One Day Fes Itinerary for Culture Vultures and Architecture Enthusiasts
- Malika
- 20 hours ago
- 12 min read
Fes is one of Morocco’s most storied cities and is rightly considered the “cultural capital of Morocco” (some have even dubbed it the “Athens of Africa”). It’s overflowing with incredible architecture and now boasts one of the country’s best museums with the re-opening of Dar Batha.
Fes is a destination I've visited numerous times over the last 10 years and it's somewhere I always love coming back to. Not only are the madrasas, museums and souks among Morocco's most inspiring, but there are some really gorgeous riads (discover my top recommendations here!)
With so much to see, you might think that a one-day itinerary in Fes will only just scratch the surface. But in fact, you can experience many of the city’s most impressive cultural and architectural attractions in a single day, provided you plan ahead. As you wander between each sight, you’ll experience all the hustle and bustle of Fes el-Bali and have plenty of opportunities to pick up handicrafts along the way.
That being said, if you’re thinking about making significant purchases (such as rugs or leather goods) during your visit to Fes, then I’d recommend scheduling another half-day at least. It takes time to browse and haggle for these more expensive items and is something you don’t want to rush.
In this guide, I’ll share with you my suggestions for a one day Fes itinerary, based on the cultural and architectural landmarks I visited in a single day on my last visit. It includes up-to-date information on which sights are open (and which are closed for restoration) and how to avoid peak crowds at the city’s most popular attractions. I'll also share opening hours and entrance prices to help you plan ahead.
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Stop One: Bab Boujloud
Constructed in 1913 under the French colonial administration, this gate serves as one of the main entrances to the medina. Adorned with gorgeous blue tiles and with a striking green interior, it really is a sight to behold and a great place to start your one-day itinerary in Fes.
Bab Boujloud actually sits on the site of an earlier gate, believed to date from the 12th century, with remnants still visible just outside its modern counterpart. The gate provides direct access to one of Fes’s most important streets, Tala'a Kebira - if you follow it east, you’ll eventually arrive at Al Attarine Madrasa and Al Quaraouiyine.
Bab Boujloud is always bustling with people coming and going in and out of the medina, so it’s a great spot for people-watching. It also never "closes", so if you're an early riser, it's there ready and waiting for you!
Stop Two: Bou Inania Madrasa
Just two minutes’ walk from Bab Boujloud is this former theological school, established by Sultan Bou Inan in the 14th century. The central courtyard is adorned with beautiful mosaics, intricately carved plasterwork and elegant cedar mashrabiyas, along with several grand doors.
Compared to Al Attarine, Bou Inania Madrasa is more spacious, although its restoration is not as modern. They feel quite different, so I definitely think it’s worth visiting both.
Bou Inania serves as an active place of worship and closes for prayers throughout the day. From my experience, the best time to visit for capturing photos without people is early in the morning (as suggested here) or right after it reopens post-prayer.
Unlike Al Attarine Madrasa, the upper level of student dormitories was not open during my last visit, but this could change in the future.
Bou Inania Madrasa is just one of several incredible madrasas in Fes and is visited on this informative full-day tour of Fes.
Bou Inania Madrasa is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily and entrance costs 20 DH.
Stop Three: Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Crafts
Tucked away amidst the metalworker shops of Place Nejjarine lies a historic inn that once provided a resting place for travelling traders. Today, it proudly displays Morocco's rich artistic heritage as the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Crafts, one of Fes's most captivating museums.
I absolutely adore this place! The building is stunning and the exhibits are presented with such care. You can stroll through the salons where merchants once rested, now providing an exhibition space for engraved granary doors, ornate dowry chests and mashrabiya screens.
While it can get crowded at the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Crafts (particularly when large tour groups arrive), there are so many different rooms - you can usually find somewhere to escape for a quiet moment. The informative displays, available in English, French and Darija, provide a fascinating glimpse into the country’s artisanal traditions, and the beauty of the building alone justifies the entrance fee.
Don’t miss the rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of Fes - this is a great spot to grab a mid-morning coffee or tea. Just a heads up, while photos of the exhibits are prohibited, you are allowed to capture images of the beautiful central courtyard.
The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Crafts is open from 10 am to 5 pm daily and entrance costs 30 DH.
Stop Four: Tanneries
Fes is home to the world's oldest leather tanning site, tucked away behind the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Crafts. Here, you can watch skilled leatherworkers as they continue their age-old craft, soaking hides in colourful tanning vats before hanging them up to dry.
If you're exploring on your own, you'll likely encounter locals offering to guide you to one of the viewing terraces, usually through a shop where leather goods are sold. If you accept their offer, it's customary to tip, unless you intend to purchase something from their store. If you're not interested in buying and just want to snap a few photos, be honest with the person at the entrance to avoid any complications later.
