What to Do in Fez, Morocco: My Experience Exploring the Medina and Beyond

Posted on May 10, 2025 | Julie J. |

Fez was one of the cities I was most curious about before my trip to Morocco, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. After the sensory overload of Marrakesh, Fez felt more raw, more intense, and more rooted in tradition.

Wandering through the ancient medina—one of the oldest and largest in the world—felt like stepping into a living museum. It’s not curated or polished; it’s chaotic, beautiful, and utterly real. It’s also a place that rewards patience and curiosity. The best experiences came from getting a little lost, finding tucked-away corners, and embracing the unexpected.

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About Fez

Fez (or Fès) is Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital, home to some of the country’s most important religious institutions and the oldest continuously operating university in the world—Al-Qarawiyyin. The city’s UNESCO-listed medina, Fes el-Bali, dates back to the 9th century and remains a maze of narrow alleys, souks, and historic sites.

Unlike Marrakesh or Casablanca, Fez feels less touristy and more lived-in, offering a deeper look at traditional Moroccan life. It’s not always easy to navigate, but that’s part of its charm.

How to Get to Fez

Fez is well connected by train, bus, and air. I arrived by night bus from Merzouga, which was long but straightforward with a company like Supratours, and headed to Chefchaouen next by bus.

If you’re coming from Marrakesh or Casablanca, the train is a comfortable and scenic option—just make sure to book first class for the extra space. Fez also has its own international airport (Fès–Saïs), with flights from Europe and other Moroccan cities. A taxi from the airport to the medina takes about 30 minutes.

Things to Do in Fez

Fez can feel like a maze at first, but once you surrender to the rhythm of the medina, it becomes one of the most rewarding places to explore in Morocco. Here’s what I loved (and what I think shouldn’t be missed):

Get Lost in Fes el-Bali
The UNESCO-listed old medina is the heart of Fez. It’s chaotic, colorful, and incredibly atmospheric. Don’t worry about getting lost—it’s part of the experience. Let your curiosity guide you through its narrow alleys lined with centuries-old architecture, spice shops, and artisan stalls.
There, don’t miss passing by the Place Nejjarine, Dar al-Magana (Water Clock), Bab Makina Plaza, and Place Seffarine.

Visit Al-Qarawiyyin University and Mosque
You can’t enter the mosque unless you’re Muslim, but the view from one of the nearby rooftops (ask a local shopkeeper nicely) gives you a glimpse into what’s considered the world’s oldest existing university.

Admire the Chouara Tannery
Yes, the smell is strong (they’ll hand you mint at the door), but the view over the dyeing pits is worth it. It’s fascinating to see centuries-old leather-making techniques still in use.

Tour a Traditional Madrasa
I visited Bou Inania Madrasa, and it was one of my favorite spots. The intricate tilework, carved wood, and peaceful courtyard offer a calm break from the medina’s intensity. Al Attarine Madrasa is also worth checking out.

Shop the Souks (But Don’t Rush It)
Fez is known for its traditional crafts—ceramics, metalwork, leather, and textiles. Prices are usually better than in Marrakesh, but haggling is part of the game. Take your time and don’t be afraid to walk away.

Check Out the Royal Palace Gates (Dar el-Makhzen)
You can’t go inside, but the massive golden doors and detailed mosaics are beautiful and make for a great photo stop.

Escape to Jnan Sbil Garden
When the medina gets overwhelming, this public garden is the perfect escape—shady paths, fountains, and a more local, relaxed vibe.

Visit the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
Set in a beautifully restored funduq (caravanserai), this museum is worth a visit not just for its collection but also for the building itself and the rooftop views.

Take a Day Trip to Meknes & Volubilis
If you have an extra day in Fez, consider a day trip to nearby Meknes and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. Meknes, once an imperial city, offers a quieter, less touristy medina and impressive sites like Bab Mansour and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.
From there, it’s just a short bus ride to Volubilis, where you can wander through remarkably well-preserved mosaics and crumbling columns that tell the story of Morocco’s Roman past.
You can visit independently via public transport, rent a car for the day, or book a private tour.

Climb to the Marinid Tombs
For one of the best panoramic views over Fez, head up to the ruins of the Marinid Tombs, just outside the medina walls. It’s a bit of a walk uphill, but the sweeping vista of the old city—especially at sunset—is absolutely worth it. It’s also a quiet spot to take a breather from the medina’s chaos.

Visit the Dar Batha Museum of Islamic Arts
Set in a 19th-century palace, this museum is a peaceful escape that showcases beautiful traditional Moroccan arts—carved wood, zellige tiles, embroidery, ceramics, and more. It’s small, but well-curated and gives great context to the craftsmanship you see around Fez.

Wander the El Glaoui Palace
This crumbling palace, once owned by the infamous Pasha of Marrakech, is part-museum, part-haunting relic. Some parts are in disrepair, but others showcase ornate zellige and carved cedar wood. It’s not the most polished attraction, but that rawness adds to the charm—and you’re likely to have it mostly to yourself.

