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Fes Morocco Tour
Fes Morocco Private One-Day Tour: A Journey Through Time and Culture
Discover the Enchanting City of Fes from Mosaics to Madrasas
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Fes, Morocco's cultural capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This private guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and architectural marvels. From ancient medinas to royal palaces, immerse yourself in the heart of Moroccan civilization.
As you wander through the labyrinthine streets of Fes, the world's largest car-free urban area, you'll be immersed in a living museum where traditional artisans still practice their crafts using techniques passed down through generations. The haunting call to prayer echoing from centuries-old minarets, the aromatic scents of spices wafting through the air, and the vibrant colors of handcrafted goods will create an unforgettable sensory experience.
This carefully curated tour takes you beyond the surface, delving deep into the heart and soul of Fes. You'll explore hidden corners, discover architectural gems, and gain insights into the city's fascinating history - from its founding in the 8th century to its golden age as a center of learning and culture, and its continued significance in modern Morocco.
Fes Tour Highlights and Practical Information
- Duration: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Inclusions:
- Fes Old Medina & Sightseeing Tour
- Luxury Morocco transport
- Multilingual driver (English, Arabic, Berber, French)
- Expert licensed Fes guide
- Starting & Finishing Point: Your Riad or Hotel in Fes
Exploring Fes: A City of Three Parts
Fes, Morocco's fourth-largest city, is divided into three distinct areas:
- Fès el Bali: The old, walled city
- Fès-Jdid: New Fes, home of the Mellah (Jewish quarter)
- Ville Nouvelle: The French-created, newest section of Fes
Fès el Bali boasts the largest contiguous car-free urban area in the world, offering a unique glimpse into traditional Moroccan life.
Journey Through the Medina's Labyrinth
Your adventure begins at the ornate Bab Boujeloud gate (The Blue Gate of Fes), adorned with striking blue and green faiences. As you step into the medina, you'll find yourself in a maze of narrow streets lined with local shops, stalls of fresh fruit, mounds of spices, intricately woven Berber carpets, and various Moroccan handicrafts.
Discover Fes' Rich Cultural Heritage
The Royal Palace and Jewish Mellah
- The 14th Century Palace Gates: The Royal Palace in Fes, dating back to the 14th century, stands as one of the oldest and largest in Morocco. Its grand gates offer a glimpse into the city's royal history.
- The Jewish Mellah: Established in 1438, the Fes Mellah was the first Jewish quarter in Morocco. This walled neighborhood, adjacent to the royal palace, served as a protected enclave for the Jewish community for over 650 years.
Ancient Synagogues and Sacred Sites
- Ibn Danan Synagogue: Built by the Ibn Danan family, this synagogue represents the thriving Jewish community of 17th-century Fes. It has been recognized by the World Monuments Watch List for its historical significance.
- Jewish Cemetery and Tomb of Solica: This cemetery contains more Jewish saints' tombs than any other in Morocco. The tomb of Lalla Solica, a young martyr who refused to convert to Islam, is a poignant reminder of the community's struggles.
Masterpieces of Islamic Architecture
The Bou Inania Medersa
Founded in 1351-56 by Abu Inan Faris, the Bou Inania Medersa is a masterpiece of Marinid architecture. It's the only madrasa in Fes with a minaret and served as both an educational institute and a congregational mosque.
University of Kairouine
Established in 859, the University of Kairouine is considered the oldest continuously operating institution of higher learning in the world. It remains a leading spiritual and educational center of the Muslim world.
Immerse Yourself in Traditional Crafts
Pottery & Zellij Tile Cooperative
Witness ancient techniques of zellij and pottery making. You'll have the opportunity to participate in creating these traditional crafts and shop for fabulous pottery, zellij tiled tables, and fountains.
Dyers Souk and Tanneries
- Dyers Souk: Visit the vibrant dyers market along Rue de Teinturies, where you'll see traditional dying vats used for centuries to create a rainbow of colored hides for silk, wool, and cotton.
- The Tannery: Experience the lively Chourara or Tanner's Quarters, known for its picturesque scenes and the production of fine leather goods. Witness the ancient techniques of leather processing and dyeing.
Weavers Cooperative
Visit a workshop specializing in weaving the finest jellaba fabric, made of silk and wool threads. You'll see both traditional and modern weaving techniques in action.
Explore Sacred Spaces and Historical Monuments
- Zaouia Sidi Ahmed Tijani: This zawiya (shrine) contains the tomb of an 18th-century Sufi Shaykh and founder of the Tijaniyya order. Its facade is a stunning display of carved wood, stucco, and glazed tile.
- Zaouia Moulay Idriss: Dedicated to Moulay Idriss II, the founder of Fes, this shrine is an important pilgrimage site and a testament to the city's deep-rooted history.
Discover Fes' Unique Quarters and Squares
Rcife
Enter the medina from Rcife, the heart of manufacturing for all Fassi goods. Cross the local fruit and vegetable market where you'll witness stalls of local traders and people buying their daily goods.
Seffraine Square (Place el-Seffarine)
Visit this kisseria, the most important center for the production of Fassi-style ceramics, brass-ware, and silverware in Morocco.
Nejarine Square
Explore this interesting square dominated by the beautifully restored Nejjarine Wood Museum housed in an 18th-century funduq. Admire the superbly decorated wall fountain and browse the shops before venturing into the carpenters' souk.
Indulge in Local Flavors
Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant featuring varied salads, flavorful tajines, and seasoned fruit for dessert. This culinary interlude provides a perfect opportunity to savor the local cuisine and recharge for the afternoon's explorations.
Shopping and Artisanal Treasures
Conclude your tour with visits to local shops specializing in:
- Antique and modern carpets
- Handcrafted scarves
- Various local handicrafts
Witness a Berber carpet demonstration and immerse yourself in the vibrant shopping culture of Fes. Walk through the Attarine street filled with the scents of Fes, such as spices and oils.
