Discover the best of Fez with this complete travel guide. Learn what to see, where to eat, and where to stay for an unforgettable Moroccan experience in the spiritual heart of the country.

Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Fez: What to See, Where to Eat, and Where to Stay

/ History & Culture / By

Ahlan wa sahlan! Welcome to Fez, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco! Get ready to immerse yourself in a city brimming with history, vibrant souks, stunning architecture, and tantalizing aromas. This guide is your key to unlocking the magic of Fez, from navigating its labyrinthine medina to savoring its exquisite cuisine and finding your perfect sanctuary. Prepare to be captivated by the timeless charm of this imperial city!

🕌 What to See in Fez

Step back in time as you wander through the captivating sights of Fez! This city is a living museum, each corner whispering tales of centuries past. From grand mosques and intricate madrasahs to bustling tanneries and panoramic viewpoints, prepare to be enchanted by the rich tapestry of Fez’s cultural and architectural heritage. Let’s explore the must-see gems that await you!

🌟 Top Attractions Not to Miss:

Inside the Medina:

  • Al-Quaraouiyine Mosque and University: As one of the oldest universities in the world, this is a significant historical and religious site. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself, you can admire its architecture from the outside and soak in the atmosphere of the surrounding area.
  • Chouara Tannery: Witness the traditional and colorful process of leather dyeing, a practice that has persisted for centuries. Be prepared for the strong smells! You can view the tanneries from the surrounding rooftops for a better perspective.
  • Bou Inania Madrasa: This beautiful 14th-century Islamic school showcases intricate Moroccan craftsmanship with its stunning tilework, carved wood, and stucco. It’s one of the few religious sites open to non-Muslim visitors. Don’t miss the unique hydraulic clock outside.
  • Al-Attarine Madrasa: Another exquisite example of Merinid architecture, this smaller madrasa boasts a beautifully decorated courtyard with zellige tiles, carved cedarwood, and delicate plasterwork.
  • Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts: Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century fondouk (caravanserai), this museum displays a fascinating collection of traditional wooden artifacts. The rooftop terrace offers lovely views of the city.
  • Bab Bou Jeloud: This iconic blue gate is the main entrance to the old medina (Fes el-Bali). Its intricate tilework and grandeur make it a popular photo spot. Notice the blue tiles on the outside and green tiles on the inside, representing Fez and Islam, respectively.
  • The Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen): While visitors cannot enter the modern residential palace, the impressive exterior with its grand gates and intricate tilework is worth seeing.
  • Mellah (Jewish Quarter): Explore the historic Jewish quarter, characterized by its distinct architecture, including wooden balconies. Visit the Aben Danan Synagogue, a beautifully restored 17th-century synagogue, and the Jewish cemetery.
  • Dar Batha Museum: Housed in a former palace, this museum showcases a collection of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts, including ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and more. The Andalusian-style garden provides a peaceful escape.
  • Merenid Tombs: Located on a hill overlooking the medina, these 14th-century ruins offer panoramic views of Fez, especially beautiful at sunset.
This bustling square is a symphony of rhythmic hammering as coppersmiths and brass workers meticulously craft intricate trays, teapots, lamps, and other metalware. Witnessing their skillful techniques, passed down through generations, is a captivating experience. The air hums with the sounds of creation, and the gleaming metal catches the sunlight, creating a dazzling spectacle. It's a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs and appreciate the artistry involved.
Located within the city of Fez itself, this is the revered burial place of Sidi Ahmed Tijani, the founder of the Tijaniyya Sufi order, which has a significant following throughout North and West Africa. The mausoleum is a beautiful and important religious complex, attracting devotees and visitors who come to pay their respects and seek blessings. The architecture reflects the spiritual significance of the site, and the atmosphere is often one of peaceful devotion. While access for non-Muslims to the interior might be restricted in some areas, the exterior and the surrounding neighborhood offer a glimpse into the rich Sufi traditions of Fez.
As one of the oldest universities in the world, this is a significant historical and religious site. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself, you can admire its architecture from the outside and soak in the atmosphere of the surrounding area.
Another exquisite example of Merinid architecture, this smaller madrasa boasts a beautifully decorated courtyard with zellige tiles, carved cedarwood, and delicate plasterwork.
Witness the traditional and colorful process of leather dyeing, a practice that has persisted for centuries. Be prepared for the strong smells! You can view the tanneries from the surrounding rooftops for a better perspective.
This beautiful 14th-century Islamic school showcases intricate Moroccan craftsmanship with its stunning tilework, carved wood, and stucco. It's one of the few religious sites open to non-Muslim visitors. Don't miss the unique hydraulic clock outside.
Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century fondouk (caravanserai), this museum displays a fascinating collection of traditional wooden artifacts. The rooftop terrace offers lovely views of the city.
As mentioned briefly before, this is indeed a crucial site. It's the final resting place of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty, who is credited with bringing Islam to Morocco and establishing the first Moroccan state. The town itself is perched dramatically on two hills and is considered a holy city. For centuries, it was off-limits to non-Muslims. While restrictions have eased, it remains a significant pilgrimage site, especially during the annual moussem (religious festival). The architecture of the shrine and the town's unique setting make it a compelling place to visit, offering a deep dive into Moroccan history and spirituality.
A stunning image of a northern tower, standing tall and proud as it overlooks the ancient city of Fes. The tower, with its robust structure and strategic position, offers a panoramic view of the bustling streets and historical landmarks below. From this elevated vantage point, visitors can admire the intricate maze of narrow alleys, the iconic rooftops of the medina, and the surrounding landscapes that blend centuries of history with modern-day life. The northern tower is a symbol of Fes' rich heritage and its once crucial role in the defense and fortification of the city.

