Fes Medina Walking Tour with Local Guide & Hidden Gems
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour is led by a licensed local guide born and raised in the Medina of Fes, offering travelers a genuine and personal connection to the city. You’ll start your day with a traditional Moroccan mint tea at a local spot, a warm and authentic welcome that sets the tone for the experience.
Instead of a standard tour, you’ll discover Fes the way locals experience it—through its hidden alleys, artisan workshops, panoramic viewpoints, and rich cultural districts such as the Mellah. Every explanation is simple, clear, and adapted to your pace and interests.
With this tour, you don’t just visit Fes—you live it through local stories, real encounters, and unique insights that only a true insider can offer.
Available options
Full Day Authentic Fes City Tour with Local Licensed Guide
Duration: 4 hours<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Visit to artisan workshops
Pick up and drop off
Licensed local tour guide
Panoramic viewpoint stop
Traditional Moroccan mint tea (welcome tea)
Guided walking tour of the Medina
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your guide will introduce you to the famous Blue Gate, the main entrance of the Medina. You’ll learn about its history, architecture, and the transition between the Andalusian and Moroccan sides of the Medina.
2
Enjoy one of the best panoramic viewpoints of Fes. From here, travelers can see the entire old Medina, its maze-like streets, historical monuments, and surrounding hills.
3
Stop 3
Walk through the historic Jewish Quarter of Fes Jdid, known for its unique architecture, wooden balconies, and cultural heritage. Your guide will explain the history of the Jewish community in Fes.
4
Visit the iconic Chouara Tannery, where traditional leather-making techniques have been preserved for centuries. From the terraces, you’ll watch artisans dye leather in vibrant colors.
5
Stop 5
Explore one of the most beautiful madrasas in Morocco. Admire its carved woodwork, zellige tiles, and peaceful courtyard while learning about its historical role in Islamic education.
6
Discover the vibrant souks of the old Medina, from spices and metalwork to traditional crafts. Your guide will take you to authentic workshops and artisan areas.
What's not included
Lunch
Personal expenses
Entrance fees 15–20 EUR per person payable onsite (e.g. Al Attarine Madrasa)
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
JA
EN
IT
FR
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Important notes
Please show your booking confirmation (mobile or printed) to your guide at the pickup point. Your guide will contact you before the tour to confirm the exact meeting location and time.
About Fez
Fez is the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, known for its ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the oldest university in the world, the University of al-Qarawiyyin. It offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and traditional crafts.
Top Attractions
Fez Medina
The Fez Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old cities in the world. It's a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic sites.
Historical/Cultural
Full day
Free to explore, fees for specific sites
Al-Qarawiyyin University
Founded in 859 AD, Al-Qarawiyyin is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. It's a significant cultural and historical site.
Historical/Educational
1-2 hours
Free
Bou Inania Madrasa
A beautiful example of Marinid architecture, this madrasa (Islamic school) is one of the few religious sites in Fez open to non-Muslims.
Historical/Architectural
30-60 minutes
Moderate
Chouara Tanneries
One of the last remaining traditional tanneries in the world, the Chouara Tanneries offer a glimpse into an ancient craft that has changed little over centuries.
Cultural/Industrial
30-60 minutes
Free (donations appreciated)
Bab Bou Jeloud
The main gate to the Fez Medina, Bab Bou Jeloud is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and a great photo opportunity.
Architectural
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tagine
A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, served in a conical clay pot.
Dinner
Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.
Couscous
Steamed semolina grains served with vegetables and meat, often with a rich sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.
Pastilla
A savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, filled with spiced pigeon meat, almonds, and sugar.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and nuts.
Harira
A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, often served during Ramadan.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Rif Mountains
Horseback riding in the countryside
Spa and hammam treatments
Strolling through the gardens of the Royal Palace
Exploring the Fez Medina
Visiting historic sites and museums
Attending traditional music and dance performances
Experiencing a traditional hammam
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. This is the best time for sightseeing and exploring the city.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic, Berber
- Widely spoken: French, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone
GMT+1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Fez is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Fes-Saïss Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Fez Railway Station
By bus
Fez CTM Bus Station, Fez Supratours Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Fez. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fez Medina
Fes el Jdid
Ville Nouvelle
Day trips
Meknes
60 km • Full day
Meknes is a historic city with a rich past, known for its imperial palaces, mosques, and the famous Bab Mansour gate. It offers a mix of history, architecture, and local culture.
Volubilis
80 km • Full day
Volubilis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the remains of a Roman city. It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Morocco, offering a glimpse into the country's Roman past.
Chefchaouen
120 km • Overnight
Chefchaouen is a picturesque mountain town known for its blue-washed buildings, narrow streets, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains.
Festivals
Fez Festival of World Sacred Music • June
Fez Festival of Sufi Culture • April
Ramadan • Date varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide to navigate the medina and learn about its history and culture
- Visit the Chouara Tanneries early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Try a traditional hammam experience for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals
- Bargain politely in markets and souks, but be prepared to walk away if the price is not agreeable
$14
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
