1-Day Family Adventure in Off-Path Fez: Sightseeing & Relaxation

Fez, Morocco

1 days

Gate to the ancient Medina
Close-up of a traditional tannery
Bab Bou Jeloud gate
Colorful alleys of Fez
The entrance to the old royal palace

About Fez, Morocco

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Fez, Morocco's oldest imperial city. Wander through the labyrinthine streets of the UNESCO-listed Fez Medina, home to the world's oldest university and a vibrant souk. Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Bou Inania Madrasa, the Royal Palace, and the Chouara Tannery. Savor the flavors of traditional Moroccan cuisine and explore the city's thriving arts scene. Venture outside the city to the Roman ruins of Volubilis or the serene Middle Atlas Mountains. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, Fez offers an unforgettable travel experience.

1-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historical and Cultural Riches of Fez

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Bou Inania Madrasa, an excellent example of Marinid architecture. This 14th-century religious school is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Its intricate tile work, carved plaster, and wooden lattice screens will leave you in awe.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch in a local family's home. This is a unique opportunity to experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality, away from the tourist crowds.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the Jnan Sbil Gardens. These beautiful gardens offer a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. With its lush greenery, beautiful fountains, and serene lake, it's the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Dinner

For dinner, head to a local restaurant that specializes in traditional Moroccan cuisine. Try dishes like tagine, couscous, and pastilla, all cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.

Evening

End your day with a visit to the Bab Bou Jeloud, the ornate city gate that marks the entrance to the old medina. As the sun sets, the blue tiles of the gate glow in the fading light, creating a magical atmosphere.

Attractions in Itinerary (3)

Bou Inania Madrasa

1
Bou Inania Madrasa

An excellent example of Marinid architecture, Bou Inania Madrasa is a 14th-century religious school offering a stunning view of Islamic architecture.

Attractions
Monuments
Religious Sites
Architecture
Jnan Sbil Gardens

2
Jnan Sbil Gardens

A beautiful garden located in the heart of the city, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets. It features a variety of plants, trees, and a beautiful fountain.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Bab Bou Jeloud

3
Bab Bou Jeloud

Known as the Blue Gate, Bab Bou Jeloud is a beautiful, ornate city gate that serves as the main entrance to the old Medina of Fez. It is famous for its stunning blue and green tiles and is a popular spot for tourists.

Attractions
Monuments
Landmarks
Architecture

Local Food and Drinks (11)

B'stilla

B'stilla

A traditional Moroccan pie made from layers of thin pastry, filled with pigeon meat, almonds, and a blend of spices, it's a must-try delicacy in Fez.

Tajine

Tajine

A slow-cooked stew named after the earthenware pot it's cooked in, Tajine is a staple in Moroccan cuisine, with variations including lamb, chicken, and vegetables.

Couscous

Couscous

A staple food in Morocco, Couscous is a dish made from tiny granules of durum wheat which are cooked and usually served with meat and vegetable stew.

Harira

Harira

A traditional Moroccan soup made from tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and lamb, often consumed as a starter or to break the fast during Ramadan.

Merguez

Merguez

A red, spicy mutton or beef-based fresh sausage in Moroccan cuisine. It's a popular street food item in Fez.

Zaalouk

Zaalouk

A traditional Moroccan salad made with eggplants and tomatoes, cooked with garlic and spices, often served as a side dish.

Maakouda

Maakouda

A popular street food in Fez, Maakouda are potato cakes that are deep-fried until golden and crisp.

Khlea

Khlea

A type of dried meat, typically lamb, preserved in fat, which is a traditional Moroccan food item often served with eggs for breakfast.

Mint Tea

Known as Moroccan whiskey, Mint Tea is a green tea prepared with spearmint leaves and sugar, a symbol of Moroccan hospitality.

Moroccan Coffee

A strong, flavorful coffee often spiced with cardamom, black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon, a must-try for coffee lovers visiting Fez.

