16 Best Things to do in Fes, Morocco
If you want to be transported back in time without a time machine, then Fes is the place for you. Fes, Morocco’s cultural capital, is a mind-boggling mix of ancient traditions, bustling souks, and some of the best views this side of the Atlas Mountains. This city is a sensory overload, and getting lost in the Medina (trust me, you will get lost) is all part of the fun. So, let’s dive into the best things to do in Fes, Morocco and why this ancient city needs to be on your bucket list.
Whether you’re here for the history or just to snap some Insta-worthy shots of the city’s famous Blue Gate, I’ve got you covered. After all, Fes is the kind of place that’s equally charming and chaotic, and if you’re up for an adventure, you won’t be disappointed. Here are my top picks for the best things to do in Fes during your Moroccan adventure!
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Map: Best Things to do in Fes, Morocco
Check out the interactive map below to see exactly where the best things to do in Fes are located. Use it to plan your route and make the most of your time exploring this amazing city!
1. Medina of Fes el-Bali
2. Al-Qarawiyyin University
3. Blue Gate (Bab Bou Jeloud)
4. Tanneries of Fes
5. Bou Inania Madrasa
6. Fes Royal Palace
7. Moroccan Cooking Class
8. Views of the City from Marinid Tombs
9. Relax in a Hammam
10. Day Trip to the Roman Ruins of Volubilis
11. Sip Mint Tea at a Rooftop Café
12. Rainbow Street Art
13. Nejjarine Museum
14. Al-Attarine Madrasa
15. Pottery Workshop
16. Stay in a Riad
1. Medina of Fes el-Bali
Welcome to the largest car-free urban area in the world, where the only traffic you’ll see is a donkey hauling leather goods. This labyrinth of narrow alleys (supposedly there are 10,000+ alleys!) is impossible to navigate with a map—Google Maps is essentially useless here.
And here’s a tip: if a friendly local tells you that the road ahead is “closed,” they’re probably angling to show you their uncle’s carpet shop instead. We nearly fell for this common Moroccan trap – make sure you do your research on mistakes to avoid in Morocco! Even with these “helpful locals,” exploring the medina is hands down one of the best things to do in Fes!
Google Maps Location: Here
2. Al-Qarawiyyin University
The Al-Qarawiyyin University isn’t just a pretty face—it’s the oldest continuously operating university in the world! While only Muslims are allowed inside, the beautiful courtyard and impressive architecture are still worth a look. Peek through the ornate entrance, and you’ll get a sense of its historical grandeur. It’s a quick stop, but a must-see when you’re ticking off the best things to do in Fes.
Google Maps Location: Here
3. Blue Gate (Bab Bou Jeloud)
This gorgeous gate is like the unofficial welcome mat of Fes, and if you’re looking for a people-free shot, go early—like “before your morning tea” early. We made it our first stop of the day to snag some great photos before breakfast. If you’re there later, grab a mint tea at one of the nearby cafés and settle in for some high-quality people-watching. Watching the constant flow of people is a spectator sport in itself.
Google Maps Location: Here
4. Tanneries of Fes
Visiting the Chouara Tannery is one of the best things to do in Fes if you don’t mind a little smell for the sake of adventure. These medieval tanneries have been around for centuries, dyeing leather in giant vats of bright colors. Yes, it smells as intense as you’d imagine, but that’s why they hand you a sprig of mint to sniff. If you’re in the market for a belt or leather bag, now’s the time to haggle.
Recommended Tour: Fes Wonders
Pro tip: Google will tell you that shops 10 and 64 give you the best views over the Chouara Tannery. I opted to go for shop number 10, but once I was actually in the alleys searching for the shop, every single shop along that street had re-branded itself as shop number 10! In reality, I had no idea which was the original “best” number 10, but they all have similar enough views that you’ll be fine.
Google Maps Location: Chouara Tannery Shop 10 – Here
5. Bou Inania Madrasa
If you’re into architecture (or just cool Instagram shots), this stunning madrasa is an absolute must. Go right when it opens to have a moment of peace in its beautiful courtyard. The detailed woodwork and tile designs are a stunning example of Moroccan craftsmanship. Just don’t expect it to stay quiet for long—this place gets absolutely nuts with tourists by mid-morning.
Google Maps Location: Here
6. Fes Royal Palace
The Royal Palace in Fes is fit for a king… literally. Unfortunately, you’ll have to settle for an outside view since tourists aren’t allowed in, but the massive golden doors are worth the visit. It’s a prime Fes photo-op, and it’s a quick, easy stop to work into your Fes itinerary. Honestly, I’d love to know what’s behind those doors—but alas, the mystery remains.
Google Maps Location: Here
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7. Moroccan Cooking Class
Want to impress your friends back home with your culinary prowess? Taking a cooking class in Fes is one of the best things to do for foodies! You’ll learn to whip up a traditional tagine or fluffy couscous with a local chef guiding you. Plus, there’s no better reward than getting to devour your creation afterwards.
