Meet people in New Fes

Located in the heart of the medina, this venue is a popular hub for both locals and travelers. It features a multi-level layout with a rooftop terrace, offering a relaxed environment for conversation. Known for its cultural programming and community focus, it is a common place to find people sharing a meal or coffee in a casual setting.

Try their famous camel burger if you are feeling adventurous.

Tucked away in a quiet corner of the medina, this venue is set within a restored garden space. It offers a peaceful, semi-outdoor environment that feels removed from the chaos of the souks. The atmosphere is intimate and refined, making it suitable for longer, more relaxed conversations over traditional Moroccan dishes.

Reservations are often recommended for dinner to ensure a good table.

This traditional house often hosts cultural gatherings and workshops. It serves as a community-oriented space where the focus is on shared experiences, such as cooking classes or music sessions. The environment is welcoming and grounded in local traditions, providing a structured way to interact with others who share an interest in Moroccan culture.

Check their schedule in advance to see if any public workshops are being held.

Fes el-Bali is the oldest walled part of the city, functioning as a dense, medieval urban maze. Visitors can spend days wandering its thousands of narrow alleyways, discovering hidden fountains, traditional bakeries, and bustling marketplaces. The district is divided into various zones dedicated to specific crafts, such as leatherworking, weaving, and metalwork. It is a sensory experience where the architecture remains largely unchanged for centuries. The lack of cars creates a unique, human-scaled environment that encourages slow exploration and spontaneous interactions with local artisans who are often happy to demonstrate their ancient techniques.

Hire a local guide for your first day to help navigate the complex layout and find hidden gems.

The Chouara Tannery is one of the most iconic sights in Fes, dating back to the 11th century. Visitors typically view the vast array of stone vats filled with colorful natural dyes from the surrounding balconies. The process of treating and dyeing leather here has remained virtually identical for generations. Watching the workers move between the vats provides a stark, vivid insight into the manual labor that sustains the city's leather industry. It is a visually arresting location that highlights the intersection of history, industry, and daily life in the heart of the medina.

Most shops overlooking the tannery offer a sprig of mint to help mask the strong scent of the dyes.

Jnan Sbil is a lush, expansive garden located just outside the medina walls, offering a peaceful retreat from the intense activity of the old city. Originally a royal garden, it features diverse plant species, tranquil ponds, and well-maintained walking paths. It serves as a popular gathering spot for residents who come to enjoy the greenery and fresh air. The garden provides a stark contrast to the stone-heavy medina, making it an ideal place to sit, observe the local rhythm of life, and enjoy a quiet moment of reflection amidst the city's historic surroundings.

Visit in the late afternoon when the light is softer and the gardens are most active with locals.

The Mellah is the historic Jewish quarter of Fes, characterized by its unique architectural style featuring wrought-iron balconies and distinct decorative elements. Walking through this area reveals a different layer of Moroccan history, including the Aben Danan Synagogue and the expansive Jewish cemetery. The neighbourhood has a distinct atmosphere compared to the rest of the medina, with wider streets and a history of coexistence. It is a fascinating area for those interested in the cultural diversity that has shaped Fes over the centuries, offering a quieter, more contemplative walking experience.

Visit the Jewish cemetery for panoramic views over the old city walls.

The Al-Attarine Madrasa is a masterpiece of Marinid architecture, renowned for its intricate zellij tilework, carved cedar wood, and delicate stucco decorations. Built in the 14th century as a center for religious learning, it remains one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic design in the region. Visitors can admire the central courtyard, which showcases the precision and artistic dedication of medieval Moroccan craftsmen. The quiet, scholarly atmosphere of the madrasa offers a serene experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the aesthetic and intellectual history that once flourished within these walls.

Look closely at the calligraphy carved into the walls to appreciate the level of detail.

Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century funduq, or traditional inn, the Nejjarine Museum celebrates the artistry of Moroccan woodwork. The building itself is a work of art, featuring a stunning carved cedar facade and an ornate courtyard. The collection includes a wide array of items, from musical instruments and prayer beads to massive, intricately carved doors and chests. The museum provides a deep understanding of the craftsmanship involved in daily life and religious practice in Fes, set within a space that perfectly preserves the city's historical atmosphere.

Head to the rooftop cafe for a great view over the medina rooftops.