Exploring Fes is like walking through a living museum. With its maze-like medina, centuries-old mosques, colorful souks, and peaceful riads, Fes offers travelers an immersive cultural experience like no other. If you're planning your first trip and searching for the top things to do in Fes, this guide written by locals will take you straight to the heart of Morocco’s spiritual capital.
1. Get Lost in Fes el-Bali
Start your adventure in Fes el-Bali, the city’s ancient medina and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a maze of narrow alleyways where donkeys still carry goods, craftsmen hammer copper by hand, and historic sites appear around every corner. This is where you’ll feel the soul of the city. Don’t forget to visit Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate) a perfect entry point and one of the top Instagram spots in Morocco.
Top Things to Do in Fes
2. Visit the World’s Oldest University
Step into history at the University of Al Quaraouiyine, recognized by UNESCO as the oldest operating university in the world. Although non-Muslims can’t enter the mosque, the architecture and peaceful surroundings are worth seeing from the outside.
3. Discover the Chouara Tannery
For a full sensory experience, head to the Chouara Tannery, where leather goods have been dyed and cured for centuries. The rooftop viewpoints from leather shops give you a panoramic view of the colorful dye pits one of the most iconic and beautiful places Morocco has to offer.
Top Things to Do in Fes
4. Relax in a Traditional Riad
After exploring the medina, unwind in a traditional riad with a courtyard garden and Moroccan tiles. Riads like Riad Fes or Palais Amani offer luxury stays that reflect the city's rich design and heritage.
5. Explore the Royal Palace Gates
You can't go inside, but the grand Royal Palace gates (Dar al-Makhzen) are a stunning sight. The intricate bronze doors and mosaic tile work make this another must-see for anyone interested in architecture and another great Instagram spot Morocco travelers love.
Top Things to Do in Fes
6. Stroll Through Jnan Sbil Gardens
Need a break from the bustle? The Jnan Sbil Gardens, just outside the medina walls, offer a peaceful retreat with fountains, palm trees, and walkways. It’s a local favorite for afternoon strolls and a hidden gem that travelers often miss.
7. Take a Day Trip with Go Yaalah
Fes is a great base to explore more of Morocco. With a rental car from Go Yaalah, you can drive to:
- Volubilis, an ancient Roman city
- The blue city of Chefchaouen
- The Middle Atlas mountains and cedar forests around Ifrane
These day trips show you even more beautiful places Morocco offers, far from the usual tourist routes.
The Benefits of Renting a Car in Fes for Independent Travel
While Fes is walkable, many of the region’s gems lie just beyond its limits. Renting a car through Go Yaalah gives you the freedom to explore at your pace. Whether it’s a scenic mountain drive or a photo stop in a quiet village, you won’t be tied to group tours or public transport schedules.
Top Things to Do in Fes
Ready to Explore Fes?
Now that you know the top things to do in Fes, it’s time to create your own adventure. Book your car with Go Yaalah and discover the magic of Fes and beyond your way. From historic medinas to the most beautiful places Morocco hides in the hills, the road is yours.
