Fez- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

The city of Fez stands in northern Morocco, nestled among gentle hills and bisected by the Oued Fez. It was founded in 789 under the Idrisid dynasty, and over the centuries rose to prominence under the Marinids when it became a political and cultural capital.

Today, Fez remains one of Morocco’s oldest imperial cities and retains deep historic roots. Its two major medina quarters, Fès el‑Bali and Fès el‑Jdid, preserve layers of the city’s evolution: from the early Arab‑Andalusian influx to the royal palaces of later dynasties.

This setting gives Fez a unique identity: part living city, part heritage site, where daily life continues amid carved doors, mosaic tiles and narrow alleys. The UNESCO listing of the medina acknowledges that urban fabric and its historic monuments remain remarkably intact.

Stepping into the medina of Fez is like entering a labyrinth of alleys where artisans hammer brass, hides are dyed in open vats, and the smell of spices and leather fills the air.

A key highlight is the leather‑tanning quarter such as the famed Chouara Tannery, where centuries‑old methods persist. Visitors are often offered mint sprigs to hold up to their nose as a friendly gesture to counteract the pungent aroma.

Craft traditions reach into tile‑making (zellige), wood‑carving, metalwork and textiles, forming a living mosaic of heritage. As one writer noted: “Instead of being a jumble… Fez’s medina is divided into distinctive specialty sections.”

Alongside craft, Fez’s built environment remains evocative: the impressive madrasas such as Bou Inania, the venerable university Al‑Qarawiyyin (founded in 857 CE) and the Royal Palace complex contribute to its cultural weight.

While the city receives travellers, Fez resists the full tourist makeover: it is praised for being “a living, working city” rather than a purely staged tourist site.

How long to stay & how to move around

For a meaningful introduction to Fez, plan at least two days and one night within or adjacent to the old medina. One night may suffice for a quick glimpse, but two nights allow you to absorb the atmosphere, relax in a riad and venture off the beaten track.

Most of the memorable area lies within the medina, where vehicles are largely absent. Exploring on foot is essential; taxi drop‑off at the old city’s gate, then meander, pause and let the city reveal itself. Some of the narrow alleys are confusing, so keep your accommodation address handy.

Highlights and areas to explore

• Begin at the famous gate Bab Bou Jlou (“Blue Gate”), which leads into the medina’s lively lanes.
• Wander Tala’a Kebira, one of the main thoroughfares, linking key sights and offering a sense of scale.
• Visit the tanneries and the surrounding leather‑goods workshops.
• Step into a traditional riad for the courtyard design, central fountain and rooftop terrace — a lovely contrast to the busy alleys.
• Seek the vistas: many rooftops offer panoramic views of the medina’s sprawl and the hills beyond.
• Engage with the marketplace: negotiate with friendly souk vendors, sample street‑food, observe craft‑making in situ.

Practical tips & mindset

• Accept that Fez may feel overwhelming: the pedestrian maze is intense, smells and sounds converge, time slows. That’s part of its character.
• Choose accommodation within the medina if possible (a riad is ideal) — you’ll wake in the heart of the action.
• Hire a local guide for the first hour if you like orientation; thereafter you can explore independently.
• Be respectful of daily life: locals live and work here. While many welcome visitors, keep to modest dress and conduct.
• Enjoy the slow pace: pause for mint tea, absorb a rooftop sunset, observe craft‑hands at work.
• Budget extra time for getting from one point to another — even short distances may take longer because of the alleys and pedestrian flow.