20 Best Things to Do in Fes: The Ultimate Guide

Planning a trip to this amazing city and looking for a list of the best things to do in Fes? If so then I’m your girl.

See, I live in Morocco and have been to Fes many times. So, I know all about some of the top attractions in Fes that you need to see to believe.

That being said, Fes is a pretty small city and you’ll probably need around 2 days (max) to enjoy all that this ancient city has to offer.

I mean, don’t get me wrong. The city itself is big. But, I find the Old Town, or Medina, is the most interesting part of the city and filled with the coolest things to do.

Because the Medina itself is pretty small and doesn’t cover a HUGE area, you only need to spend a day or two in the city.

The exception to that rule is if you want to do some cool day trips from Fes to places like Chefchaouen, Meknes, and Volubilis. Then you’ll deffo need a few more days in the city.

However, to really understand how many days to spend in the city, let’s get a look at all the Fes landmarks that you’ll need to see to believe.

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1. Get Lost in the Medina

As you probably already know, every city in Morocco has a Medina or an ancient walled part of the city. The Medina in Fes is pretty unique in that it is the oldest and largest Medina in North Africa.

In fact, the Medina in Fes is the largest, totally car-free area on the planet!

It’s also super ancient and traces its roots back to the 9th century. Therefore, it has become a designated UNESCO World Heritage site that you will want to explore when traveling to Fes.

So, take time to wander through the souks (markets) and shop for incredible leather goods since Fes is known for producing amazing leather shoes, bags, jackets, and more.

I found the Medina pretty easy to navigate since it sits on a hill. So, walk up the hill to get out of the Medina and walk down the hill to visit the tanneries.

However, if you are worried about getting lost, definitely download the Maps.me app. It has maps of the city that work offline and that can help you make your way through the Medina.

Just don’t accept unsolicited directions from local children since this is usually just a scam. They 99.9% of the time just want to get paid for walking you through the Medina.

I didn’t have any problems with this when I visited but I have heard of other travelers who did.

Local Tip: Stay in or near the Medina to make the most of your Fes itinerary. All of the top attractions in the city are concentrated here and it will make visiting Fes a lot easier.

2. Visit the Chouara Tanneries

If you only check out one of the best things to do in Fes, let the Chouara Tanneries be it.

It is easily the most famous thing to do in Fes and is best visited early in the day when colorful dyes inside the large vats are at their brightest.

The reason this tannery is so famous is that workers still use traditional methods to make amazing leather goods. It is also the largest tannery in the city and one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the 16th century.

So, yeah, it’s a total must-see. The best way to visit the tannery is to climb to the roof of a surrounding building. You’ll generally have to pay a local around 20 Dirhams ($2.00) to go upstairs and get an aerial view of the tanneries.

Your “guide” will give you a piece of mint to help with the smell (I didn’t think it was that bad but that’s just me) and explain a bit more about the history of this place as you take photos and enjoy the views of the tanneries.

Afterward, he’ll take you back to the street, but not before trying to sell you some leather goods from a local shop.

Thankfully, most people are pretty chill in Fes and are not overly pushy if you’re not interested in buying anything.

3. The Royal Palace (Dar Al-Makhzen)

Venture outside the walls of the Medina and explore a unique part of the city that is home to the king himself.

See, this building was constructed in the 1960s and is surrounded by enchanting lemon trees. It features seven beautifully decorated gates that showcase exquisite wood and tile works, alongside magnificent gilded bronze doors.

Yes, you’ll have to walk around 30 minutes to get here from the Old Town. However, it can be worth it if you want to see the stunning yellow gates and magnificent Moroccan architecture that this structure is known for.

Sadly, visitors are not allowed to enter the Royal Palace, but you can walk around the perimeter and take in both the size and magnificence of this unique place.

It’s also situated right near the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), so you could easily explore both spots at the same time when visiting Fes.

