Fes, one of our favorite and most impressive points of our Morocco trip, made us fall in love with itself. Fes, which stands out with its tanneries and old city, is definitely a place to be discovered when it comes to Morocco. Fes, which preserves its historical texture and traditions, has a population of 1 million. Fes, the second largest city in Morocco after Casablanca and the capital Rabat, is among the must-see locations.
There are also many madrasahs in the city, where Berber and Muslim traditions are seen together. Offering a very enjoyable cultural trip, Fes generally has the same climate as Morocco. Since it has no coastline to the sea or the ocean, it has very humid and hot weather. If you are ready to discover Fes, which will make you happy in every way and allow you to see a new culture, let’s start our Fes travel guide!
You can take a look at our Casablanca Travel Guide.
How to travel to Fes?
Located in the north of Morocco, close to the Mediterranean Sea, Fes is close to many cities. Therefore, it is easy to reach Fes. Although Fes has an airport, flights to Fes are not as frequent as those in Rabat, Casablanca, and Marrakech. For this reason, transportation to Fes is usually provided via other cities.
The railway system in Morocco is so developed that you can easily travel anywhere by train. There are trains from Casablanca to Fes at many hours during the day. The train takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes on average. There are 2 different classes on the train. There is little difference in comfort between first and second class. The average train ticket from Casablanca to Fes is between 130-150 DH.
Apart from the train, you can also reach Fes by bus. The more affordable buses are less comfortable than the train, so they are not preferred by tourists. However, you can easily come to Fes by taking the bus from the bus stations.
If you are traveling as a group, you can also travel between the cities of Morocco with minibus-style private vehicles. Generally, private vehicles pass from Casablanca or the Sahara Desert to Fes. However, the most convenient way to go to Fes is to reach the city by taking the train after arriving in Casablanca by plane.
When to go to Fes?
Fes, located close to the Mediterranean, has a temperate climate. In Fes, where the desert effect is also felt, the summers are quite hot, while the winters are milder. There are several different answers to the question of when to go to Fes.
Fes hosts high temperatures between May and August with the effect of summer. In Fes, where temperatures are between 35-43 degrees with humidity, you may not be able to spend time outside because of the heat. Therefore, it is not recommended to go to Fes in the summer months. Usually, in summer the temperature does not fall below 35 degrees. Therefore, the ideal time to go to Fes is the winter months and the spring and autumn periods.
One of the best times to go to Fes is between January and April. However, you can easily explore Fes and its streets between September and October. Since it has a temperate climate, you can come to Fes at many times of the year. However, if you are looking for the best time to go to Fes, you can consider September, October, March, and April.
Fes City Transportation
In general, one of the most difficult things for you on your trip to Morocco is urban transportation. While you can easily handle transportation between cities with trains and buses, it can be quite difficult to get from one point to another in the city.
In general, since Uber has stopped all its activities in Morocco, you have to use normal taxis for urban transportation. While there is Careem in Casablanca, you cannot use Careem outside of Casablanca.
The only taxi app you can use in Fes is Ruby. You can call a taxi through the Ruby application, which works just like Uber. However, you cannot pay with a credit card through Ruby. You have to pay cash for the amount showing up on the taximeter when you use the taxi. However, since it is not a very sanctioned practice, the taxis you call from time to time may not come. Therefore, relying on Ruby to provide transportation is not that secure.
Apart from Ruby, you can also try to stop the taxis passing by. Let’s say in advance that taxis are very affordable, so local people can easily take a taxi. Therefore, it can be quite difficult to find a taxi. You can get on them by bargaining with the taxis at the station exits and taxi stands.
The other transportation option is the municipal buses. You can get on these buses for 3 dirhams. Still, it offers a somewhat chaotic journey as it is very crowded. Therefore, tourists do not prefer city buses very much.
Since the places to visit in Fes are very close to each other, you can easily visit the highlights on foot. Generally, the points in the old city area are located close to each other.
Fes Accommodation Recommendations
One of the most enjoyable points of Morocco travel is definitely the accommodation. With traditional and pleasant accommodation options, you can get to know the cities and culture of Morocco better.
