Question 1

How many days does Fes deserve?

Accepted Answer

Two nights minimum — one guided day inside Fes el-Bali barely scratches it. Our favourite pattern is a guided day plus a free morning, which is why several of our circuits sleep two nights there.

Question 2

What is special about the Fes medina?

Accepted Answer

It is the world's largest car-free urban area — some 9,000 lanes where everything still moves by handcart and mule. Founded in the 9th century, it holds the Al-Qarawiyyin university, the great madrasas and craft souks that never became museums.

Question 3

Are the tanneries worth seeing, and do they smell?

Accepted Answer

The Chouara tannery from a leather-shop terrace is one of Morocco's great sights — a honeycomb of dye pits worked as it was centuries ago. Yes it smells; the sprig of mint you are handed at the door genuinely helps.

Question 4

Can I visit Al-Qarawiyyin?

Accepted Answer

The prayer hall is closed to non-Muslims, but the doorways give famous views of the courtyard, and the associated library and the nearby Attarine and Bou Inania madrasas — open to all — show the same artistry up close.

Question 5

What is the mellah of Fes?

Accepted Answer

The 15th-century Jewish quarter beside the royal palace — distinctive balconied houses, the Ibn Danan synagogue and a vast white cemetery. Our heritage circuits visit it with guides who tell its story properly.

Question 6

Is Fes more authentic than Marrakech?

Accepted Answer

Different rather than better: Fes is deeper, quieter after dark and more medieval; Marrakech is brighter, greener and more social. The classic answer is to refuse the choice — most of our routes include both.

Question 7

Where should I stay in Fes?

Accepted Answer

A riad inside Fes el-Bali for atmosphere — we use houses reachable without endless lanes, and your bags are portered from the nearest gate. The Ville Nouvelle works for drivers and elevator-lovers.

Question 8

What should I eat in Fes?

Accepted Answer

Pastilla — the sweet-savoury pigeon (now usually chicken) pie that is the city's signature — plus harira soup and the honeyed pastries of the old town. Our Fes evenings can end at a family table; say the word.

Question 9

Is Fes a good base for day trips?

Accepted Answer

Excellent: Volubilis, Moulay Idriss and Meknes make one classic loop; Sefrou and the cedar forests of Ifrane another. Both slot naturally into our northern circuits.

Question 10

Will I get hassled in the Fes medina?

Accepted Answer

Less than its reputation says, and almost not at all beside a licensed guide. Decline unofficial 'guides' politely at the gates, and remember that a shopkeeper's invitation to look is hospitality first, commerce second.

Fes

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26. Fes