4. Explore the Mellah

Just a 7-minute walk away from the Royal Palace is the Mellah, or the city’s vibrant Jewish Quarter. Originally established in 1438, this area holds the distinction of being the first official Jewish neighborhood in the country.

At its peak, it was home to a population of about 250,000 Jews. Nowadays, the once-vivacious community has dwindled, with only a handful of Jewish families living in Ville Nouvelle today.

Nonetheless, the Mellah remains an intriguing place for a walk, offering a glimpse into the community’s historical presence. in the city.

A good place to visit is Rue des Mérinides since this is the quarter’s main street. It is lined with houses with balconies that are different from the many homes in other parts of the city.

While there may not be a ton of things to do here, it’s a unique place in Fes that is worth checking out.

Highlights include the fully restored Ibn Danan synagogue from the 17th century (it’s 25 Dirhams to enter) and an enormous Jewish Cemetery with 400-year-old tombstones.

5. Jnan Sbil Gardens

During my trip to Fes, I spent mornings and afternoons wandering through these quiet gardens. They’re not huge and you can easily walk through the entire place in about an hour.

But, this oasis of greenery is maybe a 10-minute from the main gate of the Medina and features a small pond, well-manicured gardens, stunning fountains, and lovely walking paths.

There are even pens filled with a wide variety of birds, as well as impromptu concerts from musical locals who love hanging out here.

Just be aware that the opening hours are a bit wonky. They SAY the garden is open Tuesday through Sunday from 8:00 am to 7:30 pm, but I didn’t always find that to be the case. So, you may need to visit more than once to actually get inside.

6. Bab Bou Jeloud

Bab Bou Jeloud is one of the main gates to grant you access to the Medina. But, believe it or not, this grand entranceway wasn’t actually designed by Moroccans.

It was constructed in 1913 by the French who blew a giant hole in the walls of the Medina to create this extravagant gate with three arched doorways and a stunning blue facade.

Now, if you walk through the gate and turn backward, you’ll see that the other side features a green facade. That’s because blue represents the city of Fes and green represents the Islamic religion.

This is one of the top things to do in Fes, Morocco that is basically just a giant photo op. So, arrive early to try and snag photos sans the crowds.

7. Explore Bou Inania Madrasa

This former school sits right in the center of the Medina and is open to visitors looking to see amazing marble courtyards, green tile mosaics, detailed wood carvings, and more.

It was built between 1351 and 1357 as a school for religious studies by Merinid Sultan Bou Inan. You’ll even be able to see the vibrant green minaret of the associated mosque as you walk through Bab Bou Jeloud.

The building is beautiful but it’s not a huge space to explore. So, it won’t take you a long time to visit.

Local Tip: Time your visit for late afternoon. I stopped by and there was basically nobody there. The site is also open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (outside of prayer times) and costs 20 Dirhams ($2.00) to enter.

8. Cherratine Madrasa

Established in 1670, this Quranic school is an amazing place to visit in Fes because it is a lot bigger than most of the other Madrasas in the city.

Additionally, it’s not as heavily visited by tourists and is a great place to stop if you want to avoid crowds.

Sure, the decor here isn’t as astounding as some of the other places in Fes on this list, but the charm and historical significance of this place are undeniable.

Plus, visitors have the unique opportunity to explore tons of student bedrooms that are spread out across three separate floors, reflecting the building’s capacity to house up to 150 residents.

However, what adds to the appeal of this place is the genuine old-world feel this madrasa retains since it hasn’t been as heavily renovated as some other buildings in the medina.

For the best photos, stand on one of the upper floors and take a photo of the building from here.

9. Al Attarine Madrasa

Another cool religious school that you can visit in the Medina is Al Attarine Madrasa. It was founded in 1325 and is home to a stunning courtyard filled with gorg-tiled mosaics, exquisite hand-carved wood doors, and stunning plasterwork.

To enter, pay just 20 Dirhams ($2.00) and you’ll be able to take as many photos as you like of the beautiful courtyard inside.

