Fes – the most beautiful cultural city in morocco
Fes is Morocco’s cultural capital and the oldest of the four imperial cities. Tourists from around the world come here to wander through the labyrinthine alleys of the medina, visit traditional tanneries, and admire grand palaces and madrasas. More than any other city in Morocco, Fes immerses you in the majestic atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Spring is the best time to visit — the extreme summer heat hasn’t arrived yet, and temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
How to Get There
Direct Flights: Some UK cities, including London (Stansted) and Manchester, offer direct low-cost flights to Fès–Saïs Airport (FEZ) via airlines such as Ryanair or Air Arabia Maroc.
Book your flight to Fes now at the best prices using this 👉 link
Where to Stay
Most major attractions are located in the Old City — Fes el-Bali medina. Some medina gates close after 7:00 PM, which may cause issues returning to hotels outside the city walls. Therefore, staying within the medina is highly recommended — preferably in a riad, a traditional Moroccan house featuring stunning multicolored tiles and rooftop terraces with panoramic views. Breakfast is usually included.
- Riad Jamaï (Rating: 8.7)
Individually decorated rooms, hammam, massage services, and a lounge area with a courtyard fountain. - Palais Medina & Spa
Enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and the medina from a large balcony. Facilities include a Turkish steam bath, spa treatments, a swimming pool, and a relaxation area. - Riad Fes — Relais & Châteaux (Rating: 9.2)
Elegant suites with air conditioning and oriental-style furniture, plus a swimming pool and rooftop terrace overlooking the Atlas Mountains.
What to See in Fes
To explore Fes’ rich cultural heritage, don’t miss these key sights:
The Labyrinth of the Ancient Medina
Start at the lively Place Rcif, home to the Rcif city gate — the eastern entrance to the medina. Beyond it lies Fes el-Bali, the largest medina in North Africa, with hundreds of thousands of narrow streets. Donkeys laden with goods pass through alleyways, while shops overflow with Aladdin-style lamps, colorful tagines, sweets, and fabrics. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
📍 Tip: Always mark your riad or hotel on a map before leaving — GPS apps often fail here. Beware of scammers offering to guide you and then demanding payment. Booking a guided tour is a safer alternative.
The Legendary Tanneries
Fes’ tanneries are a unique and authentic part of Moroccan culture. Leather is still tanned here using traditional methods. Each morning, water cascades through old window openings, and hides dry on rooftops. Artisans dye the leather in honeycomb-like vats using natural pigments:
- Yellow (turmeric)
- Red (poppy)
- Blue (indigo)
- Green (mint)
- Black (antimony)
The smell can be overwhelming. Locals may offer mint leaves “for free” to mask the scent — but will usually demand money. Bring your own mint, scarf, or mask ahead of time.
Jnan Sbil Gardens
This peaceful green space is the only public park in the bustling medina. Step inside to relax in the shade of palm trees, enjoy fountains and birdsong, and watch locals spend time with their families.
🕒 Open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Bou Inania Madrasa
This iconic 14th-century madrasa in the heart of the medina once served as a religious school. Built of dark cedar with ornate stucco, the building showcases exquisite architecture. Explore the marble courtyard, intricate wood carvings, and endless green mosaic tiles. It’s the only religious site in Fes open to non-Muslims.
🕒 Visiting hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (closed during prayer times).
Dar al-Makhzen – The Royal Palace
The royal family and government still use this palace, so it’s closed to the public. However, its blue mosaic walls and monumental bronze doors are worth photographing. Nearby are lush palace gardens and the majestic mosque of Fes el-Jdid.
Local Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is a melting pot of cultures. Many of its flavors originated in caravanserais — ancient inns where traveling merchants from diverse cultures crossed paths.
Try:
- Pastilla (sweet-savory pigeon pie)
- Jben (sour goat cheese)
- Bissara (fava bean soup)
- Local olives and dates from street stalls
Café Clock
Located in two traditional townhouses with courtyards, this café offers a break from sightseeing. Try the shakshuka, hearty harira soup, or the famous camel burger. Vegetarian options are also available.
The Ruined Garden
Set in the romantic ruins of a riad, this restaurant offers dishes like sardines in polenta crust or marinated in chermoula (garlic, paprika, cumin, olive oil, lemon juice). For a special occasion, reserve ahead to try the classic stuffed pigeon pie with almonds, saffron, and cinnamon in flaky pastry.
The Courtyard Kitchen at Dar Namir
For a deeper dive into Moroccan cuisine, book a private cooking class. Learn to cook five gourmet dishes such as:
- Chermoula sardines
- Artichoke, pea & preserved lemon sauce
- Olive & fig tapenade
- Smoky eggplant salad
- Lemon chicken briouats
Enjoy your creations with a glass of wine on the rooftop terrace.
What to Buy in Fes
Fes offers a wide range of authentic souvenirs and gifts:
- Ceramics – Plates, cups, vases, and decor featuring vibrant Moroccan patterns
- Rugs & Textiles – Handwoven carpets, pillows, blankets
- Argan Oil – Used in both cosmetics and cooking
- Leather Goods – Bags, shoes, belts, and other handmade accessories from local markets
💡 Don’t forget to haggle — it’s a cherished part of Moroccan shopping culture.
