How to Plan Your Fez in One Day Sightseeing Tour

If you are a traveler short on time and want to explore the highlights of Fez, the Fez in One Day Sightseeing Tour is the ideal option for you. This guided tour takes you to the popular attractions in Fez on foot and in a private minivan. The tour is perfect for first-timers who want to see the cultural and traditional landmarks of this ancient city in a single day.

Overview

The Fez in One Day Sightseeing Tour covers the important historical and cultural sites of Fez. You can explore centuries-old masjids and madrasas, traditional tanneries, vibrant markets, and artisanal factories. The tour also includes leisure time, so you can have a delightful Moroccan lunch or shop for local craft and carpet stalls.

Attractions

The Fez in One Day Sightseeing Tour is packed with popular landmarks of Fez. Some of the attractions of this tour include:

• The Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud)
• The Bou Inania Madrasa
• The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University
• The Tannery District (Chouwara Tanneries)
• The Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
• The Royal Palace
• The Ceramic Factory

Bab Boujloud

The Blue Gate (Bab Boujloud) is one of the iconic attractions of Fez. This historical monument dates back to the 11th century and is considered the entrance to the ancient part of the city (Fes el-Bali). The gate is famous for its intricate decorations and its blue and green mosaic tiles.

Bou Inania Madrasa

The Bou Inania Madrasa is a must-visit on the Fez in One Day Sightseeing Tour. This monument embodies the rich cultural heritage of Morocco. The madrasa was built in the 14th century and is known for its stunning Islamic Architecture. The interior of the madrasa is adorned with carved cedar wood, stucco decoration, and colorful marble.

Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University

The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University is the oldest existing, continually operating university in the world. It was founded in 859 AD by a woman named Fatima al-Fihri. The mosque has been expanded over the centuries and is an impressive monument that showcases the Islamic architecture of Morocco.

Tannery District (Chouwara Tanneries)

The Tannery District is a fascinating destination on the tour. It is a centuries-old leather tanning industry and one of the main economic activities in Fez. You can watch the traditional process of tanning hides in large stone vessels full of colored dyes with unique smells.

Jewish Quarter (Mellah)

The Jewish Quarter (Mellah) is home to the Jewish community of Fez. You can explore the neighborhood and visit the 17th Century Ibn Danan Synagogue. The synagogue is known for its stunning architecture and impressive interior decoration.

Royal Palace

The Royal Palace is a prominent landmark of Fez. The palace was built in the late 19th century and is considered a masterpiece of Moorish architecture. While the inside of the palace is not open to the public, visitors can explore the exterior and view its stunning gold doors and intricate tile work.

Ceramic Factory

A visit to the Ceramic Factory is a must-do on the tour. The factory produces some of the finest ceramics in Morocco, famous for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. You can watch artisans making ceramics by hand and browse the shop to buy souvenirs.

What’s included

The tour includes a private guide/local expert, air-conditioned transportation (hotel pickup and drop-off), bespoke tour, food and drink, and gratuities. You can travel comfortably and efficiently with a private guide, who shares the history, culture, and traditions of Fez with you. You can enjoy a bespoke tour that is tailored to your interests and preferences.

Book Your Tour Now

The Fez in One Day Sightseeing Tour is a perfect option for travelers who want to see the highlights of Fez in a short time. This tour is ideal as a first-time visit to Fez, where you can explore the cultural, traditional, and historical landmarks of this ancient city. The tour is packed with attractions that will fascinate you, and you can enjoy a relaxing day with excellent food and drink. You can book the tour at Viator.com, where you can find more information about the tour, including booking details, customer reviews, and tour itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Book the tour here and experience the magic of Fez!

FAQs about Fez

Fez is one of the most mystique cities in Morocco. It’s a city of colorful mosques, intricate architecture, and medieval history that presents a feeling of timelessness. It’s also known for its bustling markets, delicious cuisine, and stunning gardens, attracting tourists from all over the world. In this article, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about Fez that will help you plan your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Fez?

The best time to visit Fez is during the months of April to June and September to November. During these months, the temperature is pleasant and mild, and rainfall is minimal. The summer months (July and August) are usually hot, with temperatures rising above 35 degrees Celsius. The winter months (December to March) can be chilly, especially in the evenings.

2. How to reach Fez?

Fez is well-connected by air, road, and train. The city has an international airport, Fes-Saïss Airport, which is located about 15 kilometers from the city center. Several airlines operate regular flights to Fez from major international destinations. You can also reach Fez by train from other Moroccan cities like Marrakech, Rabat, or Casablanca. The train journey from Casablanca to Fez takes around 3 hours. Several bus companies also operate regular services to Fez from other cities in Morocco.

