Founded in the 9th century, Fes el-Bali is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with around 9,000 alleys, souks organised by craft, and Al-Qarawiyyin, often cited as the oldest continually operating university in the world.
Top things to do in Fes
- Chouara tannery: view the dye pits from the leather shops’ terraces.
- Bou Inania Madrasa: carved cedar, zellige tiles and stucco.
- Al-Attarine Madrasa next to the souks.
- Al-Qarawiyyin (non-Muslims can look in from the doorways).
- Nejjarine Museum of wooden arts.
- Jnan Sbil gardens and the Royal Palace’s golden gates in Fes el-Jdid.
- Borj Nord and the Merenid Tombs for sunset views.
Where to stay in Fes
Stay in a riad inside the medina for atmosphere (near Bab Bou Jeloud is easiest to find), or in the Ville Nouvelle for modern hotels and parking.
Compare hotel prices in FesGetting around
The medina is walk-only. A local guide for your first morning saves a lot of getting lost. Petits taxis (red) are cheap for trips outside the medina; insist on the meter.
Getting there
Fes–Saïss airport (FEZ) is 15 km south. Trains link Fes with Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier and Marrakech.
Best time to visit
Spring and autumn are ideal. Summer is very hot (35°C+); winter nights are cold and riads can be chilly.
Before you go
- Dress modestly, especially around religious sites.
- Politely decline unofficial guides; book a licensed guide through your riad.
- Carry cash in dirhams for the souks.
- For official information, see Visit Morocco.
Fes guides
- 20 best things to do in Fes
- Fes itinerary: 2 or 3 days
- Where to stay in Fes
- Best time to visit Fes
- Fes airport to the medina
- Chouara tannery guide
- Chefchaouen day trip from Fes
- Fes to Merzouga desert trip
Also in Morocco: our Marrakech travel guide.
FAQ: Fes travel
How many days do you need in Fes?
Two full days for the medina; add a day for Volubilis and Meknes or Chefchaouen.
Fes or Marrakech?
Marrakech is livelier and more polished; Fes feels more traditional and medieval. Both are worth it.
Is Fes safe?
Generally yes. Expect persistent touts and watch out for pickpockets in crowded souks.
Plan your trip to Fes
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
