2 Days in Fes: A Complete Itinerary

Two days covers Fes el Bali's major sights at a reasonable pace, without trying to see the entire medina in one exhausting push.

Day 1: Bab Boujloud and the university district

Enter the medina through Bab Boujloud, the ornate gate that marks the classic starting point, ideally with a guide for this first day given how disorienting the medina's lanes are. Head toward the Al Quaraouiyine university district, viewing its courtyard and the nearby Bou Inania Madrasa's tilework. In the afternoon, visit the Chouara Tannery, viewing the dye pits from one of the surrounding leather shop terraces.

Day 2: Souks and viewpoints

Spend the morning exploring the deeper medina souks — metalworkers, textile dyers, and the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts for context on the crafts you've been seeing. In the afternoon, head up to the Marinid Tombs on the hills above the city for a panoramic view over the medina, ideally timed for the softer light before sunset.

Getting around

The medina is entirely on foot; a guide for at least the first day is worth the cost given how easy it is to get disoriented in Fes el Bali specifically, more so than in Marrakech.

What to pack

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes and cash for medina purchases — see our Fes travel guide for the fuller packing list and more on choosing where to stay.