Fez Travel Itinerary: Here’s How to Map Out A Perfect Journey

A Fez travel itinerary can be anything but ordinary, thanks to the city’s rich history and the many exciting things to do hidden in its medina. This city is the cultural heart of Morocco, and it feels like stepping back in time – in the best possible way!

Tucked away in Morocco’s north, it’s a place that doesn’t try to impress but rather exists in the same manner it must have done for centuries. And that’s what makes it so magical.

From wandering the maze-like medina to stumbling upon rooftop views at sunset, there’s a sense of discovery here that echoes long after the trip ends.On our road trip through Morocco, we spent a few magical days in Fez, exploring its maze of alleys, getting lost in its aromatic haven of souks, and soaking in the city’s tapestry of tradition. We went on guided tours and wandered on our own. Tasted local food and battled for parking like it was the souk’s hottest bargain. If you’re building your Fez itinerary and wondering what’s truly worth seeing, this guide will help you plan a trip that blends adventure, culture, and a few enchanting moments.

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Best Things to See in Fez: 3 Sights You Won’t Find Anywhere Else in Morocco

Fez often flies just under the radar of many tourists, but in our opinion, it absolutely deserves a top spot on any Morocco itinerary, especially for travelers looking to experience places they won’t find anywhere else. As the country’s oldest imperial city, Fez is a treasure trove of history and heritage, with roots dating back to the 8th century.

It’s home to three truly unique landmarks that set it apart: the ancient walled medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with narrow lanes, lively souks, and centuries-old architecture; the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest degree-awarding university in the world, tiled in stunning painted ceramics; and the iconic Chouara Tanneries, where leather is dyed in open-air stone vats—a vivid, sensory scene that’s unlike anything else in Morocco.

Add to that a backdrop of historic mosques, ornate madrasas, and palaces, and Fez becomes a living museum where the past isn’t just preserved—it’s part of daily life.

Planning Your Fez Itinerary: How Many Days Do You Need?

When building your Fez itinerary, we recommend spending at least two to three full days in the city. That should give you enough time to experience its unique energy without feeling overwhelmed or confused by the maze of the medina!

If you’re keen on history and architecture, you’ll want at least a couple of days to fully explore its attractions. Most notable among them are the aforementioned Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University, Bou Inania Madrasa, the Nejjarine Fountain, and the famous Chouara Tannery. Seeing these iconic spots should give you a solid feel for the legacy and beauty of Fez in Morocco.

But there is more to Fez than just ticking off major tourist sights. A visit there is also about experiencing the place first hand by browsing handcrafted ceramics and brassware in the souks, sampling street food (sfenj doughnuts are a must!), or even taking a cooking class with a local family. Take it from us, these slower, more personal moments are what make Fez so memorable.

If you’re travelling by rental car, having that flexibility means you can also spend half a day exploring nearby attractions like the Roman ruins of Volubilis or the hillside town of Moulay Idriss.

It’s worth remembering that a Fez itinerary doesn’t need to be jam-packed and should allow some space for discovery. That is why two days should cover the essentials, but three will let you truly connect with the city, its people, and its rhythm.

Exploring the Fez Medina

Comprising over 9,000 alleys and passageways, the Fez Morocco medina, which is officially known as Fes el-Bali, is the largest car-free urban area in the world and a place where donkeys still do most of the heavy lifting.

Every corner holds a surprise, such as a tiled fountain tucked behind a spice stall, the scent of freshly baked bread wafting through the air, or the sudden opening of a dark alley into a grand courtyard.

One of our most treasured spots to visit is the Chouara Tannery, which is a place where leather has been dyed using the same methods for centuries, and another is the exquisite Al-Attarine Madrasa. There are also countless souks selling everything from brass lanterns to embroidered djellabas that are also worth checking out.

We are not going to lie; the medina is chaotic and confusing yet utterly fascinating. Don’t worry about getting lost here. That is just part of the experience!

If making your way around the Fez Morocco medina feels overwhelming, we recommend hiring a local guide for your first day as they’ll help you understand the layout and point out some hidden gems you’d likely miss alone. 

We never regretted booking an extended tour of the medina as it gave us expert insights from the guide as we wandered the souks, shopped for unique treasures, and caught up on the history of both the country and the city. We also recommend going for a full tour, as it allows you to navigate all of the city’s landmarks, including the tanneries, with ease and comfort.

The next time you go there, allow yourself time to wander. Don’t worry too much about direction, but make sure your phone is charged because you’ll want to take hundreds of photos and may need to refer to Google Maps more than once!

