How Many Days in Fes? Epic Local’s Guide

Planning a trip to this incredible Moroccan city but not exactly sure how many days in Fes you need? If so then this local’s guide is for you.

I have been living in Morocco since January of 2023 and have been to this city many times. Therefore, I know exactly how much time you need in Fes to see all the major highlights without feeling rushed.

The good news is that Fes is a pretty compact city. Therefore, you can quickly and easily see a lot of Fes in a short amount of time.

So, how much time you spend in Fes just depends on your schedule and how thoroughly you want to explore this ancient city. I mean if you are short on time then you can easily explore the Medina in a day.

However, most visitors like to relax and really soak in the vibe of this incredible place.

But, let’s dig a little deeper and figure out exactly how much time to spend in Fes and what to do in Fes while you’re there.

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How Many Days in Fes? The Short Answer

If you are short on time and planning a quick trip to Morocco then one day in Fes will be fine. Just get up early, hit the ground running, and you should be able to see all of the top attractions in Fes that are near the Medina.

You could also stay at one of the coolest riads in Fes so that you are also well-located in the city.

However, if you want to explore Fes at a more relaxed pace and really get a feel for the city, and visit the best hammams in Fes, then two days in Fes is ideal.

You can sleep in and just get lost in the Medina and don’t have to worry about rushing from place to place as you explore one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco.

Alternatively, 3 days in Fes would be perfect if you want to spend a day doing a cool day trip. You could visit Meknes and Volubilis (I found Meknes dull but thought Volubilis was awesome) or do a day trip to Chefchaouen if you’re short on time.

What to Do When Visiting Fes

There are a ton of cool things to do in Fes. Below are a few of my faves that you should definitely add to any Fes itinerary.

1. Walk through the Medina

Like basically every Medina in Morocco, the Fes Medina is full of a labyrinth of narrow, pedestrian-only streets that take you through the ancient part of the city.

As you walk through these bustling lanes, you’ll encounter cool restaurants, local landmarks, vibrant markets, fun shops, and more.

Feel free to explore at your own pace and get lost since this is part of the fun. Also pick up some awesome leather goods, like shoes, since this is what Fes is known for.

Just don’t forget to do a bit of haggling before you commit to buying anything. This way you can get the best price possible.

I personally didn’t have any issues with getting lost in the Medina. Yes, it can get confusing but there are two main roads for you to walk along.

Additionally, the Medina sits on a hill. So, if you walk uphill then you will be taken to the main gate and out of the Medina.

If you walk downhill then you’ll hit the tanneries and a river that sits along the edge of the Medina.

However, if you’re worried about getting lost, just download Maps.me since it works offline and will help you navigate the city.

You can also book a guided tour of the Medina. It’s a great option if you’re short on time, don’t want to stress about getting lost, and want to quickly/easily see as much of Fes as possible.

It’s also a nice option if you’re a solo female traveler since you’ll receive a lot less unwanted male attention if you’re walking around with a group.

Just be aware that the tour is short. Like 3 hours short. You’ll also get an introduction to the main sites but won’t have time to really visit them. However, you do get picked up from your hotel which makes life a lot easier.

Local Tip: Don’t forget to visit Rainbow Alley while you’re here. It’s along one of the main roads through the Medina and is right near the Main Gate. It’s a great place to take some cool photos.

2. Visit the Chouara Tanneries

If you only see one thing during your time in Fes then let it be the tanneries. After all, the Chouara Tanneries are the most famous attraction in the city and are best visited in the AM when you can see lots of colorful dyes in the vats beneath you.

Now, the tanneries in Fes are super famous (they were even featured in the Amazing Race) because they are one of the oldest tanneries in the world.

They date back to the 16th century and still only use traditional methods to make high-quality leather goods.

The best way to see the tanneries is to walk down to the buildings that surround them. Once here, just ask a local to take you to the roof since this is where you can get a great aerial view of the tanneries.

Typically, they’ll charge you 20 Dirhams ($2.00) for the visit, will share a bit of history about the tanneries, and will give you a piece of mint to help with the smell. TBH, I didn’t find the smell to be that bad, but that’s just me.

