Vacation Packages, Tours and Travel to Fes, Morocco | Keytours Vacations

Discover Fez's Wonders

Fes is Morocco’s spiritual and intellectual capital, home to the world’s oldest university and one of the best-preserved medieval cities. The Fes el-Bali medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with mosques, madrasas, artisan workshops, and bustling souks. Famous tanneries, where leather is still dyed using centuries-old methods, provide a colorful, if pungent, glimpse into Morocco’s traditions. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and the ornate Bou Inania Madrasa. Fes is less touristy than Marrakech, offering a more authentic experience of Moroccan culture and daily life. With its deep history, architectural treasures, and artisanal heritage, Fes is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking Morocco’s timeless charm.

Current Weather

93.11 °F - Clouds Min/Max: 93.11 °F / 93.11 °FFeels: 88.9 °F Humidity: 16%5 Day Forecast

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Description

Life in this sand-coloured city can seem provincial at times but this ancient feeingl only adds to its charm, and its sense of otherness: while donkeys still navigate the Medina as the main mode of transport for goods, you will see everything from cases of Coca-Cola to mattresses perched expertly and delicately atop the backs of docile beasts. Fès is known for its handicrafts, and particularly for its famous blue and white tiles. Arabic is the main language in Morocco but French is widely spoken so it gets easier to get around compared to many other Arabic countries. People in Fès are exceptionally friendly and hospitable, and they love to talk to travellers and to proudly boast about their city. If you speak with locals for any length of time, be prepared to be invited to their house for tea – this is a genuine and innocent offer, so do not shy away from it, as it is a great way to get to know people and to get a feel for life here.

Useful information

Population:

1,07 million

Currency:

1 Dirham = 100 Centimes

Emergency Info:

Police: 190 (112 from mobile phones)
Ambulance: 150
Fire Brigade: 15

Opening Hours:

While businesses are usually open from 9am-10pm, some of them may close for midday between 12pm and 3pm. Most shops are open daily while others establish individual opening hours.

Do & See

Al-Qarawiyyin Library

Reportedly the world's oldest library, first established in Fes over an entire millennium ago (9th century), the Al-Qarawiyyin Library recently opened its doors to the public once again following a restoration effort. The library still belongs to Qarawiyyin University, the oldest continuously operating university on Earth.

Art Naji

This family-run business has been creating pottery for generations already, and their beautiful products are well-known in the area. From vases over plates to cups, you can get everything within this authentic shop, so take your time and get a good look on the mosaic and the painted ceramics – you may also find a piece to take home.

Attarin Medersa

The Attarin Medersa, a former koran school, might not be the biggest one in town but, instead of an impressive size, quite stunning for many reasons. The different tiles in lovely colours, and the overall architecture design make for a place that is a must see on your itinerary.

Bab Boujloud

At one time or another, you will pass through Bab Bou Jeloud, The Blue Gates, and it is highly recommended to get a guide that shows you around while explaining the gates' history. In this area, you will also find many restaurants to go to for lunch, or for just grabbing a cooling drink.

Berber Pharmacies

Whether you believe in the cleansing power of spices and herbs or not, the Berber Pharmacies are an impressive sight, and also quite typical in Morocco: the big jars on sale hold obscure powders and peculiar dried plants, and many of them are believed to cure aches and pains. Get yourself a special blend or just take a picture of the mystical markets, as it is always worth a visit, and a try.

Bou Inania Medersa

Bou Inania Medersa is a religious educational building in Talaa Kebira, and as itself already a real artwork well worth a visit. Ask for a guide in order to get a better understanding of the medersa and its history, and let its atmosphere fascinate you.

Chouara Tanneries

This famous tanneries produces, among the three tanneries in the city of Fès in total, some of the finest leather in the world, using century old practices and also best materials. Find out more about the interesting procedure by visiting the sight in the oldest medina quarter, and by probably purchasing a souvenir.

Dar Batha Museum

Located in an a century old Spanish-Moorish palace, the Dar Batha museum features a unique collection of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts. Made out of wood, iron, plaster and other material, these art works will definitely impress you.

Dining

Dar Anebar

Ideally located in the heart of Medina, this high class restaurant serves guests the best of Moroccan food, as several courses are prepared to your taste, one more delicious than the other. Overlook the city from their terrace, enjoy the garden atmosphere by the fountain, or take a seat in the glamorous salons, and you will remember this evening forever.

Dar Roumana

Dar Roumana serves a kitchen beyond tajine and couscous, so do start with goat cheese, followed by a perfectly cooked fillet and rounded up with a sweet creme brûlée. With its lovely atmosphere, as to luxurious rooms and beautiful decor, dinner at Dar Roumana will make for a perfect evening.

