The Traveling Taylors

We recently explored Fes on our journey through Morocco, and we had feelings. Big ones. While it’s one of the country’s most historic and atmospheric cities, it also came with a few curveballs we weren’t expecting. So… is Fes worth visiting? That depends. This guide breaks down what no one tells you—so you can decide if it deserves a spot on your itinerary.

What Makes Fes Worth Visiting

1. The Oldest Medina in the World

Fes el-Bali is a living museum. With over 9,000 alleys and zero cars, it’s the largest urban car-free zone in the world. Walking through it feels like time travel, with craftsmen still working traditional trades in tiny stalls passed down for generations. Because your phone becomes your lifeline for finding your way through those winding lanes, a secure phone holder like this one keeps your map front and center as you walk.

2. It’s an Artisan’s Paradise

From handwoven carpets to brass lanterns and leather bags, Fes is known for its high-quality handicrafts. You can actually watch artisans work—and even take workshops to learn their techniques. To go beyond browsing, you can join a hands-on Moroccan cooking class and make a tagine of your own.

3. The Iconic Chouara Tannery

Yes, it smells… but it’s also visually unforgettable. This 11th-century tannery offers a fascinating look at traditional leather dyeing. Go early to avoid the worst of the odor and the crowds. Since you’ll want plenty of battery for photos of those colorful dye pits from the terraces above, a portable power bank like this one is a smart thing to slip in your bag.

4. Rich Religious and Educational History

Fes is home to Al Quaraouiyine, the world’s oldest existing university. You can also admire the exquisite tilework of madrasas like Bou Inania and Al-Attarine—some of the most beautiful Islamic architecture in Morocco.

Challenges That Might Surprise You

1. It’s Overwhelming—Especially at First

The medina is intense. Think twisting alleys, sensory overload, and very persistent shopkeepers. If you’re not comfortable navigating chaos, it can feel exhausting. A local guide on your first day is a game-changer. Many travelers use quality hybrid active noise cancelling headphones like these that help them clearly hear their tour guide. 

2. Scams and Hustlers Are Common

Fes is notorious for “helpful locals” who offer directions, then demand money. Be polite but firm—don’t follow anyone unless you’ve hired them as a guide.

Pro tip: Download offline maps before you go. In such crowded lanes, it also pays to keep your cash and passport out of reach, which is why many visitors wear a discreet hidden RFID-blocking money belt like this one.

3. Language Barrier Can Be Tougher

While English is spoken in Marrakech and Casablanca, Fes is more Arabic- and French-speaking. This can make navigating and ordering food slightly trickier, though gestures and smiles go a long way!

4. Limited Nightlife and Alcohol

Fes is more traditional than other Moroccan cities. If you’re looking for rooftop bars or vibrant nightlife, you may be disappointed. This city is more about early mornings and cultural immersion than cocktails and DJs.

Who Will Love Fes (And Who Might Not)

✅ Perfect For:

• Culture lovers who crave authenticity
• History buffs and architecture geeks
• Shoppers looking for high-quality, handmade goods
• Photographers (those doorways and mosaics!) – Using the ultimate travel action camera like this is the best way to capture photos and videos of the mosaics.
  

🚫 Skip It If You:

• Prefer relaxed, beachy vibes
• Don’t like crowded or chaotic places
• Want nightlife and modern comforts
• Are short on time and already visiting Marrakech

Tips for Visiting Fes Like a Pro

1. Hire a Guide on Day 1

This helps you get your bearings, avoid scams, and see hidden spots you’d miss solo. Private guides are affordable and often speak English, and you can easily book a guided medina walking tour to start your trip off right.

2. Stay in a Riad Inside the Medina

You’ll be steps from the action, but also have a peaceful retreat to unwind. Look for one with a rooftop—sunsets in Fes are something else. Since Morocco uses European-style outlets, packing a universal travel adapter like this one means you can charge everything back at your riad without hunting for the right plug.

3. Dress Modestly and Respectfully

Fes is quite conservative. Women especially should opt for long skirts, loose pants, and covered shoulders.

4. Bring Small Bills

Useful for tipping and small purchases—many vendors don’t have change for large notes. For travelers who want quick access to cash, a compact wristlet wallet like this one is perfect for carrying credit and debit cards and cash while walking around.

5. Embrace Getting Lost

It’s inevitable. Instead of stressing, see it as part of the adventure. Some of our favorite finds were accidental! Since you’ll be clocking serious mileage over uneven cobblestones, a pair of supportive walking sneakers like these will keep your feet happy all day.

Is Fes Worth Visiting?

Yes—if you know what to expect. Fes is raw, real, and unforgettable. It’s not polished like Marrakech, but it offers a deeper, more immersive experience of Moroccan culture. If you’re willing to embrace the chaos, Fes will reward you with some of the most authentic travel moments of your life—and it’s an ideal base if you want to take a day trip to Volubilis and Meknes.