Fez: the medina and the tanneries

A living medieval city

Fez is often called the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco. Its old city, Fez el-Bali, is a maze of thousands of alleys, workshops, mosques and fountains, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is intense, noisy and unforgettable, and it deserves at least two days.

Entering the medina

The medina has several gates. Bab Boujloud, with its blue and green tiles, is the classic entrance. From there the main lanes lead downhill into the heart of the old city.

Remember that there are no cars inside. Goods are carried by hand and by mule, so step aside when you hear someone shout "balak" (watch out).

The tanneries

The Chouara tannery is the most famous sight in Fez: stone vats filled with colours where leather has been treated for centuries by hand. Visitors usually watch from the terraces of leather shops overlooking the vats.

• The smell is strong. A sprig of fresh mint is often offered to help.
• Visiting is generally free, but shops expect you to look at their products.
• Be polite and do not feel forced to buy. Compare prices in several places.
• Respect the workers: ask before taking close-up photos of them.

Other places worth your time

Al Quaraouiyine. Founded in the ninth century, it is often described as one of the oldest continuously operating educational institutions in the world. Non-Muslims generally cannot enter the prayer hall, but you can glimpse its doors and courtyard.

Bou Inania Madrasa. A beautiful example of Marinid architecture with carved wood, stucco and zellige tiles. Check opening times locally.

Attarine Madrasa. Another small jewel near the spice market.

Craft workshops. Look for copper, pottery and weaving. Ceramics in Fez are famous for their blue designs.

Borj Nord and the Merenid tombs. The viewpoint at sunset gives a wide look over the medina and its rooftops.

Food to try

Fez has a strong culinary reputation. Try pastilla, a sweet and savoury pie, as well as harira soup, tagines and fresh bread from a neighbourhood oven. Ask the price before ordering when there is no printed menu.

Practical tips

• Start early. The medina is calmer in the morning.
• Wear flat, closed shoes because the paths are steep and uneven.
• Keep your bag in front of you and stay aware in crowded lanes.
• Official guides exist and can be useful in such a maze. Agree the price and the route beforehand, and ignore anyone who offers help uninvited.
• Use an offline map, but accept that getting lost is part of the experience.

Getting to Fez

Fez is connected to other big cities by rail, road and bus. Many travellers also choose carpooling, especially from Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes or Tangier, because it can be more flexible and shared between passengers.

On MySeatGO you can browse trips published by drivers or post your own request with your date and number of seats. Payment is in cash directly to the driver, and the app is free with no commission.

Ready to explore?

Planning a stay in Fez? Post a trip request on MySeatGO or search for an existing trip heading to the old capital.