Fes Day Tours
Fes Medina | Morocco
Paranormal, mystical, or magical Morocco’s Medina of Fes is the largest and oldest in all of North Africa, and the city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The city is still considered by many to be the cultural heart of Morocco, even though it is no longer the country’s capital. Step inside the city’s historic walls and into the fascinating chaos of the medina, where you’ll find tanneries, hammams, and towers stacked with spices and traditional handicrafts.
Spend a day or two exploring the city’s historic sites and cultural delights.
How to Get To Fes?
Flying at Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ MOROCCO) is the easiest method to get to Fes from anywhere in the world or any other city in Morocco. From other important Moroccan towns including Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier, you may easily catch a train to Fez Morocco. You can also go to Fez by private transportation.
Fes Morocco’s Main Attractions
*Medersa Bounania: Between 1350 and 1357, Merenid Sultan Bou Inan constructed the Medersa Bou Inania. Since it is one of the few mosques in Fes that welcomes non-Muslims, the Medersa (a “madrassa” is an Islamic school of learning) is a popular tourist destination and a must-see on any tour of the Medina.
This building served as a theological academy until the 1960s, and the subsequent restoration work meticulously recreated its magnificent original appearance. The stucco and carved woodwork are stunning, and the work of skilled Moroccan craftspeople.
*Qaraouiyine Mosque’s Exterior : The Qaraouiyine Mosque, founded in 857 CE by refugees from the holy city of Kairouan, flourished as a university of theology and philosophy during the Middle Ages.
Its rival, the Al Azhar Mosque in Cairo, Egypt, also claims to be the world’s oldest university. With a prayer hall that can accommodate 20,000 people, it is now one of the largest mosques in Morocco. More than 30,000 books may be found in the mosque’s library, which is one of the oldest still in existence.
A Qur’an from the 9th century is included in the assortment. Non-Muslims are not permitted inside the Qaraouiyine Mosque compound. However, from the elaborate main gateway on Derb Boutouil, non-Muslims can catch a peek at the mosque’s inner courtyard.
From the rooftops of surrounding restaurants and the Medersa el-Attarine, visitors can take in breathtaking panoramas of the mosque.
*Royal Palace’s Gate in Fes el Jedid In the 13th century, the Merenids constructed this “New City” after deciding that Fes el Bali was too small to house their palaces. The magnificent Royal Palace is the main attraction.
The 80 hectares of land it occupies are off-limits to the general public, although visitors are welcome to pause inside to see the building’s elaborate architecture.
This little district of the city is a welcome respite between the frantic activity of nearby Fes el Bali and the European-style grandeur of nearby Ville Nouvelle. In the southern part of this neighborhood is the Mellah (Jewish quarter).
Where to Dine in Fes?
*Fez Cafe
The Fez Café is part of the Riad Jardin des Biehn, known for its Andalusian-style garden and accommodations which feature expansive rooms in old servant quarters from this historic property. The café’s red brick dining with kitchen décor is well situated in the back of the garden and features views of its greenery, flora, and fauna.
The cuisine offered is a seasonal mix of French, Moroccan and Spanish dishes. The menu offers daily specials.
*Nur
Proprietor and Chef if Nur, Najat Kaanache was born in Spain. Najat discovered her passion for cuisine at an early age. She has worked at world-class restaurants such as Noma Alinea, The French Laundry, El Bulli, and Noma. Chef Najat has used her experience abroad to create Nur.
Located in an old riad within the Fez medina, Nur has a unique tasting menu that changes daily and uses all local produce from the souks. Pickled, roasted, and raw vegetables may be served alongside candied chicken with poultry stock and caramelized raisins.
*Dar Roumana
Dar Roumana (House of the Pomegranate) is a charming riad with the only restaurant in Fez known for its Chef and dishes influenced by Le Cordon Bleue in Paris. The restaurant is set within a beautifully tiled courtyard with a trickling fountain. Diners can opt to eat either in the courtyard or on the roof terrace which offers a panoramic view of the historic medina.
