Fes travel guide
Step back a thousand years in the world's largest car-free urban area — Morocco's spiritual and craft capital.
Updated 22 October 2026 · By the World to Morocco editorial team
Fes is home to Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO-listed medina with more than 9,000 lanes, the Al Quaraouiyine mosque-university founded in 859, and the famous Chouara tannery. Spend 2–3 days and hire a licensed guide for your first visit to the medina.
Why visit Fes
Founded in the 8th century, Fes was Morocco's capital under several dynasties and remains its centre of learning, religion and craftsmanship. Inside the medina, coppersmiths, weavers and tanners work as they have for centuries, and donkeys still carry goods through lanes too narrow for cars. It is intense, fascinating and unlike anywhere else.
Top things to do in Fes
- Chouara Tannery — view the dye pits from leather-shop terraces (a sprig of mint helps with the smell).
- Bou Inania & Al-Attarine madrasas — exquisite carved cedar, stucco and zellige.
- Al Quaraouiyine — often cited as the oldest continuously operating university in the world.
- Bab Bou Jeloud — the blue gate that frames the medina's main entrance.
- Royal Palace gates & the Mellah — golden doors and the historic Jewish quarter of Fes el-Jdid.
- Borj Nord & the Merinid Tombs — panoramic sunset views over the medina.
Day trips from Fes
- Meknes — the imperial city of Moulay Ismail, 45 minutes by train
- Volubilis & Moulay Idriss — Roman ruins and a holy hill town
- Ifrane & the Middle Atlas cedar forests — cool air and Barbary macaques
- Chefchaouen — around 3.5–4 hours by road
- Merzouga — a 2–3 day desert trip
Where to stay
A riad inside the medina is the unforgettable choice — many are restored palaces. For pools, parking and easier access to the stadium, choose a hotel in the Ville Nouvelle.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a guide in the Fes medina?
Not required, but a licensed guide for your first half-day is highly recommended. Book through your riad or the tourist office and avoid unofficial guides.
How many days should I spend in Fes?
Two to three days: one or two for the medina and one for Meknes and Volubilis.