Visit Fez
Where the walls remember more than history books do
Built by Belief, Layered in Legacy
Visit Fez to explore a city that isn’t just Morocco’s oldest, it’s the heartbeat of a civilisation that never stopped praying, learning, and crafting by hand. Founded in the 8th century by Idris I, this sacred city wasn’t built for tourists. It was built for scholars, saints, and artisans — and somehow, they’re all still here.
Before Google, there was al-Qarawiyyin — the world’s oldest university, founded by a woman, Fatima al-Fihri, in the 9th century. Before modern cities sprawled, Fez carved alleys like veins, pumping knowledge and trade through every turn. The tanneries? Still running. The zellij? Still glistening. The calls to prayer? Still echoing like they did a thousand years ago.
Empires came and went. Fez stayed. Kings were crowned here, revolutions sparked, and manuscripts hand-copied under lantern light. This isn’t “Old Town charm” — this is the soul of Morocco, woven in cedar and dust.
So walk slowly. Touch the walls. Let Fez teach you — not with signs, but with scent, silence, and stories still hanging in the air.
Essential Tips for Visiting Fez
Best Season
Spring and autumn dress Fez in gold — think April’s jasmine breeze or late October’s calm glow. Summer is a furnace; winter can surprise you with rain. But between March and May or late September, the city hums with balance. Medina life breathes, and rooftop calls to prayer feel soft, not scorching.
Local Advice
Fez walks slowly — match it. Don’t rush the alleys, they’re not made for haste. Dress modestly, carry cash, and always greet with “Salam.” Hire a local guide for your first visit; the Medina has no logic, just rhythm. And if a stranger offers help, smile — but say no unless they wear an official badge.
Must-Try Foods
Start with a bowl of bissara before sunrise, then move to lamb with prunes and almonds. Don't skip rfissa — a fenugreek-laced marvel best shared on cold nights. For the brave: try camel kefta in a local haunt. Finish with an orange blossom pastry and mint tea so strong it could read your future.
Hidden Gems
Skip the leather-shop views of the tanneries and climb to the rooftop of a weaving cooperative — the view is yours alone. Visit Seffarine Square at dawn to hear metal sing. Behind Bou Inania, there’s a silent library that smells of time. And above it all? The Merenid Tombs — quiet, crumbled, perfect at sunset.
FAQ
What hidden spots in Fez do private tours visit?
Private tours unlock secret riads, artisan workshops, and quiet corners of the medina—places not on the usual tourist map. You’ll see behind-the-scenes crafts and meet makers keeping traditions alive.
Are there cooking classes included in Fez private tours?
If You Wish To. We partner with local chefs for hands-on Moroccan cooking experiences, starting with market visits to pick fresh ingredients, then preparing traditional dishes in authentic kitchens.
What day trips are popular from Fez besides the city itself?
Guests often combine Fez tours with trips to the Middle Atlas Mountains, Ifrane (Morocco’s “Little Switzerland”), and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis—all reachable in private transport with expert guides.
Can private tours be customized for corporate or group needs?
Yes, we tailor every private tour to fit individual, corporate, or group preferences—including team-building activities, cultural workshops, and flexible schedules to maximize your Fez experience.
Can I visit the University of Al-Qarawiyyin on a tour?
While Al-Qarawiyyin University is a UNESCO heritage site and the world’s oldest functioning university, access inside the religious complex is typically restricted to Muslims. However, our private tours include detailed historical explanations and views from the outside, plus visits to surrounding historic sites nearby.