A visit to the Fes tanneries is not for everyone and it’s a good idea to come prepared for the strong smell that emanates from the dyeing vats. Bring a scarf to cover your nose or grab some of the mint leaves provided by the leather cooperatives to sniff.
If you’re a fan of leather goods, you’ll be in paradise - the choice of products here is second to none.
The tanneries don't have set operating hours but are usually open by 9 am in the morning and close around sunset.
Stop Five: Al Attarine Madrasa + Al Quaraouiyine Mosque
Not far from the tanneries is Al Attarine Madrasa, a magnificent educational institution established in the 14th century by Sultan Abu Inan Faris. It takes its name from the adjacent Souk Al-Attarine, a lively market famous for its fragrant spices and perfumes. The madrasa is highly regarded as one of the most significant architectural masterpieces of the Marinid dynasty and it truly is a sight to behold.
At its centre is a beautifully decorated courtyard that leads to a square prayer hall and encircled by modest student living quarters. The tall walls are embellished with detailed stucco carvings and calligraphic texts while colourful zellige tiles adorn large areas. Be sure to climb to the second and third stories, from where you can enjoy wonderful views across the surrounding rooftops through the small windows.
Keep in mind that Al Attarine does close periodically, so if the doors aren't open, take a wander around the surrounding souk and come back later. If possible, ask a local what time it will reopen and plan to be back then - the madrasa is usually at its quietest just after opening, before the tour groups arrive.
Adjacent to Al Attarine is Al Quaraouiyine, which was established as a university and mosque in 859 BCE by Fatima al-Fihri. Today, it still operates as a mosque and is not accessible to non-Muslims.
However, you can look into the gorgeous courtyard through one of its doors or visit the library (you may need to ask around to find the entrance). It showcases beautiful tilework and ancient manuscripts, providing a glimpse into the rich history of Al Quaraouiyine as one of the world’s oldest universities.
Al Attarine Madrasa is open from 9 am to 6 pm daily and entrance costs 20 DH.
Stop Six: Dar Batha Museum of Islamic Arts
This outstanding museum is housed within a Hispano-Moorish summer palace that dates from the 19th century and has just reopened to the public after an extensive renovation. It showcases a huge diversity of artefacts, including wood carvings, ironwork and textiles, as well as some exquisite handcrafted Moroccan jewellery. For anyone passionate about Moroccan design, this museum is an absolute must-see!
I particularly appreciate the timeline of Moroccan history near the entrance, which explains the often complex succession of rulers in the region. Information is provided in English, French and Darija, along with some fascinating videos that explain various Moroccan crafts, such as ceramics. This really is one of the best museums in Fes!
While the exhibits are engaging and the building itself is stunning, it’s the Andalusian-style gardens at Dar Batha that I particularly love. Featuring tile-adorned walkways and a centrepiece fountain, this lush oasis is the perfect spot to relax in the mid-afternoon. It provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle outside and by this point in your one-day Fes itinerary, you're probably in need a short break!
During my last visit to Dar Batha (right after it reopened), the garden and exhibition spaces were wonderfully peaceful. However, I have a feeling that word will spread quickly about how wonderful this museum is and it may not stay that way for long! Just a heads up, DSLR cameras aren’t permitted, but you can snap photos with your phone.
Dar Batha is open from 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays) and entrance costs 60 DH.
Stop Seven: Mellah quarter
Sprawling to the southwest of Dar Batha is the Mellah quarter, which dates back to the 14th century when it was first settled by the Jewish community in Fes. At its height, this vibrant neighbourhood was home to more than 250,000 Jews, and its architecture still showcases these historical roots.
Central to the Mellah quarter is the historic Ibn Danan synagogue, which was built in the 17th century and is accessed through a modest entrance. Although only a few Jewish residents remain today (most departed after the establishment of Israel), the Mellah continues to preserve its cultural heritage.
If you're interested in learning more about Morocco's Jewish cultural heritage, check out this detailed article here.
Stop Seven: Royal Palace of Fes
On the northern edge of the Mellah quarter is Dar el-Makhzen, a palatial residence for Morocco’s king and a symbol of the country's cultural heritage. While it’s not accessible to the public, you can admire its stunning entrance, adorned with zellige tiles and grand brass doors - this is one of the most popular photo stops in Fes!
While many people suggest visiting early in the morning, I found it to be incredibly busy and it was difficult to capture photos without other tourists in them! When I returned in the late afternoon, things were much quieter and the light was gorgeous for photography.
As it never "closes", you can admire the entrance to the Royal Palace of Fes whenever it fits within your personalised one-day Fes itinerary.
Stop Eight: Jnan Sbil Gardens
I’d suggest ending your one-day Fes itinerary in this picturesque garden, which is located back near your starting point, Bab Boujloud. Aside from being known as Jnan Sbil, it’s often referred to as Bou Jeloud Gardens in reference to the medina gate.
