You may think of a certain famous tassel-bedecked hat when you hear the name, but there are way more things to do in Fez than just trying on hats!
It has long been hailed as one of the cultural hotspots of Morocco, which is quite an impressive feat in such a distinguished country; and with its labyrinthine streets, its old markets, and an endless array of palaces and religious buildings, it certainly feels like a dynamic, living place.
So let’s mosey on over and take in all the joys of this busy, beautiful town!
1 – Admire Bab Boujloud
There are so many great walking tours around town, taking full advantage of the city’s winding, wondrous structure.
And as you’re ambling along, you’ll probably encounter this beautiful gate fairly quickly – after all, it is something of a ceremonial entrance!
In 1913, when it was commissioned by the French colonial government, it was made specifically to mark the transition to the old city; and with its colorful, stylish designs, it hearkens back to the much earlier traditions of Moorish architecture.
Eat, shop, and stroll through the busy roads under its ornate shadow!
2 – Enjoy a high-energy trip through the bustle of the Medina
Like so many other cities in the region, this town has a striking old town section that preserves some of the finest parts of the past while still serving as a thriving modern hub.
Medina tours are a boon for curious travelers, packed with sights, sounds, and smells that bring the city to life in a new and vivid form.
It’s also the main focus of many of the shopping tours in Fez, and for good reason; there are endless markets and stalls here, boasting all sorts of unique items that could one day end up in your home.
Pass by the ancient walls that still lend a sense of allure to the space, then wind your way through tanneries, spice stalls, and endless rows of beautiful works of art that showcase the color and creativity of the region.
Just be warned: your wallet might be a little lighter when you leave… and your bags will be a lot fuller!
3 – Pass under the beautiful Bab Rcif
While you’re discovering the delights of the medina, you’ll quickly come across another distinguished gate, an anchor point to the old parts of the city.
Like its cohorts, this archway blends flair with function, ushering visitors into the medina area with its charming traditional artwork.
Today, though, it’s even better, because you can book a stay in the nearby guesthouse, which is as detailed and gorgeous as an overturned jewelry box.
Decked out wall to wall in colorful tiles, wood carvings, stained glass, and elaborate geometric patterns, it’s another monument to the beauty and precision of Islamic and Moorish techniques… and it’s remained a beacon of aesthetics for over 650 years!
4 – Saddle up and go adventuring on a camel ride
When you picture the desert (more on that in a moment), you probably imagine a certain tall, humped creature moving serenely through the sand.
And no roundup of things to do in Fez would be complete without a round of camel riding, where you can drink in the desert views in style!
Join your guide and learn all about these fascinating creatures, perfectly adapted to the harsh climate – and perfectly suited for carrying cargo!
Then climb aboard and enjoy an unforgettable journey along hills and open plains, past one fascinating little village after another.
It’s the ultimate old-fashioned road trip!
5 – Embrace the beauty of the Sahara Desert up close
Of course, that area you’re passing through isn’t just any patch of sand… it’s the Sahara Desert!
This is the perfect day trip if you want to get a little more in touch with nature, and see a totally different side to the realm; the busy streets and joyful noise of town slowly fade away, replaced by the open sands and the subtler, still powerful forces of the wind and the earth.
You can also extend the magic with an overnight trip, gazing up at the broad map of the cosmos slung over your head as you drift off to sleep!
6 – Ponder the hidden side of the Marinid Tombs
Up above the city, a distinctive set of old tombs stand guard, their fame outlasting even that of the people buried inside.
From the 1200s to the 1400s, the Marinid dynasty ruled over the city, and these resting places were built right in the middle of their illustrious regime.
While the mausoleums have largely eroded over time, they still possess a certain power and prestige; you can even see the ceremonial inscriptions that decorated them!
And as you explore these intriguing remains, you’ll get a taste of the mystery that still surrounds this powerful remnant of the past.
7 – Pay tribute to the intellectual heritage of Mosque and University Kairaouine
A significant part of the area’s cultural makeup lies in its intellectual offerings, and this combined school and mosque complex certainly exemplifies that!
The school itself is the oldest in the country, a cornerstone of a powerful intellectual tradition; thousands of scholars have flocked there to explore every conceivable discipline.
To this day, it’s a mainstay of Muslim academia, and students can also worship at the attached mosque, which was the first part of the complex to be built… all the way back in the 800s!
Together, they represent the strength of the Islamic Golden Era and its triumphs, as well as the evolution of both institutions today.