3. What are the best places to visit in Fez?

Fez has a lot to offer for tourists. Some of the must-visit places include:

a. The Medina of Fez

The Medina of Fez is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered the most extensive car-free urban area in the world. The labyrinthine streets, narrow alleys, and bustling souks will transport you back in time. The Medina is also home to several historic buildings and monuments like the Bou Inania Madrasa, Al-Attarine Madrasa, and the Dar Batha Museum.

b. Moulay Idriss II Mausoleum

The Moulay Idriss II Mausoleum is a beautiful structure located on a hill overlooking the city of Fez. It’s the final resting place of Moulay Idriss II, who founded the city of Fez in the 9th century. The Mausoleum is open to visitors and is considered a holy site.

c. Chouara Tannery

The Chouara Tannery is one of the most famous tanneries in Fez and has been in operation for over 900 years. It’s a fascinating place to visit and see how leather is made using traditional methods. Visitors can also purchase leather products from the shops nearby.

d. Bou Jeloud Gardens

The Bou Jeloud Gardens are located in the heart of the Medina and offer a serene and peaceful escape from the chaos of the city. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with plenty of benches and fountains to relax.

4. What is the local cuisine like in Fez?

Fez is known for its delicious and flavorful cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

a. Pastilla

Pastilla is a savory and sweet pastry that’s filled with chicken, almonds, and spices. It’s considered a delicacy in Fez and is often served at special occasions.

b. Tagine

Tagine is a stew that’s cooked in a clay pot that’s shaped like a cone. It’s made with meat or vegetables and flavored with spices like cumin, saffron, and ginger. Tagine is often served with couscous, which is a type of pasta.

c. Harira

Harira is a traditional soup that’s eaten during Ramadan. It’s made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and spices like cinnamon and turmeric.

5. What are some cultural etiquettes to keep in mind while visiting Fez?

Fez is a conservative city, and visitors are expected to dress modestly, especially while visiting mosques and other religious sites. Women should cover their heads, arms, and legs, and men should avoid wearing shorts. It’s also essential to remove your shoes while entering a mosque or someone’s home. In conclusion, Fez is a city of immense beauty and history that’s worth visiting at least once in your lifetime. By keeping these FAQs in mind, you can make the most of your trip to Fez and enjoy all that the city has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Fez

If you’re planning to explore Morocco, Fez should be on the top of your list. The city boasts a rich culture, lively markets, incredible architecture, and world-class cuisine. However, if you’re visiting Fez for the first time, it can be overwhelming to plan out your itinerary. We’ve created a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in this vibrant city.

Day 1: Discover the Medina and Historical Monuments

The best place to begin your tour of Fez is in the medina, which is the old part of the city surrounded by high walls. The medina is a maze of narrow alleys, bustling markets, and ancient architecture. To avoid getting lost, it’s recommended to hire a local guide who can take you through the winding streets of the medina and show you its most interesting places. 1. Start your journey at Bab Boujloud or the Blue Gate, which is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. It’s located at the entrance of the medina and has stunning blue tiles that are sure to catch your eye. 2. Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, an extraordinary Islamic school built in the 14th century. It has exquisite architecture and design that’s worth seeing. 3. The Karaouine Mosque is the most significant landmark in the city, as it’s the largest mosque in the country. You cannot enter the mosque unless you’re Muslim, but you can admire the grand structure from outside. 4. Take a look at the Dar al-Magana, a hydraulic clock dating back to the Marinid era. The clock mechanism still works to this day and is an outstanding example of medieval technology.

Day 2: Visit the Tanners’ Quarter, Museums, Andalusian Gardens, and Souks

On the second day of your visit, you can explore other fascinating places within the city walls. 1. Start the day early by taking a tour of the tanneries in Fez’s leather-making district. You’ll be able to witness the process of tanning hides in large vats using traditional methods passed down over generations. 2. Visit the Dar Batha Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Moroccan ceramics, ancient Berber textiles, and traditional Moroccan wooden objects. 3. Take a stroll to the Andalusian Garden, where you can relax in the serene atmosphere and enjoy the beautiful gardens designed by the famous French landscape architect Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier. 4. No visit to Fez would be complete without experiencing shopping in the colorful souks, which are local markets that sell traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs. The best markets to visit are Souk el-Attarine, Souk el-Henna, and Souk Serrajine.

Day 3: Explore the Outskirts and Traditional Moroccan Lifestyle

On the third day, you can venture out of the city center to see traditional Moroccan lifestyles and the beautiful countryside that surrounds Fez. 1. Take a taxi to the nearby town of Sefrou, which is known for its cherry festival and charming artisan shops. It’s a beautiful town located on the slopes of the Atlas Mountains. 2. Visit the Mellah, which is the old Jewish quarter that dates back to the 16th century. 3. Take a trip out to the scenic village of Moulay Idriss, where you’ll be able to see the tomb of Moulay Idriss, a holy protector of Fez, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. 4. End the day with a traditional Moroccan Hammam experience, which is a relaxing and rejuvenating way to end your travels in Fez.

Book Your Tour Now

By following our three-day tour guide, you’ll be able to experience the best of Fez’s historical landmarks, traditional souks, and beautiful countryside. Don’t forget to take notes, pictures, and souvenirs to keep the memories of this magical place. We hope that this guide has been helpful and that you enjoy your stay in Fez.