Fes is one of the cultural and oldest imperial cities in Morocco. It is famous for Fes El Bali ( old Medina). This Medina dates back to the time of the Idrisid Dynasty during 808 AD. Its walled medina, medieval Marinid architecture and lively souks attract tourists. Besides, it refers to the cultural city of Morocco. That is to say, it offers traditional culinary art, hand-made products and more. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to religious schools and ancient monuments that have been preserved. During Morocco desert tours, there are many things to see and do in Fes. However, there are some important tourist attractions you should not miss.
Here are things to do and see in Fes:
Al-Qarawiyyin University
It is considered to be the oldest university in the world. Thus, Fatima Al-Fihri founded this university in 859 as an educational centre to teach Islamic history and science. However, it is now operating as a mosque and non-Muslims cannot enter it. Its library is open to the public, and there is a chance to admire hand-made tilework that dates to the 19th century. The mosque buildings also offer wonderful Islamic architecture.
Old Madin, Fes El Bali
The oldest city in Morocco is Fes el Bali which dates to the ninth century. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its historical and cultural significance. During your Fes tour, you will explore many alleyways and learn about Fes’s history. But, it is easy to get lost in this city due to its small streets. Before leaving your accommodation, make sure you know the directions that you should follow. Google Maps can find it difficult to navigate this maze.
Chouara Tannery
It is one of the main tourist attractions in things to do in Fes. Further, it is the largest and oldest tannery in Fes. The operation of dealing with leathers is still done as in the early centuries. Locals use these stone vessels with different coloured dyes. They clean and soften the tough leather and then put it under the sun to dry. After that, the leather is ready to make leather products like bags, and shoes…
The Blue Gate
Bab Bou Jeloud or the Blue Gate is the main famous gate in Fes. It dates to the 12th century, and it presents the Mauresque-Andalusian style. It is also the gate that leads to the old Medina. Admire its architecture and wander through the narrow streets of the stone-walled Medina.
Bou Inania Madrasa
Even though it is not open to non-Muslim tourists, you can admire its amazing green-tiled minaret. Therefore, the Medersa was built by Bou Inan Sultan as a religious school with rooms and two floors. It presents a wonderful atmosphere and decoration of mosaics and stucco work.
Jewish Quarter
Jewish quarter or Mellah in Fes is believed to be the first created Mellah in Morocco. Besides, it dates back to the 15th century, presenting Jewish history and architecture. The Ibn Danan synagogue offers a rich history of the Jewish community and culture. In addition to that, the Jewish community is one of the Moroccan communities. It is another site in things to do in Fes for Jews as well. If you are on Jewish tours, make it among the Jewish Heritage Morocco tour. Contact us to customize your Jewish tour in Morocco.
Ibn Danan Synagogue
The synagogue dates back to the 17th century. It is preserved but does not function as a place of worship. It was created by merchant Memon Ben Saidan when thousands of Jewish families were expelled from Spain. What will catch your attention is the large Torah bowl. It has carved wooden sections and a painted honeycomb plaster frame inside. You also can access the balcony with a view of the nearby cemetery from the basement women’s mikvah.
Merenid Tombs
Heading up to the hill to visit the Tombs offers another experience of the whole Medina view. The royal necropolis of the Marinid dynasty dates back to the 14th century. Therefore, the Marinid cemetery is massive in Fez. And they are now a common point to view throughout the whole of Medina. The best place to enjoy the sunset in your things to do in Fez.
Borj North
The Borj North is an Arms Museum that houses old weapons. Thus, it exists in a commanding location, overlooking the city. There are almost 5,000 weapons in this Museum. This also gives an insight into the history of the Moroccan Military.
Dar El-Batha Museum
The Museum of Dar al-Batha is located in a palace from the 19th century. It presents an impressive collection of Moroccan artworks and handicrafts. Here, you can discover metal displays, traditional woodwork, pottery and textiles. Also, you can enjoy colourful Amazigh carpets and silk Kaftan with exquisite embroidery and beautifully decorated doors. The museum garden is designed in the Andalusian style. It offers a quiet place where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings. The museum shows Moroccan ceramics which highlights the talent and originality of regional artisans.
What is the best time to visit Fes?
The spring months of April and May and the fall months of September and October are the ideal times to visit Fes. There is sunlight and a warm climate. So, it is suitable for walking around to explore things to see and do in Fes. If you travel during the summer, start your days early and choose a riad or hotel with a pool to avoid the heat. Check some of the Fes accommodations on Booking.com. If you visit Fes in winter, you should bring winter clothes.
Travelling in Morocco during Ramada could be challenging. During the day, stores and restaurants could be closed, and certain forms of transportation might not work. If you intend to travel to Morocco during Ramadan, check the specifics of your lodging before making a reservation. Every year, Ramadan occurs on a different date.
How to travel to Fes?
Depending on where you start, you have a few different ways to get to Fes, Morocco. Here are a few popular ways to get to Fes through transportation:
By Air:
Fes-Sass Airport (FEZ) is the closest international airport to Fes. Direct flights to Fes are available from major cities including Casablanca, Paris, Istanbul, Barcelona, and others if you are coming from outside of Morocco. You have two options for transportation from Fes-Sass Airport to the city centre: a taxi or a transfer. You can contact us for pick-up and drop-off services.
By Train:
Fes is accessible by the national train operator, ONCF, on Morocco’s well-connected railway network. You may take a train to Fes from major cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, or Marrakech if you are already in Morocco or want to travel by rail. First class is available on trains, which are often pleasant. There are two train stations in FesFes Ville, which serves the majority of domestic trains, and Fes-Medina, which is located closer to the city centre.
By Bus:
In Morocco, buses are a common and inexpensive means of transportation. Many bus companies provide trips to Fes from various places around the nation. Some famous bus companies that go to and from Fes are CTM, Supratours, and ALSA. There are direct buses that go to Fes from places like Casablanca, Rabat, and Marrakech. “Gare Routière Fès” or “Fes Bus Station” is the name of the city’s primary bus terminal.
Rent a Car:
You may rent a car and go by road to get to Fes if you prefer to drive. Fes is well connected to the country’s enormous road system via highways. Your starting point will determine the length of the trip and the route. The A2 motorway connects large towns like Casablanca and Rabat with Fes. Before starting a road journey, it’s important to know the area’s traffic laws and road conditions.
Private tour
you can also have a Morocco private tour that leads to the desert. If you want to visit Fes from Marrakech, check out these desert tours from Marrakech. Or if you start your tour from Fes, we offer different types of desert tours from Fes. On these tours, you also will experience a camel trip and spend a night in a desert camp.
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