Coming to Fes for the first time? From the old Madina to the Mosque of Al-Qarawiyyin, the city will never stop surprising you. In this article, we will explore the 7 best places to visit in Fes so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Fes is one of Morocco’s most charming cities. It is well-known for its history, cultural identity, and unique architecture. It is also the oldest city in the country and has been a strategic location throughout the centuries. Thanks to its rich and diverse heritage, Fes attracts thousands of tourists from around the world every year to visit this historical city of Morocco.
Fes El-Bali (Old Medina)
The old medina of Fes, also known as Fes el Bali, is one of the world’s largest and best-preserved medieval cities. The city has fascinating architecture and is considered a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Its labyrinth structure gives it a unique character that makes it so appreciated by travelers.
As a tourist, there are many things to do there such as visiting the souk (market), tasting local food, or discovering the complexity of the alleyways. Fes el-Bali is also home to many historical places such as Al-Qarawiyyin mosque which we will see later in this article.
Jnane Sbil Garden
Jnane Sbil Garden is located in the heart of Fes and offers a peaceful and natural escape from the more crowded areas of the city. This is a popular destination for both locals and travelers to relax and enjoy nature surrounding. The garden features numerous fountains and a variety of plants, making it the perfect place to connect with nature.
Created at the end of the 19th century by Sultan Moulay Hassan 1, the garden was initially part of the Royal Palace but was eventually opened to the public in 1917.
Royal Palace of Fes (Dar Al Makhzen)
Dar Al Makhzen, also known as the Royal Palace of Fes, is the city’s most historical palace. Built during the 13th century and renovated later on throughout the centuries, the building is a stunning example of the beauty of Moroccan architecture.
Despite being not open to the public, the place is surrounded by numerous buildings including restaurants and a museum. The Golden Gates are also popular among visitors wanting to take memorable pictures. The Jnane Sbil Garden is located next to it, which makes it a good destination to spend your afternoon in Fes.
Al Qarawiyyin
Al-Qarawiyyin is one of the oldest universities in the world. It is a center of Islamic scholarship and culture. The university also includes a mosque and a library, which houses one of the most important repositories of Islamic literature in the world.
Located in the heart of Fes El-Bali, this is a place worth visiting if you are coming to Fes. This is a chance to explore the intellectual and Islamic legacy of Morocco and discover even deeper the history and culture of the royal city of Fes.
Chouara Tannery
You probably saw it in pictures but did not know what it was, the Chouara Tannery is a historical landmark of Moroccan craftsmanship. Located in the heart of the old medina, the tannery was built back in the 11th century and is still working today. This was previously a historical place of leather production, which was back then and still today, exported all over the world.
As a tourist, you can sit by the nearby restaurants and enjoy the panoramic view of artisans working in their tannery. This is an unforgettable experience!
Borj Nord
Borj Nord is a historic fortress located in the north of Fes. It was built in the 16th century and was part of the city’s defensive fortifications, serving as a surveillance point to protect the city.
The place offers an amazing view of the whole city and its surroundings. There is also a small museum inside the fortress open to the public, which showcases traditional Moroccan artifacts. The place is sought by tourists who want to escape the crowded areas of the city, like the Jnane Sbil Garden we saw previously.
Marinid Tombs
The Marinid Tombs are located on the hilltop of the city, similar to Borj Nord. Dating back to the 14th century, these tombs are the heritage of the Marinid dynasty, which ruled Morocco from the 13th to the 15th century.
The tombs are renowned for their stunning architecture and unique stonework. Tourists can visit the location without restrictions and enjoy the complexity of the construction. The place also offers an amazing of Fes and its mountains.
Conclusion
Fes is a charming city worth visiting during your stay in Morocco. This is a historical region with a lot of places to discover in Fes. If you’re planning to come to Fes, Palais Riad Reda offers luxury accommodations to enhance your experience in the royal city of Morocco. Book your room today!