You can stroll along the paths while admiring the seasonal flower beds or simply relax on one of the benches and watch the world go by. This is a popular spot for locals to stroll in the early evening, so the people-watching is sublime! And while the Merinid Tombs (one of Fes's most popular sunset spots) is undergoing restoration works, this a wonderful alternative as a place to end your day.
Jnan Sbil is open from 8 am to 7 pm daily and entrance is free.
Map for this one day itinerary in Fes
Tips for exploring Fes (and avoiding scams)
Always negotiate taxi prices before getting into the vehicle. Even if it’s metered, ask for a rough price first.
Download Google Maps and upload your itinerary so you can keep track of where you are throughout the day. It is really easy to get lost in the Fes medina and a bit of technology in your pocket can be a timesaver.
Never follow anyone who tells you there is a pharmacy/madrasa/building that is only open one day of the year…and that day happens to be today!
If you are approached by a stranger and told you are “going in the wrong direction for X”, politely decline their offer of help and continue the way you were headed. Once they are out of sight, you can check Google Maps or ask a shopkeeper for directions if you are actually lost.
Only accept an offer of a guide at the tanneries if you are willing to pay a tip OR plan on making a purchase from that person’s leather stall.
FAQs
Can you see Fes in one day?
Yes, a one-day itinerary for Fes can cover many of the key cultural and architectural attractions in the city. You can admire the stunning madrasas of Al Attarine and Bou Inania, photograph the famous tanneries and explore the fascinating exhibits of Dar Batha and the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Crafts. In between attractions, you’ll have plenty of time to wander the souks and browse the handicrafts for sale.
That being said, I’d recommend scheduling in an extra half day (at least) if you’re looking at making bigger purchases, such as Amazigh rugs and leather goods. Browsing and haggling for these expensive items is not something you should rush. Additionally, if you want to take a cooking class or a day trip to nearby Meknes and Volubilis, you’ll need at least two days in Fes.
How many days do I need for Fes?
If you're planning to visit Fes, I recommend setting aside at least two days to fully immerse yourself in everything the city has to offer. This timeframe allows you to explore the medina in-depth and visit many of its museums and attractions, as well as take a cooking class or a day trip to nearby Meknes and Volubilis.
If you’re wondering: “Is one day enough in Fes?” I’d say the answer is “yes”, provided you are sticking to the medina alone. But two days will allow you to explore at a more relaxed pace and return if you don’t quite get to see everything you wanted to. Culture enthusiasts and history buffs may need extra time at some of the sights to satisfy their curiosity.
When is the best time to visit Fes?
For blissfully mild weather that’s perfect for sightseeing, the ideal time to visit Fes is during the spring and autumn months. During these shoulder seasons, the weather is perfect for wandering through the medina without building up a sweat or requiring a lot of layers. In summer, Fes can get scorchingly hot, while winter months can get chilly.
When deciding on the best time to visit Fes, it’s also worth keeping in mind Ramadan dates as this can affect opening hours. Ramadan will take place from mid-February to mid-March in 2026. Fes also hosts several significant festivals throughout the year, including the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, which will impact crowds in and around the medina.
Is Fes worth visiting?
Fes is undoubtedly a destination worth exploring, particularly for visitors interested in Moroccan culture and history. The city is renowned for its historic medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow alleyways peppered with bustling souks, impressive madrasas and towering minarets. Additionally, Fes is home to one of the oldest universities in the world, Al Quaraouiyine, which adds to its rich intellectual heritage.
Do you need a guide for Fes?
If you're planning a trip to Fes, you might be wondering whether hiring a guide is necessary. It is really easy to get lost in the medina but smartphones and Google Maps are making it easier to explore independently. With a guidebook in hand, you’ll gain insights about the history and culture of the city, as well as the story behind individual attractions.
That being said, having a personal guide can be invaluable, not only for helping you navigate the medina but also the touts that are ever-present in Fes, trying to lead you in the wrong direction. Having a guide will also mean you can simply enjoy being in the moment as they recount the city’s cultural heritage, rather than having your nose glued to a phone or guidebook.
Is Fes safe to visit?
Generally speaking, Fes is a safe destination to visit, provided you approach your explorations with caution and common sense. The city is notorious for touts who try and “guide” tourists in the wrong direction or lead them into situations that require them to pay a hefty “tip”. To avoid getting drawn into these scams, politely decline the offers of anyone who approaches you out of nowhere.
For solo female travellers, I’d suggest avoiding walking alone at night in unpopulated streets or areas that are poorly lit. Stay near restaurant areas if you want to dine out after dark or plan to be back at your riad before nightfall (this is easy to do with the extended daylight hours in summertime). By staying aware of your surroundings and planning your itinerary thoughtfully, you can enjoy all that Fes has to offer while ensuring your personal safety.
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.