The Fes medina is one of the world’s most extraordinary urban environments — a living medieval city that has remained essentially unchanged for over a thousand years. Fes el-Bali (the old city) is home to over 9,000 narrow alleys, centuries-old religious schools, working artisan workshops organized by craft in traditional guild neighborhoods, natural dye vats that have operated since the 11th century, and Al-Qarawiyyin University — recognized as the world’s oldest continuously operating educational institution. No Morocco desert tour that begins or ends in Fes should spend less than a full day here.
Top Sights in Fes Medina
Chouara Tannery
The most iconic image in Morocco — colorful circular stone vats filled with natural dyes (saffron for yellow, poppy for red, indigo for blue, henna for orange), surrounded by workers treading leather in the ancient tradition. The tannery has operated continuously since the 11th century and is best viewed from the balconies of surrounding leather shops. Visit mid-morning when workers are most active and light is best for photography.
Bou Inania Madrasa
The most spectacular religious school in Morocco — a 14th-century masterpiece of Marinid architecture. The central courtyard features extraordinary carved cedar wood screens, intricate geometric zellij tilework reaching to the ceiling, and sculpted plaster calligraphy panels. Non-Muslims can visit this madrasa (unlike most others).
Al-Qarawiyyin University
Founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, recognized by UNESCO as the world’s oldest continuously operating university. Non-Muslims cannot enter the attached mosque, but the exterior and the adjacent library (housing manuscripts dating to the 9th century) give a powerful sense of the site’s significance.
Visiting Fes on Desert Tours
Fes is the starting point for our Fes to Marrakech desert tours and an overnight stop on many of our Casablanca desert tours. The 7-Day Morocco Desert Tour from Casablanca includes a full day in Fes medina. All our Fes-departure tours begin with a certified medina guide on request. Browse our Fes tours collection. UNESCO World Heritage – Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou covers Fes medina’s UNESCO designation and history.