And they’re also vital components on many city tours – little wonder, given their prominence!
8 – Enjoy the spectacular Al Attarine Madrasa
This is another one of the city’s design gems, and you need only look around to see why… you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a kaleidoscope!
The building is pretty unassuming from the outside, tucked in the midst of markets filled with the pleasant aromas of spices and perfumes.
But as soon as you enter, you’ll be dazzled by the space and its endless array of patterns and colors!
The courtyard is especially spectacular, a wonderland of marble and mosaic, including some patterns on the walls that are considered too sacred for human hands to touch.
Take your time walking around here… there’s certainly a lot to see!
9 – Take in the colorful delights of Chefchaouen
You might find yourself reminded of a particular novelty song when you head to Chefchaouen: “I’m Blue.”
And while the Eiffel 65 tune wasn’t inspired by this charming little village, it might as well have been – after all, most of the buildings are painted in some version of this lovely hue.
And along with the colorful attributes, this town is filled with fun museums and cultural venues, making it an ideal destination for a busy day trip.
10 – Explore the Semmarin Medina Gate
For roughly 800 years, this has been one of the town’s prized portals, and it’s an especially powerful bridge between cultures!
On one side, there are the busy shops and alleyways of the modern city; on the other, the ancient buildings of the Mellah, one of the oldest Jewish neighborhoods in the nation, which still holds on to some of the cultural traditions that have largely vanished over the centuries.
11 – See some local masterpieces at the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
We see wood all around us every day, but at this lovely little spot, you can really explore what the medium can do!
From guitars and tools to traveling trunks and religious artifacts, there’s detail and devotion in every piece, made all the more impressive by the careful carving process.
And the building that holds this inventory has a unique story all its own; it’s a traditional funduq, the once-ubiquitous hotels that hosted traveling merchants, who hawk their goods in the shops below.
12 – Amble through Marrakech
Sure, there are endless amazing things to do in Fez… but it’s far from the only powerhouse city around here!
It’s actually one of the four “Imperial Cities” in Morocco – towns that currently serve or have served as national capitals.
Unsurprisingly, each of these spots boasts its own distinctive character and set of adventures for travelers to undertake, and there are few better places to start than mighty Marrakech!
With the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara forming a stellar visual backdrop, this beloved city bubbles over with art and life, the kind of place where you can step back in time while visiting monuments one moment, then jam out to a lively belly dancing show the next.
Roam its streets, sample its flavors, and fall in love with its unique twist on Moroccan culture!
13 – Take a peek at The Royal Palace in Fez
No city is complete without a luxury home for its rulers, and in 1276, Fez set up its very own model… and it’s still going strong today!
You may not be able to tour the entire residence – after all, it is still frequently used by the king -, but you can certainly get a glimpse of its decadence and power as you wander around the exterior, which boasts centuries of decorative work.
That being said, some of its most distinctive elements are also some of its newest – namely, the seven elaborate gates dating back to the 1960s, which still helm the building today.
14 – Relax at Parc Champ de Course
If you’re craving a bit of green in between all of these urban delights, pop over to this lovely public oasis!
Located in the northern part of town, it’s a paradise for outdoorsy types, with plenty of walking and running trails crisscrossing vibrant fields and little groves of palm trees.
There’s even a little playground for younger travelers and a cafe for you to grab a snack and enjoy an impromptu picnic.
15 – Celebrate the plant life at Jnan Sbil Gardens
And for a different sort of natural interlude – one that’s a little more manicured -, you can weave between the topiaries, flowers, and shrubs of this marvelous set of gardens!
Elegant and colorful, this holdover from the 1800s was developed by the local royals, but anybody can enjoy the grounds, strolling down the manicured avenues full of trees, and enjoying the carefully themed areas that celebrate diverse regions like Mexico and Andalusia.
There’s even an extensive network of fountains to add a bit of extra flair to the scene!
16 – Loosen up your body and mind with a traditional Hammam massage
It’s probably one of the most relaxing customs around here… and certainly among the most beloved!
Hammams combine a whole variety of wellness options in one, so it’s little surprise that the spas in Fez tend to focus so heavily on them!
Scrubs and steams, deep-tissue massages, and aromatic beauty treatments – everything here is geared towards treating yourself and your body to the very best… Moroccan style!
And if you want to skip straight to banishing all those aches and pains, check out the massages in Fez, which offer up all kinds of treatments to work out even the most stubborn knots.