Avocado Juice

A popular drink in Fez, made from ripe avocados, milk, and sugar, often enjoyed as a refreshing treat during hot summer days.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Fez, Morocco is during the spring (March to June) and fall (September to November). During these periods, the weather is most pleasant, with mild temperatures perfect for exploring the city's rich history and culture. The summer months can be extremely hot, while the winter can be quite chilly, especially in the evenings. Spring and fall also offer the opportunity to experience local festivals and events.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 11

Thu

Anniversary of the Independence Manifesto

April 10

Wed

Eid al-Fitr

April 11

Thu

Eid al-Fitr holiday

May 1

Wed

Labour Day/May Day

June 17

Mon

Eid al-Adha

June 18

Tue

Eid al-Adha Holiday

July 8

Mon

Hijra New Year

July 30

Tue

Feast of the Throne

August 14

Wed

Anniversary of the Recovery Oued Ed-Dahab

August 20

Tue

Anniversary of the Revolution of the King and the People

August 21

Wed

Youth Day

September 16

Mon

The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

September 17

Tue

The Prophet Muhammad's Birthday Holiday

November 6

Wed

Anniversary of the Green March

November 18

Mon

Independence Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Fez is a city with a rich history and a lot of its charm lies in its old town, the Medina. Walking is the best way to explore the narrow, winding streets of the Medina. It's also the only way to get around in some parts of the city, as the streets are too narrow for cars.

Taxis are a common way to get around in Fez. There are two types of taxis: petite taxis, which are small and usually red, and grande taxis, which are larger and can carry more passengers. Petite taxis are used for short trips within the city, while grande taxis are used for longer trips outside the city. Note that taxis in Fez do not have meters, so you should agree on a price before starting your journey.

Fez has a public bus system that can take you to different parts of the city. The buses are cheap and run frequently, but they can be crowded and may not always be on time. The bus routes cover most of the city, but they may not be the most convenient way to get to specific tourist attractions.

Renting a car is an option if you're comfortable driving in Fez. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city and the surrounding areas at your own pace. However, driving in Fez can be challenging due to the heavy traffic and narrow streets, especially in the Medina. Also, parking can be difficult to find in the city center.

Ridesharing services like Uber are not available in Fez. However, there are local apps like Careem that offer similar services. These can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're not comfortable negotiating fares with taxi drivers. However, availability can be limited, especially during peak times.

Hiring a private driver can be a convenient way to get around Fez, especially if you're planning to visit several attractions in one day. This can also be a good option if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage. However, this is usually more expensive than other transportation options.

Fez has a train station that connects it to other major cities in Morocco, such as Marrakech, Casablanca, and Rabat. The trains are comfortable and reliable, but they may not be the most convenient way to get around within the city itself.

Bicycling is not a common mode of transportation in Fez, especially in the Medina, due to the narrow and crowded streets. However, it can be a good way to explore the newer parts of the city or the surrounding countryside. Note that you should be comfortable riding in traffic if you choose this option.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyد.م.‏ MAD

Time zoneUTC 0

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance: 15; Fire: 15; Police: 19

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type E

Voltage220 V

Things to know about Fez, Morocco as a first time visitor

1

Fez is the second largest city in Morocco and is known as the country's cultural and spiritual center.

2

The official language is Arabic, but French is widely spoken. English is also understood in many tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger shops, but it's useful to have cash for smaller purchases.

4

Fez has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers (up to 95°F/35°C) and mild winters (down to 41°F/5°C).

5

The city is divided into three parts: Fes el Bali (the old, walled city), Fes-Jdid (new Fes, home of the Mellah), and the Ville Nouvelle (the French-created, newest section of Fes).

6

Fez is a Muslim city, and visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

7

The city is known for its vibrant souks (markets), where you can buy everything from spices to traditional Moroccan crafts.

8

Bargaining is a common practice in the markets of Fez. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices.

9

Traditional Moroccan cuisine is a must-try. Popular dishes include couscous, tagine, and pastilla.

10

Fez is known for its traditional tanneries, where leather is dyed in large pits. Be prepared for a strong smell.

11

Public transportation is limited in Fez. The best way to explore the city is by foot or by hiring a taxi.

12

Taxis in Fez have meters, but drivers often prefer to negotiate a price. Agree on a fare before starting your journey.

13

Fez is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

14

It's customary to tip in restaurants, cafes, and for services. A tip of 10% is generally expected.

15

The electrical voltage in Morocco is 220 volts, and the plug type is C or E. You may need a converter or adapter.

16

Tap water is not safe to drink in Fez. It's recommended to drink bottled water.

17

Fez is in the Western European Time Zone (GMT+0), but observes daylight saving time, so it's GMT+1 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

18

Public restrooms may require a small fee for use, so it's a good idea to keep some small change on hand.

19

The call to prayer from mosques happens five times a day and can be heard throughout the city. It's a part of the local culture and tradition.

