Fes el Bali is the oldest part of Fes and one of the most fascinating medinas in Morocco. It is a maze of car-free streets, busy souks, quiet courtyards, and beautiful madrasas.
Quick facts: Fes el Bali, Morocco
- Location: eastern side of Fes, between the Oued Fes river and surrounding hills
- Status: UNESCO World Heritage since 1981
- Size: more than 9,000 alleys and streets, almost completely car-free
- Famous for: medieval Islamic architecture, madrasas, tanneries and traditional souks
- Best time to visit: spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November)
Where is Fes el Bali?
Fes el Bali lies in the low valley east of the modern Ville Nouvelle and Fes el Jadid. From most hotels outside the medina you reach its main gates, such as Bab Bou Jeloud or Bab Rcif, in 10–20 minutes by car.
Once you pass the gate, there are no cars. Life moves on foot, by moped, hand-cart or donkey. This is one of the reasons Medina feels like a step back in time.
A short history of the old medina
Fes was founded at the end of the 8th century and became an important capital under the Idrissid, Marinid and later dynasties. Over the centuries sultans, merchants and religious scholars built mosques, universities and caravanserais here.
In the Middle Ages Fes el Bali was a major center of learning for the Islamic world. Students from Andalusia, North Africa and the Middle East came to study at Al Quaraouiyine, which many consider one of the oldest universities still in operation.
Today the medina is still full of life. Families live above their shops, children go to school through the alleys and artisans keep traditional skills alive.
Main things to see in Fes el Bali
Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate)
Bab Bou Jeloud is one of the best known entrances to Fes el Bali. From the outside the gate is mainly blue, the color often linked with Fes. From the inside it is greener, a color associated with Islam.
Just behind the gate you find cafés and restaurants where you can see daily life and listen to the sounds of the medina. It is a good starting point for exploring the main streets Tala’a Kebira and Tala’a Seghira.
Medersa Bou Inania
This 14th-century religious school is one of the few madrasas in Morocco that non-Muslim visitors can enter. Inside you see fine zellij tiles, carved cedar wood and stucco decorations.
The central courtyard is peaceful, with a small fountain and views up to the minaret. Try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it is quieter.
Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University
Al Quaraouiyine is one of the most important religious institutions in the country. The original complex dates back to the 9th century. Non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, but you can look inside from some of the surrounding streets and small doorways.
The university side has been restored, and the green roofs and white walls are beautiful from nearby rooftops. Many guided walks through Fes el Bali include viewpoints over Al Quaraouiyine.
Nejjarine Square and Museum of Wooden Arts
Nejjarine is a small square surrounded by woodworkers’ shops and traditional houses. The main building is a restored funduq, once an inn for caravan traders.
Inside is a museum dedicated to Moroccan wooden arts and crafts. You can see old doors, chests and musical instruments, and from the rooftop there is a nice panorama over the medina.
Tanneries of Fes (Chouara)
The famous tanneries are one of the strongest images of Fes. Here workers treat and color leather in open stone vats. From the terraces above you see a patchwork of pools, bags of dye and skins drying in the sun.
The smell can be strong, especially in summer, but many terraces give you fresh mint to hold near your nose. This is a good place to buy leather bags, belts or slippers if you like traditional Moroccan products.
Souks and artisan quarters
Fes el Bali has different souks for spices, textiles, copper, jewelry, carpets, and more. Some of the most interesting areas are around Tala’a Kebira, Seffarine Square, and the coppersmith quarter.
Take your time to watch craftsmen at work. You can see fountains being tiled, brass hammered by hand, and traditional instruments being made.
Viewpoints over the medina
For a good overview, walk up toward the Merenid Tombs on the hill above the medina. From here you see the full size of Fes el Bali, with its minarets, roofs and the modern city in the distance.
Another option is to enjoy a rooftop terrace from a café or riad inside the medina, especially at sunset.
Read about the Best 10 recommended hotels and riads in Fes
Suggested time in Fes el Bali
Here is a simple guide to how long to stay in the old medina, depending on your plans.
| Type of visit | Suggested time in Fes el Bali |
|---|---|
| Short stop on a long tour | Half day walking tour |
| Classic Morocco itinerary | 1 full day + 1 night |
| Culture and history focus | 2 days, 2–3 nights |
| Slow trip with day trips around Fes | 3 days or more |
With 1 full day you can see the main sights. With 2 or 3 days you can add day trips to Meknes, Volubilis or the Middle Atlas and still enjoy relaxed evenings in your riad.
Practical tips for visiting the old medina
Wear comfortable shoes, because streets are uneven and you will walk a lot. In summer the sun is strong, so a hat and water bottle are useful. In winter evenings can be cold, especially in old buildings with thick walls.
Street names and signs can be confusing. A local guide is very helpful for a first visit. After that you can explore alone, using main streets and landmarks such as minarets and city gates.
It is normal for shopkeepers and self-appointed “guides” to offer their help. If you do not need it, smile and say no politely. Keep small coins for tips and small purchases.
Staying in a riad in Fes el Bali
Sleeping inside the medina is a big part of the experience. Traditional riads are built around a central courtyard, often with a small fountain and painted or carved details.
Many riads in Fes el Bali have been restored with respect for the original architecture while adding modern comfort. Some offer cooking classes, rooftop dinners or small hammams, which makes your stay even more special.
If you prefer quieter nights, choose a riad on the edge of the medina, close to a gate where cars can drop you off.
Including Fes el Bali in your Morocco tour
Fes often sits between the north of Morocco and the Sahara Desert. Many travelers visit Fes el Bali on journeys that also include Casablanca, Rabat, Meknes, Chefchaouen, the Middle Atlas, the Ziz Valley and the dunes of Merzouga.
As a local travel agency in Morocco, we organize private tours that include at least one night in Fes and a guided walk through the old medina. We arrange riad bookings, licensed local guides, transfers, and desert extensions so you can move smoothly from Fes to the Sahara or back toward Marrakech and Casablanca.
If you already have your international flights, we can build a route around Fes el Bali that matches your schedule, from short city breaks to longer circuits across the country.
Frequently asked questions about Fes el Bali
- Is Fes el Bali safe to visit?
Fes el Bali is generally safe, especially during the day. As in any busy city, keep an eye on your belongings, avoid very dark alleys at night and use licensed guides if you are unsure about directions. - How many days do I need in Fes el Bali?
Most visitors spend 1–2 full days exploring the old medina. With 2 days you can visit main sights without rushing and still have time for a hammam or cooking class. - Can cars enter the old medina of Fes?
No, Fes el Bali is almost completely car-free. Taxis and private drivers can drop you near the gates, and then you continue on foot or with a porter and hand-cart for luggage. - What should I wear when visiting Fes el Bali and its religious sites?
Comfortable, modest clothing is best. Shoulders and knees covered are recommended, especially near mosques and religious schools. For mosque interiors open to visitors, follow any extra rules given by the staff. - Is Fes el Bali suitable for children and older travelers?
Yes, but be prepared for a lot of walking and some stairs. Families and older travelers often enjoy staying in a riad with good access to a main gate and booking a private guide who can adapt the route and pace.
