Fez is the oldest of Morocco’s imperial cities and has served as the country’s capital no fewer than three times throughout its history. This captivating city is filled with breathtaking architecture, fascinating history and an enchanting culture. Much more relaxed and less intimidating than Marrakech, Fez is the ideal place to introduce children to the intriguing culture of Morocco.
On a visit to Fez, a must-visit location is Fez’s old town, known as the medina. The medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the best preserved historic towns of the Arab-Muslim world and one of the world’s largest urban pedestrian zones. Enter the maze-like narrow streets, lined with everything you could imagine and more. Brightly coloured fabrics, leather, jewellery and food grab your attention from all angles as you navigate the jumble of souks, palaces, mosques and monuments that make up the medina. It is a feast for the senses, mixing vibrant mosaics, fragrant spices, the sounds of music, people haggling and the frequent shout urging you to move out of the way of a donkey… We recommend exploring the medina with a local guide, as the over 9,000 alleyways are hard to navigate alone!
Fez is also a centre for traditional artisans and crafts. While there, watch the artisans at work as they skilfully create intricate pottery and mosaics using traditional tools and techniques. (And try to resist filling your suitcase with colourful pottery on the way out…)
The traditional leather tanneries of the city are also worth a visit. Time your visit in the morning as the smell worsens throughout the day… Chaouwara Tannery is the oldest and largest of these traditional tanneries. The leather is tanned in colourful vats using archaic ingredients, including cow urine, quicklime and pigeon poo. Enter the leather shops built into the surrounding walls for a bird’s-eye view of multi-coloured vats.
Duck out of the bustling city into the peaceful riads that are hidden down narrow streets for the chance to reset and refuel with a Moroccan tagine before continuing your adventures…
Make sure you leave time to wander past the stunning architecture of the Jewish district, best in the afternoon when the tourists are fewer and the light softer, and explore the surrounding green spaces, cedar forests and beautiful mountain scenery that lay just outside the city.
Let our family travel experts plan you a tailor-made family holiday to Fez. All our Trip Ideas can be adapted to suit your family's individual requirements - contact us for more details.
