25 Best Things To Do In Fes, Morocco

things to do in fes morocco
Marina
Marina 
Updated
| 4 min read

Welcome to the humble and charming Moroccan city of Fes, offering a wonderful array of mind-blowing and bizarre spots you could only see and explore on a Moroccan territory! From the old medinas and traditional marketplaces to a whole lot of other worthwhile landmarks, Fes is truly a magical place filled to the brim with memorable experiences! Enjoy your exotic holiday by checking out our list of the best things to do in Fes, Morocco.

1. Middle Atlas Canyons (from USD 69.0)

If you are the type of tourist who likes reconnecting with nature while enjoying challenging physical activities, you might be interested in trekking Middle Atlas. Since this is a part of the Atlas mountain range, you have the chance to explore its rich grassland, pristine rivers, and dramatic waterfalls. The trek can be an arduous journey but it’s definitely worth the effort.

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Trek through the Middle Atlas Canyons

Duration: 12 hours

1 review

2. Photoshoot with an Arabian photographer (from USD 45.0)

If you are a tourist who’s into photography or likes updating his/her socials with travel pictures, then avail yourself of a photoshoot package offered by Airbnb. It is also perfect for couples who want a romantic souvenir of their Moroccan adventure. This activity lasts for two-and-a-half hours. A professional Arabian photographer will take you to his tastefully furnished abode with traditional decors, giving the shoot the perfect setting. To complete the experience, you will be wearing Moroccan kaftans, jabadors, and accessories. The best 20 out of 70 shots will be given to you.

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Photo Shooting with Arab clothes in an authentic Riad

Duration: 2.5 hours

6 reviews

3. Moroccan leather bookbinding (from USD 70.0)

Leather bookbinding is one of the many interesting traditions that make the Moroccan culture fascinating. It is an art that combines excellent craftsmanship, meticulous taste, and precision. Most of the time, Moroccan bookbinding uses the best leather for the activity. Goatskin is a top choice for binders. If you wish to learn this art as an additional skill, join this activity by Airbnb. Through this event, you will learn the ropes of bookbinding by hand. You will discover ways on how to do long stitches and coptic stitches. The best part? You will get to take home your own masterpiece, a leather-bound journal.

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Learn Traditional Moroccan Leather Bookbinding or Geometry

Duration: 2 hours

49 reviews

4. Moroccan cooking class (from USD 25.0)

Make the most of your Fes holiday by learning a new talent—cooking delicious Moroccan signature dishes. Join this cooking class by Airbnb and enter the world of traditional Moroccan cuisine. It is a three-hour-long cooking class led by a local. The teacher will educate you on different Moroccan spices before teaching you heirloom recipes that have been passed down through generations. After some cooking activities, you and the whole class will share the food.

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Traditional Moroccan Home Cooking class

Duration: 3 hours

20 reviews

5. Handmade pottery (from USD 55.0)

Whether you are an artist or someone who likes to learn a new skill, you are welcome to join this pottery-making activity by Airbnb. Up to 10 people can join the workshop, and you can either invite your friends or go solo. Before the activity, participants will be taken to a fabric where they will get all the information on handmade pottery and zellige tiles. After a guided experience on the wheel, you will proceed to create patterns and designs according to your liking.

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Art Naji Pottery & Zellige Workshops

Duration: 2.5 hours

3 reviews

6. Chouara Tannery of Morocco

Chouara Tannery
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Alacoolwiki used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Your visit to Morocco will not be complete without making a stop at its largest tannery, Chouara Tannery. One of the things that make this place a favorite among tourists is its picturesque view. The process of the country’s famous tannery is also one of the reasons why tourists flock to this area. When you decide to make a quick stop, you can purchase some locally crafted products, including leather goods. There are also great spots for pictures at Chouara Tannery.

Chouara Tannery

Address: Hay Lablida Chouara, Fes 30030 Morocco

Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)

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7. Marinid Tombs

Marinid Tombs
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mx. Granger used under CC0

Marinid Tombs are a set of ruined monumental tombs atop a hill. This royal necropolis was built by the Merenids during the 13th century. One of the highlights of visiting Marinid Tombs is the breathtaking views that await you at the top. You will also get to appreciate the unique architecture of the tombs and even take pictures for keepsakes. The best time to visit is early morning when the sun is not too hot.

