FES CITY ESCURSION

The best places you can include in this free walking tour in Fes

1. Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts:

The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts is located in the heart of Fes, Morocco. It is housed in an old 18th-century Islamic school and is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the traditional woodworking techniques and tools used by Moroccan craftsmen. The museum is home to a variety of woodworking tools and techniques, including those used to create the intricate carvings and marquetry found on the traditional doors and furniture of Morocco.   The building itself is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and is decorated with traditional wood carvings, latticework, and wood inlay. Inside the museum, visitors can explore the galleries which feature a variety of woodworking tools and crafts, including furniture, doors, windows, boxes, chests, and more. There is also a library where visitors can learn more about Moroccan woodworking and its history.   The Nejjarine Museum is home to a wide variety of workshops and demonstrations. These workshops provide an interactive way to learn about the traditional techniques used in Moroccan woodworking and provide an opportunity to purchase unique and handmade items. The museum also hosts various special events throughout the year, such as concerts, lectures, poetry readings, and more.   The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts is a great destination for anyone who is interested in learning about Moroccan culture and craftsmanship. It provides an opportunity to experience the beauty and skill of traditional woodworking, as well as to purchase unique items for your home or as gifts.

2. Bou Inania Madrasa:

The Bou Inania Madrasa (sometimes spelled Bouanania) is a madrasa (Islamic school) located in Fes, Morocco. The madrasa was built in the 14th century during the Marinid dynasty and is considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of Marinid architecture in the world. It is considered to be one of the most important Islamic monuments in the city. The Bou Inania Madrasa is adorned with intricate geometric patterns, carved stucco, and colorful tilework. The main entrance is framed by two large minarets, and the interior courtyard is surrounded by two levels of galleries and cells. The madrasa also features a large prayer hall and a library. The library contains a collection of manuscripts, including some of the oldest copies of the Quran in Morocco. The Bou Inania Madrasa is still used as an Islamic school and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the beautiful architecture and learn about the history of the madrasa and the city of Fes. The madrasa is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike and is an important part of Fes‘ cultural and religious heritage.

3. Kairaouine Mosque:

The Kairaouine Mosque is a major mosque located in Fes, Morocco. It is one of the largest mosques in Africa and is considered to be the oldest continuously functioning university in the world. The mosque is a major center of Islamic learning and was founded in 859 by a religious leader from Tunisia. It is home to a large library containing over 30,000 manuscripts and a madrasa, or Islamic school, which has been operating since 956. The mosque is an impressive structure, featuring three minarets and a large courtyard. The interior features intricate stucco carvings, marble columns, and a large mihrab, or prayer niche, which points towards Mecca. The mosque is open to visitors, though non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the prayer hall. The Kairaouine Mosque is an important symbol of Fes and its rich history. It is a popular tourist destination and a source of pride among the city’s residents. The mosque is also a symbol of the city’s strong Islamic heritage. It is a reminder of the importance of education and faith in Moroccan culture.

4. Royal Palace of Fez:

The Royal Palace of Fez is an iconic symbol of Morocco, located in the heart of the ancient medina of Fez. Built-in the 13th century, the palace is a sprawling complex of buildings and courtyards that has served as the residence of the Moroccan royal family for centuries. The palace is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, with its intricate design, intricate carvings, and vibrant colors.  The palace is a combination of a traditional mosque, palace, and fortress, with its walls, gates, and towers all intricately designed. Inside, the palace is divided into many courtyards, each with its own distinct character. There are several grand halls and salons, decorated with colorful tiles and intricate wood carvings, as well as smaller chambers for the royal family. The palace also features two large gardens, where the royal family often spends time.  The Royal Palace of Fez is a popular destination for tourists, who come to admire the palace‘s stunning architecture and the many stories associated with it. The palace is also home to the Royal Library of Fez, which contains some of the oldest manuscripts in the world. The palace is open to visitors and is a great way to experience the culture and history of Morocco.

5. Jewish Quarter:

Fes is home to the oldest Jewish quarter in Morocco, and it‘s a great place to learn about the city‘s Jewish history.  The Jewish Quarter is an area in Jerusalem, Israel, located in the Old City. It is home to the Western Wall and Temple Mount, two of the holiest sites in Judaism. It is also home to the Hurva Synagogue, a synagogue that was destroyed by the Romans and reconstructed in 2010. The Jewish Quarter is filled with narrow, winding alleyways and cobblestone streets and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes.   The Jewish Quarter has been home to Jews since the time of King David and is considered one of the four holy cities of Judaism. It is a center of Jewish life and culture, and many Jewish festivals and holidays are celebrated in the area. It is also an important site of archaeological exploration, as it contains evidence of civilizations dating back to the Iron Age.   The Jewish Quarter has seen a great deal of development over the years, including the construction of new homes and businesses. It is now a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, with a mix of Jews, Christians, and Muslims living side by side. It is also a popular tourist destination, with visitors from all over the world coming to experience its unique culture and history.

