Fes-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Enchanting City of Fes

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
  • Language: Arabic & French. Basic English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) for pleasant weather.
  • Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting religious sites.

Accommodation:

  • Riads: Traditional Moroccan houses with courtyards.
    • Recommendation: Riad Laarouss Fes (luxurious), Dar Roumana (budget-friendly)

Transportation:

  • Petit Taxis: Abundant and inexpensive for short distances within the medina. Negotiate the price beforehand.
  • Grand Taxis: Shared taxis that travel between cities.
  • Walking: Exploring the medina on foot is an experience in itself. Be prepared for narrow, winding alleys.

Day 1: Arrival & Medina Immersion

  • Arrive at Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ) and take a petit taxi to your riad in the medina.
  • Settle in and enjoy a welcome mint tea.
  • Afternoon: Explore the vibrant souks (markets) of the medina, marveling at handicrafts, spices, and textiles.
  • Evening: Dinner at Restaurant Dar Nejjarine, savoring traditional Moroccan cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting.

Day 2: Cultural Treasures & Panoramic Views

  • Morning: Visit the University of Al Quaraouiyine, one of the oldest universities in the world, and admire its stunning architecture.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Tanneries of Chouara, witnessing the traditional leather-tanning process. Be prepared for the strong smell!
  • Evening: Ascend to the rooftop terrace of CafĂ© Clock for panoramic views of the medina as you enjoy dinner and live music.

Day 3: Artisan Workshops & Culinary Delights

  • Morning: Visit a pottery workshop in the Pottery Quarter, witnessing artisans crafting beautiful ceramics. Consider taking a hands-on pottery class.
  • Afternoon: Take a cooking class at Cooking with Fatima, learning to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous.
  • Evening: Dine at Chez la Hayat, a popular local restaurant serving delicious homemade food.

Day 4: Day Trip to Volubilis & Meknes

  • Hire a grand taxi for a day trip to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, exploring ancient mosaics and architecture.
  • Continue to Meknes, the “Imperial City,” visiting the Bab Mansour Gate, Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the bustling medina.

Day 5: Relaxing in the Medina

  • Enjoy a leisurely morning at your riad, perhaps indulging in a traditional Moroccan hammam (steam bath) experience.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the Jardin Jnan Sbil, a beautiful botanical garden offering respite from the bustling medina.
  • Evening: Experience a magical Fassi Fantasia show featuring traditional music, dancing, and horsemanship.

Day 6: Shopping & Souvenirs

  • Morning: Head back to the souks for some souvenir shopping. Look for handcrafted leather goods, ceramics, spices, and carpets.
  • Afternoon: Visit the New Town (Ville Nouvelle) for a modern shopping experience.

Day 7: Departure

  • Enjoy a final breakfast at your riad.
  • Take a petit taxi to Fes-Saiss Airport (FEZ) for your departure.

Tips:

  • Haggle respectfully in the souks. Start with a lower price and be prepared to walk away if you don’t reach an agreement.
  • Carry small denominations of Moroccan Dirham for transactions.
  • Learn some basic Arabic phrases, such as “Shukran” (thank you) and “Salam” (hello).
  • Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey through Fes!