There are many hotels in Fes, where both affordable and luxury options are available. At the same time, you can stay in riads, which are among the most important houses in Morocco. Riads with a large inner courtyard and sometimes even a pool are among the most popular accommodation options in Fes. We hope that you can find the most suitable place for you in this section where we have compiled Fes hotel suggestions and types.
Riad Naila, where we stayed, is located in the Medina area known as the old city. Riad Naila, with its large and cool courtyard, also offers affordable accommodation. The rooms on the lower floors are positioned like two floors. Each of the rooms, which is quite large, is furnished according to the traditions and style of Morocco. Offering a delightful breakfast, Riad Naila also offers you the opportunity to try a traditional Moroccan breakfast. You can add this riad to your list, which we were very pleased with during our stay.
Riad Borj Dhab, which stands out with its eye-catching courtyard, is one of the first places among Fes accommodation suggestions. Standing out with its luxurious rooms and traditional style, Borj Dhab is a very pleasant place. This riad, which is close to places to visit in terms of location, also offers a large-scale dining opportunity compared to others.
Dar Fes Medina, which stands out as a very colorful riad, is located in the Medina region, which is known as the old city, as the name suggests. Dar, where you can watch the city from its terrace, hosts colorful motifs. The interior furnished with colorful mosaics truly offers you a pleasant stay.
Offering different accommodation options for both single and couple travelers, Riad Verus stands out with its affordable price. There are mixed dormitories in Riad Verus, which has a large and motif-covered courtyard. You can also stay in private double rooms. At the same time, it is a very economical option as it usually offers a bed + breakfast fee.
Riad Dar Pierre has a pleasant pool and a courtyard full of greenery. A riad where you can cool off in the pool and have a nice time during the day. Although its price is a little higher than the average, it is one of the places that should be preferred in terms of the possibilities it offers. The view from the rooms is also very nice.
Tourist Attractions in Fes Morocco
Now that we have taken care of our transportation and accommodation issues in Fes, we can come to the most enjoyable point: Places to Visit in Fes! Fes is a very small city, but there are many places to see. Located at the foot of the Middle Atlas Mountains, this city contains many historical elements. One of the biggest livelihoods in Fes, where the Muslim community is in the majority, is leatherwork. In fact, Fes is famous for its all-natural leather tanneries.
The madrasas, palaces, and interesting structures of the city, which are in earthy tones, immediately attract you. You discover something different in every street you visit. If you are both surprised and fascinated while traveling. If you are ready, let’s start with the details of our Fes travel guide article!
Chouara Tannery
The most famous spot in Fes, Chouara Tannery, also known as Leather Tanneries, is one of the must-see spots in Fes. Tanneries located a little outside the Medina area are used to dye leather in a completely natural way. Leather, which is the most important source of income in Fes, is made here.
In fact, there are different methods of dyeing leather, but the oldest is the dyeing process with natural dyes in the tannery in Fes. This method, which is quite tiring and tedious, is not preferred much nowadays. In the large cavities in the tanneries, the leathers are dyed after washing. You can see this place from the terraces of the leather traders that surrounded the tannery. As you get closer to the region, the images of the tannery and the people who invite you to a place begin to multiply. Frankly, you have no choice but to trust these people and go to the terrace of the shop with them, otherwise, you will not be able to see the tannery.
Again, you can stand around calmly and make them reach you. We paid 10 dinars per person to get out. The aim here is to provide traffic to leather shops. Before you go out on the terrace, they give you mint because of the smell. Because the tannery uses animal feces for leather.
Let’s get to the processes and the general situation in the tanneries! In fact, there are 3 different leather processing and dyeing processes. Two of them are chemical and modern methods that are frequently preferred recently. The method realized in Fes, on the other hand, is natural in terms of both the materials used and the method of making.
In the first stage, the skins are tanned in pools where cow urine, water, salt, and calcium acid are present. The heavy smell of the tannery comes from the pools where these stages are made. After the tanned leathers are dried, the dyeing phase is started. Part of the tannery is available in strikingly different colors. All-natural flower extracts are used to create the colors here. Colors such as yellow obtained from saffron and indigo blue obtained from indigo take place in the pools. A perfect feast of colors welcomes you, as completely natural colors are used in these pools colored by leather.