Outside the Medina (Day Trips):

  • Moulay Yacoub : Located a short drive northwest of Fez, Moulay Yacoub is renowned for its thermal hot springs. People travel from all over Morocco and beyond to experience the therapeutic benefits of its mineral-rich waters. The town has a distinct atmosphere centered around wellness and relaxation. You can find various thermal bathhouses and resorts offering different treatments. Even if you don’t partake in the bathing, visiting Moulay Yacoub offers a glimpse into a different facet of Moroccan life and the natural beauty surrounding Fez.
  • Sidi Harazem : Situated east of Fez, Sidi Harazem is famous for its natural mineral water spring. The water from Sidi Harazem is highly regarded for its purity and health benefits, and it’s widely bottled and consumed throughout Morocco. The area around the spring is often visited by locals for picnics and to collect the water directly from the source. It’s a more laid-back and local experience compared to the historical sites or the spa town of Moulay Yacoub. Visiting Sidi Harazem offers a chance to connect with the everyday life of Moroccans and appreciate the natural resources of the region.
  • Volubilis: Explore the well-preserved Roman ruins of this ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s pre-Islamic history.
  • Meknes: Visit another of Morocco’s imperial cities, known for its impressive gates (like Bab Mansour), the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Agdal Basin.
  • Moulay Idriss Zerhoun: This holy town is built on two hills and is the burial place of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty. It’s an important pilgrimage site and offers unique views.
  • Ifrane National Park: Escape the city bustle and explore the Middle Atlas Mountains, known for their cedar forests, lakes, and European-style architecture in the town of Ifrane. You might even spot Barbary macaques.
Located a short drive northwest of Fez, Moulay Yacoub is renowned for its thermal hot springs. People travel from all over Morocco and beyond to experience the therapeutic benefits of its mineral-rich waters. The town has a distinct atmosphere centered around wellness and relaxation. You can find various thermal bathhouses and resorts offering different treatments. Even if you don't partake in the bathing, visiting Moulay Yacoub offers a glimpse into a different facet of Moroccan life and the natural beauty surrounding Fez.
Explore the well-preserved Roman ruins of this ancient city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into Morocco's pre-Islamic history.
Discover this charming Berber town with its waterfalls and historic medina, located southeast of Fez.
This holy town is built on two hills and is the burial place of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty. It's an important pilgrimage site and offers unique views.
Escape the city bustle and explore the Middle Atlas Mountains, known for their cedar forests, lakes, and European-style architecture in the town of Ifrane. You might even spot Barbary macaques.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Fez: A Culinary Journey Through Flavor and Tradition

Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable adventure! Fez is a city that tantalizes the senses, and its culinary scene is no exception. From hidden gems within the ancient medina to elegant riad restaurants and bustling street food stalls, Fez offers a rich tapestry of flavors that will leave you craving more. Get ready to discover the best places to savor the authentic tastes of Morocco!  

