Activities in Fes: Best Things to Do

Fes is one of the most historic cities in Morocco. It is famous for its old medina, traditional markets, beautiful buildings, and rich culture. Walking through Fes feels like stepping back in time. The city is a great place to learn about Moroccan history, taste local food, shop for handmade goods, and discover traditional life.

Here are some of the best activities to enjoy in Fes.

1. Explore Fes Medina

The old medina of Fes is one of the most important places to visit in the city. Its narrow streets are full of shops, markets, cafés, old houses, and small workshops.

Take your time walking through the medina and enjoy its colors, sounds, and smells. You can see local people going about their daily life and discover many traditional Moroccan products.

A local guide can also help you find important places and learn more about the history of the city.

2. Visit Al Quaraouiyine

Al Quaraouiyine is one of the most famous historic places in Fes. It was founded in the 9th century and became an important center of learning.

Visitors can admire the beautiful architecture and learn about the long history of education in Fes. The area around the site is also interesting to explore because it is located inside the old medina.

3. See the Chouara Tannery

The Chouara Tannery is one of the most famous sights in Fes. It is known for its large stone dyeing pools, where leather is traditionally cleaned and colored.

From nearby terraces, you can see the workers and the colorful pools. You can also visit local leather shops and find bags, shoes, belts, jackets, and other handmade products.

4. Visit Bou Inania Madrasa

The Bou Inania Madrasa is a beautiful historic building in the heart of Fes. It is known for its detailed tile work, carved wood, and traditional Moroccan design.

Walking through the madrasa gives you a chance to see the skill of Moroccan craftsmen and learn more about the city’s history.

5. Walk Through the Souks

Shopping in the Fes souks is a fun activity. The markets sell many traditional products, including carpets, pottery, leather goods, spices, clothes, lamps, and handmade decorations.

Take your time looking around and comparing products. Bargaining is common in Moroccan markets, so you can politely negotiate the price.

6. Visit the Royal Palace Gates

The Royal Palace of Fes is not open to the public, but its famous gates can be seen from outside.

The golden doors and beautiful tile work make the entrance one of the most popular places for photos. After visiting the gates, you can explore the nearby streets and the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter.

7. Explore the Mellah

The Mellah is the old Jewish quarter of Fes. It has a long history and offers a different view of the city’s culture.

Walk through its streets and visit the historic Jewish cemetery and nearby buildings. The area shows how different communities have been part of Fes’s history.

8. Enjoy Moroccan Food

Fes is a great city for food lovers. Try traditional dishes such as Fassi couscous, tagine, pastilla, harira, and Moroccan salads.

You can eat in a local restaurant, traditional riad, or small food shop. Don’t forget to try Moroccan mint tea and local sweets.

For a special experience, join a cooking class and learn how to prepare a traditional Moroccan meal.

9. Visit the Nejjarine Museum

The Nejjarine Museum is located in a beautiful old building and focuses on traditional Moroccan woodwork.

Inside, you can see wooden tools, furniture, decorations, and other objects connected to Moroccan crafts. The building itself is also worth seeing because of its traditional design.

10. Enjoy a View of Fes

Fes looks especially beautiful from the hills around the city. Visit a viewpoint in the late afternoon and enjoy the view of the old medina and surrounding areas.

Sunset is a great time for photos because the warm light creates beautiful views across the city.

11. Visit the Atlas Mountains Nearby

Fes can also be a starting point for trips into the surrounding countryside. You can visit nearby mountains, valleys, forests, and small villages.

Day trips can give you a break from the busy city and allow you to enjoy Morocco’s natural landscapes.

12. Experience a Moroccan Hammam

After a day of walking through the medina, a traditional Moroccan hammam is a relaxing experience.

A hammam usually includes steam, washing, and body scrubbing. You can choose a simple local hammam or a more modern spa for a comfortable experience.

13. Take a Day Trip to Meknes and Volubilis

Fes is a good base for visiting nearby historic sites. A popular day trip combines Meknes and Volubilis.

Meknes is one of Morocco’s Imperial Cities, while Volubilis is an ancient Roman site with impressive ruins and mosaics. The trip is a great choice for travelers interested in history.

Conclusion

Fes is a city full of history, culture, food, and traditional Moroccan life. From exploring the old medina and colorful souks to visiting historic buildings, tasting local food, and discovering traditional crafts, there are many activities to enjoy.

Whether you spend one day or several days in Fes, take time to walk slowly, meet local people, enjoy the food, and discover the hidden streets. Fes offers a unique experience that helps travelers understand the history and culture of Morocco.