Fes, Morocco-5-day-itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Travelling in Fes, Morocco

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of the Medina

  • Morning: Arrive at Fes-Saïss Airport (FEZ) and take a taxi or shuttle bus to your riad (traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden)
  • Afternoon: Explore the ancient medina (old city), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and get lost in its narrow alleys and bustling souks (markets). Visit:
    • Al-Attarine Madrasa (a beautiful example of Islamic architecture)
    • Bou Inania Madrasa (one of the most impressive monuments in Fes)
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at Restaurant 7 and try some local cuisine like tagine or couscous

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the Royal Palace of Fes (Dar el-Makhzen), one of the oldest and largest palaces in Morocco
  • Afternoon: Explore the Museum of Moroccan Arts and Crafts, which showcases traditional crafts and artifacts
  • Evening: Watch a mesmerizing Gnawa music performance at Café Clock

Day 3: Souks and Shopping

  • Morning: Visit the souk (market) of artisanal goods, where you can find beautiful handmade crafts like pottery, carpets, and jewelry
  • Afternoon: Explore the souk of fresh produce and spices, a sensory overload!
  • Evening: Enjoy a relaxing Hammam (traditional Moroccan bath) experience at Hammam Bleu

Day 4: Day Trip to Meknès

  • Morning: Take a guided day trip to Meknès (approximately 1 hour away), another imperial city of Morocco
  • Afternoon: Visit the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Evening: Return to Fes and enjoy dinner at L’Ambre, a cozy restaurant with a beautiful courtyard

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

  • Morning: Spend the morning relaxing in your riad or exploring the nearby streets
  • Afternoon: Visit the Jardin des Biehn (a peaceful botanical garden)
  • Evening: Depart for the airport and head back home

Accommodation: Riad Fes (traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden) - Booking.com or Airbnb

Transportation:

  • Taxi: widely available, but agree on the price beforehand
  • Shuttle bus: from the airport to the city center
  • Walking: Fes is a walkable city, and you’ll get to experience its charm up close

Things to Know:

  • Dress modestly when visiting mosques or madrasas
  • Haggling is a part of Moroccan culture, so be prepared to negotiate prices in souks
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases like “shukraan” (thank you) and “salaam” (hello)

Tips:

  • Try to avoid traveling during Ramadan, as many businesses may be closed
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Other Things of Interest:

  • Take a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes
  • Explore the nearby countryside and enjoy a picnic in the scenic hills
  • Visit the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, held annually in June