Fez is a city full of historical sights, including the world's oldest university. The medina is particularly large and is the largest urban car-free zone. You might spend days getting lost in the twisting roads through the market, visiting ancient universities, or admiring the beautiful architecture. This article will give you some information on what might be at the top of your list to do if you have some free time in Fez.
History in Fez
Your first stop in Fez may be Qarawiyyin university, which was established in 859. There are several other religious universities located in Fez, and many feature beautiful Islamic architecture. You might also visit and learn about the Merenid Tombs and Moulay Idriss II Shrine. The tanneries, which were built in the middle ages, are also a popular site to visit. You can climb up to a terrace that overlooks extensive leather tanneries that are still used today. Be sure to bring a few mint leaves to hold up to your nose or a scarf, as the smell is very strong!
Most of Fez's attractions are historical; you will find many traditional buildings, schools and museums which beautiful architecture, which are generally open to the public, especially tourists.
Shopping in Fez
Thanks to the tanneries, Fez is a city particularly known for leather. You can find bags, belts, shoes, and chairs made from leather and dyed and decorated with intricate patterns. Many leather goods shops can be found in the market inside the medina. The market, or souk, is a huge open-air market of winding streets and alleyways. You can find just about anything in the souk, from traditional goods to cell phones and DVDs. Just be careful not to get lost. You can also visit the Borj Fes Commercial Center, the biggest mall in Fes, where you can find many stores and restaurants by international brands.
Excursions in Fez
The Roman ruins of Volubilis are a short grand taxi ride from Fez. The city of Meknes is also nearby and is a nice and calm place to visit. The city of Ifrane up in the Atlas mountains is about an hour away by grand taxi, and in the winter you might even be able to see some snow and ski on the mountain tops. You can also take a taxi to visit the forests of Azrou, where you might see some monkeys.
Family activities in Fez
Like many cities in Morocco, Fez is a great place to sample Moroccan and international food. For family attractions, Fez doesn't offer much besides strolls along the medina streets and treats of Moroccan cuisine in old restaurants, but be sure to visit the Borj Fez Fun Park and City Park. If you happen to be in Fez between July and May, be sure to check the Amazigh Culture Festival, where you can find music, cooking classes and traditional Amazigh knitting workshops. For a more relaxing experience, take a stroll around the Jnan Sbil gardens.
Nightlife in Fez
Not a big thing in Fez, but you will definitely find some very interesting places. The first that comes to mind is the Mezzanine lounge, a short distance from Bab Bou Jeloud in the old medina. This place is particularly popular among youngsters in the city. There is also L'Alcazar, a cocktail lounge at a Fez Riad with amazing architecture and atmosphere. Be sure to check Chez Abdellah, for a taste of traditional Moroccan tea in its many ways as well as the showmanship of the eponymous Abdellah.
Restaurants in Fez
Fez is by far the most traditionally oriented city in Morocco, and its restaurants and culinary experience reflect this identity. Most restaurants in Fez offer a Moroccan and Arabian cuisine experience. L'Amandier Au Palais Faraj is a famous restaurant in the city specialising in Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine. You will also find many restaurants offering different Arabian cuisines like Amaraz, specialising in Lebanese cuisine and Le Tarbouche, offering the best of Turkish, Syrian and general Oriental cuisine. Try a tagine cooked on charcoal in the medina, or have some mint tea in a cafe overlooking the city. Cafe Clock is a well-known lunch spot, offering delicacies like camel burgers for more adventurous eaters.
Sports activities in Fez
Just like most Moroccan cities, you will find many gyms, spas fitness and wellness centres. However, Fez, by virtue of its location and landscape, offers a variety of sport and outdoor activities for families and individuals alike. You can do some horseback riding in the Aïn Amyer centre, 10 mins off the downtown area. Hike down Mount Zalagh, Jebel Zerhoun or the many mounts in the middle Atlas (always better to do so with a guide). There are also golf clubs, such the Royal Golf Club, 3 km from the Fez Airport, Tennis clubs, notably the Fez Country Club open year-round, a few kilometres off the downtown area. And last but not least, Skiing in Michlifen – one of the biggest ski resorts in Morocco
Useful links:
English version guide to the city of Fez
Moroccan Restaurants Directory
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