Fine Dining and Memorable Meals: Renowned Restaurants in Fez :

For a more refined dining experience, Fez boasts several establishments that offer exquisite Moroccan cuisine in stunning settings. These restaurants often highlight traditional recipes with a touch of elegance and provide a memorable ambiance:

  • Riad Fes – Restaurant L’Ambre: Located within the luxurious Riad Fes, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with panoramic views of the medina from its terrace. Expect beautifully presented traditional dishes with a modern twist, using fresh, local ingredients. The ambiance is romantic and perfect for a special evening.
  • Restaurant Dar Roumana: Situated in a beautifully restored riad, Dar Roumana offers a set menu of creative and contemporary Moroccan cuisine. The intimate courtyard setting and attentive service create a charming atmosphere. Their focus on seasonal ingredients ensures a fresh and flavorful experience.
  • The Ruined Garden: As its name suggests, this unique restaurant is nestled within a beautifully restored ruined garden, offering a magical and tranquil setting. Their menu features a mix of traditional Moroccan dishes and some international influences, all prepared with care and flair.
  • Restaurant Chez Thami: A long-standing institution in Fez, Chez Thami is known for its authentic and hearty Moroccan fare. The atmosphere is traditional and unpretentious, and the focus is on delivering delicious and satisfying meals. It’s a great place to try classic tagines and couscous.
  • Restaurant Al Fassia: With two locations in Fez (one for families and one for individuals/couples), Al Fassia is renowned for its traditional Fez cuisine prepared by a team of women chefs. Expect flavorful tagines, succulent méchoui (roasted lamb), and other local specialties in a comfortable and welcoming setting.
  • Nomad: Offering a more contemporary take on Moroccan cuisine with international influences, Nomad provides a stylish setting with rooftop views. It’s a great option for those looking for something a little different while still experiencing the vibrant flavors of Morocco.

A Taste of the Streets: Must-Try Fez Street Food :

To truly immerse yourself in the local culture and flavors, exploring Fez’s vibrant street food scene is a must. It’s affordable, delicious, and offers a glimpse into the everyday culinary life of the city

these are indeed some of the most popular and bustling locations :