It’s not a huge place but you can also climb up a set of stairs to see the rooms that the students used to sleep in. Yeah, they are pretty small and made me glad I wasn’t a student here.

Feel free to visit daily between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm. Just be aware that this historic site sometimes closes as a result of religious events and holidays.

10. See the Mosque and University Karaouiyne

This university and associated mosque are super cool for two reasons: it’s the oldest continually operating university in the world and is home to the second-largest mosque in Morocco.

In fact, this school was founded back in 859 AD and had 20,000 students in attendance to better understand the Quran.

Sadly, because of its religious significance, it is not open to non-Muslims. However, you can admire the beautiful doors that surround the building and try to sneak a peak at the interior courtyard from Chemmaine and Derb Boutouil.

If you’re lucky, you might spot the marble courtyard of the mosque, which features arches, fountains, tiles mosaics, carvings, and more. Otherwise, just enjoy great aerial views of the complex from a nearby rooftop.

11. Visit Cafe Clock

Cafe Clock is an iconic place to eat in Fes. They have locations in Fes, Marrakech, and Chefchaouen and serve great food at reasonable prices.

They also host a wide array of fun activities that include storytelling workshops, cooking classes, and calligraphy lessons. So, if you’re looking for one of the more unique things to do in Fes then this is the place to go.

However, aside from that, they have a great rooftop where you can relax and enjoy impressive views of the city. Stop by in the evening and your views will be complemented by awesome live music.

When you visit, order a Berber Omelet. Pair it with a spiced cappuccino, topped with cinnamon and cocoa powder, and you’ll enjoy a meal to remember and one of the best restaurants in Fes.

Yeah, this is what I order every time I come here. However, my partner is a HUGE fan of the pancakes.

But, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, then you could always order their famous Camel Burger. Trust me, it’s better than you’d expect.

12. Visit Colour Street

This is another one of the best things to do in Fes that won’t take a ton of time since it’s basically just a glorified photo op. But, it’s pretty and you’re on vacation so it’s your duty (lol) to get some epic photos when you can.

Now, this small side street is a short walk away from Bab Bou Jeloud. It sits along a main street in the Medina so you should have zero problems finding it.

Just be on the lookout for a vibrant-hued alley that has a rainbow of colors on the floor and a wealth of vibrant paintings and souvenirs adorning the walls. Feel to browse and take photos before exploring other parts of the Medina.

13. Visit the Merinid Tombs and Watch the Sunset

Perched high atop a hill overlooking the Fes Medina, the Merinid Tombs were built in the 14th century as part of a royal necropolis for the Marinid Dynasty.

Today, this ancient structure sits in ruins on top of a hill and is a place where locals and tourists go to catch an incredible sunset.

From the Medina, it will take you around half an hour to walk here. It’s an uphill walk but should be fairly easy for most people.

However, if walking that far doesn’t sound appealing to you then you could always take a taxi here for around 12 Dirhams ($1.20).

14. Enjoy Some Fresh Orange Juice

If there’s one thing I know about Fes it’s that it gets hella hot in the summer. So, if you’re feeling thirsty and want to cool off then order some fresh orange juice.

Many fruit stands near the main entrance of the Medina sell a wide variety of amazing, fresh-squeezed juices and a fresh orange juice is one of the best. Plus, it’s really cheap too.

However, even if you’re not into OJ then you could always try an array of drinks filled with avocado, bananas, dates, strawberries, and more.

15. Explore the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts

Step inside and you’ll immediately become captivated by this museum’s breathtaking architecture and exquisite woodwork.

See, the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts used to be a Foundouk in the 18th century. So, it was an old inn where merchants would spend the night as they made their way to/from the Sahara.

As a result, the building’s inner courtyard features some of the most amazing woodwork that I have ever seen in my life.

Today, this historic building has been converted into an epic museum where exhibits are spread out across three floors.

So, wander through old merchant quarters and enjoy eclectic display cases full of doors, musical instruments, and prayer beads.

