etraveladmin Mysterious and magical Fes is an unique Moroccan city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to North Africa’s oldest and largest medina! The city was previously Morocco’s capital and is now widely regarded as the country’s cultural epicentre. Discover towers of spices, traditional handicrafts, hammams, and tanneries inside the historic walls of the gloriously chaotic medina. The history is alive and well in Fes, so spend a day or two exploring all of the best things to do in Fes!
1. Get Lost in the Fes Medina
The medina of Fes (Fes el Bali) is North Africa’s oldest and largest, dating back to the 9th century! It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its historical and cultural significance. It’s easy to see why when you see how effectively the medina’s ancient attractions have been kept. Discover the origins of Fes by walking the thousands of lanes here, and enjoy the world’s largest car-free urban area!
Because to its narrow alleys, it is very simple to get lost, as we discovered several times. Before leaving your riad or hotel, make sure you know which signs to follow because even Google Maps can get lost in this maze.
2. Gardens of Jnan Sbil (Bou Jeloud)
This tranquil haven of nature is the sole public garden in the bustling medina. Step inside to take a break from negotiating and admire the lovely water features, birds, plants, flowers, and palm tree-lined walkways. Relax, cool off, and observe the people enjoying the park as well.
3. The Mysterious Bou Inania Madrasa
The Bou Inania Madrasa is a well-known religious structure in the heart of the medina. The 14th-century structure was originally used as a school. However, its remarkable architecture is now open to the public. Explore the gorgeous marble courtyard, intricate wood carvings, and infinite mosaic tilework in greens. The adjacent mosque, with its stunning green minaret visible from the medina, continues the colour motif. This madrasa is without a doubt the most magnificent in the city! Don’t miss out on this fantastic Fes activity.
4. Inhale the Aromas of the Tanneries
Make sure to visit Fes’ world-renowned tanneries! Discover hundreds of earthen pots filled with different coloured dyes used to tint animal hides. The tanneries are an important element of Fes culture and one of the nicest things to do in Fes. But be warned: the smell is rather powerful! Locals will try to give you “free mint” to help with the odour, but we’ve seen a lot of people pay afterward. As a result, it’s a good idea to bring some mint or a scarf with you.
5. Kairaouine University is Africa’s oldest university.
The Kairaouine Mosque is the world’s oldest university, as well as Morocco’s second-largest mosque. Because it is one of the most important religious buildings in Fes, only Muslims are permitted to enter. Although tourists are not permitted to enter the interior, they can view it from numerous of the entrance gates. The marble courtyard, fountains, arches, tiles, and carvings are all exquisite. Not only that, but there are a lot of people worshipping in this holy structure, which is still used as a university!
6. A Rooftop Sunset
Moroccan architecture features earthy-colored homes with flat roofs. This implies it’s patio heaven! Finding a wonderful rooftop cafe or bar (like Cafe Clock) and seeing the city from above is one of the best ways to explore Fes. Sit here at the conclusion of a day of sightseeing to watch the sun set behind this magnificent city. Bliss!
7. The Royal Residence (Dar Al-Makhzen)
Take a look at the royal palace’s magnificent exterior. The royal family and administration still utilise this building frequently, thus tourists are not permitted inside. However, the gorgeous blue mosaic tiled walls and magnificent bronze doors make it a must-see in Fes. Outside, visitors can stroll around the magnificent, verdant palace gardens. The grand mosque Fes el-Jdid, adjacent to the gardens, has the most artistically adorned minaret!