20

Morocco is a predominantly cash society, especially in markets and smaller establishments. It's a good idea to have a supply of small bills and coins.

Basic Arabic to know as a first time visitor

English phrase

Native phrase

Pronunciation

When to use it

Hello

Salam

sa-lam

Greeting someone

Goodbye

Bslama

bs-la-ma

Leaving or saying goodbye

Please

Afak

a-fak

Making a request

Thank you

Shukran

shook-ran

Expressing gratitude

Yes

Naam

na-am

Agreeing or confirming

No

La

la

Disagreeing or denying

Excuse me

SmaH liya

sma-h lee-ya

Getting attention or apologizing

I don't understand

Ma fhemtch

ma fehmtch

When you don't understand what was said

Do you speak English?

Wach katkalem l'anglais?

wach kat-ka-lem l'an-glay

Trying to find someone who speaks English

Where is the bathroom?

Fen hiya hammam?

fen he-ya ham-mam

Looking for the bathroom

How much does this cost?

Bshhal hada?

besh-hal ha-da

Asking for the price of something

I need a doctor

Khasni daba tabib

khas-ni da-ba ta-bib

In case of a medical emergency

Help

Musaa'da

mu-sa-'da

In case of an emergency

Food

Taam

ta-am

When looking for something to eat

Water

Maa

ma-a

When you need to drink

Hotel

Fondok

fon-dok

Looking for a place to stay

Taxi

Taxi

taxi

Looking for transportation

Airport

Matar

ma-tar

Looking for the airport

Market

Souk

souk

Looking for a place to shop

Beautiful

Zwin

zwin

Complimenting something or someone

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Sunglasses

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Travel-size shampoo and conditioner

  • Travel-size body wash

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Sunscreen

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Personal medication

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport

  • Driver's license or other form of ID

  • Credit and/or debit cards

  • Cash in local currency

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Hotel and/or accommodation information

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Portable power bank

  • Camera

  • Memory card for camera

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel guidebook for Fez, Morocco

  • Map of Fez

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks

  • Travel pillow

  • Earplugs

  • Travel-size laundry detergent packets

  • Travel-size first aid kit

Weather Conditions

Fez, Morocco, is a city with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Fez would be during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is most pleasant. During the summer months (June to August), temperatures can rise up to 100°F (38°C), which can be quite uncomfortable for some tourists. If you're planning to visit during this time, it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing. Also, try to avoid direct sunlight during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm) as much as possible. Winter (December to February) in Fez is relatively mild with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F (4°C to 15°C). However, it can get quite chilly at night, so it's advisable to pack some warm clothing. Also, keep in mind that this is the wettest season in Fez, so don't forget to pack an umbrella or raincoat. Regardless of when you visit, always remember to wear sunscreen as the sun can be quite strong throughout the year. Also, it's a good idea to carry a hat and sunglasses for further protection. Lastly, keep in mind that Fez is located in a hilly region, so the weather can change quickly. It's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before heading out for the day.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

18° / 6°

January is the coldest month in Fez, with occasional rainfall. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you can enjoy the city without the crowds.

February

19° / 7°

February is still chilly, but the weather begins to warm up slightly. It's a good time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures.

March

22° / 9°

March sees the start of spring, with temperatures rising and the landscape turning green. It's a beautiful time to explore the city and its surroundings.

April

24° / 11°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for sightseeing. The city is in full bloom, adding to its charm.

May

28° / 14°

May is warm and sunny, perfect for outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with cultural events and festivals.

June

32° / 18°

June marks the beginning of summer, with temperatures rising significantly. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy hot weather.

July

36° / 21°

July is the hottest month in Fez, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. It's a good time to visit if you love the heat, but remember to stay hydrated.

August

36° / 21°

August is equally hot as July, with high temperatures and sunny days. It's a great time for beach activities, but the city can be quite crowded.

September

32° / 18°

September sees a slight drop in temperatures, making it a more comfortable time to visit. The city is less crowded, making it a good time for sightseeing.

October

28° / 14°

October is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. The city is vibrant with autumn colors, making it a beautiful time to visit.

November

22° / 10°

November is a mild month with cooler temperatures. It's a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.

December

19° / 7°

December is a cool month, with temperatures dropping again. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you can enjoy the city without the crowds.

Did you know?

Did you know that Fez is considered as the cultural and spiritual center of Morocco?

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