Private Walking Tour of Fez Medina
After meeting you at the front door of your riad, we will begin at the Blue Gate, Bab Bou Jeloud, the main entrance to the medina of Fez. The highlights of our tour include a selection of the city's most important historical sites.
- The Magical Bou Inania Madrasa
The Bou Inania Madrasa is an iconic religious building in the centre of the medina. Constructed in the 14th century, the building was once a school, but today its extraordinary architecture is on display to the public. Explore its magnificent marble courtyard, intricate wood carvings, and endless mosaic tilework in a variety of greens. Continuing the colour theme is the adjoining mosque, with its breathtaking green minaret visible across the medina. There is no doubt that this madrasa is the grandest in the city.
It is also one of the few religious sites in Fes that can be entered by non-Muslim visitors.
- Foundouk Kettanine
Set in a wonderfully restored early-18th-century founduq, once an inn used by caravans, this site contains the former rooms of travelling merchants. It features beautiful Andalusian designs typical of Fez.
- Moulay Idriss II Shrine
The Zawiya Moulay Idriss II is a zawiya, or shrine and religious complex, dedicated to and containing the tomb of Idris II, who ruled Morocco from 808 to 828. He is considered the main founder of the city of Fes and of the first Moroccan Islamic state.
- Karaouiene Mosque
For over 1,200 years, the Karaouiene has been one of the leading spiritual and educational centres of the Muslim world. With a history dating back to the 9th century, this mosque and university have served as a congregation space for various Muslim saints and scholars throughout the centuries.
The University of Karaouiene is the oldest university in the world still operating and continuing to give courses to students.
- Sebbaghine (the dyers' market)
This is where the ladies bring their raw materials, such as wool, cotton, and silk, to be treated before beginning the production of fabrics and rugs.
- Chouara Tanneries
Discover hundreds of earthen pits filled with various coloured dyes used to colour animal skins. The tanneries are a unique part of Fes culture and one of the best things to see on any trip to Morocco. Locals at the tanneries will offer you "free mint" to help with the smell.
We will view the tanneries from Terrace N 10, the best roof terrace for a clear panoramic view. Chouara Tannery is the largest tannery in the city and the oldest leather tannery in the world.
- Seffarine Square
Place Seffarine is a small square in the medina of Fes. The square dates back to the Middle Ages and has also undergone renovations in modern times. It was historically the main souq of the city's coppersmiths, who gave the square its name, and they are still present today. Their workshops have been established here since at least the 16th century, when Leo Africanus noted their presence.
- Souks of Fes
If you want a unique shopping experience, Fes is the right place to go. Here you can find carpets, jewellery, spices, leather pouffes, textiles, clothing, bronze, ceramics, and pottery.
After finishing our tour, we will bring you back to your riad or hotel.