  • Place Rcif : This large square is a major hub in the medina and comes alive in the evenings with numerous street food stalls. You’ll find a wide variety of offerings here, from grilled meats and kefta to harira soup and babbouche (snail soup). The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a great place to mingle with locals and sample a diverse range of affordable eats.
  • Bab Bou Jeloud: As the main gateway to the old medina, the area around Bab Bou Jeloud is always bustling with activity, including a good selection of street food vendors. You can often find stalls selling msemen, fresh juices, grilled snacks, and various other local treats as you enter or exit the medina. It’s a convenient spot to grab a quick and tasty bite.
  • L’Hachabine: While historically known for herbs and other goods, this area, particularly in the evenings, transforms into a vibrant street food market. You’ll find a wide array of options here, including grilled fish, tagines cooked in large communal pots, and various other local specialties. It’s a bit more off the beaten tourist path but offers a truly local and flavorful experience. Be prepared for a lively and authentic atmosphere. it’s a fantastic place to find:
  1. Harira: That rich and flavorful Moroccan soup, perfect for warming up.
  2. Bissara: A hearty and comforting fava bean soup, often served with olive oil and cumin.
  3. Maakouda: Delicious potato fritters, a popular and satisfying snack.
  4. Grilled Fish: Freshly grilled seafood, a real treat and a departure from the typical meat-centric offerings.
  5. A Wide Variety of Tagines: Often cooked in large communal pots, offering a taste of authentic home-style cooking.
  6. Grilled Meats and Skewers: A classic street food staple.
  7. Snail Soup (Babbouche): A Fez specialty, this flavorful and slightly spicy broth with snails is often sold from carts in the medina, particularly in the evenings. It’s considered a local delicacy and is believed to have medicinal properties.
  8. Msemen and Meloui: These flaky, pan-fried breads are a popular breakfast or snack. Msemen are square and layered, while meloui are rolled into a spiral. They are often served with honey, butter, or jam. You’ll find vendors cooking them fresh on hot griddles throughout the day.
  9. Harira Soup: This hearty and flavorful tomato-based soup, often containing chickpeas, lentils, and meat, is a staple, especially during Ramadan. You can find it at street stalls and smaller eateries.
  10. Grilled Meats and Kefta: Skewers of grilled meats (brochettes) and seasoned minced meat (kefta) are a delicious and satisfying street food option. The smoky aroma fills the air, and they are usually served with bread and a simple salad.
  11. Tagine Stalls: Keep an eye out for small stalls offering individual portions of tagine, cooked in traditional earthenware pots. These can be a quick and flavorful lunch or snack.
  12. Fresh Juices: Throughout the medina, you’ll find vendors selling freshly squeezed orange juice and other seasonal fruit juices – a refreshing and healthy treat.
  13. Sweets and Pastries: Indulge in the array of sweet Moroccan pastries, often displayed enticingly in shop windows and sometimes sold from street carts. Be sure to try chebakia (sesame and honey cookies) and gazelle horns (almond-filled pastries).
  14. Mint Tea: While not food, no exploration of Fez’s street scene is complete without enjoying a glass of sweet mint tea offered by vendors and shopkeepers – a symbol of Moroccan hospitality.

Other Local Dishes and Barbecue: You’ll likely find a rotating selection of other regional specialties and grilled delights.

A group of friends gathered around a rustic wooden table, sharing a hearty Moroccan tagine. The colorful dish, brimming with vegetables, tender meat, and a mix of spices, is served family-style, allowing everyone to enjoy the authentic flavors of Morocco together.
A Fez specialty, this flavorful and slightly spicy broth with snails is often sold from carts in the medina, particularly in the evenings. It's considered a local delicacy and is believed to have medicinal properties.
it's a cultural experience, often shared communally on Fridays after prayer or during special occasions. Each family and region might have its own unique variations, adding different vegetables, spices, or even caramelized onions and raisins (tfaya).
hat rich and flavorful Moroccan soup, perfect for warming up.
A steaming glass of Moroccan mint tea, served in ornate silver cups, with a sprig of fresh mint floating on top. The bright green tea is poured from a height, creating a frothy top, symbolizing Moroccan hospitality and the art of serving this beloved drink to guests.

Where to Stay in Fez: Finding Your Perfect Moroccan Retreat

From opulent traditional riads nestled within the ancient medina to modern hotels offering panoramic city views, Fez presents a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. Choosing the right place to stay can significantly enhance your experience in this captivating city. Let’s explore the best options for your Moroccan retreat!

Luxury Riads:

  • Riad Fes: A stunning and opulent riad offering luxurious rooms, exquisite dining, a spa, and breathtaking panoramic views from its terrace. Expect impeccable service and a truly indulgent experience.
  • Riad Maison Bleue & Spa: A beautifully restored 19th-century palace with elegant rooms, a tranquil courtyard, a rooftop terrace, and a relaxing spa. It’s known for its refined atmosphere and excellent service.
  • Riad Laaroussa: A charming and stylish riad with beautifully decorated rooms, a peaceful courtyard with a pool, and a lovely rooftop terrace. It offers a blend of traditional elegance and modern comfort.
  • Riad Braya: A luxurious riad featuring spacious suites, a beautiful courtyard, a dipping pool, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views. It’s known for its attention to detail and personalized service.
  • Riad Al Bartal: An elegant riad with beautifully appointed rooms, a serene courtyard, and a rooftop terrace offering views of the medina. It provides a sophisticated and tranquil escape.