Zooming In on Other Things to Do in Fez: What’s Worth Knowing

Whether you’re into architecture, culture, or just soaking up local life, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Fez, Morocco.

Aside from the medina, we think one of the most fascinating landmarks in the city is the Bou Inania Madrasa. This stunning example of Marinid architecture is not far from it and features intricate zellij tiles and carved cedarwood that will take your breath away. It is also close to the Al Quaraouiyine University, so you could easily spend the best part of a day seeing both.

If you fancy going somewhere that is a bit quieter, head to the Dar Batha Museum, on the western fringes of Fes el-Bali, near Bab Bou Jeloud. It is situated in a spectacular former palace and showcases a fascinating display of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts.

We also recommend visiting the Chouara Tannery, where you can watch leather being dyed in massive vats. However, be warned. It does smell a bit there! 

Elsewhere, one of our favourite spots is the Seffarine Square. Here, coppersmiths hammer away at their creations and granted it’s a bit loud and chaotic. But trust us when we say it’s absolutely mesmerising.

Fez Travel Tips: What We Wish We Knew Before Visiting

Fez may feel like a glorious tangle of alleys and aromas but if you want to avoid a few “wait, what?” moments along the way, these Fez travel tips are for you.

1. Parking in Fez is like playing Tetris on expert mode.
We won’t sugarcoat it — driving in Fez is stressful. But driving to Fez? Totally worth it. On our road trip around Morocco, we saw secluded beaches, remote mountain towns, and places where camels outnumber cars — all thanks to having our own wheels. We recommend using DiscoverCars — a service that we personally used to book a car for our 14-day rental across Morocco and we’d do it again in a heartbeat. The trick to enjoying a road trip is booking accommodations that come with parking, and Fez has plenty of those.

2. Riad life > hotel life.
If you’re visiting Fez and staying in a generic hotel, we won’t say you’re making a mistake — but we might suggest you’re missing out. Riads are traditional Moroccan homes with inner courtyards, intricate tilework, and an atmosphere that feels like stepping into a Moroccan dream. Most are tucked deep in the medina, so you can step outside and immediately get lost (in the good way). Bonus: many have rooftop terraces where mint tea feels five times more refreshing. Planning a trip to Fez? Do yourself a favor and check out the riads — it’s an experience in itself.

3. Travel insurance is not optional here.
Morocco is packed with adventures — some planned, some… less so. During one of our past trips (not in Morocco), one of us ended up with a medical emergency and no access to local help — let’s just say that’s when we realized travel insurance isn’t just smart, it’s essential. We recommend Heymondo, which covers everything from last-minute hospital visits to canceled tours. Plus, our readers get an exclusive 5% discount (only available in select countries—check if it applies to you).

4. Flying into Fez.
You can fly directly into Fez — it has an international airport (Fès–Saïs Airport). Located approximately 13 kilometers south of the city center, this airport offers both domestic and international flights. That said, whether you choose to land in Fez or Casablanca really depends on your Morocco travel plans.

If you’re planning a road trip across the country, starting from Casablanca often makes more sense. It’s a great entry point for a round trip that includes Fez, Marrakech, and even the Sahara. But landing in Fez is doable too — especially if it’s your main destination or you’re traveling northwards.

Just be sure to check flight connections from your departure city, as they can vary. And no matter where you land, booking your flights in advance is always a good idea — especially in high season.

5. Timing is everything.
The best time to visit Fez is in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the medina doesn’t feel like a sauna with 10,000 people in it. Summer gets hot, while winter nights can be surprisingly chilly — especially in those beautifully tiled but poorly insulated riads.

Choosing the Best Hotel in Fez

When looking to book a hotel in Fez, we suggest applying two simple filters that can make the decision much easier. First, we highly recommend staying in the medina, as it puts you right in the heart of the action and makes exploring much more convenient. Second, opt for a riad (a traditional Moroccan home with a courtyard) for a stay that feels authentic and memorable.

That said, booking a hotel inside the medina does come with one caveat: you’ll likely need to leave your car outside the old town walls and make your way to the hotel on foot. We were lucky — our host met us at the entrance and guided us through the maze of alleys. Without that, it would’ve been a very long (and very tangled) journey. Usually though, Google Maps or another navigation app should be enough to help you find your way without too much trouble.

Here are some lovely Fez hotels to consider as you research where to stay:

Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux

For panoramic views and Michelin-worthy breakfast

This luxurious riad is set in the heart of the Fez medina, blending traditional Moroccan design with elegant oriental furnishings. Guests rave about the panoramic terrace overlooking the Atlas Mountains and the peaceful pool area that’s perfect after a day of exploring. Breakfast feels more like fine dining, with quality and service that rival a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Book your stay at Riad Fes for a truly refined riad experience.

