Visit Fez, Morocco
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Periodically capital of Morocco, the city of Fez has always occupied a place at the spiritual and political heart of the country. Founded in the ninth century, many of the early settlers were Islamic refugees, fleeing neighboring Spain and Tunisia.
Those from Tunisia founded the Kairaouiyne Mosque at the heart of their quarter, which became one of the leading universities in the Islamic world, its theories were far in advance of those understood at the time in Europe.
Local architecture
Many of the medressahs, built to house its students, still stand today and display exquisite craftsmanship. The medina and souqs are probably the best in Morocco, truly labyrinthine, assaulting the senses with new sounds, exotic scents and an intense experience unlikely to be rivaled elsewhere.
Many compare Fez to Marrakesh before the tourists arrived: it is certainly the most Arab of Moroccan cities, and in that sense has greater appeal to the purist.
who's been there
Start planning your tailor-made trip to Fez by calling one of our Morocco specialists at 617-223-4750
Suggested itineraries featuring Fez
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Fez, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Imperial Cities & the Desert
Northern Morocco culture tour
Grand tour of Morocco
Full tour of Morocco
Map of Fez
Places & hotels on the map
Places near Fez
- Meknes & Volubilis 59 kilometers away
- Chefchaouen 127 kilometers away
- Rabat 173 kilometers away
- Asilah 185 kilometers away
- Tangier 207 kilometers away
- Casablanca 250 kilometers away
- The Dades Valley 314 kilometers away
- The Erg Chebbi 337 kilometers away
- Skoura 365 kilometers away
- Oued Mellah 382 kilometers away
- The Southern Oases Valleys 388 kilometers away
- Marrakesh 391 kilometers away
- Ourzazate 395 kilometers away
- Ourika Valley 406 kilometers away
- Zagora 423 kilometers away
- The Atlas Mountains 428 kilometers away
Photos of Fez
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![The tanneries, Fez, Morocco]()
The tanneries, Fez, Morocco -
![Traditional Moroccan tile-work]()
Traditional Moroccan tile-work -
![Traditional Moroccan lamp]()
Traditional Moroccan lamp -
![Traditional Moroccan tile work]()
Traditional Moroccan tile work -
![Two workers at the tannery converse after putting goatskin hides in limestone baths.]()
Two workers at the tannery converse after putting goatskin hides in limestone baths. -
![A little girl gazes down the cobbled streets of the ancient medina in Fez.]()
A little girl gazes down the cobbled streets of the ancient medina in Fez. -
![Traditional mosaics at a fountain in Fez]()
Traditional mosaics at a fountain in Fez -
![Metal craftsman at work]()
Metal craftsman at work
Accommodation choices for Fez
We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Fez. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
Ryad Mabrouka
Situated just a five minute walk from the hustle and bustle of Fez's main souq street, Talaa Kbira, Ryad Mabrouka is a remarkably pretty property, boasting traditional Moroccan decor with a definite Andalusian influence, as well as a beautiful courtyard and garden area.
Riad Fes
Located in one of Fez's narrow alleys, the rooms and suites at Riad Fes are appointed with turn-of-the-century period pieces that evoke the grand living of rich Fassi merchants.
Riad Maison Bleue
The Riad Bleue has a beautiful courtyard, a roof terrace, and its rooms are decorated in traditional Fassis style with richly colored textiles, intricate tile designs and cedar wood furniture.
Palais Amani
Situated within the walls of the medina, Palais Amani is a large riad with beautiful mosaic work and lots of outdoor open spaces.
La Maison Bleue
La Maison Bleue is an authentic Moorish residence in the center of the ancient city, and is also one of the most popular restaurants in Fez.
Ryad Salama
The Ryad Salama is hidden in a great location in the back streets of Fez's medina. Its rooms feature a balcony or patio with a view over the garden, traditional Moroccan décor and a private bathroom.
Ideas for experiencing Fez
Our specialists seek out authentic ways to get to know the places that could feature in your trip. These activities reflect some of the experiences they've most enjoyed while visiting Fez, and which use the best local guides.
Fez City Tour
A guided tour of Fez is an absolute must. More so than any city, there is a real danger of getting lost in the medina if not orientated, and also of missing some of the key sights of the city.
Cooking Lesson with a Local Family
Create your own tasty tagine dish and bake Moroccan bread at a traditional family home in Fez. Then sit down with the family to enjoy your culinary creation.
Fez Tasting Trail
Take a culinary tour with your own personal guide who will help you to discover and taste the various delicacies of Fez.