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The medina of Fes, Fes el-Bali, is Morocco's oldest walled city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, with thousands of narrow, car-free lanes. Its highlights include the blue gate of Bab Boujloud, the Al Quaraouiyine mosque and university founded in 859, the Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas, the Chouara tannery and the artisan souks. A licensed guide is recommended for a first visit.
Fes is widely considered Morocco's cultural and spiritual heart. Founded over 1,200 years ago, it remains one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Arab world, and its medina, Fes el Bali, is recognized by UNESCO as the largest car-free urban area on the planet.
Walking through its 9,000-plus narrow alleyways feels like stepping back in time, with donkeys still used to transport goods where no vehicle can pass.
Planning your trip? Explore our Luxury Fes Tours.
Have an extra half-day in Fes? It's well worth the short trip to Meknes, Morocco's overlooked imperial city, and the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis.
The Chouara Tannery is one of the oldest in the world and one of Fes's most iconic sights. From surrounding terraces, visitors look down on rows of stone vats filled with dye in vivid shades of red, yellow, and blue, where leather has been treated using traditional methods for centuries.
Many terrace viewpoints hand out sprigs of fresh mint to offset the strong smell of the tanning process — a small but memorable local tradition.
Founded in 859 AD, the University of Al Quaraouiyine is recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records as the oldest existing degree-granting university in the world. Its adjoining mosque remains an active center of worship and learning to this day, and its ornate courtyard can be glimpsed through the main entrance.
Fes is renowned for its artisan traditions, from hand-hammered brass and copper to intricate zellige tilework and leather goods. The medina's souks are organized by trade, so wandering from the metalworkers' quarter to the dyers' quarter reveals a different craft — and a different scent — around every corner.
Bab Boujloud, known as the Blue Gate, is the grand horseshoe-arched entrance to the old medina, decorated with elaborate blue and green zellige tilework. It marks the beginning of Talaa Kebira, the medina's main artery, lined with food stalls, spice shops, and small workshops.
Fes rewards travelers who want to go beyond Morocco's postcard images and experience a city where centuries-old traditions are still part of daily life. A guided visit is highly recommended given the medina's maze-like layout — a knowledgeable local guide turns a potentially overwhelming walk into a fascinating journey through history.
Plan at least one full day. A 4-hour guided walking tour covers the main highlights, and a second day lets you explore the souks and workshops at a slower pace.
It is strongly recommended for a first visit. The medina is a maze of narrow lanes where it is easy to get lost, and an official guide helps you see the main sites and avoid unofficial guides.
Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but you can look inside from the doorways. The nearby Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas are open to visitors and show the finest Merinid craftsmanship.
In the morning, when the dyeing pits are most active and the light is best for photos. The tannery is viewed from the terraces of the surrounding leather shops.
The medina is generally safe for visitors. Use normal precautions, keep valuables close in crowded lanes, and politely decline offers from unofficial guides.
Let our local experts guide you through the medina's hidden corners, workshops, and centuries of history.
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