Visiting Fes? Don’t miss these things unique things to do in Fes Morocco.
Fes (or Fez) is the home to the oldest and largest authentic Medina, or old town, in North Africa. It is considered the religious, cultural, and handicraft center of Morocco. We especially enjoyed seeing the tanneries before hitting the shops.
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Last Updated: March 13, 2024
21 Things to Do in Fes Morocco
1. Take in the Smells of the Chouara Tannery →
Location: Fes El Bali, Fes, Morocco
Colorful Moroccan slippers, bags, and jackets are just some of the leather goods available in Fes. But before shopping, be sure to check out the world-famous tanneries to see the traditional dying of animal skins. The smells are pungent, so bring a scarf to cover your nose or grab some mint to sniff if you’re sensitive to smells.
Pro Tip: People will offer you mint “for free” but later hassle you for money. If you want it, just be willing to pay and agree on a price before you take it. We didn’t stay very long and managed fine without the mint.
2. Take Photos of the Golden Gates at the Royal Palace →
Location: 12 Derb el Miter Oued Zhoune Luxury Riad Medina, Fes, Morocco
Although the palace isn’t open to the public, you can see the seven gates of the Royal Palace. It’s an iconic spot in Fes and worth the visit for any photographer.
See More: The Famous Doors at the Golden Gates of Palais Royale
3. Take in the History of the Medersa Bou Inania
Location: Rue Talaa Sghira, Fes, Morocco
The Medersa Bou Inania was built in the 14th century and is one of the few religious buildings in the city that non-Muslims can enter. Until the 1960s, it was a theological school, and now it can be appreciated for its architecture and history. One distinctive feature is the green-tiled minaret.
4. Visit the Oldest University in the World
Location: Fes El Bali, Fes, Morocco
According to UNESCO, the University of al Karaouine (Qarawiyyin) is the oldest university in the world. It currently functions as a working Mosque and is one of Morocco’s largest centers of worship. Unfortunately, if you’re not a Muslim, you’ll have to settle for a glimpse of the courtyard.
5. Stroll Through the Mellah or Jewish Quarter
Location: Mellah, Fes, Morocco
Just north of the Royal Palace is the Mellah, or Jewish Quarter. Although the Jewish community no longer lives here, you can still see the history. Take in the architecture, visit the Aben-Danan Synagogue, and shop the antique boutiques. The Jewish cemetery is also in the area and worth stopping by.
6. Walk Through the Fez Medina or Fes El Bali
Location: Fes, Morocco
This is the city’s oldest neighborhood and UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s unique in that it has retained much of its history and roots.
7. Check Out the Arms Museum at Borj Nord
Location: Douar El Magta, Fes, Morocco
This 16th-century fortress has an impressive collection of weapons, including some rare pieces. There are 13 rooms with roughly 775 military items! If weapons aren’t your thing, the fortress has a great view of the Old City from the roof.
8. Visit the Bab Boujeloud (Blue Gate)
Location: Talaa, Fes, Morocco
The Bab Boujiloud is the iconic blue gate that marks the entrance to Fes el Bali (Old City). You can also check out the Bab Chorfa, another impressive gate framing the Medina.
9. See the Al Attarine Madrasa
Location: Rue Talaa Kebira, Fes, Morocco
This is another building where you can admire the architecture, tilework, and woodcarvings of the 14th century. Once home to students at the university, don’t forget to climb up to the rooftops to get a view of the Kairaouine Mosque & University.
10. Enjoy Fes Art at the Dar Matha Museum
Location: 5, Place Batha Oued Fejjaline, Fes, Morocco
The Dar Batha Museum is home to woodcarvings, ironwork, embroidery, carpets, and jewelry that encompasses the beauty and history of Fes. The museum is housed in a 19th-century summer palace, which makes for the perfect backdrop to view the collection.
11. Stroll THrough the Bou Jeloud Gardens
Location: Ave Moulay Hassan, Fes, Morocco
The Bou Jeloud Gardens, also known as Jardin Jnan Sbil, were once imperial gardens. Enjoy the serene lake, fruit trees, and getaway from the big city in this peaceful oasis.
