Fes Medina Guide: Tanneries, Madrasas and Craft Workshops

Fes el-Bali, the old medina of Fes, is one of the most remarkable historic cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Behind its gates lies a maze of thousands of lanes where artisans still work as their families have for generations. It can feel overwhelming at first, which is exactly why a little preparation goes a long way.

Why Fes is special

Founded more than a thousand years ago, Fes was for centuries a centre of learning, trade and craftsmanship. Its medina is one of the largest car-free urban areas anywhere: goods still travel through its narrow streets by hand cart and by donkey. It is also home to Al-Qarawiyyin, founded in the ninth century and widely regarded as one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world.

Sights not to miss

• Bab Bou Jeloud, the ornate blue-tiled gate that is the most famous entrance to the medina
• The Bou Inania and Al-Attarine madrasas, with their carved cedar wood, stucco and zellige tilework
• The Nejjarine fountain and the museum of wooden arts and crafts beside it
• The area around Al-Qarawiyyin, whose mosque is reserved for Muslims but whose surroundings are rich in history

Seeing the tanneries

The Chouara tannery is one of the most photographed sights in Morocco. Hides are soaked and dyed in stone vats much as they have been for centuries. The best view is from the terraces of the leather shops that surround it. Shopkeepers often hand visitors a sprig of mint for the smell, and while there is no obligation to buy, it is courteous to thank them or leave a small tip for the view.

Craft workshops

Fes is a living workshop. You will find metalworkers hammering brass and copper, weavers at their looms, zellige cutters shaping tiles by hand and embroiderers working on traditional designs. Watching an artisan at work, or trying a short workshop, is one of the most rewarding ways to understand the city.

Finding your way

• Online maps are not always reliable inside the medina. A licensed guide is well worth it for a first visit.
• Main lanes usually lead downhill towards the river and back up towards the gates, which helps if you lose your bearings.
• Politely decline offers from unofficial guides if you do not need them.
• Some shops close on Friday around midday prayers.

Beyond the medina

Meknes, another imperial city with monumental gates, is an easy day trip from Fes, and the Roman ruins of Volubilis, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, lie nearby. Many itineraries combine them.

Discover Fes with a verified agency

Fes Medina and Craft Workshops combines guided walks through the medina with visits to artisans and a stop in Meknes. Browse all heritage trips to compare dates, pickup points and what each price includes.