Karawan Riad

For warm hospitality and seamless trip planning

Tucked inside the medina and within walking distance of Fez’s main sights, Karawan Riad stands out for its attentive team and full-service approach. Whether you need help arranging a hammam session, a day trip, or your airport transfer, the staff is always ready to assist. The riad also features a beautiful terrace and 24-hour front desk, making it a worry-free choice for travelers.

Reserve your room at Karawan Riad and let the team take care of the rest.

Ryad Salama

For a charming boutique stay with garden tranquility

If you’re after a peaceful escape in the medina, Ryad Salama delivers with its intimate, boutique atmosphere and lush garden. The outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by greenery, while each room comes with its own balcony or terrace. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy Fez’s energy by day and relax in total calm by night.

Check availability at Ryad Salama for a serene stay in the heart of Fez.

Best Restaurants in Fez

When it comes to Moroccan food, it’s hard to go wrong! Almost everything is delicious, and the setting often comes with that unmistakable medina charm. That said, pinpointing the best restaurants in Fez can be a moving target. The local dining scene is a bit volatile: places change hands, vibes shift, and some favorites quietly disappear.

And let’s be honest — travel meals can be spontaneous. Sometimes, the “best” place is simply the one closest when hunger strikes. That’s why before we dive into restaurant recommendations, we’re starting with the must-try dishes you shouldn’t leave Fez without tasting.

• Mrouzia – A sweet and savory Fez-style lamb dish topped with fried almonds, similar to tanjia but cooked differently.
• Maakouda – Lightly battered and fried mashed potato patties, often enjoyed as a street snack.
• Chicken Pastilla – A flaky pastry filled with spiced chicken, almonds, and eggs, finished with cinnamon and powdered sugar.

Now that we’ve covered some of the must-try dishes in Fez, it’s worth noting that the culinary scene doesn’t stop there. If you’re in the mood for a full-on dining experience (complete with atmosphere, charm, and of course, great food) here are three restaurants to look out for:

1. La Morille Dar Diafa

A solid pick for a relaxed yet memorable meal, La Morille Dar Diafa offers a special menu with a generous variety of fresh salads, hearty mains, and a mint tea-and-dessert finale that hits the spot. The atmosphere is welcoming for families, and the prices are refreshingly reasonable for the quality of food and service.

2. Dar Hammad

This family-run gem is all about home cooking and heartfelt hospitality. With a warm, authentic vibe and a stunning view over the city, Dar Hammad offers traditional dishes at prices that feel almost too good to be true.

3. The Ruined Garden

Tucked away in the medina, this exotic garden restaurant is a destination in itself. The lush, open-air setting feels like a secret oasis, and the food—beautifully presented and flavorful—starts with a complimentary dip and bread. It’s on the pricier side, but most agree it’s worth every dirham.

Fez Travel Guide: Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors

While it is a place that can be visited all year round, we think the best time to go there is spring or autumn, when the weather’s warm but not too scorching.

Whenever you go, make sure you dress modestly, especially in the medina, and always ask before taking photos of locals. Some are a bit camera shy!

Overall, Fez is generally safe, but like anywhere, you should stay alert in busy areas and avoid wandering the medina at night alone. If you’re driving, park outside the old city and explore on foot.

Most importantly, if there is one thing you should take from our Fez travel guide, it should be to make sure you are respectful of the local people and their culture. You are, after all, a guest in their country.

Beyond Fez: Morocco Travel Destinations You’ll Want to See Next

While Fez is an unforgettable stop, Morocco is packed with other destinations that feel straight out of a dream. During our road trip, we experienced everything from coastal calm to desert magic and every spot brought something totally unique. Here are a few of our favorite Morocco travel destinations that deserve a place on your itinerary:

• Explore the colors of Marrakech – A vibrant, buzzing city filled with color, energy, and the stunning Majorelle Gardens nestled just beyond the chaos of the medina.
• Relax by the sea in Essaouira – A breezy seaside town where we stayed in a riad right by the ocean, feasted on fresh seafood, and watched sunsets that felt cinematic.
• Hike the trails of Ourika Valley – Just outside Marrakech, this green mountain escape is perfect for light hiking and cooling off by the riverside.
• Wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen – The iconic blue-washed town where getting lost is half the fun, and the street-roasted peanuts are unexpectedly addictive.
• Sleep under the stars in the Sahara Desert – We went glamping under the stars and watched the moon rise over endless dunes—an experience that felt truly otherworldly.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Morocco travel blog for detailed guides, tips, and itineraries from every corner of the country.