Also, be prepared for them to try and sell you something after your visit. They typically take you through their leather shop and try to get you to buy something.

Thankfully, all my guides weren’t super pushy and accepted the fact I didn’t want to buy anything when I said no thank you.

3. Bab Bou Jeloud

This magnificent blue gate takes you right into the Medina and is a must-see in Fes, even if for just a photo op or two.

However, it wasn’t even designed by Moroccans and was built by the French in 1913. Also, as you walk through the gate, be sure to look behind you. Yup, the gate is green on the other side.

That’s because green represents Islam and blue represents Fes, two very important things in this city. Just try to get here early so that 10,000 people aren’t in your photos.

4. See the Gates of the Royal Palace (Dar Al-Makhzen)

Personally, I think this Fes attraction is a little overrated. I mean, you’ll have to walk 30 minutes (or drive 10 minutes in a taxi) just to get here from the Medina.

Then, once here, you can’t actually go inside and just walk around the Palace, admiring the beautiful doors and saying “hi” to the guards.

Yes the doors and entrances are pretty, but if you’re short on time I don’t really think it’s worth it since you can’t actually go inside. Plus, there are plenty of nice doors to see in and around the Medina.

So, why schlep all the way to the Royal Palace?

However, if you do visit then definitely walk through the Mellah, or Jewish Quarter, afterward. There’s not a ton to do there but it’s a unique part of the city that is nice to walk through if you’re in the area.

5. Explore Bou Inania Madrasa

There are many ancient Madrasas scattered throughout the Medina in Fes. But, Bou Inania Madrasa stands out with its elaborate marble courtyards, awesome wood carvings, and stellar tilework.

It was constructed between 1351 and 1357 by Merinid Sultan Bou Inan so that students could study the Quran. It’s lovely but the complex is small. So, you won’t be here very long.

Last time I was here it was in the late afternoon and like NO ONE was here. So, this would be a great time to visit. However, stop by any time between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm and pay 20 Dirhams ($2.00) for your ticket.

6. Jnan Sbil Gardens

TBH, I really like these gardens and think they are worth visiting in Fes. Yes, the opening times are a bit wonky, so you may or may not be able to get in.

But, there’s a nice little pond, some beautifully manicured gardens, lovely shaded walking paths, pens with local birds, and lovely fountains with awesome tilework.

Plus, this garden is like a 10-minute walk from the Medina. So, why not stop by since it’s close by? Who knows, you might even get to listen to an impromptu concert since many locals like to perform here.

If you love gardens and want to see the flowers in full bloom then the best time to visit Fes would be in the spring.

7. Al Attarine Madrasa

This is probably my favorite Madrasa in the city since I love the elaborate tilework, the stunning fountain, the awesome wood-carved doors, and the epic plasterwork.

It’s just a super pretty spot and a great place to get a feel for tradtional Moroccan architecture since this place dates back to 1325.

Another cool benefit of visiting is that you can walk upstairs and see the less-than-awesome rooms that students lived in.

Tickets are 20 Dirhams ($2.00) and you should be able to visit between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm, unless it’s a holiday or there is a religious event going on.

8. Cherratine Madrasa

See, I told you there were a lot of Madrasas (aka schools) in Fes. This one is a bit newer and was established in 1670. It’s also a lot bigger so you can explore three floors will with rooms that were built to accommodate up to 150 students.

But the real benefit of visiting this Madrasa is that most people skip it. So, there probably won’t be a ton of other people here.

It’s not as astounding and some of the other Fes landmarks listed but it has a unique charm and historic vibe about it since it isn’t heavily renovated. For the best photos, I would head to the top floor and take an aerial shot from here.

9. See the Mosque and University Karaouiyne

This is one of those places in Fes that you can’t go inside if you’re not Muslim. However, it’s a must-see in Fes since this happens to be the oldest continually functioning university in the world.

Yeah, the school dates all the way back to 859 AD and was home to an astounding 20,000 students who were all keen to study the Quran.

Plus, this spot is home to the second largest mosque in the country, so that’s pretty cool too.