When you go to the terrace of the leather shops, you can see many people working in the tannery at the same time and you can happily photograph these moments. You can visit the tanneries, which are among the first places to visit in Fes, in the first hours of the day. You may not be able to see the working conditions as the people working towards the evening leave their jobs.
Bab Chorfa
The Medina region, which is known as the old city in many parts of Morocco, is also located in Fes. Bab Chorfa is one of the largest gates to the old city in Fes. “bab”, which means “door” in Arabic, is one of the places you will see and hear very often on your trip to Morocco.
Built-in 1069, Bab Chorfa is popularly known as the Gate of Nobles. One of the most magnificent gates of the city, Chorfa has watchtowers on both sides. Although it is quite crowded nowadays. Today, the entrance part of this door is used by the police.
By entering the old city of Fes through this gate, you can immortalize your trip to Fes and instantly teleport to the past. Among the places to visit in Fes, this gate is among the points you should visit.
Al-Attarine Madrasa
Fes is a city rich in madrasas. While walking in the Medina area, you can pass by many madrasahs. El Attarine Madrasa is also among the must-see places in Fes.
Between 1323 and 1325, the Merenid Sultan II. It was built by Abu Said. The madrasah, where education was given for many years, is used as a place of worship today. It is a very beautiful building that will fascinate you with the mosaics and embroidery in the courtyard. You can add this madrasah, whose entrance is 20 dinars, to the list of places to visit in Fes.
Mosque and University Karaouiyn
Karaviyyin Mosque, built in 859, was built by Fatma el-Fihri. The mosque he built with the inheritance from his father is one of the most eye-catching spots in Fes. At the same time, this mosque, which has become the most important point for Muslims in the field of education for approximately 1,200 years, is also very valuable in terms of spirituality and religion.
Karaviyyin University, one of the oldest universities in the world, also uses the same courtyard and garden as the mosque. The library of the university, which has been actively continuing its education life since 859, also hosts many valuable resources. A large part of this building, which stands out with its library, is currently used as a mosque. According to what is known, there is even a 9th-century Quran in the library, which has over 4,000 manuscripts.
It is important that you have suitable clothes for walking inside. Since it is an active place of worship, they pay extra attention to the clothes. Women are also required to cover their heads. Do not forget to add Karaviyyin University and Mosque, which is one of the most historical places among the places to visit in Fes, to your list.
Bou Inania Madrasa
It was built between 1352 and 1357 by Ebu Inan Faris, the sultan of the Merini dynasty. Abu Inan Faris, known to have 325 children, is spoken about both his life story and the madrasah he built. The Ebu Inania Madrasa, which is the last madrasah built by the Merini dynasty, is another spot that stands out with its different embroideries. You can visit the madrasah, located in the Medina area while walking around the old city.
Kairaouine Neighborhood
Kairaouine Neighborhood, which stands out with its narrow streets and products sold compared to other points of the city, is among the must-see spots. The thing that distinguishes this place from the others is the fabrics made from the mother-in-law’s tongue. Fez is one of the different spots that allow you to see things you are not used to.
In Kairaouine Neighborhood, there is a type of fabric obtained from the mother-in-law plant. These fabrics, which are processed with special workmanship, are obtained in completely natural ways. In this neighborhood, you can both see how fabrics are made and buy products made from these fabrics.
Souk Najjarine
In every city of Morocco, which stands out with its traditional aspects, you can find a cold bazaar/market that will attract your attention. Souk Najjarine, also known as Carpenters’ Square, is a bazaar that includes embroidery, as the name suggests. This place, where many masters work at the same time, teleports you to another place at once. Souk Najjarine Fes, which is an ideal spot to buy different and natural souvenirs, is also very important in terms of shopping among the places to visit.
Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate)
Built-in 1913, Bab Boujloud is also known as the Blue Door due to its color. This gate, which is blue on one side and green on the other, symbolizing Islam, is among the prominent gates of the city.
