Fes Medina Guide: Top Things to See in Morocco’s Oldest Imperial City

Fes is the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco. Its old medina, Fes el-Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world, a maze of thousands of lanes where craftsmen still work as they did centuries ago. Here is what not to miss.

Top sights in the medina

• Bab Bou Jeloud, the “Blue Gate”, the most famous entrance to the old city.
• The Chouara tannery, where leather is dyed in stone vats; watch from the terraces of the surrounding shops.
• Bou Inania Madrasa, a masterpiece of Marinid carved wood, stucco and zellige tiles.
• Al-Attarine Madrasa, smaller but just as beautiful, next to the spice souk.
• Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 and often described as one of the oldest universities in the world (non-Muslims can look in from the doors).
• Nejjarine Square with its fountain and the museum of wooden arts and crafts.

Outside the old medina

• The golden doors of the Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen).
• The Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter, with its wooden balconies.
• The Merinid Tombs viewpoint at sunset, for a panorama over the whole medina.

Why visit with a local guide

The medina is easy to get lost in, and many places are hidden behind simple doors. A licensed local guide helps you understand the history, find the workshops and move around efficiently.

Fes and the desert

Fes is the best starting point for the Merzouga dunes, about 460 km away. Choose the 3 Days Desert Expedition from Fes to Merzouga to come back to Fes, or continue to Marrakech in 4 days or 5 days.

Crafts of Fes

The medina is organized by trade: you will find streets of coppersmiths hammering trays, weavers, wood carvers, leather workers and zellige tile makers. Fes is famous for its blue-and-white pottery and its leather goods. Take your time, watch the artisans at work and buy directly from the workshops.

Food in Fes

• Pastilla, the sweet and savory pie that the city is famous for.
• Harira, a rich soup often served with dates.
• Street snacks such as msemen pancakes and fresh juices in the souks.

Practical tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: the lanes are steep and uneven.
• Keep some small change for tea and snacks.
• Stay in a riad inside or close to the medina to enjoy the atmosphere in the evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in Fes?

One full day covers the highlights of the medina; two days let you explore at a relaxed pace and visit the surroundings.

Is Fes or Marrakech better?

They are complementary: Fes is more traditional and historic, Marrakech livelier. Most itineraries include both.

Can I visit the tannery in the morning?

Yes, mornings are the best time to see the dyeing pits in activity and in good light.