L'Amandier

At Palais Faraj, L'Amandier offers a traditional Moroccan cuisine, and an amazing view over Medina on top. Both the staff and the atmosphere make this an excellent place for a lovely evening dinner, so head here for enjoying the evening best.

La Maison Bleue

La Maison Bleue is a sumptuous restaurant with an exquisite cuisine varying from traditional to contemporary Moroccan fare. Housed in a riad, an open air courtyard invites you to having an aperitif, while the venue in general is widely regarded as one of Fès finest restaurants.

Le Kasbah

Le Kasbah is a friendly three-story restaurant with a rooftop patio, from where you can enjoy a spectacular view over the medina. Although the menu itself is quite classic, ranging from tajines and couscous to pastillas, the authentic experience and the restaurant's prime spot is already worth a visit.

Les Jardins de Sheherazade

If you are you looking for traditional food with a modern twist, then visit Les Jardins de Sheherazade and try the specialty couscous dishes. This restaurant is spacious with an intimate atmosphere, and it offers you all the Moroccan cuisine you could wish for, so let yourself get carried away by the luxurious interior and stunning decorations, and you will not be disappointed.

Mb

Mb is a hip restaurant with outstanding food and delicious martinis. As their selection of both food and wine is spectaculars, staying at their rooftop terrace will make for a perfect night.

Palais Amani

Palais Amani offers a mix of African, French, Mediterranean and contemporary cuisine. As to its great selection of different dishes and menus, you can come here for every meal of the day, and also every day again as well.

Cafes

Cafe Clock

Cafe Clock is considered to be one of the best cafes in Fès, as it offers food of all kind for any time of the day – come here and try their camel burger, and finish afterwards with a delicious dessert, and you will probably also catch some live music within. On weekends, drop in to meet some new people as the place gets crowded in the evenings.

Café Glacier New Peacock

The New Peacock is a newly redesigned café with a stylish, relaxed and airy atmosphere, where numerous mouth-watering sweets tempt to to try literally all of them. While enjoying a break during sightseeing, a stay here is an experience on its own.

Bars & Nightlife

Felix Nightclub

If you’re looking for a party crowd, drop into Felix Nightclub at Hotel Tghat, where you can expect great drinks and a stylish clientele of 20 to 30 something. Dance until you drop, or relax in the cozy lounge atmosphere, as Felix has something for everyone.

Hotel Les Mérinides

Hotel Les Mérinides is a sophisticated option with a chic clientele, where you can choose between two restaurants and a terrace for enjoying both great food as well as delicious cocktails. With the stunning view of Fès Medina, you will definitely enjoy your stay here.

La Mezzanine

This pub and bar in the heart of Fes serves beers, smoothies and international bites as well as live music and DJ sets for pleasing a lively party crowd. Have a drink on their outside terrace or take a seat on the comfy sofas, as La Mezzanine promises an exciting evening.

Ramada Hotel

If you are looking for some House or R’n’B music to move your body to, then head over to the V.I.P. Club at Hotel Ramada. As the hotel features different spacious bars with dancefloors and comfy seats, its atmosphere will bring you and your friends to party all night long.

Sofitel Palais Jamaï

This hotel features a luxurious bar with creative cocktails and sumptuous appetizers that will definitely apply to your taste. Do not miss out their outdoor patio for enjoying some stunning views of the Medina.

The Golden Bar

The streets in Fès can get quite busy so finding a bar like this, at the end of a long day, comes right in time. The Golden Bar is located on the top of Palais Faraj, and it will give you a bird’s eye view of the city. Pour another glass here, and share some stories while relaxing in the laid back atmosphere.

Shopping

Art D'Argile

Ceramic products and pottery have been popular trades in Morocco for centuries, and today, the craft is still much valued by locals and visitors alike. Art Agile keeps up the art of handmade ceramics and pottery since four generations, producing vases, bowls or plates decorated with great dexterity and traditional patterns. Step in and take home a piece of Morocco’s national heritage.

Art Naji

Association des Femmes de Fès

The Association des Femmes de Fès is a particularly impressive store full of beautiful handmade clothes, table clothes, pillow coverings and bedspreads. The shop is, quite unusual for Morocco, owned and run by women only, and the association employs and donates money to underprivileged women.

Berber Pharmacies

Borj Fez Mall

Located between old and new Fès, the Borj Mall provides shopping and entertainment on three levels, where you can find over 80 shops as well as a big supermarket that has everything you need. You can even step in with a busy sightseeing schedule as it is close to major tourist attractions in the city.

Chez Hamidou

Nestled between Chouara Tannery and markets, Chez Hamidou might be hard to find but its is worth a visit. As a local’s insider tip, you can here buy high quality rugs and cushions from local producers but mind that you are expected to bargain.

