Best Things To Do In Fes
Are you planning a trip to Fes and wondering what activities you should add to your itinerary? Look no further! Fes is one of the most culturally rich cities in Morocco, with a history dating back to the 9th century.
From exploring the winding streets of the Medina to sampling local delicacies at the food market, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
First on your list should be exploring the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This labyrinth-like area is home to some of the oldest and most well-preserved architecture in the city. You can spend hours wandering through the narrow streets, admiring the intricate tile work and vibrant colors of the buildings. And don’t forget to haggle with the local vendors for souvenirs and unique finds!
Read on to discover more of the best things to with Moroccan Desert Tours.
Exploring the Medina: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
As you wander through the Medina, you’ll be transported to a world of intricate architecture and bustling markets. The old city of Fes is home to one of the largest and best-preserved medieval settlements in the world.
The narrow, winding streets of the Medina are lined with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to pottery and jewelry. You’ll see donkeys carrying goods, locals going about their daily business, and street vendors calling out to passersby.
Make sure to take your time exploring the Medina, as there is so much to see and discover. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning Islamic school with intricate carvings and mosaics.
Admire the beautiful architecture of the Al-Attarine Madrasa, a former Koranic school. And don’t forget to stop by the tanneries, where leather is still produced using traditional methods.
Exploring the Medina is a must-do activity in Fes, and it will give you a true taste of Moroccan culture and history.
Visiting the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque: The Oldest University in the World
Located in the heart of the ancient city, the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque stands as the oldest university in the world. Founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, this mosque has a rich history and is known for its exceptional architecture and design.
The mosque has undergone several renovations throughout the years, with the last one completed in 2016. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the mosque’s interior, including beautiful tile work and carved wooden panels.
The mosque also houses a library which is home to some of the world’s oldest manuscripts, making it a significant historical and cultural site. Visiting the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque should be at the top of your list if you want to experience the rich history and culture of Fes. The mosque is open to visitors of all faiths and is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city of Fes.
Soaking up the Atmosphere at Bou Inania Madrasa
Immersing yourself in the cultural ambiance of Fes can be achieved by visiting Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning Islamic school with intricate architecture and design.
As you walk through the entrance, you’ll awed by the intricate details of the tiles and carvings on the walls and ceilings. The colorful mosaics and calligraphy that adorn the halls are simply breathtaking.
Once inside the school, you can take a moment to admire the central courtyard, which surrounded by a series of rooms that once used as classrooms. The intricate patterns and designs that line the walls are a testament to the skill of the artisans who built them.
As you explore further, you’ll discover a series of prayer rooms and a beautiful minaret that offers stunning views of the surrounding city.
Bou Inania Madrasa is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Islamic art and architecture.
Discovering the Beauty of the Bou Jeloud Gardens
You’ll be captivated by the stunning gardens of Bou Jeloud, where you can wander through lush foliage and enjoy the peaceful sounds of flowing water. This enchanting garden is situat in the heart of the city and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
The garden is split into two sections, the upper and lower gardens. The lower garden is the more popular of the two and is home to an array of beautiful plants and trees, including orange, lemon, and fig trees. As you wander through the garden, you’ll notice the intricate details of the gorgeous blue and white tiles that line the walls and fountains.
The garden is also home to a number of small ponds that filled with fish and turtles, adding to the serene atmosphere. You can spend hours exploring the garden and taking in the beauty of this oasis in the heart of Fes. Make sure to bring a camera, as there are countless photo opportunities throughout the garden.
Getting Lost in the Chouara Tannery
If you’re brave enough to wander through the narrow and winding alleys of the medina, you may stumble upon the Chouara Tannery. Also, This ancient leather tannery has been in operation for centuries and is a fascinating sight to behold. Explore Fes with a local travel agency Morocco Sahara Trips.
As you approach the tannery, the pungent smell of animal hides being processed hits you, but don’t let that deter you from exploring this unique attraction. Once inside, you’ll see rows of large stone vats filled with colorful dyes, and workers hard at work soaking and stretching the hides.
You can even climb up to the rooftop for a bird’s-eye view of the entire tannery. It’s worth noting that the tannery can a bit overwhelming for some visitors, so it’s recommend to hire a guide to navigate through the maze of alleys and provide some historical context.