Marinid Tombs

Address: Fes, Morocco

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8. Borj Nord

Borj Nord
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Casual Builder used under CC BY-SA 4.0

If it’s your first time visiting the charming city of Fes, one of the things that might come as a surprise to you is its number of historical ruins and museums. Borj Nord, for example, was a fort constructed by the Saadi dynasty in 1582. Its original purpose was to serve as a defense against colonizers. Today, this northern tower is one of the must-visit tourist spots in Fes. It houses a museum, where you can learn more about Morocco’s military history.

Borj Nord

Address: Avenue des Merinides, Fes, 30030 Morocco

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 12pm, 2pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)

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9. Nagham Cafe

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

When it comes to dining, indoor or outdoor, the city of Fes is never short. One of the top dining places to try is the famous Nagham Cafe. With its location just off Bab Boujloud Gate, diners will get to enjoy stunning views of the old medina. Its menu offers an extensive list of authentic Moroccan dishes for a reasonable price. Tables and seats are on the rooftop, where guests can enjoy their food with scenic views. Some of the dishes to try include tajin and beef pastilla. The place can be a little hard to find, so make sure to ask a local for guidance.

Nagham Cafe

Address: 49, Place Iscesco Kasbat Boujloud, Derby Mernissi, Fès, Morocco

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 11pm; Sat: 12pm - 11pm; Sun: 10am - 11pm

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10. Henna Souk

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you want to shop for local products, there’s no better place than Henna Souk. It’s one of the liveliest and oldest markets in medina that sells all kinds of products. Tons of stalls sell Moroccan potteries, traditional beauty enhancers, and even henna. It’s an excellent destination to visit if you want to learn a thing or two about the natural products Moroccans usually use.

Henna Souk

Address: Fes, Morocco

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 8pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 8pm (closed on Fri)

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11. Forêt d'ain Chkef

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Nature-lovers should definitely visit Forêt d'ain Chkef. It’s a lush forest riotous with trees, plants, and flowers. If you’re looking for a place to visit where you can stretch your muscles or a place to relax, this is the best destination for you. If you’re not fond of strenuous activities, a scenic walk in this charming park is enough to make your day a little brighter. After exploring, you can enjoy tasty food at the nearby restaurants.

Forêt d'ain Chkef

Address: Fes, Morocco

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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12. Felix Club Fes

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Felix Club Fès on Monday, October 23, 2017

Experience the best nightlife in Fes by visiting the exciting Felix Nightclub at Hotel Tghat. If you want to just dance the night away, there’s no better place than this lively club. With its spacious dancing area, you will have the time of your life swaying your hips while the DJ plays some music. When it comes to alcohol, you will have plenty of options. The best part? There’s a lounging area inside the club where you can take a break. Make sure to go out with your friends to make this night more memorable.

Felix Club Fes

Address: 28 Ave des Forces Armees Royales, Fes 30050, Morocco

Website: Felix Club Fes

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11:30pm - 3:30am (closed on Sun)

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13. Cinéma Mégarama

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Mégarama Fés on Saturday, March 22, 2014

Known as one of the best movie houses in Fes, Cinéma Mégarama is an ideal destination for movie enthusiasts. It’s an expansive cinema complex, where guests can watch their favorite films comfortably. It can occupy almost a hundred movie viewers at a time. If you want to spend some time with your family where you won’t do much, a visit to Cinéma Mégarama is an excellent choice. Also, the snacks available here are tasty enough and reasonably priced. For schedule, make sure to visit its official website.

Cinéma Mégarama

Address: 60 Avenue Hassan II, Fès 30050, Morocco

Website: Cinéma Mégaraman

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14. Fun Park Borj Fez

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Fun Park - Borj Fez on Thursday, April 19, 2018

Another exciting destination in the city that promises you a great and fun time is Fun Park Borj Fez. It’s a popular theme park that hosts several events and loads of exciting activities for the kids. Some of the play areas inside the park include trampolines, up-to-date video games, bumper cars, and even merry-go-rounds. There are also birthday and workshop areas for the kids. Children between ages two to twelve are the only ones allowed inside. Its location in Borj Fez shopping center makes it even more ideal.