Join a Fez Food Tour
Fez is known for its complex, rich flavors, and a guided food tour is the perfect way to discover local specialties you might not find on your own—think camel meat, dried fruits, stews, and sweet-savory pastries. It’s also a great way to navigate the medina with a local and get restaurant recommendations for later.

Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, Fès

Try a Pottery & Mosaic Workshop
Fez is a major hub for traditional Moroccan ceramics and mosaic work. Several ateliers offer half-day workshops where you can learn about the process—from shaping clay to chiseling zellige tiles—and even try it yourself. It’s hands-on, fun, and gives you a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind what you see in shops.

Go on a 3-Day Fez to Marrakesh Desert Tour
If Fez is the start of your Moroccan journey, I highly recommend taking one of the multi-day tours through the desert to reach Marrakesh. These usually include a night in a desert camp in Merzouga, camel rides at sunset, stops in Todra Gorge and Dades Valley, and a peek at Ait Ben Haddou before reaching Marrakesh. It’s one of the highlights of my trip—just be prepared for long driving days.

Take a Day Tour to Chefchaouen
If you didn’t stop in Chefchaouen before Fez, it’s possible to do a full-day trip there and back, though be prepared for a long drive. Tours often include hotel pickup and enough time to explore the medina and take photos in the famous blue alleyways. A good option if you’re short on time but want a taste of the north.

Merzouga desert camp — Desert camp near Merzouga

Chefchahouen — Desert camp near Merzouga

Where to Eat in Fez

Fez is a fantastic city for food lovers, especially if you’re curious about traditional Moroccan cuisine. Here are a few places I tried (and would happily return to), plus some local dishes you shouldn’t miss:

The Ruined Garden
Tucked away in the medina, this restaurant is a little oasis. The setting is atmospheric—think candlelight and crumbling walls covered in greenery—and the food is just as memorable. I had a slow-cooked lamb tagine with prunes that I’m still thinking about.

Dar Roumana
For something a little more refined, Dar Roumana blends Moroccan flavors with French technique. It’s pricier, but the setting—a beautifully restored riad—is worth the splurge. Definitely reserve ahead.

Café Clock
A popular expat hangout and great spot for a casual lunch or dinner. Try the camel burger if you’re feeling adventurous, or go for the mezze platter if you want to sample a bit of everything. They also offer cooking classes and live music some evenings.

Chez Rachid
This spot is near Bab Bou Jeloud (the Blue Gate) and great for a quick, affordable Moroccan meal. It’s not fancy, but the food is flavorful—try the harira soup and chicken brochettes.

Made in M
A cozy restaurant with fresh, modern takes on Moroccan dishes. Bonus: they do a really good mint tea.

Local Dishes to Try in Fez:

Bissara (a thick fava bean soup, often eaten for breakfast)
Pastilla (a sweet-and-savory pie traditionally made with pigeon or chicken and almonds)
Rfissa (shredded msemen bread soaked in a spiced lentil and chicken stew)
Khlea (preserved meat, often served with eggs for breakfast)

Where to Stay in Fez

Fez is all about atmosphere, and staying in a riad inside the medina really enhances the experience. Here are three great options:

Riad Laaroussa
A beautifully restored palace with traditional tilework, a peaceful courtyard, and a lovely rooftop terrace. The staff are incredibly helpful, and the on-site hammam is a bonus.

Dar Seffarine
A personal favorite—this historic riad feels like stepping back in time, but with plenty of comfort. The rooftop views over the medina at sunset are unforgettable.

Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux
If you’re looking to splurge, this is the spot. It’s luxurious without being stuffy, with elegant rooms, a pool, and one of the best restaurants in the city.

Travel Tips & Things to Know

Prepare to Get Lost in the Medina
The medina of Fez is a maze—literally. GPS often doesn’t work well, and signage is limited. Embrace getting lost, but if you’re on a tight schedule, consider hiring a local guide for a half-day.

Dress Modestly
Fez is one of Morocco’s more conservative cities. Lightweight but modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is recommended, especially for women.

Cash is King
Many places inside the medina (restaurants, shops, riads) accept only cash. ATMs can be hard to find, so withdraw money ahead of time.

Taxis Can Be Tricky
Petit taxis are abundant, but drivers often don’t use meters. Always agree on a price before hopping in, or ask your riad to arrange a ride.

Friday is the Holy Day
On Fridays, some restaurants and shops may be closed for prayers—especially around midday—so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Fez is a city that rewards curiosity and patience. It might feel chaotic at first, but once you lean into the rhythm of the medina, the layers of history, culture, and craftsmanship start to unfold. Whether you’re sipping mint tea on a rooftop, getting pleasantly lost in its alleyways, or watching artisans at work, Fez offers a kind of immersive travel experience that stays with you. I left with sore feet, a full camera roll, and a deep appreciation for this fascinating place.

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