Coin Berbere

At Coin Berbere, you will find handcrafted carpets, carved wooden doors and skillfully decorated pottery. The shop is run by the two brothers Khalid and Mohamed Bouzidi-Idrissi who are happy to show you their antiques, and advice you to find your match.

Ensemble Artisanal

Ensemble Artisanal is an exceptional place for traditional ceramics and pottery, and you can also see the craftspeople designing and creating pieces. As this is one of the best spots for finding some souvenirs, it is definitely worth a visit.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Fès for ideal weather, referring to both average temperature and humidity, is from April to November, as the days are long and sunny. Although it feels nice nearly all year long, the outside markets and the restaurants' terraces can best be enjoyed during summer – however, July and August are the hottest months so take advantage or avoid depending on personal preference.

Passport / Visa

Citizens of the European Union, as well as the Untied States, Australia, and dozens of world countries can enter and remain in Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days. Look up individual prerequisites prior to travel in order to possibly apply for visa in time.

Fès-Saïss Airport

Fès-Saïss airport is located 15 km south of the city centre, and the establishment is both modern and easy to navigate. Taxis are still the best way to get to and from the airport to the city centre, and luckily, they are quite cheap. You can also use public transport and shuttle buses to get to Fès, just step on the bus line 16 or choose one of the airport shuttles that run ever 30 minutes from Fès airport. You can buy the tickets on the bus.

Public transport

The central train station is in the ville nouvelle, and there are daily trains to all the main destinations in Morocco. The trains are very comfortable and almost live up to European standards, but do buy your tickets in advance as first class seats are often sold out. You may also reserve tickets on the website or purchase them in person at the local station. The main bus station is situated outside of Bab el-Mahrouk, and it has services to other destinations in Morocco with daily departures. Within the city, you do normally pass by foot or by car/cab.

Taxi

There are two types of taxis in Fès: the red petit taxi and the white grand taxi. The petit taxis all have meters, and a ride anywhere in the city can only carry 3 people by law. The grand taxis are often hired for day trips, so they are more difficult to come by – you may arrange one through your hotel if you desire a day trip out of Fès. Petit Taxi +212 61 781 7528

Electricity

220V , 50Hz, C/E

Pharmacy

The pharmacy at Boulevard Moulay Youssef is staffed by both a doctor and a pharmacist, and as it is open 24/7, you can head here all the time. You will also find other venues across town. Hôpital Ghassani is one of the city’s biggest hospitals, and doctors here speak several foreign languages.

Post

The Main Post Office is located at the corner of Avenue Hassan II and Boulevard Mohammad V, open Mon-Sat 8am-closing. Different post offices can be found across town but keep in mind that opening hours may greatly vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Fez?

The best time to visit Fez is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the city's historic sites and vibrant medina. Summers can be quite hot, while winters are cooler and may bring rain.

How many days should I spend in Fez to see the main attractions?

A stay of 2 to 3 days in Fez is ideal to explore its main attractions. This allows you ample time to visit the UNESCO-listed medina, the Al Quaraouiyine University, and the Bou Inania Madrasa, as well as to enjoy a day trip to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis.

What are the must-see attractions in Fez?

Fez is renowned for its historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Key attractions include the Al Quaraouiyine University, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Chouara Tannery. Don't miss the Royal Palace and the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter, for a glimpse into the city's diverse history.

What is the best way to get around Fez?

The best way to explore Fez is on foot, especially within the medina, where cars are not allowed. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and affordable. Ensure you agree on a fare before starting your journey, as meters are not commonly used.

Are there any local dishes I should try while in Fez?

Fez is known for its rich culinary heritage. Be sure to try traditional dishes like pastilla, a sweet and savory pie made with pigeon or chicken, and harira, a hearty soup often served during Ramadan. Don't miss the chance to taste local tagines and couscous dishes as well.

What cultural etiquette should I be aware of when visiting Fez?

When visiting Fez, dress modestly, especially when exploring the medina and religious sites. It's customary to greet people with a handshake or a nod. Always ask for permission before taking photos of locals, and be respectful of prayer times and spaces.

Are there any festivals or events in Fez that I should plan my visit around?

Fez hosts several vibrant festivals, including the Fez Festival of World Sacred Music in June, which features performances from international artists. The Moussem of Moulay Idriss II, a religious festival, is another significant event, offering a unique cultural experience.

Trips

Fez Escapade

Morocco Explorer

Grand Morocco Adventure

Moorish Trail through Morocco and Andalucia Private Journey

Imperial Cities and Cultural Treasures of Morocco Private Journey

Northern Morocco and the Blue Pearl Adventure

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