Mid-Range Riads and Guesthouses:

  • La Casa Dar Rayan: Enjoy an entire house for the price of a single room! This spacious accommodation is ideally located in the heart of the Fes Medina, offering a peaceful atmosphere and authentic Moroccan charm. It includes 3 bedrooms with four comfortable beds, a fully equipped kitchen, and a stylish space for dining and relaxation. A unique experience combining comfort and tradition!
  • Riad Dar Seffarine: Located in the heart of the coppersmiths’ souk, this riad offers comfortable rooms with traditional décor and a charming courtyard. It provides an authentic medina experience at a reasonable price.
  • Riad Kettani: A well-regarded riad with comfortable rooms, a welcoming atmosphere, and a lovely courtyard. It’s known for its friendly service and convenient location.
  • Riad Dar Cordoba: A beautifully restored riad offering comfortable rooms and a peaceful ambiance. Its central location makes it a great base for exploring the medina.
  • Guesthouse Terrasse des Tanneries: As its name suggests, this guesthouse offers rooms with terraces overlooking the tanneries (without the strong smells reaching the rooms). It provides a unique perspective and comfortable accommodation.
  • Riad Dar Dmana: A charming riad with uniquely decorated rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. Its rooftop terrace offers lovely views.

Budget-Friendly Options:

  • Funky Fes Hostel: A popular hostel known for its social atmosphere, clean dorms and private rooms, and helpful staff. It’s a great option for backpackers and budget travelers.
  • Medina Social Club: Another well-regarded hostel offering comfortable and affordable accommodation in a central location within the medina.
  • Riad Verus: A budget-friendly riad offering simple yet comfortable rooms and a traditional Moroccan experience.
  • La Casa Dar Rayan: Enjoy an entire house for the price of a single room! This spacious accommodation is ideally located in the heart of the Fes Medina, offering a peaceful atmosphere and authentic Moroccan charm. It includes 3 bedrooms with four comfortable beds, a fully equipped kitchen, and a stylish space for dining and relaxation. A unique experience combining comfort and tradition!

Outside the Medina (Ville Nouvelle):

Staying in the “new city” offers a more modern environment with wider streets and contemporary amenities. It’s a good option if you prefer a more Western-style hotel or easier access by car.

Luxury Hotels:

  • Sahrai Hotel: A stylish and modern boutique hotel with stunning views of the medina, a beautiful outdoor pool, and excellent dining options.
  • Les Mérinides: A historic hotel perched on a hill overlooking the old city, offering panoramic views, spacious rooms, a pool, and multiple restaurants.
  • Barcelo Fès Medina: Modern comfort outside the chaos of the Medina. This hotel offers a welcome retreat with its contemporary amenities and stylish design, providing a comfortable contrast to the bustling energy of the ancient medina, which is still within easy reach. It’s an excellent option for travelers who appreciate modern conveniences while wanting to explore the historical heart of Fez.

Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Hotel Volubilis: A comfortable and well-located hotel offering modern amenities and easy access to both the new city and the medina.
  • Hotel Zalagh Parc City: A larger hotel with a pool and various facilities, suitable for families and those seeking resort-style amenities.

Budget-Friendly Options:

  • You can find various budget hotels and guesthouses in the Ville Nouvelle offering more standard amenities at lower prices. Websites like Booking.com and Hostelworld can provide numerous options.

Factors to Consider When Choosing:

  • Location: Decide whether you prefer the immersive experience of staying within the medina or the more modern convenience of the Ville Nouvelle. Consider how easily you want to access the main attractions.
  • Budget: Accommodation options in Fez range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious riads. Determine your price range and explore options within it.
  • Atmosphere: Do you prefer the traditional charm and intimacy of a riad or the more standard amenities of a hotel?
  • Amenities: Consider what amenities are important to you, such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, breakfast, pool, or spa services.
  • Reviews: Always check recent reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality of service and the experience of staying at a particular place.

