Things to do in Fes: Discover the Charm of Morocco's Ancient City

Nestled in the northeastern part of Morocco, Fes stands as one of the country's most captivating destinations. With a history dating back to the 9th century, this ancient imperial city offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Morocco's rich cultural heritage. From its labyrinthine medina to its prestigious religious institutions and vibrant craft scenes, there are countless things to do in Fes that will immerse you in the heart of traditional Moroccan life.

Explore the Medina of Fes

Walking Through the Fes el-Bali Medina

The crown jewel among things to do in Fes is undoubtedly exploring Fes el-Bali, the city's ancient medina. As a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1981, this medieval urban area is considered the world's largest car-free urban zone and home to over 9,000 narrow alleyways. Getting lost in this maze-like wonder is not just inevitable but part of the experience!

The medina is divided into distinct quarters, each with its own character and specialty crafts. As you wander through its winding passages, you'll encounter historical monuments, bustling marketplaces, and hidden residential areas that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Tips for exploring the medina:

• Hire a local guide for your first day to orient yourself
• Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven
• Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat
• Keep small denominations of Moroccan dirhams for purchases

Bab Boujloud - The Blue Gate

Your journey through the medina likely begins at Bab Boujloud, the magnificent main entrance known as "The Blue Gate." This ornate gateway, decorated with striking blue tilework on the exterior and green on the interior (representing the color of Islam), serves as the perfect introduction to the wonders that await inside the old city.

Must-See Historical Sites in Fes

Visiting Al-Qarawiyyin University and Mosque

photo credit: MIsabel1954

No list of things to do in Fes would be complete without mentioning Al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 CE and recognized by UNESCO as the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself, visitors can appreciate its magnificent exterior and peek through its doors to glimpse the stunning courtyard with its intricate tilework and carved cedar.

The adjacent library, which has been beautifully restored, houses ancient manuscripts and occasionally opens its doors to visitors on guided tours. The library's architecture alone, with its ornate plasterwork and geometric designs, makes it worth seeking out.

Exploring the Bou Inania Madrasa

photo credit: Dragonline

The Bou Inania Madrasa, built between 1350 and 1357, stands as one of the few religious buildings in Fes that non-Muslims are permitted to enter. This former Islamic college showcases the height of Marinid architectural achievement, featuring exquisite zellij (mosaic tilework), carved cedar, and elaborate stucco. Its minaret towers above the surrounding buildings, and its beautiful courtyard provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling medina.

Viewing the Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen)

photo credit: Adam A

While the interior of the Royal Palace remains closed to the public, its magnificent brass doors and ornate façade make it a must-see attraction. Located in the new city (Fes el-Jdid), the palace complex covers an impressive 80 hectares and remains an official residence of the Moroccan royal family. The plaza in front of the palace makes for excellent photo opportunities, especially in the morning light when the brass gleams brilliantly.

Discover Moroccan Handicrafts and Souks

Shopping for Pottery, Leather, and Textiles in the Souks

The souks (traditional markets) of Fes offer some of the most authentic shopping experiences in Morocco. Each specialized market displays the city's renowned craftsmanship:

Pottery Quarter: Located near Bab el-Ftouh, Fes is famous for its distinctive blue pottery. Watch artisans create intricate designs and consider purchasing traditional tajine cooking pots, decorative plates, or mosaic fountains.

Textile Souk: In the vicinity of the Al-Attarine Madrasa, browse through colorful fabrics, handwoven carpets, and traditional Moroccan garments like djellabas and kaftans.

Henna Souk: This small but fragrant market specializes in natural dyes, cosmetics, and medicinal herbs. It's a fascinating place to learn about traditional Moroccan beauty rituals.

Learning Traditional Craft Techniques

Many workshops throughout the medina offer hands-on experiences where visitors can learn about traditional Moroccan crafts. Consider:

• Participating in a pottery workshop to create your own blue Fes pottery
• Learning about the ancient art of zellige tile-making
• Taking a weaving lesson from local artisans

These interactive experiences provide deeper insights into the cultural significance of Moroccan crafts and make for unique souvenirs of your visit.