6. Mellah:

This old Jewish quarter is located just outside the medina walls and is now home to a vibrant arts scene. It‘s a great place to explore the city‘s culture and meet some of the local artists.

7. Batha Museum:

The Batha Museum is located in Fez, Morocco. It is a museum of Islamic art, culture, and history. The museum is housed in a 19th-century palace and its collections include a variety of artifacts from the medieval period, as well as modern works.  The Batha Museum is home to some of the most important Islamic artifacts in the world. These include architectural pieces, carpets, calligraphy, manuscripts, ceramics, jewelry, and more. The museum also has a library with over 7,000 books.  In addition to its impressive collections, the museum also offers educational programs and activities. These include lectures, workshops, and art classes. Visitors can also explore the museum’s courtyard, which is filled with gardens and ponds. The courtyard is a great place to relax and take in the atmosphere of the museum.  The Batha Museum is a great place to learn about Islamic art and culture. It is a must–see for anyone visiting Morocco.

8. Jnan Sbil Gardens:

The Jnan Sbil Gardens are located in the city of Fez, Morocco. They are one of the oldest gardens in the city, with a history that dates back to the 10th century. The gardens are a popular tourist destination, with a wide variety of flora and fauna on display.  The gardens are divided into a number of different sections, each of which has its own unique character. There is the main entrance, where visitors can purchase tickets and explore the gardens. The main entrance is surrounded by a large wall, which is decorated with colorful tiles and intricate carvings. The gardens are home to a variety of trees and shrubs, as well as a number of ponds and streams. The ponds are stocked with a variety of fish, and visitors can spend hours watching the fish swimming around. There is also a small zoo located within the gardens, with a variety of animals such as monkeys, lemurs, and birds. The gardens are also home to a number of historic buildings, including a mosque, a madrasa, and a number of palaces. The gardens are a great place to explore, and visitors can take in the sights and sounds of Morocco. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the gardens, which will provide an even greater insight into the history of the area.

9. The famous Bab Bou Jeloud:

It is a historic gate located in the old medina of Fez, Morocco. It is considered the main entrance to the old city and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city. The gate was originally constructed in the 10th century, although its current form dates back to 1913. It is made of intricately carved sandstone, and features a distinctive blue-green tiled roof. The gate is decorated with religious inscriptions, Arabic calligraphy and geometric designs. The Bab Bou Jeloud is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and is often used as a gathering place for festivals and celebrations. It is surrounded by markets and other attractions, making it a great place to explore the city. The Bab Bou Jeloud is a symbol of Moroccan culture and history and it is an important landmark of Fez. It is a reminder of the city’s rich history and culture and its importance in the region.

10. Chouara Tannery

Chouara Tannery (or Dar Dabagh) is a centuries-old tannery located in Fez, Morocco. The tannery is one of the oldest tanneries in the world and has been in continuous operation since the 11th century. It is renowned for the traditional techniques used to produce high quality leather goods. The tannery is made up of several interconnected basins of shallow pools that are filled with a variety of natural dyes, most notably cow urine, pigeon droppings, and olive oil. The hides are soaked in these liquids for several days before being treated and dyed. The tannery is divided into several sections, each for a different type of hide or leather. For example, there is a section dedicated to sheepskins and another for goat hides. The Chouara Tannery is a popular tourist attraction and it is a great place to purchase authentic leather goods. The tannery has been the source of much of Morocco’s leather production for centuries and is a testament to the nation’s commitment to traditional practices. Visitors to the tannery often have to wear special masks to protect themselves from the odors that arise from the tanning process. The smell of the tannery is said to be an acquired taste and many visitors leave with a greater appreciation of Morocco’s traditional leather-making practices.

11. Zawiya de Moulay Idriss II (Moulay Idriss Tomb) 

Zawiya de Moulay Idriss II is a religious and cultural site located in the city of Fez, Morocco. It is named after the second ruler of Morocco, Moulay Idriss II, and is dedicated to his memory. The site is a traditional Sufi center of learning, where students come to study the works of Moulay Idriss II and other Islamic authors. The Zawiya was constructed in the 10th century and has remained largely unchanged since then. It is a large rectangular building with a central courtyard surrounded by an arcade of arches. Inside the building there are numerous rooms, all of which are decorated with intricate Islamic geometric designs. At the center of the Zawiya is the tomb of Moulay Idriss II, which is considered to be one of the most important religious sites in Morocco. The tomb is made of cedarwood and is surrounded by a beautiful marble mausoleum. It is said that anyone who visits the tomb will be cured of any ailments they may have. The Zawiya de Moulay Idriss II is a sacred site for Muslims, as well as a popular tourist destination. It is a place of peace and contemplation.