Recommended Tour: Full Day Fes Cooking Class Experience
8. Views of the City from Marinid Tombs
For the best panoramic views of Fes, head up to the Marinid Tombs. It’s a bit of a climb, but the payoff is a sweeping view of the entire city and the surrounding hills. It’s particularly stunning at sunset, when the golden light washes over the medina. However, we heard that it wasn’t particularly safe in the evening (after sunset); I cannot verify if that is true, but we opted to not test our luck and went during the afternoon.
Google Maps Location: Here
9. Relax in a Hammam
After all that wandering, a visit to a traditional Moroccan hammam is exactly what the travel doctor ordered. Brace yourself for a vigorous scrub-down that will leave you feeling a few layers lighter. It’s not a gentle experience, but you’ll feel absolutely rejuvenated afterward. Consider it your baptism into Moroccan culture.
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10. Day Trip to the Roman Ruins of Volubilis
If you’re a history buff, Volubilis is an easy day trip from Fes that’ll satisfy your inner archaeologist. I was blown away by the well-preserved Roman mosaics and ancient ruins—wandering through the remnants of this old city feels like stepping back in time. It’s also the perfect pit stop if you’re heading to or from Chefchaouen (which is exactly what we did).
Google Maps Location: Here
Recommended Tour: Volubilis Day Tour from Fes, Morocco
11. Sip Mint Tea at a Rooftop Café
One of my favorite ways to unwind in Fes was sipping mint tea at a rooftop café with a stunning view of the medina. Watching the sunset from above while the city bustled below was pure magic. And if mint tea isn’t your thing, don’t worry—I became a little obsessed with the fresh-squeezed juices in Morocco. The orange juice was a daily must, but I even ventured into carrot juice territory (and, shocker, it was delicious!).
12. Rainbow Street Art
This isn’t some hidden gem—it’s actually pretty easy to find! Just stroll down the main street, and you’ll spot a side alley bursting with rainbow colors that practically shouts, “Hey, come check me out!” The alley is lined with vibrant artwork and shops selling local crafts. It gets packed with tourists later in the day, so I made sure to go first thing in the morning for a quieter experience (and better photos!).
Google Maps Location: Here
13. Nejjarine Museum
The Nejjarine Museum was one of my favorite surprises in Fes. It’s tucked away and showcases traditional Moroccan woodcraft. I spent as much time admiring the building itself as I did the exhibits (or maybe even more)—the workmanship here is incredible. And don’t skip the rooftop view; it’s a hidden gem for soaking in the medina from above!
Google Maps Location: Here
14. Al-Attarine Madrasa
Al-Attarine Madrasa is a true gem of Islamic architecture, with a stunning central courtyard and intricate tilework. Try heading up to the second story—the view from above is fantastic. It’s a bit quieter than Bou Inania Madrasa, though there are definitely still tourists to contend with. However, I’d still add this to the list of the best things to do in Fes and would recommend including it in your Fes itinerary.
Google Maps Location: Here
15. Pottery Workshop
Get your hands dirty in the best way possible by joining a pottery workshop in Fes. You’ll learn how traditional Moroccan ceramics are made, from shaping the clay to painting intricate designs. It’s a great way to appreciate the craftsmanship behind those beautiful tiles and tagine dishes. Plus, you get a one-of-a-kind souvenir to bring home! Plus, if it turns out you totally suck at pottery making, you can pop over to the medina and purchase a dish to show off.
Recommended Tour: Pottery Workshop in Fes, Morocco
16. Stay in a Riad
Staying in a riad is hands-down one of the best things to do in Fes—it’s not just an accommodation; it’s part of the experience! Riads are traditional Moroccan houses and are usually designed around a central courtyard or pool, complete with stunning tilework. I stayed in one (Riad Salam Fes) that had a rooftop terrace with a killer view of the city, and it was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of getting lost in the souks. Bonus: the breakfasts are next-level, with fresh bread, pastries, and enough mint tea to fuel your adventures!
Google Maps Location: Riad Salam Fes – Here
Where to Stay in Fes, Morocco
Here are my recommendations on where to stay in Fes:
Riad Rcif & Spa Original: This is a quintessential example of a riad, with stunning mosaics and carved wood details. Between the spa treatments and the rooftop terrace overlooking the city, it’s the perfect place to chill after a busy day in Fes.
Riad Salam Fes: Staying at Riad Salam Fes feels like stepping into a Moroccan palace, with its intricate tilework, grand courtyard, and rooftop views of the medina. This was our choice for Fes, and I would 100% recommend staying here!
Fes is not the kind of place you just visit—it’s the kind of place you experience. Between the twisting alleys and stunning architecture, there’s something here to amaze even the most seasoned traveler. It’s a beautiful mess of history, culture, and chaos that you won’t find anywhere else. If you’re looking for an adventure that’s as colorful as it is unpredictable, Fes should be at the top of your bucket list!
One last recommendation? Do not rent a car in Fes. The driving was kind of insane and the parking situation was incredibly unclear, especially near cities like Fes and Marrakech. We just walked or took taxis around the cities, but I would suggest setting up an airport transfer and any intercity transfers in advance.
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