The Traveling Taylors

Fes completely captivated us—partly because of its chaos, but mostly because of the moments no one told us about. While the tannery and madrasas are must-sees, the real magic happens off the radar. Here are 7 mind-blowing things to do in Fes you’ve (probably) never heard of—but absolutely shouldn’t miss. If it’s your first time navigating the labyrinth, you can join a guided medina walking tour to get your bearings first.

1. Sip Mint Tea on a Secret Rooftop Above the Medina

Find your way to one of the many unmarked cafés hidden above carpet shops or herbal stores. From up here, the medina looks like a living maze—and the call to prayer echoing through the hills is pure magic.

Quick tip: Ask shopkeepers if their rooftop is open (they often are, if you’re polite and buy a tea!).

If you want to keep your phone alive for all those rooftop panoramas over Fes, a reliable portable power bank like this one is worth tucking into your day bag.

2. Explore the Hidden Water Clock of Dar al-Magana

Most tourists miss this 14th-century engineering marvel just steps from Bou Inania Madrasa. The wooden platform once held 13 brass bowls used to track time using water and gravity.
Why it’s mind-blowing: It’s one of the earliest known timekeeping systems in the Islamic world.

3. Take a Hands-On Zellige Tile Workshop

Fes is famous for its geometric tilework—but did you know you can make your own? Workshops with local artisans let you try cutting, fitting, and even designing a small mosaic piece to take home.
Memory > souvenir. Trust us. Because your hands stay busy with the clay and tiles, many travelers like to film the whole process with a hands-free wearable camera like this so nothing gets missed.

4. Visit the Bou Jeloud Gardens for a Quiet Reset

When the medina overwhelms you (it will), head to this peaceful green space just outside Bab Bou Jeloud. Locals come here to nap, read, or picnic—and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped out of the chaos.
Pro tip: Go at sunset with takeaway pastries. After a long day of walking the medina, some visitors like to unwind here and soothe tired skin with a nourishing body oil like this one.

5. Get Lost in the Andalous Quarter

Most tourists stay in the main medina, but cross the river and wander the quieter Andalous Quarter. You’ll find beautiful doors, unique mosques, and a slower, more authentic pace of daily life.
What we loved: No crowds, no hustling—just daily Moroccan life unfolding around you. Since you’ll be on your feet exploring these hilly lanes for hours, a pair of supportive walking sneakers like these will save your feet. To go deeper into these lesser-seen lanes, you can book a private guided medina tour.

6. Discover the Street of the Dyers (Souk es-Sebbaghine)

Follow your nose (literally) to this alley where natural dyes—saffron, indigo, pomegranate—are still used to color wool and silk. Watching the process is mesmerizing, and the colors are Instagram gold.
Bring cash if you want to snag handmade scarves or fabrics. To really do those vivid hues justice, consider bringing a lightweight mirrorless camera like this one.

7. Hunt Down the Oldest Public Library in the World

Inside Al Quaraouiyine University is one of the world’s oldest libraries, recently restored and housing ancient manuscripts. While it’s not always open to the public, some guides can arrange access—or at least a peek inside.
It’s mind-blowing to think scholars studied here over 1,000 years ago.

Bonus: What NOT to Miss in Fes (But Everyone Already Knows About)

If it’s your first time in Fes, we still recommend checking out:

• Chouara Tannery: The smell is real. But the view is unreal. To see how the leather is cured and dyed, you can take a full-day guided Fes tour that stops here.
• Bou Inania Madrasa: Gorgeous tilework and a peaceful interior. Many travelers love bringing an instant camera like this one to capture the gorgeous tilework and print photos on the spot.
• Nejjarine Museum: Beautifully restored, and a rooftop view to die for.

Just be sure to balance the popular with the hidden to really feel the soul of Fes.

Experience the Real Fes with These Hidden Gems

Fes has layers—loud, quiet, chaotic, serene. Once you go beyond the guidebook, you’ll start to see the soul of the city. These 7 mind-blowing things to do in Fes aren’t just activities—they’re memories waiting to happen.