17 – Step into the past with a visit to Meknes and the surrounding towns
Three towns come together in one adventure, offering all kinds of entertainment both traditional and unique.
Meknes is one of the main stars, an Imperial City and former military town from 1,000 years ago that has plenty of its original structures intact, including a magnificent palace.
But its neighbors are certainly impressive as well!
There’s the Roman remnant of Volubilis, which was once a thriving town in past millennia, and now offers a different kind of entertainment in the form of its many ruins.
And don’t forget about Moulay Idriss, an ancient city that is said to be one of the holiest in the country; back in the late 700s, this was the place where Islam really began to take off!
18 – Enjoy some top-notch hiking
Stretch your legs and get ready to be dazzled by nature, because once you start hiking the trails around here, you’ll never want to stop!
Mount Zalagh is certainly one of the most popular options; towering above the city, this iconic peak boasts plenty of terrain changes and just the right amount of rough trail to keep you properly challenged as you take in the surrounding ecosystem and the gorgeous views below.
But you can also explore other parts of this rugged mountain range, passing through little towns and drinking in jaw-dropping landscapes… all through the power of your own feet!
19 – Delve into the cultural traditions of Bou Inania Madrasa
There are plenty of madrasas around town – the classic educational institutions tied to Muslim theology -, but this one is unique in its dual purposes; it also served as an active mosque, bringing two different ideals together in one.
It was founded by one of the era’s most prominent sultans, Abu Inan, who spread much of the empire’s influence to other parts of the region.
Along with its beauty, the structure is a great relic of practice nearly 1,000 years old, a type of intense scholarship that helped shape the ties between academia and religion throughout the Islamic world.
Well worth a visit in our book!
20 – See some artistic legacies up close at Place Seffarine
Back on the streets, you can enjoy a different sense of place in this marvelous public square, decked out in the finest traditional art.
It earned its title from some of its most significant residents: the expert coppersmiths who plied their wares here for centuries.
And while most of the area has changed over the years, those same tradespeople are still offering up their bright and beautiful wares to this very day!
You can also catch a glimpse of hammams, madrasas, and a library, all keeping the spirit of the community alive.
21 – Delve into every side of the city’s military history at Borj Nord
If this stunning fortress looks slightly different than its counterparts, that might have something to do with its colonial origins; built in 1582, it was styled more after the Italian structures than Moroccan ones.
It was meant not only to protect the town but also to keep it under control; along with its neighbor Borj Sud (see #31), its lofty location helped the royal Saadi family watch for invaders and simultaneously keep an eye on the restless citizens in the city below.
And inside, you can explore the Museum of Arms, where you’ll find weapons and devices from several countries, including a massive cannon and a variety of pieces that were produced right here in town at the former industrial factory.
It’s definitely a treasure, inside and out!
22 – Take a walk on the rugged side with a trip to the Atlas Mountains
Sure, you may have scrambled along individual peaks, but you can’t really understand the beauty and complexity of the Atlas Mountains until you’ve seen them up close!
While this is an especially appealing day trip for outdoorsy types, the beauty of the landscapes here – and the towns surrounding it – can appeal to everyone.
After all, it’s not every day that you can explore dense forests, peek into mysterious caves, gape at sparkling waterfalls, and even come face to face with some wild monkeys!
And you’ll also get to explore some of the villages tucked into this gorgeous land, including Azrou, where the cedar groves are as plentiful as the primates!
23 – Browse and bargain like the best at the local souks
If you like your shopping to come with a bit of excitement, then bring your wallet and a sense of adventure to sample the best souks in Fez!
All over town, and nearly every day of the week, you can find a new and exciting space to delve into, each with its own specialties.
Head to R’cif Square to pick up some of the best produce around, or snag some fresh ingredients at the Boujloud Souk.
Or give your holiday look a bit of an update with some leather pieces from Souk Mejjadliene, or the beauty products and body decorations at Souk el Henna.
And if you want to get a little bit of everything, you can roam around Souk Al-Attarine, where you can browse through cool outfits, spices, and more in a picturesque setting in the heart of town.
24 – Take a cooking class
Let’s be honest: the hardest part about taking cooking classes in Fez is resisting the urge to sample your work every step of the way!
After all, the local cuisine is well known for its amazing flavors and mouth-watering dishes; and you’ll get to experience it firsthand as you make your way through these different meals!
The whole process is collaborative, as you team up with locals to pick the best ingredients and create the perfect feast.
