Fes
Morocco's spiritual capital and largest medieval medina
Last reviewed
Fes is Morocco's spiritual capital and home to the largest medieval medina in the Arab world (UNESCO-listed since 1981). Founded in 789 CE, it contains 9,000+ alleyways, the world's oldest university (al-Qarawiyyin), and the famous Chouara leather tanneries. Most travelers spend 2 days in Fes, always with a licensed guide because the medina is impossible to navigate independently.
About Fes
Fes is Morocco's spiritual and intellectual capital, home to Fes el-Bali — the world's largest car-free urban area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981. Founded in the 9th century, the medina contains the world's oldest continuously operating university (al-Qarawiyyin, 859 CE), the famous Chouara tanneries, and 9,000+ winding alleyways.
Top 3 Reasons to Visit Fes
- The world's largest and best-preserved medieval medina (UNESCO)
- al-Qarawiyyin — the oldest continuously running university on Earth
- Chouara tanneries — the most photographed leather workshops in Morocco
Things to Do in Fes
Tour Fes el-Bali medina with a licensed guide
A guide is essential — the medina has 9,000+ alleys and you will get lost without one. A good guide adds context to madrasas, fondouks, and mosques you would otherwise miss.
Visit the Chouara tanneries
The leather tanneries operating since the 11th century, photographed from terraces above. Vendors will offer you a sprig of mint to mask the smell.
See the Bou Inania and Al-Attarine Madrasas
Two of the most beautiful Marinid-era Quranic schools, both open to non-Muslims (rare in Morocco).
Stand at the gates of al-Qarawiyyin
Founded in 859 CE by Fatima al-Fihri, recognized by UNESCO as the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world. The mosque interior is closed to non-Muslims but you can view the famous green-tiled courtyard from the entrance.
Pottery workshops in Fes el-Jdid
Watch the traditional zellige tile-making and pottery process that has been used in Moroccan architecture for over 700 years.
Practical Information
| Airport | Fes-Saïss (FEZ) — small international airport, 15 km from medina |
| Distance from Marrakech | 530 km by road, ~7h drive; or 9h direct train |
| Best base area | A traditional riad inside Fes el-Bali medina |
| Local guide cost | ~$50–80 USD for a half day with a licensed guide |
Private Tours That Include Fes
Frequently Asked Questions about Fes
Do I need a guide in Fes?+
Yes — strongly recommended. Fes el-Bali medina has 9,000+ alleyways with no street signs in English. Even locals get turned around. A licensed guide ($50–80 USD for a half day) saves you hours of frustration and adds essential historical and cultural context.
Is Fes worth visiting if I've been to Marrakech?+
Yes — Fes feels completely different from Marrakech. It is older, more medieval, more spiritual, and far less touristy. Marrakech is the social capital; Fes is the intellectual capital. Most Morocco itineraries pair both — Marrakech for energy, Fes for depth.
How long should I spend in Fes?+
2 days is right for most travelers. Day 1 with a licensed guide for the medina, tanneries, madrasas, and al-Qarawiyyin. Day 2 for slower exploration on your own, a cooking class, or a half-day trip to nearby Meknes and Volubilis (the Roman ruins).
Other Morocco Destinations
Plan Your Trip to Fes
Get a free, personalized Fes itinerary from our local experts in 24 hours.