Historic medina of Fes
The spiritual capital

Fes

The oldest living medina in the world, best seen on foot and slowly.

Fes el-Bali is a medieval city still fully alive: nine thousand alleys, donkey-cart logistics, and craftsmen working the same trades their families have for centuries. With private access we take you inside the Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas, above the famous tanneries, into a master ceramicist's studio, and to a Sufi music evening held within the walls.

Highlights
  • Fes el-Bali, the ancient medina
  • Bou Inania and Attarine madrasas
  • The Chouara tanneries from above
  • Master artisan and ceramic studios
  • Sufi music evenings
  • Gateway to Meknes and Volubilis
Planning notes

Planning a private journey to Fes

Fes el-Bali, the old medina of Fes, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world. Its lanes are easy to get lost in, so a licensed guide makes the difference between walking through it and understanding it. Celeste Trails has a second office in Fez, which helps with local coordination.

Best time to visit
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Summers are hot and winters are cool and sometimes wet.
Getting there
Fès–Saïss Airport (FEZ), or by train from Rabat, Casablanca and Tangier.
How long to stay
Two to three nights, with an optional day trip to Meknes and the Roman site of Volubilis.
Pairs well with
Chefchaouen, Rabat, Merzouga and the Middle Atlas.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a guide in the Fes medina?

It is strongly recommended. The medina is very large and dense, and a licensed guide gives access to madrasas, workshops and viewpoints you would struggle to find alone.

Can a Sahara trip start or end in Fes?

Yes. A common route links Marrakech, the gorges, Merzouga and Fes, or the reverse, over several days by road.

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