Fes (also spelled Fez) is a historic city in northern Morocco, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. The city is home to the world’s oldest university, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in the 9th century. Fes is also famous for its well-preserved medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with winding narrow streets and alleys that lead to souks (markets), mosques, and ancient buildings. Visitors can explore the city’s many museums, including the Dar Batha Museum and the Bou Inania Madrasa, or take a stroll in the beautiful Jnan Sbil Gardens. Fes is also known for its traditional crafts, such as pottery, leatherwork, and carpet weaving, which can be found in the city’s many souks. Here is 20 must-see attractions and activities in Fes.
How to get to Fes from Casablanca
There are several ways to get to Fes from Casablanca, which is located approximately 320 kilometers (200 miles) south of Fes:
By Train: One of the most convenient ways to travel from Casablanca to Fes is by train. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and there are several departures throughout the day. The train stations in Casablanca are Casa-Voyageurs and Casa-Port, while the train station in Fes is called Fes-Ville Nouvelle.
By Bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Casablanca and Fes, including CTM, Supratours, and ALSA. The journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and the type of bus. The buses depart from the Casablanca bus station, which is located in the city center.
Interesting facts about Fes
Fes Medina is one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world, with many of its narrow streets and alleys too narrow for cars to pass through.
Fes is home to the world’s oldest university, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, which was founded in 859 AD and is still in operation today.
Fes is famous for its tanneries, which have been in operation for centuries and still use traditional methods to tan and dye leather.
Fes is the birthplace of Ibn Battuta, one of the greatest travelers and explorers in history, who traveled over 120,000 kilometers across Africa, Asia, and Europe.
Fes is also known for its annual Festival of World Sacred Music, which brings together musicians and performers from around the world for a week of concerts and cultural events.
How many days to spend in Fes
The number of days to spend in Fes depends on your interests and travel style. If you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage, historic sites, and traditional crafts, then you could easily spend 2-3 days in Fes. This would give you enough time to explore the medina, visit the various museums and monuments, and shop in the souks.
If you’re interested in taking day trips from Fes, then you may want to stay longer. Some popular day trips from Fes include visits to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the charming town of Moulay Idriss, and the scenic waterfalls of Ouzoud. If you plan on taking day trips, then you may want to consider spending 4-5 days in Fes.
How to move around Fes
Petit Taxis: These are small taxis that can accommodate up to three passengers and are a convenient way to get around the city. They are easily recognizable by their blue color and can be found at taxi ranks throughout the city.
Grand Taxis: These are larger taxis that can accommodate up to six passengers and are typically used for longer journeys outside of the city.
Private Car or Driver: If you prefer more comfort and convenience, you can hire a private car or driver to take you around the city. This is a more expensive option, but it allows you to travel in comfort and avoid the hassle of public transportation.
20 must-see attractions and activities in Fes
Visit the Medina of Fes
The Medina of Fes is the heart of the city and one of the largest pedestrian-only areas in the world. It is home to numerous markets, mosques, and madrasas (Islamic schools), as well as traditional homes and palaces. You can wander the narrow alleyways and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Explore the labyrinthine streets and alleys of the medina
The souks of Fes are a labyrinth of winding alleys, each filled with its unique atmosphere and offering visitors a glimpse into the local culture. They are a great place to shop for locally made crafts, such as leather goods, jewelry, and textiles. The souks are also home to several small cafes, restaurants, and food stalls that offer traditional Moroccan cuisine.
Explore the tanneries
Fes is famous for its leather products, and the tanneries are where it all begins. You can see how the hides are cleaned, dyed, and softened in large vats of natural dyes, and can also shop for leather goods at nearby markets.
Visit the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque
This mosque is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to the 9th century. It was also once home to one of the first universities in the world, and is still an important center of learning and worship in Fes.
Visit the Royal Palace
This vast complex of palaces and gardens was once the residence of the king of Morocco, and while most of it is closed to the public, visitors can admire the impressive gates and walls that surround it.
Admire the Bab Bou Jeloud Gate
This grand gate is one of the main entrances to the Medina of Fes, and features intricate tile work and carved wooden doors. You can also explore the area around the gate, which is home to numerous shops and restaurants.
Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa
This beautiful Islamic school is one of the best-preserved in Fes, with stunning tile work and intricate carvings. You can also climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of the medina.
Take a walk along the old city walls
The walls surrounding the Medina of Fes are an impressive feat of engineering, and you can walk along sections of them to get a different perspective on the city and its history.
Visit the Dar Batha Museum
This museum is housed in a beautiful 19th-century palace and features a collection of traditional Moroccan art and crafts, including textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Visitors can also explore the gardens and courtyards surrounding the palace.
Take a guided tour of the medina
The medina of Fes can be overwhelming for first-time visitors, so a guided tour can be a great way to get oriented and learn about the history and culture of the city. Tours can be tailored to individual interests and can include visits to markets, mosques, and historic sites.
Visit the Jardin Jnan Sbil
This large public park is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with landscaped gardens, fountains, and sculptures. You can relax on benches or take a stroll along the paths and admire the flora and fauna.
Visit the Attarine Medersa
This beautiful Islamic school is known for its intricate tile work and stucco carvings, which cover almost every inch of the interior. You can admire the geometric patterns and floral motifs that decorate the walls and ceilings.
Visit the Mellah Market
The Mellah is the historic Jewish quarter of Fes, and its market is a fascinating glimpse into the culture and commerce of the area. Visitors can shop for spices, textiles, and other goods, and can also explore the Synagogue Ibn Danan, one of the oldest synagogues in the world.
Visit the Museum of Moroccan Arts and Crafts
Housed in a 19th-century palace, the Museum of Moroccan Arts and Crafts showcases traditional Moroccan crafts and artwork, including ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and metalwork. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Morocco and to appreciate the craftsmanship of the local artisans.
Learn about the city’s Jewish heritage at the Maimonides Synagogue and the Jewish Cemetery
Fes has a rich Jewish heritage, and visitors can learn about it at the Maimonides Synagogue, one of the oldest in North Africa, and the Jewish Cemetery, which dates back to the 17th century. These sites offer a glimpse into the history of the Jewish community in Morocco and its contributions to the culture and society of the country.
Visit the Moulay Idriss II Mausoleum
This mausoleum is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Morocco and is the final resting place of Moulay Idriss II, the founder of Fes. Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and decoration of the mausoleum.
Climb to the top of the Borj Nord
This tower offers panoramic views of the medina and the city beyond, and is a great place to get a sense of the layout and scale of Fes. The climb to the top is steep, but the views are well worth the effort.
Visit the Dar Batha Museum
Housed in a beautiful 19th-century palace, the Dar Batha Museum features a collection of Moroccan art, including ceramics, textiles, and jewelry. The building itself is a work of art, with its intricate stucco work and carved cedar wood.
Visit the Andalusian Gardens
These beautiful gardens are located on the outskirts of the medina and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The gardens are filled with exotic plants, fountains, and ornate tile work.
Take a Moroccan tea ceremony
Moroccan tea is a delicious and ubiquitous part of the country’s culture, and taking part in a traditional tea ceremony is a great way to experience it. Visitors can learn about the history and customs of tea in Morocco and enjoy the sweet and fragrant tea served with pastries and snacks.