It’s an exciting – and tasty – experience from start to finish!
25 – Indulge in the endless wonders at the Dar Batha Museum
If you like to explore the past by staring it straight in the face, this is the perfect spot for you!
Once a summer getaway for the city’s elite, this lovely building now houses one of the region’s best collections of objects from the past, covering every discipline imaginable.
Ceramics and astrolabes, gems and extravagant carpets, instruments, and remnants from various mosques – you never know what you’ll find here… but it’s always guaranteed to delight and inspire!
26 – Take in the heady history of Rabat
Another great day trip awaits you in the form of Rabat, the sort of place where you can lose yourself in the intellectual and the aesthetic all at once.
As the capital of the country, it’s filled with some of the best historic and political sights around, from the stunning Hassan Tower to the splendid former residence of Moulay Ismail, the renowned peacemaking sultan who ruled through the late 17th and early 18th centuries.
The country’s influences span the nation and the globe, but in its buildings, museums, and gardens, it’s 100% Moroccan!
27 – Loosen up in style with a bit of yoga
There are so many active and exciting things to do in Fez, but it’s important to take some time to relax and check in with your body.
So why not drop in for a round of yoga… in a suitably amazing location?
Palais Amani is one of the city’s atmospheric gems, an ornate hotel whose gorgeous interiors and upscale setting have made it a huge hit with couples seeking romantic getaways, and any travelers seeking a generally luxurious and relaxing stay with some great cultural touches.
And part of that allure lies in its squadron of on-site yogis, devoted to health and wellness, who have helped make a small hub for the activity in the city.
No matter what level you’re at, you’ll find a welcoming environment and plenty of support as you stretch and contort with gusto!
28 – Enjoy the beauty and unique story of El Glaoui Palace
From the late 1800s onwards, this marvelous palace has been the home base for the powerful Glaoui family, a local political clan.
But through most of the 20th century, it was something of a rotating residence, hosting various government officials and politicians during the French colonial regime before falling into disrepair.
But even a quick tour will show you just why this place was so acclaimed!
In its heyday, it had twelve different homes all interconnected, along with educational facilities, steam baths, and some amazing wood and tile work that shows off the lavish roots of this once-proud space.
Walk around, and you’ll get a great sense of what upper-class life was like, and the beauty that still shines through after all of these years.
29 – Celebrate the preservation of culture at Aben Danan Synagogue
Delving into the unique Judaic heritage of the area, you can spend some time at this fascinating relic from the 1600s, which was once part of a thriving religious community.
It’s fairly simple in its design and structure, with some basic tile patterns, separate sections for men and women, and a traditional Torah manuscript.
But it stands out sheerly by still existing; while most of its cohorts were demolished or repurposed as the Jewish population shrank, it’s still providing cultural education through its architecture and artifacts, a beautiful monument writ large.
30 – Fill up with gusto on some food tours
Combining primo culinary experiences with a little bit of cultural immersion, the food tours in Fez are a feast in every sense!
And the style of exploration is as diverse as the flavors themselves; you can go informal with a street food tour, or try one of the more elaborate, multi-course options, where the whole city becomes your buffet!
With every bite, you can enjoy a dose of continents and cultures, influenced by the Mediterranean, the Arabic, and Berber societies that have influenced this region over time; and of course, you’ll also get the fun of meeting the local geniuses that bring these dishes new life!
31 – Enjoy the views of Borj Sud
You can see the whole city from up here… and that’s part of why the place was built!
Like Borj Nord (see #21), this fortified structure was designed both to monitor the population and watch for threats from the outside, and it’s got the same set of complicated roots; the design is much more Portuguese than anything, a nod to the influence of those early colonizers.
And on a historic note, it was one of the first forts in the town built specifically to deal with gunpowder!
Trek up to the top and enjoy a view that’s comprehensive in more ways than one!
32 – Check out a different set of influences at the Andalusian Mosque
A triumphant marriage of religion and art, this is also a testament to one of the strongest immigrant communities in town, and it’s pretty beautiful to boot!
Opened all the way back in 859, it served as a beacon for the active Andalusi population, who migrated in droves from Spain.
For these weary refugees, the city offered a welcoming home to start anew, and there are still plenty of Andalusian influences in the designs and culture of the town.
Beautifully restored and filled with lavish details, it’s still a pillar of the community that’s also a striking sight all on its own!
