fES DAY trip
Nestled between the Rif and Middle Atlas Mountains lives Fes - Morocco’s oldest city. Founded in 789 by Idris I, Fes is known as Morocco’s intellectual, spiritual and cultural heartland. The soul of Morocco. Welcome!
Accompanied at all times by one of our licensed, knowledgeable guides, you will stop at each of the spots mentioned below. Our local guides make it possible for you to experience this ancient medina, not just walk through it. At the end of the day, our goal is to leave you feeling enriched, a bit tired and in love with Fes. Are you ready?
royal palace
The Dar al-Makhzen is one of the royal palaces of King Mohammed VI. Initially built by the Marinid Sultan, Abu Yusuf Ya'qub in 1276, but most of what you see today was constructed between 1635 and 1666 by the current ruling dynasty, the Alaouite. The massive bronze-covered cedar doors and elaborate mosaic tiles are a perfect example of Moroccan craftsmanship. The palace is not open to the public, but its lavish doors and accompanying garden make for a beautiful photo backdrop.
jewish quarters
Fes is home to the first Jewish quarters (mellah) of Morocco. Jewish people lived alongside their Muslim neighbors in the old medina as early as the 8th century. At some point during the 13th and 15th centuries, the mellah was built, and a move from the medina occurred. Scholars disagree about the details, but if you ask a local, they will tell you it was because the sultan valued the Jewish people for their intellect and master skills. He wanted to keep them safe and near. As you will see, the mellah is a stone’s throw from the Royal Palace.
the hill of the marinids
This lookout point allows you a bird’s eye view of Fes, giving you a peek into the old medina from above. Your guide will explain everything within your view. While you’re looking down on the city, you’ll be standing near the ancient ruins of the palace and tombs of the Marinid Dynasty, who ruled Morocco from the 13th to the 15th centuries. It’s a beautiful spot, enjoyed by tourists and locals alike.
Blue Gate
Bab Bou Jeloud aka the Blue Gate, is located at the main western entrance of the old medina. Commissioned by the French in 1913, it replaced a much older gate, remnants of which are still visible today. This is where your car-free journey back in time begins. Get ready for sensory stimulation!
souks
Organized by trade or craft, it seems like it would be easy to get lost in the ancient souks that make up the old medina. It is. You need not worry, as your guide is an expert navigator of the windowless walls and labyrinth streets of this ancient and exciting place. You will stroll through markets of leather goods, metalwork, pottery, textiles, clothing, jewelry and food. A new site, smell or sound awaits you around every corner.
Quaraouiyine University
Founded in 859 as a mosque and madrasa by Fatima al-Fihri and her sister Meriam, the Quaraouiyine is the world’s oldest continually running university. While other parts of the world were in the dark ages, two women in Fes were creating a place for people to worship and study. The building is a beautiful blend of Moroccan and Islamic architecture. Stand in the courtyard, feel the sun on your face and imagine what it must have been like so long ago. Amazing!
tomb of Idris II
A descendant of the Prophet Muhammed, Idris II was born in 789 in Volubilis, Morocco. An exceptional child, he could read at the age of 4, memorized the Quran by the age of 8 and became ruler of Morocco by the age of 12. Located in the heart of the old medina, the Zawiya of Moulay Idris II, is steeped in history and religious significance. It is considered one of the holiest shrines in Morocco.
choaura tannery
Choaura Tannery, is the largest of the three tanneries in Fes, operating today as it did when it was created in the 11th century. The colorful dye-filled stone vessels make for a stunning visual, and the limestone water and pigeon excrement used to treat the leather, make for a stunning smell. Smell aside, your visit to Fes would be incomplete if you missed this. Everything here is produced entirely by hand. It’s a great spot to treat yourself to something you would never find at home.