Additionally, the roof has a tranquil café where you can sit and enjoy views of the city. To enjoy one of the best things to do in Fes, pay 10 Dirhams ($1.00) for a ticket.

16. Grab Some Mint Tea and Enjoy the Views at Hotel Le Meridien Merinides

After you visit the Merinid Tombs, walk to Hotel Le Meridien Merinides and grab some Moroccan mint tea.

Not only is mint tea basically LIFE in Morocco (my Moroccan partner drinks it every day), but this luxurious 5-star hotel has an amazing outdoor patio in the back.

Just grab a drink and enjoy stellar views of Fes as the sun sets and the lights of the Medina begin to glow to life.

I’ve visited and the bar is definitely open to the public. You just have to walk through the main entrance and pass by some security guards. They shouldn’t give you a hard time though.

17. Watch the Sunset from a Local Rooftop

Because the Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site, there are laws in place that protect the area and prevent developers from building a ton of wicked tall skyscrapers.

Therefore, you don’t have to go very far, or climb very high, to enjoy sweeping sunset views of the city. In fact, almost any local rooftop will offer sweeping views that are best enjoyed at dusk.

It’s also just a great way to relax after a long day of sightseeing. My fave Fes rooftops include Cafe Clock, Le Rooftop (it sits at the highest point in the city), Les Saveurs de Riad Fes Maya, etc.

18. Visit Dar Batha Museum

Okay, real talk? I TRIED to visit this museum a couple of times – once in 2023 and again in 2024. Both times, the museum was closed and under renovation.

Well, now the BEYOND gorgeous Dar Batha Museum of Islamic Arts and Crafts is FINALLY open and ready for visitors. TBH, this is easily my favorite thing to do in Fes.

See, this former royal palace was transformed into a museum in 1915. It’s now home to an astounding collection of 6,000 artifacts, including traditional Moroccan tiles, carpets, weapons, woodcarvings, minbars, ceramics, astrolabes, and more.

Seriously, you could easily spend an hour here since the collection is massive and there is a ton of English signage. Just don’t leave without walking through the elegant Arab-Andalusian garden.

It’s sits right in the center of the museum and is just a superb place to take photos. Also be sure to see the Fes blue pottery on display since this is one of the museum’s most prized collections.

Oh, and this amazing museum? Yeah, it’s totally FREE to visit.

19. Go to the Hammam

Have a little extra time and not sure what to do in Fes? If so, then visit one of the best hammams in Fes. I like going to the hammam here because the prices are more affordable than in Marrakech.

The experience also tends to be a bit more authentic.

Now, if you’re not exactly sure what a hammam in Morocco is, it’s a traditional steam room and bath house that has been an essential part of Moroccan culture for centuries.

As an important cleansing ritual and social experience, a visit to the hammam is a must while you’re in Morocco.

You’ll sit in a steam room, wash with black soap, use a special glove (kessa) to exfoliate the dead skin off your body, and rinse with warm water.

If you want to give it a try, you can choose between a public hammam (more authentic, cheaper, and you bathe with others) and a private hammam (It’s more expensive, you bathe on your own, and you have a personal attendant).

If it were me, I would go to Riad Laaroussa. I thought the hammam experience was very authentic and that the staff were lovely. The price was also very reasonable (350 Dirhams) and included mint tea on their gorgeous rooftop.

20. Borj Nord Museum

Perched high atop a hill that looks out over the Medina, the Borj Nord Museum sits inside the stunning, Borj Nord.

It is by far the most impressive of the ten bastions surrounding Fes and was first built by Saadian Sultan Ahmed Al Mansour Addahbi in 1582.

While the building was designed to protect Fes from aggressors, it is now home to an impressive collection of more than 5,000 weapons, of which around 775 are displayed inside the museum.

So, if you want to learn about the history of weapon making in Fes/Morocco, then this is the place for you. Step inside and explore a wide array of saddles, cannons, shields, swords, and guns that come from 35 countries from around the world.

