Explore Fes, Morocco’s spiritual capital, known for its labyrinthine medina, historic sites, and vibrant culture. This city offers a more traditional Moroccan experience than Marrakech, embracing over 1,200 years of history through its preserved architecture, religious landmarks, and bustling souks.

Getting to Fes and Essential Travel Tips

Located in northern Morocco, Fes is well-connected by train from Marrakech and Casablanca, while the airport serves various international flights. Whether you’re arriving from within Morocco or internationally, Fes makes for an accessible yet extraordinary destination.

• Best time to visit: Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal for pleasant weather.
• Accommodation options: Experience Moroccan hospitality at traditional riads, or opt for hotels with modern facilities. Riad Fes and Palais Amani are excellent for luxury, while Dar Seffarine provides a cozy mid-range option. Read more on accommodations in Fes.

Discovering the Fes Medina

Fes el-Bali, the old medina, is the heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enter through the iconic Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate), a grand entrance that leads into winding alleys filled with artisanal shops, cafés, and historic sites.

• Medersa Bou Inania: A 14th-century Islamic college, famous for its intricate tile work and serene atmosphere, perfect for appreciating Morocco’s historic architecture. Arrive early or late for fewer crowds and a peaceful experience in this iconic site. Discover more at Bou Inania Medersa.
• University of Al Quaraouiyine: Recognized as one of the oldest universities globally, founded in 859 AD. While entry is restricted, the historic value and architectural beauty make it worth a stop.

Iconic Souks and the Tanneries of Fes

The Fes tanneries, especially the Chaouwara Tanneries, are a sensory experience that shouldn’t be missed. Here, you can observe traditional leather-making methods with colorful dyes in open vats. Bring mint leaves to mask the strong aroma and consider leaving a small tip for local guides, who may offer insights or viewpoints over the tanneries. For tips on navigating the souks and tanneries, check Salt in our Hair’s guide on Fes.

• Souk Seffarine: Known for metalwork, this souk is a favorite spot to watch artisans creating intricate designs by hand. Items like lamps, teapots, and decorative metal pieces make great souvenirs.
• Shopping tips: Bargaining is expected, and prices vary by item and material. Expect to pay a small fee or purchase from a shop after taking photos from a balcony overlooking the tanneries.

Cultural Landmarks Beyond the Medina

While the medina holds the city’s pulse, other neighborhoods, like Fes el-Jdid, feature stunning attractions. Here, you can admire the grandeur of the Royal Palace of Fes, known for its magnificent brass doors.

• Merenid Tombs: Located on a hill outside the city, these 14th-century ruins offer panoramic views, especially during sunrise or sunset, for a unique perspective on Fes.
• Borj Nord Museum: This fortress turned museum showcases Moroccan military history alongside a breathtaking view of Fes.

Art, Culture, and Craftsmanship

Fes is renowned for its craftsmanship, with rich traditions in ceramics, embroidery, and woodworking.

• Dar Batha Museum: Explore Moroccan arts and crafts, including ceramics and textiles, in a peaceful former palace setting.
• Najjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts: A restored caravanserai (traveler’s inn) showcasing traditional woodworking and carpentry.

Culinary Delights in Fes

Fez offers a culinary experience distinct from other Moroccan cities. The region’s dishes are known for their intricate flavors and blends of sweet and savory. Don’t miss:

• Pastilla: A flaky pastry filled with meat and spices, often topped with powdered sugar.
• Street food: From stalls within the medina, enjoy local snacks such as harira (a traditional soup) and msemen (layered flatbread).
• Cooking classes: At Café Clock, learn to cook Moroccan classics and even try the famed camel burger. Fes’s cuisine is a testament to the city’s history, blending Mediterranean and African influences.

Festivals and Events in Fes

Two major cultural festivals take place annually:

• Festival of World Sacred Music: Held in May or June, this international festival draws performers from around the world to celebrate sacred music in various settings throughout the city.
• Sufi Festival: In October, the city celebrates Sufi culture with music, lectures, and events focused on this spiritual tradition.

Final Travel Tips for Fes

• Guided tours: Navigating the medina’s maze of alleys can be challenging, and guided tours offer helpful insight into the historical context of sites.
• Transportation: Taxis and walking are ideal for getting around, especially within the medina where cars aren’t allowed. Sturdy walking shoes are a must, and biking is an option in newer parts of the city.

Fes is a city that reveals itself layer by layer, with each corner offering a glimpse into Morocco’s soul. From historic sites to cultural experiences, Fes encapsulates the richness of Moroccan heritage, making it an unmissable destination for travelers.

Marrakech, often called the Red City, is a destination rich in Moroccan culture, historic architecture, and an unmatched blend of luxury and tradition. Located in the heart of the city, the Medina district is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the pulse of Marrakech, with its vibrant souks, breathtaking riads, and world-class hotels.

What Makes Marrakech Special

• Unforgettable Riads: For an authentic Moroccan stay, consider booking a riad. A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard, providing a serene escape from the bustling city. Riad Kaiss and Riad El Fenn are popular choices, blending traditional decor with modern comforts like air conditioning, private bathrooms, and rooftop terraces for incredible city views. These spaces often feature amenities such as pools, spas, and local cuisine.
• Luxurious Hotels: Marrakech also boasts opulent hotels for those seeking a lavish experience. The La Sultana Marrakech, nestled near the historic Moulay El Yazid Mosque, offers panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains from its rooftop terrace and provides an oasis of Moroccan hospitality with fine dining and a wellness spa. Another highlight, Nobu Hotel Marrakech, located near Djemaa el-Fna, combines Moroccan and Japanese design, featuring rooftop lounges and multiple pools. These hotels cater to those looking for both cultural immersion and modern luxury.

Highlights of Marrakech Experiences

• Explore the Medina: The Medina district is the heart of Marrakech. Here, you’ll find vibrant souks filled with artisans, colorful textiles, spices, and handcrafted goods, making it a perfect spot to soak up the city’s energy. Historical sites like the Koutoubia Mosque and Djemaa el-Fna square add to the rich cultural tapestry.
• Relax in Riads: Staying in a riad gives visitors an intimate glimpse into Moroccan architecture and style. Riads like Riad Nashira & Spa often feature serene courtyards with fragrant orange blossoms and rooftop terraces with views over the city and the Atlas Mountains.
• Indulge in Moroccan Cuisine: Most riads and hotels offer dining experiences that highlight Moroccan cuisine. La Sultana’s fine dining combines local ingredients with creative flair, while other riads often provide cooking classes for guests to learn Moroccan culinary traditions firsthand.

Why Marrakech?

Marrakech is a city of contrasts, blending the old with the new. Whether you’re exploring historic sites or relaxing in luxurious accommodations, this city promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture, architecture, and hospitality.

With its unique mix of traditional and contemporary accommodations, Marrakech is a top travel destination for those seeking an authentic yet luxurious Moroccan experience. Explore the best of Marrakech hotels and riads, and uncover the magic of the Red City!