Fes in Morocco: Home to the world's oldest university, a maze-like medieval medina, and bustling souks

Fes: Wander Through The City of a Thousand Minarets

Fes, one of Morocco’s oldest and most iconic cities, is often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Minarets" because of its numerous mosques and religious schools (madrasas). It is a center of Islamic culture, history, and spirituality. Fes is also home to the world’s oldest continuously operating university, the University of Al Quaraouiyine, and its ancient medina, Fes el-Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visitor Fee (If Applicable)

Entry to Fes itself is free, but many individual sites within the city have entry fees:

Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University: Generally, only Muslims can enter the mosque, but views from the exterior are stunning.
Bou Inania Madrasa: ~20 MAD to enter this beautiful madrasa (Islamic school).
Chouara Tannery: Free to view, though tipping may be expected if a guide shows you around.
Dar Batha Museum: ~10-20 MAD for entry.
Merenid Tombs: Free to visit.

Transportation

Airport: Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ), located about 15 km from the city center.
Taxis: Petit taxis are commonly used for short trips (usually 10-30 MAD depending on distance), while grand taxis can take you to nearby cities or the airport.
Walking: The Fes medina is largely pedestrian, so much of the city is best explored on foot.
Buses: Local buses are available, but the medina is not car-friendly.
Horse-drawn carriages: Sometimes used for a more traditional experience in touring the medina.
Car rentals: Available for day trips outside the city.

Things to Do

Fes el-Bali (Old Medina): The medina is one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. It’s a maze of narrow streets, lined with traditional shops, mosques, and historic buildings. Walking through the medina offers a glimpse into medieval life, almost unchanged for centuries.
University of Al Quaraouiyine: Founded in 859 AD, this is the oldest university in the world. While non-Muslims can't enter the prayer halls, the complex is a marvel of Islamic architecture.
Bou Inania Madrasa: A 14th-century Islamic school, this madrasa is famous for its intricate woodwork, stunning tilework, and serene courtyard.
Chouara Tannery: One of the oldest tanneries in the world, where traditional leather dyeing techniques are still used. The sight of colorful dye vats and workers in action is one of Fes’ most iconic images.
Dar Batha Museum: Housed in a former palace, this museum showcases a collection of Moroccan arts and crafts, including ceramics, wood carvings, and textiles.
Merenid Tombs: Perched on a hill outside the medina, these ruined tombs offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Royal Palace (Dar el Makhzen): Though not open to the public, the palace’s impressive golden doors are a popular photo spot.

Fes, Morocco: Historic city famous for its well-preserved medieval medina, tanneries, and Al Quaraouiyine University

Why People Enjoy Fes

Fes offers visitors an authentic experience of Morocco’s deep cultural and spiritual roots. The city’s medina is considered one of the most well-preserved in the Arab world, making it a living museum where history is part of daily life. Visitors are drawn to the city for its timeless atmosphere, rich history, beautiful mosques, and traditional craftsmanship. Fes is a quieter and more spiritual destination compared to bustling cities like Marrakech, making it an ideal place to explore Moroccan heritage.

How Old is Fes?

Fes was founded in 789 AD by Idris I and is over 1,200 years old, making it one of the oldest cities in Morocco. It has been an important center of Islamic learning and culture since its founding.

List of Activities

Exploring the Medina: Wander through Fes el-Bali's narrow streets, visiting markets, mosques, and artisan workshops.
Visit the Tanneries: Experience the traditional process of leather-making at the Chouara Tannery.
Take a guided historical tour: Discover Fes’ landmarks and learn about the city’s history and religious significance.
Shop in the Souks: Buy traditional Moroccan goods like pottery, leather, textiles, and spices.
Experience a Hammam: Visit a local hammam (bathhouse) for a traditional Moroccan steam bath and massage.
Visit the Madrasas: Marvel at the intricate tilework and carvings in the Bou Inania and Al-Attarine madrasas.
Enjoy local cuisine: Dine on Moroccan specialties such as pastilla (a savory-sweet pie), tagine, and harira soup.

Additional Nearby Attractions

Volubilis: An ancient Roman city located about an hour and a half from Fes, offering fascinating ruins and mosaics.
Moulay Idriss: A sacred town close to Volubilis, revered as the resting place of Idris I, the founder of Fes.
Ifrane: Known as “Little Switzerland” due to its alpine-style architecture, Ifrane is a peaceful town about an hour south of Fes, surrounded by cedar forests.
Sefrou: A small town known for its annual cherry festival, located about 30 km south of Fes.

Fes offers a deeply authentic Moroccan experience, full of history, culture, and craftsmanship. Its timeless medina, centuries-old monuments, and religious significance make it a destination loved by those seeking immersion in traditional Moroccan life.