Is Fes Worth Visiting? 15+ Best Things to Do in Fes, Morocco

Planning a trip to Morocco and wondering if Fes is worth visiting?

The short answer: Absolutely.

Fes is one of Morocco’s most fascinating destinations—a city where history, spirituality, craftsmanship, and everyday life blend into an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for authenticity beyond tourist hotspots, Fes deserves a top spot on your Morocco itinerary.

At Hala Morocco Tours, we help travelers discover the real Morocco through private tours, cultural experiences, and custom itineraries designed around your travel style.

Planning a trip to Fes?

Whether you need a private Fes Medina tour, airport transfer, day trip, or a fully customized Morocco itinerary, our local team is here to help.

✅ Local experts
✅ Private & customizable tours
✅ WhatsApp support before and during your trip

Request your custom Morocco tour quote today


Why Visit Fes, Morocco?

Fes is Morocco’s oldest imperial city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient medina, artisan traditions, religious heritage, and intellectual history.

Unlike the modern atmosphere of Casablanca or the energetic tourist crowds of Marrakech, Fes offers a deeper and more authentic immersion into Moroccan culture.

Fes is perfect for:

✔ Culture lovers
✔ History enthusiasts
✔ Photographers
✔ Food lovers
✔ Travelers seeking authentic Morocco

If you want to experience the soul of Morocco, Fes is one of the best places to start.


Top Things to Do in Fes, Morocco

1. Explore Fes el Bali – The Old Medina

Fes el Bali is the largest car-free urban area in the world and one of the most extraordinary medinas on Earth.

Its labyrinth of narrow alleys contains:

  • traditional souks
  • artisan workshops
  • historic mosques
  • hidden riads
  • centuries-old fountains

Getting lost is part of the experience—but for first-time visitors, navigating alone can be overwhelming.

Pro Tip:

Many travelers book a private Fes Medina tour to avoid scams, save time, and discover hidden places they would never find alone.


2. Visit Al Quaraouiyine University

Founded in 859 AD, Al Quaraouiyine is recognized as the oldest continuously operating university in the world.

It symbolizes Fes’ long-standing role as a center of scholarship, religion, and philosophy.

A visit here offers insight into the city’s profound intellectual heritage.


3. Marvel at Bou Inania Madrasa

One of the finest examples of Moroccan Islamic architecture, this 14th-century madrasa showcases:

  • exquisite zellij mosaics
  • cedar wood carvings
  • carved plaster decoration
  • peaceful courtyards

It’s one of the most photogenic monuments in Fes.


4. Experience the Chouara Tannery

No visit to Fes is complete without seeing the famous Chouara Tannery.

This iconic site offers a bird’s-eye view of traditional leather-making methods that have changed little over centuries.

The colorful dye pits create one of Morocco’s most recognizable scenes.


5. Admire the Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen)

Although the palace itself is closed to visitors, the golden gates and surrounding square are worth visiting.

The craftsmanship of the doors reflects Morocco’s royal elegance.


6. Relax in Jnan Sbil Gardens

Need a break from the intensity of the medina?

Jnan Sbil offers peaceful walking paths, fountains, palm trees, and shade—perfect for slowing down.


Cultural Experiences in Fes

Fes is more than monuments—it’s a living cultural city.

Traditional Moroccan Handicrafts

Fes is Morocco’s artisan capital.

Discover workshops specializing in:

  • leather
  • pottery
  • brasswork
  • embroidery
  • zellij tiles

Meeting master craftsmen gives you a much deeper appreciation of Moroccan heritage.


Taste Fassi Cuisine

Food lovers should not miss Fes’ culinary specialties.

Must-try dishes include:

  • Pastilla (Bastilla)
  • Harira
  • Khlii
  • Traditional tagines

At Hala Morocco Tours, we can arrange:

✔ Food tours
✔ Cooking classes
✔ Home-hosted dining experiences


Attend Cultural Festivals

If visiting in June, don’t miss the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, one of Morocco’s most celebrated international events.

It attracts artists, musicians, and spiritual performers from around the world.


Best Day Trips from Fes

Fes is also an excellent base for nearby excursions. Our curated day trips from Fes include historical, cultural, and nature-based experiences around the region.

Volubilis

Explore Morocco’s best-preserved Roman ruins.

Perfect for history lovers.


Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

One of Morocco’s holiest towns, known for peaceful mountain views and spiritual significance.


Ifrane

Often called “Little Switzerland,” Ifrane surprises visitors with alpine architecture, cedar forests, and winter snow.


Want to Explore Beyond Fes?

Many travelers combine Fes with:

  • Chefchaouen

  • Sahara Desert

  • Meknes

  • Rabat

  • Marrakech

Ask us about our multi-day desert tours and custom itineraries across Morocco.


Why Visit Fes With a Local Guide?

Many first-time visitors underestimate how challenging Fes Medina can be.

A local guide helps you:

✔ Avoid getting lost
✔ Save valuable time
✔ Discover hidden gems
✔ Avoid tourist traps
✔ Understand local history and culture

Our private guides help transform a confusing visit into an unforgettable experience.


What Travelers Say

“Our guide made the medina easy and enjoyable. We saw places we never would have found ourselves.” — Guest from the UK
“Professional, warm, and deeply knowledgeable. Highly recommended.” — Guest from Canada

Why Choose Hala Morocco Tours?

At Hala Morocco Tours, we believe Morocco is best experienced through local connection.

We offer:

Private Fes Medina tours

Day trips from Fes

Multi-day desert tours

✔ Cultural workshops

✔ Custom Morocco itineraries


FAQ About Visiting Fes

Is Fes worth visiting?

Yes. Fes is one of Morocco’s most culturally rich and authentic cities.

How many days do you need in Fes?

2–3 days is ideal for most travelers.

Is Fes safe for tourists?

Yes, generally. Like any busy city, staying aware and hiring trusted guides helps.

Should I hire a guide in Fes?

For first-time visitors, absolutely. The medina is enormous and easy to get lost in.


Book Your Fes Tour Today

Whether you’re spending one day or one week in Fes, we would love to help you experience the city beyond the guidebooks.

Let us help you discover the true soul of Morocco.

📞 WhatsApp: +212 608052094
🌐 Website: halamoroccotours.com                   
📍 Departures from Fes, Marrakech, Rabat, Casablanca & beyond

Ready to plan your trip?

Request your free custom Morocco itinerary today.