Since you can’t actually go inside, just admire to stunning doors around the exterior. You might even be able to see the inner courtyard at Chemmaine and Derb Boutouil.

You can also head to a local rooftop and take in impressive aerial views of the structure from there.

10. Visit the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts

This is easily one of my favorite museums in Fes. Not only is the woodwork next-level stunning, but there are historic exhibits on display across the three floors of the museum.

So, you can chill here, learn about how the building was once a Foundouk in the 18th century (inn for Merchants) and see historic doors, prayer beads, musical instruments, and more.

There’s even a nice little rooftop cafe where you can enjoy some sweet views of the city, and all for just 10 Dirhams ($1.00) per person.

11. Watch the Sunset at the Merinid Tombs

Back in the 14th century, these tombs were constructed as part of a necropolis for the Marinid Dynasty. Today, they make for a great place to watch the sunset since they atop a hill overlooking the Medina.

To visit, you can walk here from the Medina in about a half an hour. Otherwise, just take a taxi for around 12 Dirhams ($1.20) and you’ll be here in no time.

12. Visit the Dar Batha Museum

The Dar Batha Museum in Fez is a must-visit for anyone interested in Moroccan history and craftsmanship.

Originally a 19th-century palace built by Sultan Hassan I, the museum now houses an exceptional collection of traditional Moroccan arts and artifacts.

Visitors can explore stunning displays of intricately carved woodwork, zellige tilework, antique carpets, embroidered textiles, and astrolabes.

One of the highlights is the collection of Fez’s famous blue pottery, showcasing the stunning ceramic work that the city is known for.

The museum also features an exquisite Andalusian-style garden, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling medina.

Located near Bab Boujloud, Dar Batha is easily accessible and remains one of the top attractions in Fez.

Its combination of historical significance and artistic treasures makes it a fascinating stop for history buffs, art lovers, and anyone wanting to delve deeper into the history of the city.

But, my fave part? The museum is totally free to visit!!! So, stop by and see why I am totally head over heels in love with this place.

13. Explore the Mellah

The Mellah is interesting because it is Fes’ historic Jewish quarter. It was founded in the 14th century, by Sultan Abu Said and was home to over 250,000 Jews at its peak.

Today, most of the neighborhood’s Jewish inhabitants are gone. However, visitors can still explore the narrow streets, the historic Ibn Danan synagogue (it costs 25 Dirhams to enter), and the Jewish cemetery.

The area is also filled with cool antique shops and a unique blend of Jewish and Moroccan architecture. I always love walking past the two-storey homes here with their amazing outdoor porches.

Afterward, visit the Royal Palace in Fes since you have to pass through the Mellah to get to the Palace.

Best Places to Eat in Fes

Not sure where to eat in Fes? Then check out some of my picks for the top restaurants in Fes, Morocco.

• Cafe Clock – Great rooftop, amazing food, and you can even try a camel burger. I usually get the Berber Omelet and my partner loves the pancake stack. However, the spiced cappuccino is really lovely too.

• The Ruined Garden – Relax on an outdoor patio filled with beautiful greenery and order delish menu items like Sephardic saffron chicken with eggs, and the safron and vegetable tagine. Yeah, I get the tagine every time I visit.

• Darori – The waitstaff is super friendly and they serve great Moroccan food at affordable prices. The Moroccan salads are epic and the vegetarian pastilla is a classic. The staff will even help you get home at night if you’re worried about safety in Fes.

FAQs

Is 2 days Enough in Fez?

2 days is enough time in Fes if you want to explore the city’s major highlights at a relaxed pace and get a better feel for the vibe of this place.

Is 3 days in Fez Enough?

3 days in Fez is enough if you want to spend two days exploring the Medina and then go on a cool day trip to either Meknes/Volubilis or Chefchaoeun.

Is One Day in Fes Enough?

One day in Fes is enough if you just want to see the major highlights of the city and are short on time. It’ll be a packed day, but you can see most of what Fes has to offer in a day – especially if you stick to the Medina.

That wraps up this epic guide on how many days in Fes you really need. I hope this guide has helped you with trip planning and that you are a lot less stressed out about visiting Fes.

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