Fez is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco along with Marrakech, Rabat and Meknes. You must see it, especially if you would like to see an authentic place to enjoy Moroccan culture in its full splendor.
Its pedestrian medina is considered a World Heritage Site by Unesco. Its narrow streets and stores leave no one indifferent. That’s why we bring you a guide of what to do in Fez for just one day, so you won’t leave anything interesting behind.
Can Fez be seen in one day?
Yes, in one day you can see it quietly. In Fez what you will do is relax and witness how the typical handicrafts are made. Therefore, we strongly recommend that you combine your visit to Fez with Méknes, just 64 kilometers from Fez. We offer you a complete tour of all the imperial cities of Morocco, so you don’t have to worry about taking the car.
Bab Boujloud
It starts at the blue gate of Fez which gives access to the medina, built in 1913. It is in the most lively area of the medina. It is close to the most popular cafes and restaurants. Therefore, it is a place with a lot of atmosphere, ideal to start the day.
Bou Inania Madrasa
Continue your route through the Bou Inania Madrasa, just 2 minutes from the blue door. You will only be able to see a part of the building, but it will be enough to be amazed by its beauty and get an idea of what these buildings are for (they were schools where the Koran was taught). This Madrasa is nowadays inactive, so you can visit it.
Its minaret does not go unnoticed, a sign that it also has a mosque, but as with most of them, tourists are not allowed to enter.
Even so, it is well worth a visit for its architecture, similar to that of the Nasrid Palaces of the Alhambra in Granada.
El Glaoui Palace
If you are a lover of architecture and decadent palaces, be sure to visit the El Glaoui Palace. It is not the most typical of Fez, nor will you find a guided tour of the building, but its mosaics and arcaded courtyard are worth seeing.
It is a 10-minute walk from the Bou Inania Madrasa.
Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss
It is a pity that non-Muslims are not allowed to enter, but you can approach and enjoy its imposing exterior. It is one of the holiest places in Morocco.
Madrasa Al Attarine
It is one of the most beautiful madrasas you can visit in Morocco, so you should not miss it. They emphasize its fountain and its dome. You will be able to see that it is decorated in an exquisite way. Do not worry, non-Muslims can enter here. It is one minute from the mausoleum.
Seffarine Square, Karaouine Mosque and tanneries
The mosque and the Seffarine square are very close to the mausoleum. You can not enter the mosque, but the view of its exterior and its minaret is very nice. Take the opportunity to see the Seffarine square, where you will see the master coppersmiths working the art of copper. You will see them making teapots, pots or trays among other things.
Be sure to visit the tanneries of Fez. They are the most famous in Morocco and attract the attention of everyone who visits them. You can see how they dye the skins, which are then used to make bags, belts and other items.
If you have time to spare, take a break in the gardens of the Royal Palace. You won’t be able to see the inside, as it is in use, but its 7 bronze doors are worth seeing and photographing.
