Fes, Morocco’s cultural heart, is home to the world’s oldest university, Al-Qarawiyyin. Its medieval medina, Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with artisans, vibrant souks like Souk Attarine (spices) and Souk Nejjarine (wood), and historic mosques like the Bou Inania Madrasa.
Visit the Chouara Tannery, where traditional leather-making thrives, or explore the Mellah, the historic Jewish quarter. For history buffs, the Roman ruins of Volubilis are a short drive away.
Rent a car from CroisiereCar to navigate Fes and its surroundings comfortably. Their reliable vehicles make day trips to Meknes or Volubilis a breeze.
CroisiereCar offers flexible car rentals to explore Fes’s rich heritage at your own pace. Reserve your vehicle now for an unforgettable journey.
Witness the ancient art of leather-making at the Chouara Tannery, where vibrant dye pits create a colorful spectacle in the heart of the medina.
Drive with CroisiereCar to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO site with well-preserved mosaics and ancient architecture.
Immerse yourself in Fes’s heritage by visiting the Al-Qarawiyyin Library, one of the oldest in the world, recently restored to showcase its stunning architecture. Founded in 859, the adjacent Mosquée Al Quaraouiyine is the world’s oldest continuously operating university, with intricate tilework and a serene courtyard (note: non-Muslims can view it from the entrance).
The Medersa Bou Inania, a masterpiece of Merinid architecture, boasts intricate zellige tiles, carved stucco, and cedar woodwork. This 14th-century Quranic school is one of the few religious sites open to non-Muslims, making it a must-visit for its photogenic beauty.
The Porte Bab Boujloud, known as the Blue Gate, is the iconic entrance to Fes el-Bali’s medina. Its blue tiles on one side and green on the other symbolize the city’s vibrant spirit. Stroll through to enter the bustling heart of Fes.
The Medersa Al-Attarine, another Merinid gem near Souk Attarine, dazzles with its ornate zellige tiles and carved plasterwork. This 14th-century school is a photographer’s dream and a testament to Fes’s scholarly legacy.
Discover the Musée Nejjarine des Arts et Métiers du Bois, housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century fondouk. This museum showcases Fes’s woodworking heritage with intricate carvings and artifacts, plus a rooftop with stunning medina views.
Visit a traditional pottery workshop in Fes el-Jdid to see artisans craft the city’s famous blue-and-white ceramics. Watch demonstrations and pick up unique souvenirs, from intricately painted plates to decorative tiles.
Witness a carpet weaving demonstration to learn about Berber and Andalusian motifs. Local artisans in the medina share their craft, offering insights into the intricate process and the stories behind each design.
Take a break at Jardin Jnan Sbil, a serene Andalusian garden in the heart of Fes. With its fountains, orange trees, and shaded paths, it’s the perfect spot for a refreshing pause amidst the medina’s bustle.
Relax in a traditional hammam like Hammam Mernissi or Hammam Moulay Idriss for an authentic Moroccan spa experience. Enjoy black soap scrubs and soothing massages in a tranquil, tiled setting, followed by mint tea.
Drive with CroisiereCar to Moulay Yacoub, a thermal spa town just 20-25 minutes from Fes. Famous for its sulfur-rich hot springs, used for centuries for their therapeutic benefits, it offers both modern spas and traditional hammams.
Climb to Borj Nord for a panoramic view of the medina, especially magical at sunset. This 16th-century fortress also houses a museum of arms, offering a glimpse into Fes’s military history.
Explore the region with CroisiereCar for day trips to the cedar forests of Azrou, the alpine town of Ifrane, or the charming town of Sefrou, known for its cherry festival and waterfalls.
Savor a pastilla au pigeon or a hearty tajine at renowned restaurants like Dar Roumana, The Ruined Garden, or Darori Resto. These dishes highlight Fes’s rich culinary heritage.
Enjoy a mint tea on a medina terrace, soaking in views of the rooftops and minarets. The ambiance is perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Experience arabo-andalusian music at a riad or during the Festival of World Sacred Music in June. This soulful music blends Moroccan and Andalusian traditions for a captivating cultural experience.
Join a Moroccan cooking class with a local family in a riad. Learn to prepare dishes like couscous or pastilla, gaining insight into Fes’s culinary traditions.
Visit the Mausolée de Moulay Idriss II, a sacred site honoring Fes’s founder. Non-Muslims can admire its ornate exterior and the vibrant surrounding square, a hub of spiritual and cultural life.
Observe traditional crafts like leather, copper, and zellige tile-making in the medina. Visit workshops to see artisans at work, creating Fes’s iconic handicrafts in time-honored techniques.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal at a riad or take a scenic drive with CroisiereCar to nearby Meknes, known for its imperial palaces and vibrant markets. Fes is a paradise for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
Book your CroisiereCar rental early to secure the best rates, especially during Fes’s peak seasons in spring and autumn.
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