city.
The adventure begins with a visit to the bustling local markets or souks, where fresh, aromatic spices like saffron, cumin, and cinnamon are abundant. Visitors can savor the famous Moroccan mint tea, a refreshing and essential part of the local culture.
Fez is renowned for its traditional dishes, starting with the iconic pastilla, a savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, pigeon or chicken, almonds, and cinnamon, all dusted with powdered sugar.
Another must-try is the tagine, a slow-cooked stew prepared in a distinctive conical clay pot. Varieties include lamb with prunes, chicken with preserved lemons and olives, and vegetarian options with seasonal vegetables and spices.
The tour also includes tasting harira, a hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes, typically enjoyed during Ramadan.
For dessert, visitors can indulge in Moroccan pastries such as chebakia, sesame cookies coated in honey, or sellou, a rich, nutty mixture of toasted sesame seeds, almonds, and flour.
Sampling street food is a highlight, with options like msemen, a flaky flatbread often served with honey, and maakouda, which are delicious fried potato cakes.