Fun Park Borj Fez

Address: Centre Commercial Borj Fes, Fes 30050, Morocco

Website: Fun Park Borj Fez

Opening hours: 11am - 8pm (daily)

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15. Tropicana Parc de Fes

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Tropicana PARC De FES on Thursday, July 19, 2018

Tropicana Park is another leisure center in Fes. It features attractions that will your adrenaline pump with excitement, including trampolines, ice skating, and karting. For the youngsters, pony rides, a game room, and a playground are also available in the park. If you want to experience something new, you can start with the park’s pedal boats or electric cars. Tropicana Park also offers shows and entertainment during the weekends. It’s an excellent destination for families and couples who love the outdoors.

Tropicana Parc de Fes

Address: complexe merja zouagha maroc, Fes 30100, Morocco

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 1am; Sat - Sun: 9am - 2am

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16. The Royal Palace in Fes

Royal Palace Gate, Fez
Source: Photo by Flickr user subherwal used under CC BY 2.0

The Royal Palace, or Dar el-Makhzen, is not open to the public, but the outside is worth seeing. The 7 brass gates marking the entrance will make you wonder how grand the interior must be. Fun fact: your tour guide will probably pluck a lemon from the trees around the palace to demonstrate to you how the lemon juice is used to clean the gates.

Explore it: Come around and enjoy the magnificent Royal Palace in the lovely Moroccan city!

The Royal Palace in Fes

Address: Avenue Omar Ibnou Khattab, Fes 30004

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17. Al-Attarine Madrasa

Al-Attarine Madrasa (8754656512)
Source: Photo by user just_a_cheeseburger used under CC BY 2.0

Marvel at the beauty of Medersa el-Attarine, also known as Al-Attarine Madrasa, located in Fes, Morocco! Explore the beautiful tile cutting technique called “taqshir” alongside the carved stucco that adorns the walls. And last but not least, stop by the carved and painted wooden arches which frame the doorways and the marble columns put in strategic places. Words cannot fully describe its beauty, so if you plan on visiting Fes, go see it yourself.

Visit it: note that you can indeed use the symbolical landmark as your guide when going around the Morrocan city!

Al-Attarine Madrasa

Address: Rue Talaa Kebira, Fes

Website: Al-Attarine Madrasa

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18. Ibn Danan Synagogue

Posted by Sasha Vays on Tuesday, 17 May 2011

This is one of the oldest and most important synagogues in North Africa. It’s an essential part of the Jewish and Moroccan heritage, therefore, worth seeing. Its central location – in the cultural, historical, and commercial center of Fes, the Medina – is a reminder of the diverse cultural forces that shaped Morocco over time.

Come around: with this in mind, just come around and stop by it to take great photos of it while exploring this lovely landmark!

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19. Dar Batha

In the January twilight, the Kings Palace, Fez, Morocco.

Posted by Dar Aquas, Fez Morocco on Friday, 29 January 2016

Before becoming a museum, the building was a beautiful palace of Arab-Andalusian style. Located in the heart of the medina, the museum is full of treasures. On the menu: carved wood, Fassi embroidery, zellige, wrought iron, jewelry, coins, and Berber carpets. The wealth of Fassi craftsmanship is stunning! The main attraction is the rich collection of ceramics and pottery, the most beautiful in the country. doesn’t that sound exciting!

Come around: note that it’s a great and pretty symbolical spot in the city, so it’s definitely worth exploring!

Dar Batha

Address: 5, Place Batha Oued Fejjaline, Fes

Facebook: Dar Batha

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20. Zaouia MoulayIdriss II

© Joseph Boushira

Posted by Priyanka A Singh on Monday, 15 May 2017

This shrine in Fes is dedicated to MoulayIdriss II, who ruled Morocco from 807 to 828. He was buried here and hundreds of Muslims pilgrimage to the mausoleum each year. Note: non-Muslim visitors are not allowed to see the inside of the shrine, the saint’s grave and the sanctuary surrounding it. Despite these limits, the outside of the shrine is beautiful and worth seeing.

