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Photo: Pawel Ryszawa, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Morocco · North Africa · City

Fes

The world’s largest car-free urban area, a medieval medina still working as it always has.

Best timeMar to May, Sep to Nov
Ideal stay2 to 3 nights
GatewayFes (FEZ)
Month by month
  1. JAnuary
  2. FEbruary
  3. MArch (good)
  4. APril (good)
  5. MAy (good)
  6. JUne
  7. JUly
  8. AUgust
  9. SEptember (good)
  10. OCtober (good)
  11. NOvember (good)
  12. DEcember

Fes el-Bali is a maze of more than 9,000 lanes with tanneries, madrasas and workshops. It feels less touristy than Marrakech and rewards a good guide.

Highlights

  • Chouara Tannery
  • Bou Inania Madrasa
  • Al-Qarawiyyin
  • Craft workshops

Where to stay

Riads inside the medina.

Getting there

Train from Casablanca, Rabat or Tangier, or fly direct from Europe.

Tips

  • Hire a licensed guide for your first half-day.
  • Mint at the tanneries is for the smell.
  • Combine with Chefchaouen and Volubilis.

Best time to visit

Mar to May, Sep to Nov. See where to go in Africa in March and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Plan your stay

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Fes?

Mar to May, Sep to Nov. Hire a licensed guide for your first half-day.

How long should I spend at Fes?

2 to 3 nights.

How do I get to Fes?

Train from Casablanca, Rabat or Tangier, or fly direct from Europe.

Have you been to Fes?

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