The cuisine is French with International and Moroccan influences. Grilled octopus is served with Moroccan spices, salad of roasted pumpkin, gnocchi, or roasted duck. The beet salad is a must. Travelers can also stay in one of Dar Roumana’s beautiful rooms, which have been decorated with Moroccan traditional décor.
*Palais Faraj L’Amendier
L’Amendier boasts some of the best views of the Fez medina and offers upmarket Moroccan cuisine. Two menus are offered, one with traditional Moroccan cuisine and the other with International.
The elegant Moroccan menu includes a host of traditional salads followed by famous dishes such as tagine, seffa, couscous, and desserts. The servers are knowledgeable about the food served and will offer wine-pairing recommendations.
What to Do in Fes?
The Alleys of Fes el Bali Are a Wonderful Place to Get Lost The city’s oldest neighborhood is the Medina or Fes el Bali. It is the largest medina still in existence and one of the largest in the world.
Bab Boujloud is the primary entrance to the neighborhood. After passing through the Bab Boujloud gate, the minaret of the Medersa Bou Inania, the neighborhood’s other famous monument, can be seen in all its glory. From within its fortifications, the winding derbs (medina lanes) branch out into two separate neighborhoods separated by a winding river.
The right bank is a bit grungier, but it’s full of local life and attractive lanes, whereas the left bank is where you’ll find the majority of the historic landmarks and shopping souqs. The Al-Andalus Mosque may be found on the right bank, and it was constructed in 1321; its distinctive green and white minaret, however, dates back to the 10th century.
Browse the Medina Souks One of the main draws of a visit to Fes is the narrow alleys of the souq (market) that makeup Fes el Bali. You’ll find all sorts of Moroccan handicrafts, from leatherwork to metalwork to pottery, in Fes, which is famous throughout Morocco for its artisan tradition.
Fassi ceramics, the local ceramic heritage, are manufactured from the clay found in the area and tend towards blue tones and complex hand-painted patterns and recurring motifs. There is a vast variety of stores in the streets west of the Qaraouiyine Mosque. In Marrakesh, the main roads in the medina, such as Talaa Kebira, are lined with tourist-oriented stores selling a variety of souvenir-style giftware and more mass-produced things, as well as the large carpet emporiums.
Take pictures of the well-known Fes Tanneries A popular tourist destination in Fes is the Chouara Tanneries. The tanneries, which are located in present-day northeastern Fes el Bali, just east of the Qaraouiyine Mosque, have served as the city’s busy leather industry epicenter since the Middle Ages.
The rooftops of the leather shops in and around the tannery region are the only places to see the famous aerial views over the death pits, where hides are soaked in a variety of colors before being made into bags, garments, shoes, and other things. In leather shops, a tip is required just to go in, and you can count on being pitched anything while you’re there. If you can, visit the tannery first thing in the morning when the pits are still awash in a kaleidoscope of colors.
Fes Day Tours
*Navigate the 1200 Years Old Medina Streets, Fez
The streets of Fez’s 1,200 years old Medina are fascinating to explore as you travel back in time. You will be immersed in the rich history, colorful culture, and traditional way of life of Morocco as you make your way through the tiny, winding alleyways. Spend some time getting lost in the crowded souks, where your senses will be tantalized by aromatic spices, vibrant textiles, and complex handicrafts. Explore the spectacular architecture of old mosques, which are embellished with fine tilework and elaborate sculptures. Discover the Medina’s historical and cultural landmarks. Don’t miss Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, one of the oldest universities in the world. Explore the beautifully restored Bounania Madrasa and the fascinating Dar Batha Museum, showcasing Moroccan arts and crafts.
Find quiet riads hidden from the busy streets, serene courtyards, and secret corners. Observe craftspeople at work performing age-old traditions that have been passed down through the generations. Enjoy the flavors of real Moroccan food at nearby restaurants. In the center of Fez’s 1,200 years old Medina, each step unveils a fresh discovery, fusing centuries of tradition and producing a memorable experience.
*Fes Food Tour
Moroccan cuisine is a true melting pot thanks to the Arabs, Moors, Jewish, and French in addition to Amazigh (Berber) influences.