12. Henna Souk
Location: Derb Fakharine, Fes, Morocco
Shop at one of the oldest souks or marketplaces, the Henna Souk, where you’ll find ceramics and traditional cosmetics, like henna. Plane trees give natural shade to the stalls and keep you protected from the sun.
13. Relax in a Private Hamman
Location: 3 Derb Bechara, Fes, Morocco
For a local experience, visit one of the public hammams or bathhouses. If you want to be pampered, there are plenty of private hammams. Spas like Spa Laaroussa give you an authentic feel with the luxury and comfort of an upscale spa.
14. Shop for Moroccan Carpets
Location: Medina of Fes, Morocco
Fes is the center of Moroccan carpets. While in the Medina, be sure to check out one of the carpet shops where they’ll tell you everything you need to know. Just keep in mind that it is high-pressure sales!
Pro Tip: If you’re here with a local guide, be wary if they offer to help you negotiate. Often times they get a cut of the sales as well.
See More: 21 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Morocco
15. Trek Through the Tazekka National Park
Location: Taza Province, Morocco
This national park is roughly an hour and half from Fes and is home to cork oaks and cedars. You can summit Diebel Tazzeka (1980 m) for spectacular views or explore the rest of the country side. Taza is a great home base if you’re looking to spend more than a day here.
16. See the City From Mount Zalagh
Location: Mount Zalagh, Morocco
Hike up Mount Zalagh to get a true appreciation of how large and beautiful Fes is. It’s the biggest mountain overlooking the city. If you’re looking for adventure, there are great hikes and mountain biking up here as well.
17. Watch a Belly Dancing Show
Location: Fes, Morocco
You can’t leave Morocco without going to a belly dancing show. Although it originated in Egypt, it’s a popular thing to do in Morocco as well.
18. Have a Picnic at the Marinid Tombs During Sunset
Location: Fes, Morocco
Marinid Tombs or Merenid tombs from the 14th century are mostly ruins now but make a perfect backdrop to watch the sunset over the city. Bring a picnic with you to escape the hustle and bustle of town.
Pro Tip: Avoid staying after dark, though, since there have been reported muggings.
19. Nejjarine Square and Museum
Location: Medina of Fes, Morocco
The museum is home to woodworking tools and beautiful woodwork. Located near the carpenter district of the Medina, the square hosts architecture dating back to the 18th century. Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace to get a great view of Fes as well!
20. Take a Day Trip to the Charming Sefrou
Location: Sefrou, Morocco
Located just half an hour away from Fes lies the quiet town of Sefrou. It was once a booming town, but since then has become a historic hideaway. The lack of development has preserved its charm and is a photographer’s dream.
21. Soak in the Waters at Moulay Yacoub
Location: Moulay Yacoub, Morocco
This is another small town that’s only 30 minutes away and worth the visit. You can experience the authentic hammas, or public bath houses, the highlight of Moulay Yacoub. It’s believed that the waters from the countryside have curing properties and relieve the suffering of rheumatism, skin diseases, and nose and throat problems.
Map of Things to Do in Fes
Best Places to Stay
Planning Checklist
- Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
- Download these helpful language apps.
- Arrange a rental car for your trip.
- Get airport lounge access.
- Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
- Get a new backpack for your trip.
- Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
- Don’t forget your in-flight essentials.
More Resources
- Lonely Planet Morocco – they always have great photos and information.
- Moon Morocco – also very photo heavy.
- Morocco National Geographic Adventure Map
- Pocket Arabic Dictionary
Would you buy leather goods, carpets, or local outfits in Fez? What kind of activities do you like doing when visiting a new city?
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Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
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Hello. I am currently in Fez and was very pleased to find out this really useful guide. I was previously in Tangier and Merzouga, but this place is a lot more crowded and bigger, so getting to move around the city can be a bit trickier at first. Thank you very much and I really appreciate the hard work put in making this website.
Love,
Andrés
Thank you so much, Andres. Hope you are having a lovely time there! :)