🧭 Extra Tips for First-Time Visitors to Fez: Navigating the Imperial City with Ease

Stepping into the captivating labyrinth of Fez for the first time is an experience unlike any other. Its ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, pulses with centuries of history, vibrant souks, and a unique cultural energy. To ensure your initial foray into this imperial city is smooth and enriching, here are some essential tips for first-time visitors:

  • 💰 Bring Sufficient Cash: While some modern establishments, particularly in the Ville Nouvelle (new city), may accept credit or debit cards, the vast majority of transactions within the Medina, especially in the souks and smaller eateries, are conducted in cash (Moroccan Dirham – MAD). It’s wise to withdraw enough cash upon arrival or at ATMs in the new city before venturing into the old medina. Smaller denominations will also be useful for haggling and purchasing small items.
  • 👟 Prioritize Comfortable Footwear: Exploring the sprawling and intricate alleyways of the Fez medina is best done on foot. The narrow, winding paths are often uneven, cobbled, and can involve a fair amount of walking and navigating steps. Comfortable, supportive shoes are absolutely essential to prevent discomfort and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the exploration without aching feet holding you back. Leave the high heels at home!
  • 🗺️ Consider Booking a Reputable Guide in Advance: While getting lost in the mesmerizing maze of the medina can be part of the adventure, it can also be overwhelming and time-consuming, potentially leading you to tourist traps. Engaging a licensed, reputable local guide, ideally booked in advance through your accommodation or a trusted agency, can significantly enhance your experience. A knowledgeable guide can navigate the labyrinth with ease, lead you to authentic artisan workshops, provide valuable cultural insights, and help you avoid common tourist pitfalls. They can also tailor the tour to your interests, saving you precious time and ensuring you see the highlights.
  • ☀️ Plan Your Visit for Spring or Fall: Fez experiences hot summers and chilly winters. The shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploration. During these times, the temperatures are milder, making walking around the city much more comfortable. The vibrant colors of spring blossoms or the warm hues of autumn also add to the city’s charm.

By keeping these extra tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the wonders of Fez, embrace its unique atmosphere, and create lasting memories of your first visit to this extraordinary Moroccan city. Enjoy the adventure!

🎒 Plan Your Perfect Trip to Fez with Casacado Voyageurs

Fez is a city full of history, flavors, and timeless beauty—but to truly experience it, you need more than just a map. You need local insight, authentic experiences, and a guide who knows the soul of the city.

🧭 Why Explore Fez with Casacado Voyageurs?

Navigating the winding alleys of the Fez medina can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. With Casacado Voyageurs, your journey becomes effortless, immersive, and unforgettable.
We offer personalized services tailored to your interests and travel style.

🌟 Our Services:

✅ Private Guided Tours

Discover Fez’s historical landmarks, artisan quarters, hidden madrasas, and ancient secrets with a local expert guide who brings the city to life.

🍴 Moroccan Cooking Classes

Step into a traditional kitchen and learn how to prepare authentic Moroccan dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla, using fresh local ingredients and ancestral techniques.

🎨 Artisan & Cultural Encounters

Meet real craftspeople in the medina, visit ancient tanneries, explore spiritual sites, and experience Fez beyond the tourist routes.

🚗 Transfers & Day Trips

We organize comfortable transport to and from the airport, as well as excursions to Chefchaouen, Meknes, Volubilis, and the Sahara Desert.

💬 Why Travelers Choose Us?

✔️ Passionate guides born and raised in Fez
✔️ Honest, transparent, and professional service
✔️ Multilingual support (English, French, Spanish, Arabic)
✔️ 100% customizable experiences
✔️ Highly rated by past travelers

📅 Ready to Plan Your Fez Adventure?

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, Casacado Voyageurs is here to help you create unforgettable memories in Fez.

👉 Book now directly on our website or Contact us here.

Let us show you the Fez we know and love — with heart, history, and hospitality.

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