12. Al-Attarine Madrasa

Al-Attarine Madrasa is an impressive and well-preserved madrasa, or Islamic school, in Fez, Morocco. It was built in 1325 by the Marinid Sultan Abou Saïd Uthman II. It is one of the largest and most impressive madrasas in Morocco and is considered one of the finest examples of Marinid architecture in the region. The madrasa is a two-story building with a large central courtyard and a facade of carved marble and stucco. Inside, the building is decorated with intricate stucco, wood carvings, and colorful geometric patterns. The madrasa’s interior is arranged in a symmetrical pattern of classrooms, lecture halls, and cells for students. The central courtyard is open to the sky and contains a fountain, which was used to perform ablutions before prayer. The madrasa was built to serve as an educational and religious center, and it was attended by students from all over the region. Students were taught Islamic theology, law, and philosophy, as well as other disciplines such as astronomy, mathematics, and medicine. Today, Al-Attarine Madrasa is a popular tourist attraction in Morocco, and it has been preserved and restored to its original condition. It is open to visitors and offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s rich Islamic history.

13. University of al-Qarawiyyin

The University of al-Qarawiyyin is a university located in Fes, Morocco. It is the oldest existing, continually operating educational institution in the world. Founded in 859 CE by Fatima al-Fihri, a Muslim woman of means, the university has been a center of learning and scholarship for over 1,000 years. The university has been home to some of the most influential scholars in North Africa, including Ibn Khaldun, a prominent Arab historian and philosopher, and Ibn Rushd, a famous Andalusian philosopher. Today, the University of al-Qarawiyyin is a recognized institution of higher learning, offering a range of degree programs in a variety of disciplines, including Islamic studies, Arabic language, and philosophy. In addition to its academic programs, the university also serves as an important cultural center in the city. It hosts a variety of events, including conferences, lectures, art exhibitions, and festivals. The university also has an extensive library, with more than 400,000 volumes, making it one of the largest libraries in the world. The University of al-Qarawiyyin is a symbol of Morocco’s long and rich history of scholarship and learning. It is a testament to the resilience of the Moroccan people and their commitment to preserving the best of their culture.

FAQ about the guided tour in Fes

How many days in Fes is enough?

It really depends on your interests and how much time you have available. If you are looking for a comprehensive tour of the city, two to three days would be enough to experience the major attractions. However, if you would like to take your time and explore the city in more depth, four to five days would be more appropriate.

Is Fez worth visiting?

Yes, Fes is definitely worth visiting! It is often considered one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco, and its rich cultural heritage makes it an unforgettable experience. The old medina is a maze of narrow alleyways, markets, and ancient monuments, and its lively atmosphere is full of energy. There are also lots of activities to experience, from food tours to cooking classes, camel rides to quad biking. No matter what your interests are, Fes has something to offer.

What is special about Fez Morocco?

Fes is known for its vibrant culture, diverse architecture, and extensive history. It is the oldest of Morocco‘s four imperial cities, and its old medina is the largest car–free urban area in the world. The city also has a unique blend of Islamic, Berber, and Andalusian influences, which can be seen in its many mosques, palaces, and madrasas. Additionally, Fes is home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Al–Karaouine, and is a major center for leather tanning and pottery.

Why go to Fez?

Fes is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the culture and traditions of Morocco. It is a city full of life, with a unique mix of architecture, history, and culture. You can explore the ancient medina, discover the markets, visit the mosques and palaces, and learn about ancient crafts. Additionally, it is a great location for outdoor activities like camel riding and quad biking. No matter what you‘re looking for, Fez has something to offer.

Is Fez the oldest city in the world?

No, Fes is not the oldest city in the world. It is, however, the oldest of the four imperial cities of Morocco and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its old medina dates back to the 9th century and is the largest car–free urban area in the world. The city is also home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Al–Karaouine.

Is there a train from Fes to Marrakech?

Yes, there is a train from Fes to Marrakech. The train journey takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, with several stops along the way. The train is a comfortable and convenient way to travel between the two cities, and tickets can be booked online or at the station.

where to stay in Fes?

Fes has many accommodation options to choose from. There are plenty of hotels ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious. Riad Fes, Palais Amani, and Riad Les Arcades du Merenid are some of the most popular options. For a unique experience, you can stay in one of the many traditional guesthouses or riads in the old city. Additionally, we will help you choose the suitable stay for you. 

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