Whatever you do, don’t leave without heading to the roof. You can enjoy stunning panoramas of the Medina and some of the most iconic ruins in Fes.

TBH, this wasn’t my favorite museum in Fes. But, I thought the museum was well worth a visit if you like weapons since entrance is just 30 Dirhams.

Map of the Best Things to Do in Fes

Where to Stay in Fes

My picks for some of the best places to stay in Fes include:

• Dar Lalamoune (budget) – I loved the location of this small, quiet riad since it sits right along the edge of the Medina and is easy to find. Rooms are spacious, well-priced, and feature traditional decor. Breakfast was delish and made to order, with available dishes changing daily. The staff are also super helpful and will assist you any way they can.

• Riad Laaroussa (mid-range) – This riad was once a 17th-century palace and is now a 4-star hotel with 13 lovely rooms and a giant heated pool. It’s also well-located in the Medina, serves an epic Morrocan breakfast, and has a Hamman on-site. Yup, relaxation mode activated.

• Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux (luxury) – This posh AF 5-star hotel in the Medina is the place to go if you want to live the high life in Fes. Highlights include a spacious pool, a stunning rooftop terrace, and a complimentary breakfast that tastes like something a celeb chef whipped up.

Where to Eat in Fes

Some of my fave restaurants in Fes include:

• Fes and Friends – This place is JUST outside the Medina and features a menu filled with Western and traditional Moroccan cuisine. I loved the decor and hanging out here while I dug into my epic falafel bowl. However, my friend LOVED the lamb tagline.

• Cafe Clock – My love for this cafe runs DEEP. Head to roof and order a Berber Omelet with a spiced cappuccino. If you’re feeling adventurous you can try a camel burger too.

• Le Tarbouche – This quaint little restaurant serves epic grilled chicken and amazing Kefta tagine. I wasn’t a fan of the Pastilla with chicken since it had a weird sweet taste. Just reserve a table since this restaurant is popular.

Best Time to Visit Fes

The best time to visit Fes is March through May or October through November since the weather is good and shoulder season means fewer tourists.

I would 100% pick October through November since Ramadan can make travel tricky in April and March. However, winter is a great time to visit since it isn’t super cold. Just check to make sure your hotel has heat before you book a room.

How to Get To Fes

Fes is very well-connected to some of the best cities in Morocco. You can easily take a train from Fes to Marrakech, Casablanca, Rabat, and Tangier. However, if you are traveling from Fes to Chechaouen, then you’ll need to travel by bus.

CTM is a great bus company with amazing buses that you can use to do a fun day trip from Fes to Chefchaouen.

Additionally, Fes has an international airport that you can use to fly both domestically as well as internationally. You could also do a cool 3-day Sahara Desert Tour and travel from Marrakech to Fes that way.

I highly recommend it since it’s an easy and cheap way to explore the country. This way you also don’t have to decide between Marrakech and Fes.

How to Get Around Fes

Fes is a BIG city. But, if you spend most of your time in the Medina, which is one of the things that make Fes worth visiting, then you can easily walk around the city. Just be aware of your surroundings and learn how to stay safe in Fes.

However, if you want to travel further afield, like to the New Town or villages around the city, then local buses and private/shared taxis are the way to go.

FAQs

How Many Days Should I Spend in Fes?

Two days is enough time to enjoy all of the top attractions in Fes without feeling too rushed. If you have more time in the city, you could also do some cool Fes day trips.

Is 3 days in Fez Enough?

3 days are more than enough time to visit Fes. You could spend the first two days exploring the Medina. Then, on the third day, take a day trip to Meknes and Voluibis or spend the day in Chefchaouen.

Why is Fez Morocco Famous?

Fes is famous for being at the spiritual center of Morocco. Key attractions that draw in many visitors are the tanneries, the gates of the Royal Palace, the Medina, and the Mosque and University Karaouiyne.

That wraps up this guide to the best things to do in Fes, Morocco. Did your favorite Fes activities make the list? If not then let me know.

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