Fes is the oldest of Morocco’s four imperial cities and one of the most rewarding destinations for travelers seeking authentic culture. Its medina, Fes el-Bali, is the largest car-free urban area in the world, a dense web of more than 9,000 narrow lanes where donkeys remain the only form of transport. Walking through the medina feels like stepping back in time: artisans hammer copper, weave silk, carve cedar, and stitch leather using techniques passed down through generations.

The city is built around three main areas. Fes el-Bali, the old city, contains the famous Chouara Tannery, where hides are still dyed in stone vats filled with natural pigments. Nearby, the Bou Inania Madrasa and Al-Attarine Madrasa dazzle visitors with geometric zellige tiles, carved plaster, and cedar screens. The Andalusian and Karaouine quarters house the University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 AD and considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world.

Fes el-Jedid, the new city built by the Marinids in the 13th century, is home to the Royal Palace and the Jewish quarter known as the Mellah. The modern French-built Ville Nouvelle offers tree-lined avenues, cafes, and administrative buildings, providing a striking contrast to the ancient medina. Together, these districts give Fes a layered identity unlike any other Moroccan city.

Despite its size, Fes rewards slow exploration. Every corner reveals a hidden fountain, a fragrant spice shop, or a quiet courtyard. The city is also a culinary capital, famous for Fassi pastilla, slow-cooked tagines with dried fruits, and refined pastries. For travelers interested in history, craftsmanship, and gastronomy, Fes is an essential stop on any Morocco itinerary.

A refined sweet-and-savory pie traditionally made with pigeon, layered with warqa pastry, almonds, eggs, and aromatic spices, then dusted with cinnamon and powdered sugar. It is the crown jewel of Fassi cuisine.

Founded in 789 AD by Idris I, Fes became the capital of the Idrisid dynasty and later a center of learning and commerce under the Marinids. The University of al-Qarawiyyin was established in 859 and helped shape Islamic scholarship for over a thousand years. Merchants from Andalusia, Tunisia, and sub-Saharan Africa brought wealth and knowledge, creating a cosmopolitan society. Today Fes remains Morocco’s spiritual and artisan capital, where medieval traditions are still part of daily life.

Fes is an excellent base for exploring northern Morocco. Meknes, the smallest imperial city, is just an hour away and features the grand Bab Mansour gate and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. The Roman ruins of Volubilis, with their stunning mosaics, lie nearby. The holy town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun clings to green hillsides and offers panoramic views. Chefchaouen, the blue city of the Rif Mountains, can also be visited as a long day trip.