33 – Take in the evolving legacy of Mnebhi Palace
This particular bit of glamor was built for former defense minister Mehdi Mnebhi, and it served as more than just a nice house… it played a huge role in the country’s history!
It was here that the Treaty of Fes was signed in 1912, which established the French control of Morocco that lasted for the next several decades.
Later, the space did something of a political 180, hosting the anti-colonial Independence Party during its earliest stages; and while it’s busier serving up delicious meals these days as one of the city’s finest eateries, it still maintains that broader sense of history in its very bones.
34 – Treat your palate at the best restaurants
Once you’ve cooked and browsed, you may want to enjoy a more leisurely meal – and luckily, the best restaurants in Fez provide that in spades!
Restaurant Tresor Fes offers up classic cuisine and some delicious barbecue options, while Veggie Pause plate after plate of flavorful food with some healthy accents.
If you want your setting to be as authentic as your meal, head over to Restaurant Ouliya to enjoy a comprehensive menu in a traditionally decorated setting, or Restaurant Soultana for a bit of live music to accompany your feast.
And at Fez and Friends, you can indulge in a bit of the Mediterranean, a dash of the world, and plenty of traditional bites… plus dessert!
35 – … And your party animal side with the best nightlife
Once your mind and stomach have been satisfied, it’s time to indulge your hedonist side!
A different part of the culture comes to life at the best bars and clubs in Fez, where you’re never far from a great drink or a bit of a party.
Boogie down with great dance music at Ramada Hotel, or enjoy the DJ sets at The Rooftop… with some great views thrown in!
Discover a new favorite cocktail at Bar Lounge L’Alcazar, or enjoy the never-ending variety show of British Saloon Fez, from karaoke and sports screenings to live music and light bites.
Enjoy the cool lounges and laid-back feel of Cafe Rotterdam, or get more energetic at La Mezzanine, another hotspot for dancing.
This may not be a famous party city, but it’s got a style all its own!
How to get to Fez?
Once you’ve arrived in the city, you’ll want to start exploring as soon as possible, and airport transfers will have you relaxing and enjoying your trip in no time!
Skip the nuisance of public transit, and enjoy a quick, affordable journey from Fes-Sais Airport straight to your accommodation… with some awesome drivers as part of the bargain!
Where to stay in Fez?
When you need to unwind, you’ll find no shortage of places to rest your head!
The full luxury treatment awaits you at Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace, with massages, a spa, a beautiful library, and three different places to eat.
Or head to Barcelo Fes Medina to swim, work out, or unwind with a nice drink at the jazz bar.
Royal Mirage Fes Hotel is perfect for being in the thick of it all, an elegant space plopped right in the middle of town.
And at Ibis Fes, you can enjoy a nice garden, good food, and easy access to town… the train station is right next door!
You can also keep rejuvenating at Riad Fes Bab Rcif Sid Aowad & Spa, where wellness options and close proximity to restaurants and attractions will make you feel like a high-roller day and night!
Visiting Fez on a budget?
From the medinas to the back streets and everywhere in between, the free walking tours in Fez will get you the best adventures… with the least amount of money!
And with enthusiastic local guides on hand, you can dive even deeper into the magic and mystery of the city, alongside its daily realities.
Be sure to bring some cash for tips!
Where to go next?
Onward and outward… there’s lots more to see!
Of course, you can indulge in plenty of multi-day trips from Fez, allowing more time to explore spots like the lavish city of Marrakech (see #12) or the depths of the Sahara (see #5).
There are also tons of other fun things to do in Morocco in general – unsurprising, given the centuries of culture and magnificent bits of nature that thrive here!
Of course, you’ll never run out of things to do in Marrakech, where art, architecture, religion, and food are forever coming together in new and exciting ways.
And if you’re craving cinematic settings (literally!) and a friendly, busy setting, you’ll be delighted with all of the things to do in Casablanca.
But maybe you’re craving a quieter spot; in that case, you can try all of the things to do in Agadir and things to do in Essaouira, two charming beach towns with distinctive identities beyond sand and surf… although rest assured, you’ll get plenty of both!
From busy souks and beautiful caves to fascinating outdoor excursions and venues overflowing with music and art, these charmers will show you just how intoxicating life in this country can be!
Final thoughts
Like the cap that bears its name, this city is colorful, distinctive, and will dwell in your memories for a good long time.
And there’s no better time than now to start enjoying all that it has to offer, so brush off that passport and get ready for a lovely, lively time trying all of the things to do in Fez!
As always, happy travels!