The exquisite tastes and interesting spice combinations of Moroccan cuisine are well known. If you can see a meal of soft chicken served with green olives and chopped preserved lemon rind, pigeon meat pie coated with cinnamon and icing sugar, or shellfish seasoned with a combination of herbs and spices, Moroccan cuisine will inspire you. The adventurous eaters enjoy snail soup, boiled sheep’s skulls, and tempting treats like chebakia (deep-fried flatbread covered in sesame seeds) and wild honey.
One of the best ways to learn more about it is to go on a Street Fes Food Tour. It is a wonderful experience to stroll through the Medina with a local gastronomic expert and sample the history and cuisine of the area. We host the Fez Food Tour experience right here at Morocco Travel Organizer.
We accompany travelers to the market where they may try regional specialties, more than 10 different varieties of honey, and discover culinary legends and Moroccan culture. Every country’s heritage culture revolves around food, which is also a great method to share that culture with others. Because Morocco is an interesting country and the Medinas are like mazes, travelers value learning about the alleyways of the Medina and Moroccan culture through its delights. For this reason, we take them on the three-hour food tour.
*Pottery or Drumming Workshop
Fes is the spiritual and cultural hub of Morocco. The mother of all Medinas, with a big, immaculately maintained Old Town, it is lively, loud, intriguing, and a feast for the senses. You are welcome to have a look into either a pottery class or a drumming session.
- *Workshop For Ceramics And Pottery
The ceramics and zellij (tiles) produced in Fez are of the highest caliber and are the work of highly trained and talented artisans. You can take part in the creation process by dipping your hands into the workable clay and turning the pottery wheel. With the assistance of the artist, you might create small works of art like a slogan, mug, bowl, ashtray, or vase. For those who want even more, there is a painting class where you can learn how Moroccan pottery is painted. As you go through this process, skilled artists will help you understand Islamic and Moorish painting techniques.
Time: approximately two hours
- *Tam Tam Workshop In Morocco
To truly immerse yourself in Moroccan musical traditions, attend a private, escorted Handmade Tam Tam Workshop in one of the iconic Fondouks in the Fez Medina. This practical exercise will begin with you having a local craftsperson help you paint your drum. Although it will be suggested that you employ a Berber design, you are free to use your imagination to create something unique. The Tam Tam drum’s finish is made of goat leather. You’ll learn how to put the drum together. Once everything is complete, you are ready to begin playing your own Tam Tam and return to your nation with Moroccan tunes.
Time: approximately two hours
*Hiking at Zalagh Mountain
In northern Morocco, close to the city of Fes, is the remarkable natural feature known as Zalagh Mountain. It is a wonderful chance for hikers to discover the beautiful scenery and take part in outdoor activities. What to expect while hiking to Zalagh Mountain is as follows:
- Trail Options: Zalagh Mountain offers a selection of trails for hikers of all skill levels, from novices to more seasoned explorers. You can select a trail based on your tastes and level of fitness.
- Panoramic Views: Zalagh Mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area as you climb it. Views of Fes, the lush valleys, and the undulating hills of the Moroccan countryside may be seen from the peak. The beautiful surroundings provide a calm and uplifting backdrop for your hike.
- Natural Beauty: Zalagh Mountain is a treat for those who enjoy the outdoors thanks to its diverse flora and fauna. You’ll come across a variety of plant species on the walks, including wildflowers and aromatic plants. Watch out for the local wildlife, which includes small mammals, reptiles, and birds that live in the mountainous area.
- Cultural exploration: Traditional Berber communities tucked into the mountainside may be seen when climbing the trails. The opportunity to mingle with the welcoming Berber inhabitants and get a look into the local way of life may be found in these places. Take advantage of the chance to discover their traditions and rituals and possibly try some real Berber food.
- Local Guides: Here, at Morocco Travel Organizer, we may give you intriguing anecdotes and expertise about the region’s history and environment while also ensuring your safety on the trails.
Arab, Berber, European, and Andalusian cultural influences may all be seen in Morocco’s north. The region’s architecture, customs, and food all reflect its diversity. A combination of the country’s natural beauty, cultural value, and historical past can be found in Morocco’s north. The area makes for a satisfying and memorable travel destination with its distinct experiences, attractive cities, and various scenery.
