Fez, the most complete medieval city in the Arab world and the eldest of Morocco’s four imperial capitals, captivates the senses with an onslaught of eerie and exquisite sounds, an infinite array of visual intricacies, and unadulterated scents. Constructed in the French style and characteristic of other Moroccan cities, Ville Nouvelle is both well-known and modern in appearance and atmosphere.

However, approximately 25% of Fez’s more than one million inhabitants still live in the extraordinary Medina city of Fez el Bali, which relies on the West for electricity and tourists. The old town of Marrakech appears more like a museum suspended in time, someplace between the Middle Ages and the present day.

A concise overview of Fez

When Moulay Idriss I, the city’s founder, passed away in 791 AD, Fez was barely more than a village on the eastern bank of the Oued Boukhrareb. In the early ninth century, it was his son Idriss II who initiated the city’s growth by designating it as his capital and accepting exiles from Andalusian Cordoba and Tunisia’s Kairouan, the two most significant cities of western Islam at the time. 

The refugees’ arrival in Fez had an immediate and enduring effect. 

They established separate, walled cities on either riverbank (which remain distinct quarters to this day) and contributed to Fez’s industrial and commercial development through their superior craftsmanship and commercial acumen. During this period, the city also acquired a reputation for its intellectual prowess; in the tenth century, Pope Sylvester II attended the technically first university in the world, Kairaouine, where he allegedly learned the Arabic mathematics that he later introduced to Europe.

Patronage and the seat of government both migrated south to Marrakesh during the Almoravid and Almohad administrations in the Berber region (1062–1145). The Merenids’ conquest of Fez in 1248 and subsequent consolidation of their power throughout Morocco, however, restored the city’s prominence and ushered in a “golden age” of sorts.

In close proximity to the ancient Medina, the Merenids constructed Fez el Jedid, also known as New Fez, an imposing metropolis that symbolized the affluence and self-assurance of their realm. Subsequent growth, aided once again by a refugee influx from the Spanish reconquest of Andalusia, contributed to the city’s emergence as the “Baghdad of the West.

A visit to Fez is an unforgettable experience that transports you through the centuries and reveals the traditional splendor of Morocco. We highly recommend a visit to Fez if you are planning a journey to Morocco. Fez, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, deserves the most attention and visitation. Furthermore, it is an ideal symbiotic union of art, culture, and cuisine.

In the subsequent report, we explore the most aesthetically pleasing tourist destinations in Fez, the finest lodging establishments, travel expenses, and a comprehensive guide to tourism in Fez, Morocco.

Advice for travelers to Fez

In addition to being one of Morocco’s most aesthetically pleasing cities, Fez is renowned for its intricate labyrinthine city, which attracts tourists from all over the world. If you are organizing a visit to the city of Fez, the following suggestions will assist you in having a pleasant sojourn:
The Moroccan dirham is the official currency of Morocco and can be exchanged at Fez airport or, more conveniently, at official exchange agencies.

Explore Fez el-Bali, an ancient metropolis also known as the old city of Fez.

It is a marvelous cultural and historical hub where you can stroll through the traditional markets of Fez, take in the quaint alleyways, and linger while the locals recount tales from antiquity and impart the essence of their daily lives.
Discover the splendor of handcrafted artworks and the intricate patterns on the tiles and structures as you explore the traditional Islamic architecture of this madrasa, the Qur’anic Medina in Bou Inania.

The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Morocco and one of the most prominent religious monuments in Fez, boasts magnificent architecture and interior design.
Fez offers an assortment of authentic Moroccan gastronomy, including delectable Moroccan tagines and indigenous beverages like mint green tea.

The top tourist destinations in Fez

Fez is renowned for its abundance of magnificent tourism attractions that are well worth a visit. The Moroccan dirham is the country’s official currency; it is ideally possible to convert it at the Fez airport or one of the official exchange offices.
Explore Fez el-Bali, an ancient metropolis also known as the old city of Fez. It is a marvelous cultural and historical hub where you can stroll through the traditional markets of Fez, take in the quaint alleyways, and linger while the locals recount tales from antiquity and impart the essence of their daily lives.

