Your Fes medina tour begins as you enter the vast historical world of Fès el Bali, the old walled city that forms the beating heart of Fes. With its 9,000 narrow alleys, layered architecture, and constant hum of local life, this district offers an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Morocco. Divided into three parts—Fès el Bali, Fès-Jdid, and La Ville Nouvelle, the city reveals centuries of history through every gate, fountain, and marketplace.
Bab Boujeloud & The Living Maze of the Medina
Passing through the magnificent Bab Boujeloud, you step into a vibrant universe of spice stalls, pottery workshops, traditional bakeries, and ancient religious monuments. As you make your way toward the commercial hub of Kissaria, the medina surrounds you with its timeless rhythm—artisans hammering patterns into brass, weavers creating colorful fabrics, and shopkeepers presenting handmade treasures.
Historic Mosques, Medersas, and Cultural Landmarks
As you continue deeper into the medina, you will encounter some of Fes’s most important spiritual sites, including the Quaraouiyine Mosque and University recognized as the oldest continually operating university in the world and the Andalusian Mosque, with its distinctive architecture and deep cultural legacy.
Museums, Squares & Hidden Corners
Your route leads you past beautifully preserved palaces, now transformed into museums that celebrate Moroccan arts, woodwork, and traditional crafts. The iconic Nejjarine Fountain marks one of the medina’s most charming squares, offering a glimpse into the city’s historical water system and public spaces.
Mellah, Synagogues & Cultural Diversity
Entering Fès-Jdid, you explore the Mellah, an area known for its Jewish heritage and distinct urban layout. Here, the Ibn Danan Synagogue stands as a symbol of the rich coexistence that shaped the cultural history of Fes.
Chouwara Tanneries – A Signature Experience
No visit to Fes is complete without witnessing the striking colors and ancient methods of the Chouwara Tanneries. Overlooking the vast leather-dyeing pits, you’ll observe artisans practicing techniques passed down through generations—an authentic craft that remains one of the most iconic sights in Morocco.
Ceramics & Traditional Workshops
Before concluding your tour, you’ll have a chance to see how the city’s renowned ceramics are molded, painted, and fired. This behind-the-scenes look reveals why Fes remains a center of craftsmanship and artisanal excellence.
