Fez is one of the oldest and most important cities in Morocco. It has big walls, narrow streets, and old buildings that have been around for hundreds of years. People come to Fez to see history, walk in the medina, and learn about Moroccan life. It is a place where the past and present mix; you can see old mosques, artisans working with their hands, and busy markets full of spices and leather goods.
This guide will help you understand what Fez is like, what to see, and how to enjoy it.
A Short History of Fez
Fez was built over 1,200 years ago by a king named Idris I. Later, his son, Idris II, made it even bigger. Over the years, Fez became a center of learning, trade, and religion. Many scholars, artists, and merchants lived here, making it one of the most important cities in Morocco.
During the 13th and 14th centuries, Fez was at its peak. Many of the beautiful buildings, mosques, and schools were built during this time. Today, Fez is still a place where people keep old traditions alive.
The Medina of Fez, The Heart of the City
The medina (old city) of Fez is one of the biggest in the world. It is a maze of small streets where no cars can enter. People walk, ride donkeys, or use carts to move around. Inside the medina, you will find markets, mosques, and old buildings that have been standing for centuries.
What to See in the MedinaAl Quaraouiyine University
This is one of the oldest universities in the world. It was built in 859 AD and is still in use today. While only Muslims can enter, you can see its beautiful courtyard and library from outside.
Bou Inania Madrasa
A madrasa is a school where people study Islam and Arabic. Bou Inania is one of the most famous in Fez, and it isknown for its beautiful tiles and carvings. Anyone can visit and see its detailed decorations.
Chouara Tannery
One of the most famous places in Fez, the Chouara Tannery, is where people make leather using traditional methods. You can watch workers dye animal skins in big stone pits. The smell is very strong, but the view is amazing.
Nejjarine Museum
This museum shows old Moroccan wooden crafts, like doors, furniture, and tools. It is inside a caravanserai, a place where travelers used to stop and rest in the past.
Things to Do in FezSee the Royal Palace Gates
The Royal Palace is not open to the public, but its big golden doors are a sight to see. The doors are covered in fine metalwork and surrounded by colorful tiles.
Walk Through the Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
The Mellah is the old Jewish neighborhood of Fez. It has architecture that is different from the rest of the city, with wooden balconies and narrow streets. You can also visit the Ibn Danan Synagogue, one of the oldest in Morocco.
Relax in Jnan Sbil Gardens
After walking in the busy medina, the Jnan Sbil Gardens offer a quiet place to sit and enjoy nature. There are fountains, tall trees, and flower beds.
Try Traditional Moroccan Food
Fez has some of the best food in Morocco. Here are some things you should try:
- Bissara – A thick soup made from fava beans, often eaten for breakfast.
- Seffa – Sweet couscous with almonds and cinnamon.
- Pastilla – A pastry filled with chicken or seafood, with a mix of sweet and savory flavors.
- Tanjia – Slow-cooked meat, usually prepared in a clay pot.
Many small restaurants in the medina serve these dishes for very good prices.
Day Trips from Fez
If you have time, there are some great places to visit near Fez.
Meknes & Volubilis
Meknes is a smaller city with big gates, old palaces, and quiet streets. Close to Meknes, Volubilis is an ancient Roman city with ruins of temples, arches, and mosaic floors.
Chefchaouen – The Blue City
Chefchaouen is a town in the mountains known for its blue-painted streets. It is a calm and beautiful place, perfect for relaxing and taking pictures.
Middle Atlas Mountains
If you like nature, the Middle Atlas Mountains are a great place to visit. You can see forests, waterfalls, and even wild monkeys in places like Ifrane and Azrou.
How to Get to FezBy Plane
Fez has an international airport (FEZ). You can take a taxi or shuttle bus to the city.
By Train
Fez is connected by train to Casablanca, Marrakech, Rabat, and Tangier. The train is a comfortable way to travel.
By Bus
Many buses go to Fez from other cities in Morocco. The best companies are CTM and Supratours.
Best Time to Visit FezSpring (March-May) and Fall (September – November)
These are the best seasons to visit Fez. The weather is not too hot or too cold.
Summer (June – August)
Fez can be very hot, with temperatures over 40°C (104°F). Walking in the medina can be difficult in the heat.
Winter (December – February)
Winter is cool, and sometimes it is rainy but less crowded. The mountains near Fez sometimes get snow.
Where to Stay in Fez
Most visitors stay in traditional Moroccan riads inside the medina. Riads are old houses with open courtyards turned into hotels. Some areas to stay:
- Fes el-Bali (Medina) – Close to the historic sites.
- Ville Nouvelle – The modern part of Fez, with bigger hotels and restaurants.
Plan Your Fez tour with Memento Morocco
If you are interested in visiting Fez, check out Memento Morocco, a reputable provider of private Morocco tours. They provide high quality, comfortable, and well-organized experiences.
Also, check out one of their tours from Marrakech to Fez through the Sahara Desert for more details.