But for those who are up for the adventure, the Chouara Tannery is an unforgettable experience.
Learning about Islamic Art at Dar Batha Museum
Now that you’ve explored the fascinating Chouara Tannery, it’s time to immerse yourself in the world of Islamic art at the Dar Batha Museum.
This stunning museum, located in a 19th-century palace, showcases a wide range of traditional Moroccan art and artifacts, including ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and woodwork.
As you wander through the beautifully restored rooms; you’ll learn about the rich history and cultural significance of Islamic art in Morocco.
The intricate designs and patterns found in these works are truly breathtaking; and you’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the skill and artistry involved in creating them.
Don’t miss the stunning courtyard, filled with fragrant orange trees and a bubbling fountain; – it’s the perfect place to take a moment to reflect on the beauty of the art you’ve just seen.
Enjoying the View from the Merenid Tombs
While exploring Fes, don’t miss the breathtaking view from the Merenid Tombs; where you can take in the stunning panoramic vista of the city and surrounding landscape. This site is located on a hill just outside the city walls; and it offers one of the best vantage points to appreciate the unique urban layout of Fes.
From here, you can see the maze-like medina, the green hills of the Atlas Mountains; and the vast plain that stretches beyond the horizon.
The Merenid Tombs themselves are worth a visit, as they’re a testimony to the glory of the Merenid dynasty that ruled over Fes in the 13th and 14th centuries. Although the tombs are in ruins, their grandeur and historical significance are still evident.
You can walk among the crumbling walls and arches; imagining the splendor of the past and the stories of the people who built and used this place. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler; the Merenid Tombs are a must-see attraction in Fes.
Sampling Local Delicacies at the Fes Food Market
You can’t visit Fes without indulging in the local cuisine, and the food market is the perfect place to start.
The Fes Food Market is a bustling hub of activity, with vendors offering a vast array of local delicacies.
From savory meats and seafood to sweet pastries and desserts, the market is a food lover’s paradise.
One must-try dish is the traditional tagine, a slow-cooked stew of meat or vegetables with aromatic spices.
Another popular option is the b’stilla, a pastry filled with shredded chicken, almonds; and spices, topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
Don’t forget to wash it all down with some refreshing mint tea or freshly squeezed orange juice.
With so much to choose from, the Fes Food Market is sure to satisfy all your cravings; and introduce you to the unique flavors of Moroccan cuisine.
Admiring the Stunning Architecture of the Royal Palace
As you walk through the streets of Fes, take a moment to admire the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace. This grand structure is a true testament to the city’s rich history and culture.
From the intricate details of the ornate gates to the towering walls that surround the palace; every aspect of the construction is a work of art.
The Royal Palace is not open to the public, but simply gazing upon its impressive façade is worth the visit. As you stand before the palace, you’ll feel transported to a different time and place.
The grandeur of the structure is truly awe-inspiring and a must-see for anyone visiting Fes.
Experiencing the Magic of Fes’ Music and Dance Scene
Now that you’ve had your fill of the stunning architecture at the Royal Palace; it’s time to immerse yourself in the vibrant music and dance scene that Fes has to offer.
From traditional Moroccan music to modern fusion beats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One of the best ways to experience Fes’ music scene is by attending a live performance at one of the city’s many venues. The music is often accompanied by traditional dance, adding an extra layer of excitement to the experience. You can even take part in a dance workshop to learn the moves yourself!
And if you’re lucky, you might catch a performance by the legendary Hoba Hoba Spirit; a popular Moroccan band known for their eclectic sound and energetic live shows.
So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the beat of Fes!
Conclusion
You’ve just learned about the best things to do in Fes, Morocco.
From exploring the ancient Medina to visiting the oldest university in the world; there’s no shortage of cultural and historical experiences to had.
Don’t forget to soak up the atmosphere at Bou Inania Madrasa and discover the beauty of the Bou Jeloud Gardens.
If you’re feeling adventurous, get lost in the Chouara Tannery or admire the stunning architecture of the Royal Palace.
And for foodies, don’t miss out on sampling the local delicacies at the Fes Food Market.
To top it all off, experience the magic of Fes’ music and dance scene.
With so much to see and do, Book a tour of Fes with Morocco Desert Tours destination for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture.