You can explore the old city by passing through Bab Boujloud, one of the most preferred gates to enter the old city. You can take photos in front of the door, which has now turned into a very touristic spot, and falls in love with those colors of Moroccan culture.
Zawiya of Moulay Idris II
The mausoleum, which was built by Molla İsmail in the 18th century, is actually a mausoleum. The Mausoleum of Molla Idris II, the mausoleum of Sultan Molla Idris II, one of the most important rulers of the Kingdom of Morocco, can be seen from many points of the city. Sultan Molla Idris II, who ruled the country between 807 and 828, is a very important person for Moroccans.
Mellah of Fez
Mellah, which is a little bit outside the old city, is actually a Jewish quarter. This predominantly Jewish area is quite different from the rest of Fes. You can explore the neighborhood, which stands out with its different colors, tombs, and structure, during your trip to Fes. You can also walk to Mellah, one of the neighborhoods where you can see the diversity of life.
Dar el-Makhzen
Dar el-Makhzen, one of the royal palaces in every city in Morocco, was built in the 17th century. When the king of Morocco comes to Fes, he stays directly here. Therefore, it is forbidden to go inside, you can only look from the outside.
The royal palace, located on an area of 80 hectares, fascinates you as soon as you see it with all its splendor and splendor. The palace, which has 7 golden gates, is among the must-see spots in Fes. There are also a 14th-century madrasah and various places of worship inside the palace.
Dar Batha Museum
This area, which was used as the summer palace of the royal family, now serves as a museum. Built-in the 19th century, the palace is newer than many in Fes. For those who want to see the royal palace, you can add the museum to your list of places to visit in Fes. Although it does not make a big impression like the others, as it is newer than the other structures in Fes, it offers an excellent opportunity to see the life and luxury of the royal family.
Fez Eating and Drinking Guide (Suggestions)
One of the best spots to discover and experience Moroccan cuisine is Fes. After finishing the places to visit in Fes, it’s time to eat and drink. Offering very traditional tastes, Fes stands out with its delightful restaurants. The fact that it is not too touristy puts the places in a different atmosphere. If we are a little hungry, let’s start our Fes food and drink suggestions quickly!
Jawharat
Located right next to the Blue Gate, Jawharat stands out with its beautiful decoration and delicious food. Jawharat, which has large portions, is one of the best places to taste traditional Moroccan dishes. The large and spacious garden is also quite beautiful.
Cafe Clock
Located in a tiny spot in the Medina region, Cafe Clock is one of the most preferred spots by tourists in Fes. Cafe Clock, which has a terrace, large courtyard, and pleasant tables, also has delicacies that you must try. Camel Burger, which is made from camel meat, is among the dishes preferred by many people. However, you can taste more traditional Moroccan flavors or prefer international cuisine.
Berrada
Berrada, which is more local than touristic places, is another location where you can dine in Fes. Berrada, which is like a shopkeeper’s restaurant, is a very shabby place. Located in the interior of the Medina area, Berrada is a very clean and delicious place, although it may scare you at first with its appearance.
The Ruined Garden
The Ruined Garden, which has a charming garden, is one of the most enjoyable places to eat in Fes. It stands out with its menus where you can taste traditional Moroccan flavors little by little and its large garden. It is a spot you can choose to escape from the sweltering heat of Fes.
La Cave
La Cave, which is both a restaurant and a coffee shop, is a place where the traditional and the modern meet. Delighting people with its colorful presentations, La Cave also combines French cuisine with Moroccan cuisine. Both the starter, main course, and desserts are quite successful.
Pictures Taken in Fes
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I can certainly recognize the value of a comprehensive travel guide that not only provides useful information but also evokes a sense of wanderlust and excitement. From what I can see, this Fes travel guide seems to have achieved just that!
The article is well-written, organized, and packed with practical tips and recommendations for anyone planning a trip to Fes. It covers everything from the city’s history and culture to its top attractions, local cuisine, and accommodation options. The inclusion of beautiful photos and insider insights also adds to the overall appeal of the guide.
I can tell that this article was written with care and attention to detail, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring the charming city of Fes. Kudos to the author for a job well done!