Stop by the Zaouia MoulayIdriss II: keep in mind that the shrine is actually one of the top city tourists spots gathering flocks of people.

Zaouia MoulayIdriss II

Address: Boutouil Kairaouine, Fes 30030

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21. Enjoy the R’cif market

R'cif Mosque and Place R'cif
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Casual Builder used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Everybody in Fes knows that if you want to buy some fresh products, R’cif market is the best place to go. The traders there always have the freshest fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs, spices, and glistening baskets of olives. There are lots of buses and taxis there, so you can always get a taxi out of this crowded place. All in all, R'cif is one of the best market spots for fresh and organic products! Enjoy it!

Save cash: Note: taxis in Fes are small, red and cheap.

Place R’cif

Address: Boulevard Ben Mohammed El Alaoui, Fes

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22. Bou Inania Madrasa

... СВЕТЪТ Е ТОЛКОВА ШАРЕН и един ден разбираш, че не е важно колко си слаб, дали лицето ти е съвършено красиво, дали др...

Posted by GALINEL on Tuesday, 23 May 2017

If there is one building you should seek out in Fes, it’s the Bou Inania Madrasa. Elaborate, extravagant and beautiful, this is one of the last and grandest monuments built by a Merenid sultan. After its renovation, Bou Inania comes close to perfection in every aspect of its construction: the dark, fabulously carved cedar, the zellige tile work, and the stucco are all beautiful. In addition, this is the city’s only building still in religious use that non-Muslims are permitted to enter.

Bou Inania Madrasa

Address: Rue Talaa Sghira, Fes

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23. Don't miss the authentic Medina of Fez

Colorful Cloth for Sale - Medina (Old City) - Fez - Morocco
Source: Photo by user Adam Jones, Ph.D. used under CC BY-SA 3.0

A World Heritage Site, the Medina of Fes is an incredible place made up of beautiful historical buildings that date back to medieval times. These well-preserved buildings include mosques, palaces, fountains, residential homes and the oldest university in the world. What makes the Medina of Fes so extraordinary is the fact that these exclusive properties are available for people to rent during the holiday seasons.

Visit it: note that the Medinas are always heavily crowded spots by tourists who’ve come to blend with the locals and feel Fez’s authentic vibes! Have fun!

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24. The magical gardens Jardin Jnan Sbil

Posted by Fatima Zohra El Ouakour on Monday, 22 May 2017

The gardens of Jardin Jnan Sbil are a welcoming place for the traveler to rest in noisy Fes. Located just outside the old city, the gardens are also called the “oasis of the Medina”. And indeed they feel like an oasis. If you need a break after the interesting walks around the Medina, enter the gardens, sit by the water under the shade and just relax.

Lovely gardens: the Jardin Jnan Sbil gardens are a stunning picture you’d want to lock in your mind!

Jardin Jnan Sbil

Address: Avenue Moulay Youssef, Fes 30000

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25. Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts

And nothing else matters.

Posted by Mehdi Fakhari on Monday, 8 May 2017

Housed in a beautifully restored fondouq, which basically means a rooming house, the museum is indeed a caravanserai for all merchants on the go. The immensely rich collection of traditional craftsmen’s tools, chunky prayer beads and Berber locks, chests and musical instruments can be seen inside the rooms. Everything around here is wonderfully presented, and there’s a rooftop cafe offering stunning views over the Medina.

Note it: taking photos of the museum here is totally forbidden.

Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts

Address: Place an-Nejjarine, Fes

Website: Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts

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What to expect

As you can absolutely see for yourself, the wonderful Moroccan world, and Fez specifically, is heavily enriched with numerous stunning tourist attractions, museums, parks and magnificent gardens. Besides, Fez also features a lovely range of curious spots where you could enjoy fresh, organic products and exotic souvenirs for your family and friends.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Marina Yoveva is a creative thinker, adventurer, and a poetry lover. In her spare time, she loves reading, writing on her personal blog and spending time with her family and friends. She's also a...Read more

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