Fes is the most underrated city in Morocco when it comes to tourism. Although, you won’t find any breathing space while walking through the lanes of the medina. I still feel that it lacks the popularity it deserves.
On my fourth day in Morocco, I came home from Tangier with a headache that soon turned into sour throat and fever. Fes was what I had planned for the next day that I almost cancelled. However, thanks to the flexible ticketing system of ONCF Morocco, I was able to change the timing of my pre-booked tickets without any additional cost. It also gave me some extra time to rest. I am grateful that I didn’t skip my trip to Fes because it turned out to be my favourite amongst all the cities.
A little bit about Fes
The cultural capital of Morocco is a beautiful amalgamation of art, history and architecture. The city offers one of the finest collections of leather goods, ceramic pottery and all other kinds of handicraft. It is the second-largest city and one of the oldest imperial cities of Morocco that served thrice as its capital. The city has three sections Fes el-Bali, Fes el-Jdid and Ville Nouvelle. Fes el-Bali (Old City) is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is also the world’s largest car-free zone. Fes el-Jdid, on the other hand, is the new city that holds the Royal citadel. Ville Nouvelle is a French colonised area that attracts plenty of tourists because of its modern urban vibes.
How to reach Fes?
Moroccan Railways is the fastest mode to reach Fes. The ticket cost may vary between 100-190 MAD. Alternatively, you can also take the CTM bus. However, the travel time is higher.
Here’s a list of 10 best things that you can do in Fes to make the most of your trip.
Bab Bou Jeloud
As you reach the gated city Fes el-Bali, a stunning blue gate greets you with its grace. Bab Bou Jeloud, known as the Blue Gate, is an embellished city gate that is also the main entrance to the old city, Fes el-Bali. The gate leads you to the main Souk of Fes, Tala’a Kebira that is also one of the longest streets within the Fes el-Bali. Start your journey from this gate to explore the best parts of the old city.
Medersa Bou Inania
The next is Fes’s most architecturally astonishing theological college. The sultan of Merinid dynasty Abu Inan Faris constructed this Medersa that consisted of a study area, a mosque along with an ablution area and student quarters. Make sure to avoid visiting during the prayer hour, as they don’t allow tourists to enter the campus.
Ticket: 20 MAD per person
Tala’a Kebira
Tala’a Kebira also known as Talaa street, is one of the main shopping streets in Fes el-Bali. A shoppers paradise, this is where you find the best leather goods, ceramic pottery, Berber jewellery and handicraft. I did all my souvenir shopping from here, from wall plates to earthenware to tiny showpieces. The designs were exclusive, and the cost was lower than the rest of the cities. Moreover, if you buy them in bulk, you also get a good discount.
Funduq al-Najjariyyin and Nejjarine Square
Funduq al-Najjariyyin is a famous museum of Fes located in the heart of the medina, also known as the Nejjarine Square. It is also home to the iconic Nejjarine fountain, a favourite spot amongst the Instagrammers. The museum is a three-storeyed storage building that takes its inspiration from a traditional Moroccan riad architecture. Each floor with a good collection of art and artefacts. Head to this museum to know all about the history and culture of the city.
Ticket: 20 MAD per person
Zaouia of Moulay Idriss II
Moulay Idriss II Mausoleum is an Islamic religious school and one of the holiest places in Morocco. The building contains the tomb of Idriss II, the founder of the Fes city. You would come across the north side of the mausoleum as you walk towards the tannery from Nejjrine Square. Make a quick stop to admire the architectural beauty of the place before heading to your next destination.
Tanneries Chouara
Chouara Tannery is one of the main attractions in Fes el-Bali. It is also the largest tannery in the city. It is a bit difficult to locate the tannery thanks to the maze-like lanes of the medina. However, you can follow the arrows marked on the walls of Talaa street to reach here swiftly. A staircase through the leather store takes you to the point from where you can see the entire tannery. The owner offers a bunch of mint leaves as you enter the tannery to help you bear the stink. Nevertheless, the stunning view is worth seeing.
Al Qarawiyyin University
According to the UNESCO, Al Qarawiyyin University (University of Karueein) is the oldest operational university in the world. Founded by Fatima al-Fihri, daughter of a wealthy merchant who migrated from Tunisia to Fes in the early 9th century. The architecture is similar to Medersa Bou Inania with a large prayer hall, student quarters, a fountain at the centre and study area. However, the unique mosaic floor and ornate walls will amaze you.
Copper Square
Copper Square is an open market place filled with coppersmiths who love to share their art with the tourists. You can buy copper utensils and beautiful decorative pieces from here at a minimal cost. Being a street photography lover, I adored this place as I got some fabulous shots.
Souk El Henna
As the name suggests, the little market amidst the most picturesque square of Fes el-Bali is famous for henna. The ancient fig tree in the middle of the market is the perfect landmark to spot this place. Apart from henna, this market is also famous for spices. A great place to shop for Moroccan spices that you can take back home.
Masjid al-Andalusiyyin
Also known as the Andalusian Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in the world. The architecture is similar to the Qarawiyyin mosque. The two-storeyed mosque is a brilliant display of Moorish architecture, with ornate walls and mosaic flooring.
I took a half-day tour to Fes, as I was not well. However, I would recommend you to take a full-day tour and explore Fes el-Jadid and Ville Nouvelle as well. Moreover, you can also try the local delicacies from the vendors or cafes at Fes el-Bali. Also, don’t forget to get clicked at the rainbow street, a hidden gem of Fes el-Bali. Your Insta feed will surely be jazzed up by its vibe.
You can contact me or comment below if you have any questions or need help with planning your trip.
6 Comments
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