Discover the splendor of handcrafted artworks and the intricate patterns on the tiles and structures as you explore the traditional Islamic architecture of this madrasa, the Qur’anic Medina in Bou Inania.

The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Morocco and one of the most prominent religious monuments in Fez, boasts magnificent architecture and interior design.
Fez offers an assortment of authentic Moroccan gastronomy, including delectable Moroccan tagines and indigenous beverages like mint green tea.

The destinations in Fez

The city of Fez is renowned for its abundance of noteworthy tourist attractions, among which you will discover the following:
The city is home to museums that exhibit historical collectibles and works of art that reflect its heritage. Lively traditional markets distinguish it, offering opportunities to learn about traditional crafts and gain insight into the local culture. The following are among Fez’s top tourist destinations:

1. Fez El Bali” by Medina

In 1981, UNESCO designated the medina of Fes El Bali, the world’s largest pedestrian zone, a World Heritage Site with an estimated 9,000 alleys.

The Medina, a must-see, is one of Fez’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting a large number of visitors. However, I advise you to travel there with a tour guide rather than alone, as the alleyways within a labyrinth are so similar that it may be impossible to return without assistance.

2. Springs of Fez

Fez, one of the earliest cities to implement water supplies, is replete with ancient fountains of various hues, each endowed with its own allure. The Najjarine Fountain, located next to the Najjarine Museum, is the most renowned among these.

While exploring and appreciating the city, you will encounter numerous elements that have contributed to Fez’s status as one of the most renowned worldwide. Fesis a highly sought-after tourist destination in Morocco.

3. Park Jinan Al-Sabil

It is one of the most aesthetically pleasing public parks in Fes, Morocco, and a must-see attraction. Its proximity to the Medina “Fez El Bali” and the Riyafa Gate makes it the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll or sunset vigil.

The park features various fountain-filled areas, intermittent squares, and platforms where one can relish quality time with loved ones or companions in the midst of serene surroundings and picturesque scenery.

Fez’s historical sites attract tourists.

Numerous historical sites dating back centuries attract a large number of tourists each year to the Moroccan city of Fez. The following are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Fez:

1. Bou Inania School

The Bou Inania Madrasa is located across the square from Medina’s main entrance, on “Talaa Kebira.” Established in the fourteenth century, the madrasa is among the most significant and well-preserved Quranic institutions in Fez.

The mosque-equipped portion of this partially operational school is off-limits to visitors. Within this educational institution, one may behold the exquisitely crafted wooden walls adorned with mesmerizing tiling showcasing exquisite geometric patterns, as well as the magnificent fountain that graces the courtyard. Consequently, the Bou Inania School holds a prominent position among the city’s tourist attractions. Fez is a Moroccan city.

2. The Carpenters Museum

The Najjarine Museum is among the most popular visitor destinations in Fez, thanks to its status as one of the city’s most significant museums and tourist attractions.

The museum features a three-story courtyard, and ascending to the highest floor to observe the courtyard from above is well worth the effort.

3. The blue Bab Boujloud entrance

The early 20th century saw the construction of the aesthetically pleasing blue gate. It derives its name from a door featuring three arches adorned with a mosaic of blue tiles.

This region is one of Fez’s most popular tourist destinations and is worth observing from one of the terraced cafés that encircle it. It is a very vibrant part of the city.

4. Mausoleum of Idriss II Moulay

A concise overview of Fez Fez, the most complete medieval city in the Arab world and the eldest of Morocco’s four imperial capitals, captivates the senses with an onslaught of eerie and exquisite sounds, an infinite array of visual intricacies, and unadulterated scents. Constructed in the French style and characteristic of other Moroccan cities, Ville Nouvelle is both well-known and modern in appearance and atmosphere.

However, approximately 25% of Fez’s more than one million inhabitants still live in the extraordinary Medina city of Fez el Bali, which relies on the West for electricity and tourists. The old town of Marrakech appears more like a museum suspended in time, someplace between the Middle Ages and the present day.