Culinary Experiences in Fes

Tasting Traditional Moroccan Dishes in Fes

The culinary landscape of Fes represents some of the finest food in Morocco, with recipes passed down through generations. Must-try local specialties include:

• Pastilla: A sweet and savory pie combining layers of thin pastry, spiced meat (traditionally pigeon, now often chicken), and almonds, dusted with cinnamon and sugar
• Tagine: Slow-cooked stews named after the conical earthenware pots they're prepared in
• Harira: A hearty Moroccan soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and spices
• Mechoui: Slow-roasted lamb seasoned with cumin and other spices

Dining at Traditional Restaurants and Riads

For an authentic dining experience, consider these options:

• Dar Roumana: Located in a beautifully restored riad, this restaurant serves sophisticated Moroccan cuisine using local, seasonal ingredients
• Café Clock: A cultural café offering modern takes on traditional dishes, including their famous camel burger
• The Ruined Garden: Set in a restored riad garden, this restaurant offers a farm-to-table experience with Moroccan and international influences

Participating in a Cooking Class

One of the most enriching things to do in Fes is joining a cooking class to learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine. Several establishments offer half-day workshops where you'll visit local markets to source ingredients before preparing traditional dishes under the guidance of expert chefs. These classes typically conclude with a communal meal where you can enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Visit the Tanneries of Fes

Visiting the Tanneries of Fes – A Historical Tradition

The Chouara Tannery, dating back to the 11th century, offers visitors a glimpse into traditional leather-making techniques that have remained virtually unchanged for centuries. From terraces surrounding the tannery, you can observe workers standing knee-deep in stone vats filled with natural dyes and treatments.

The tanning process involves soaking hides in a mixture of pigeon droppings, lime, salt, and water to remove hair and fat. The hides are then transferred to different vats containing natural dyes derived from plants and minerals—indigo for blue, poppy for red, saffron for yellow, and mint for green.

Visiting tips:

• The tanneries have a strong smell—take the sprig of mint offered by guides to hold under your nose
• Morning visits offer the best lighting for photographs
• Access is through leather shops, which will expect you to browse their products afterward

Day Trips from Fes

Day Trip to Volubilis and the Roman Ruins

photo credit: Tripadvisor.com

Just 60 kilometers west of Fes lie the impressive ruins of Volubilis, a partially excavated Roman city and another UNESCO World Heritage site. These well-preserved ruins feature stunning mosaics, grand arches, and columns that testify to the region's importance during the Roman era. Nearby Moulay Idriss, one of Morocco's holiest cities, makes for a worthwhile addition to this day trip.

Exploring Meknes – The Imperial City

Meknes, one of Morocco's four imperial cities, sits just 60 kilometers from Fes and makes for an excellent day excursion. Known for its monumental gates and imposing ramparts, Meknes features attractions such as:

• Bab Mansour, considered one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco
• The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the sultan who made Meknes his capital
• The Royal Stables, built to house 12,000 horses

Venturing into the Middle Atlas Mountains

photo credit: Deepu K

For those seeking natural beauty, a day trip to the Middle Atlas Mountains provides a refreshing contrast to the urban intensity of Fes. Visit the cedar forests near Azrou, home to Barbary macaques (wild monkeys), or explore the alpine town of Ifrane, often called "Little Switzerland" for its European-style architecture and clean streets.

The Berber villages scattered throughout the region offer insights into rural Moroccan life and the opportunity to purchase authentic handcrafted carpets directly from the artisans.

Conclusion

From navigating the ancient alleyways of its UNESCO-protected medina to savoring its culinary delights and experiencing centuries-old traditions, the things to do in Fes provide travelers with an unparalleled journey into Morocco's cultural heart. Whether you're exploring historical monuments, bargaining in vibrant souks, or venturing into the surrounding countryside, Fes offers experiences that will linger in your memory long after your visit. As one of Morocco's most authentic destinations, Fes invites you to step back in time while connecting with the living traditions that continue to thrive in this remarkable city.