Fez a week

The main international airport serving Fez. Upon arrival, you'll clear immigration and customs before heading to your accommodation.

• Pre-book a taxi or arrange airport transfer with your hotel for a smoother arrival.

A beautiful riad offering a tranquil oasis within the medina. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan welcome with mint tea.

• Perfect for a leisurely lunch or afternoon tea.
• Enjoy the rooftop views.

The historic heart of Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world's largest car-free urban areas. Get lost (intentionally!) in its labyrinthine alleys, discovering hidden squares, souks, and centuries-old architecture.

• Consider hiring a local guide for your first exploration to navigate and understand the history.
• Wear comfortable shoes; you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in an elegant, traditional setting. This restaurant offers a set menu that changes daily, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• The experience is communal, with dishes brought to your table to share.

Founded in 859 AD, it's one of the oldest universities in the world and a spiritual center for Moroccan Muslims. Non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall but can view the stunning architecture from external courtyards and doorways.

• Dress modestly out of respect for the religious site.
• Look for the ornate doorways and intricate tilework visible from the street.

A beautifully preserved 14th-century theological college, renowned for its exquisite zellij tilework, carved stucco, and cedarwood detailing. It offers a glimpse into the rich Islamic art and architecture of the Marinid era.

• This is one of the most photogenic madrasas in Fez.
• Pay attention to the details in the courtyards and prayer halls.

A vibrant market where vendors sell fragrant spices, essential oils, perfumes, and traditional remedies. The air is thick with exotic scents, offering a sensory delight.

• Engage with the vendors; they are often happy to explain their products.
• Great place to buy unique souvenirs like argan oil or saffron.

Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century fondouk (caravanserai), this museum showcases traditional Moroccan woodworking techniques and tools. The building itself is a stunning example of Islamic architecture.

• The courtyard is a peaceful spot to rest.
• Don't miss the intricately carved wooden minbar (pulpit).

A popular cultural hub offering delicious food, great coffee, and a rooftop terrace with views over the medina. They often host events and workshops.

• Try their famous camel burger or a traditional tagine.
• Check their schedule for events like storytelling or music.

Witness the ancient process of leather tanning, a signature industry of Fez. View the colorful dye pits from surrounding terraces, a sight that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

• Be prepared for the strong smell; vendors often offer mint sprigs to help.
• It's customary to tip the person who lets you onto their viewing terrace.

Observe artisans hammering and shaping copper and brass into intricate trays, teapots, and decorative items. The rhythmic sound of hammers fills this lively square.

• A great place to see traditional metalworking in action.
• Bargaining is expected if you decide to purchase items.

Part of the Kairaouine complex, this historic library houses an exceptional collection of manuscripts, including a 9th-century Quran. The restored building is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

• Access is usually by guided tour or pre-booked ticket.
• Photography is generally not allowed inside the manuscript rooms.

The iconic grand entrance to the Fez el Bali medina, famous for its intricate blue mosaic tilework on one side and green on the other, representing Islam and paradise. It's a bustling hub connecting the old and new cities.

• Admire the detailed zellij from both sides of the gate.
• A popular spot for photos.

A stunning 14th-century madrasa, one of the few religious institutions in Morocco open to non-Muslims. It's celebrated for its intricate geometric patterns, zellij, stucco, and carved cedarwood.

• The ablution fountain is particularly noteworthy.
• Climb to the roof for a unique perspective of the medina.

While not in Fez, this is a common day trip. This historic fortified complex offers stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean and the mouth of the Bou Regreg river. Its blue and white washed streets are picturesque.

• Enjoy the sea breeze and the charming cafes.
• Explore the Andalusian Gardens within the Kasbah.

These ancient Merinid dynasty tombs, dating back to the 14th century, sit on a hill overlooking Fez. While the tombs themselves are ruins, the panoramic views of the entire medina are spectacular.

• Best visited in the morning for clear views and fewer crowds.
• You can walk or take a short taxi ride up the hill.

Explore the historic Jewish quarter of Fez, characterized by its unique architecture, including balconies on buildings and distinctive synagogues. It offers a different perspective on the city's multicultural past.

• Visit the Danan Synagogue, one of the oldest in North Africa.
• Notice the different architectural style compared to the Muslim quarters.

A beautifully restored 17th-century synagogue within the Mellah, showcasing intricate Moroccan Jewish craftsmanship. It's a significant historical and religious site.

• Check opening hours as they can vary.
• Appreciate the detailed tilework and wooden carvings.

While the palace itself is not open to the public, its magnificent golden gates, adorned with intricate geometric patterns and brass, are a sight to behold. The surrounding area is also worth exploring.

• The gates are best viewed from the outside.
• The area around the palace is more modern and offers a contrast to the medina.

Enjoy a refined dining experience with a focus on traditional Moroccan cuisine and international dishes. Located near the medina, it offers a comfortable and elegant atmosphere.

• A good option for a slightly more upscale meal.
• Their pastilla is often highly recommended.

A historic imperial city, Meknes was once the capital of Morocco under Sultan Moulay Ismail. It boasts impressive gates, royal stables, and a grand mausoleum.

• Don't miss Bab Mansour, one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco.
• Explore the Heri es-Souani (royal granaries and stables).

The remarkably well-preserved ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the intricate mosaics, triumphal arches, and basilica, offering a glimpse into Roman life in North Africa.

• Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
• Hire a local guide at the entrance for historical context.

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch in Meknes, perhaps a tagine or couscous, at a local restaurant. Many options are available near the main attractions.

• Look for restaurants with rooftop terraces for views.
• Try local specialties.

Travel back to Fez after a day of historical exploration.

Immerse yourself in Moroccan culture by learning to prepare traditional dishes. Many classes include a market visit to select ingredients before cooking and enjoying your meal.

• Book in advance, as popular classes fill up quickly.
• A fantastic way to learn about local ingredients and techniques.

Indulge in a traditional Moroccan bathhouse experience for relaxation and rejuvenation. Choose between a public hammam for a local feel or a private spa for more comfort.

• Bring your own toiletries or opt for the spa's offerings.
• Communicate any preferences for scrubbing intensity.

Enjoy a final traditional Moroccan dinner in a beautiful setting, perhaps with live music. This is a great opportunity to savor dishes you may have missed.

• Check if they offer rooftop dining.
• A perfect way to celebrate your last night in Fez.

Pick up any last-minute gifts or mementos from the souks. Focus on items like leather goods, ceramics, or spices.

• Bargain respectfully.
• Confirm what items are permissible to take home.

Enjoy a final Moroccan meal at a cafe or restaurant before heading to the airport.

• Choose a place conveniently located for your departure.

Depart from Fez.

• Allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.