Things to Do in Fes

The most iconic sight in Fes. Stone vessels filled with natural dyes — saffron yellow, indigo blue, poppy red, mint green — where leather has been processed using identical methods since the 11th century. Workers stand waist-deep in the vats, treading hides in a scene unchanged for a millennium. The rooftop terraces of surrounding leather shops offer the classic aerial view.

Insider tip: Accept the sprig of mint — the smell is intense. Best viewed from the leather shops above in morning light

The only religious building in Fes open to non-Muslims, this 14th-century theological school represents the pinnacle of Marinid architecture. Every surface is decorated: carved cedar wood, sculpted stucco, zellige mosaic tiles, marble floors, and a muqarnas (honeycomb) ceiling. The water clock on the exterior wall is a surviving medieval engineering marvel.

Insider tip: Visit at midday when sunlight illuminates the carved stucco through the courtyard

Founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, recognized by UNESCO and Guinness as the world's oldest continually operating degree-granting university. The campus served as a model for European university systems. Non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, but the library (restored in 2016) offers limited public access. The exterior courtyard is visible through the main doorway.

Insider tip: The library has been partially opened to visitors — check current access at your riad

The largest car-free urban area in the world, home to 150,000 people in a labyrinth of 9,400+ lanes and alleys. Donkeys carry goods, craftsmen work in doorways, and the call to prayer echoes from 350 mosques. Getting lost is part of the experience, but getting found again requires a guide or helpful local.

Insider tip: Wear comfortable shoes — you will walk 8-12km on uneven surfaces. Bring water.

A working cooperative where Fassi artisans create the famous blue-and-white Fes ceramics using techniques unchanged for centuries. Watch potters throw clay, painters apply intricate geometric patterns freehand, and kilns fire the finished pieces. Each tile in a zellige mosaic is hand-cut from larger pieces — an extraordinarily painstaking craft.

Insider tip: Watch the entire process from clay to finished product. Prices are fixed and fair — no bargaining needed

Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century funduq (caravanserai), this museum showcases Moroccan woodworking from carved cedar doors to painted furniture. The building itself — with its central courtyard, carved balconies, and zellige fountain — is as impressive as the exhibits. The rooftop cafe offers panoramic medina views.

Insider tip: The rooftop terrace has one of the best views in the medina

The massive brass doors of the Royal Palace are among the most photographed in Morocco. Seven ornate doors, each representing one of the historic gates of Fes, feature intricate metalwork and zellige tilework. The palace grounds cover 80 hectares but are closed to the public. The exterior gates alone are worth the visit.

Insider tip: The brass doors are most photogenic in morning light. The palace is not open to visitors.

Established in the 15th century, the Fes Mellah was one of Morocco's largest Jewish quarters. At its peak, 250,000 Jews lived in Fes, contributing to its intellectual and commercial life. The Aben Danan Synagogue (17th century) and the vast Jewish cemetery remain. The area's distinct architecture — with window balconies facing the street, unlike the inward-facing Muslim medina — tells a story of community and coexistence.

Insider tip: Visit the Aben Danan Synagogue (10 MAD) and the hauntingly overgrown Jewish cemetery

Learn to prepare Fassi specialties: pastilla (the sweet-savory pie that originated here), rfissa, preserved lemons, and complex spice blends. Most classes begin with a guided market tour through the spice souks and vegetable markets. Fes cooking is more refined and labor-intensive than Marrakech cuisine — the extra complexity makes for a richer learning experience.

Insider tip: Fes is considered Morocco's culinary capital — cooking classes here are the country's best

The ruins of 14th-century Merenid dynasty tombs sit on a hillside above the medina, offering the definitive panoramic view of Fes el-Bali. As sunset approaches, the white minarets catch golden light against the green-tiled roofs, and the scale of the medieval city becomes apparent. The tombs themselves are atmospheric ruins, beautiful in their decay.

Insider tip: Come 30 minutes before sunset. Bring a camera with zoom — the medina panorama is extraordinary