Fès holidays

How to reach Fes

Flight time:

• Direct flights to Fes from London take approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes.

• Flights from other UK airports usually have a stopover, extending the journey time.

• Another option is to fly into another city and travel to Fès by train.

Transfer time:

• Fès-Saïs Airport is located about 15km south of the city.

• The most common way to get to Fes is by taxi, which takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

• There’s also a bus service that runs at least every hour, connecting to the train station in Ville Nouvelle, taking about 40 minutes.

Price:

• A taxi to Fes will cost around Dh120 (£9.50).

• The bus is a more economical option, priced at Dh4 (£0.30).

Best time to visit Fes

Located in the interior of Morocco, Fès has pleasant temperatures for most of the year, low rainfall and plenty of sun, but the weather in the summer can get hot. Here's a full breakdown of what to expect throughout the year.

• March to May is a fantastic time to visit, with comfortable temperatures between 17°C and 25°C, and the city is vibrant with flowers in bloom.

• June to August is the hottest time of year, with daily temperatures peaking at above 35°C, so it’s best avoided if you aren’t a fan of intense heat. If you do visit during this period, take long breaks in the middle of the day, and explore in the early mornings or late evenings to avoid the heat.

• September to November brings a cool-down, with average temperatures dropping from around 28°C to 20°C. It’s a perfect time for sightseeing with fewer crowds.

• December to February is the coolest time of year, with daytime temperatures around 12°C to 18°C. Although it’s still mild by UK standards, pack warmer layers for the evenings, as it can drop to 5°C at night.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Morocco's main language is Arabic, but many people also speak Berber and French. In the Medina, English may not be common, but you'll likely meet plenty of helpful locals willing to assist you. It's always appreciated if you know a few French or Arabic phrases.

• Local habits and customs: It’s important to respect local customs, particularly in a conservative city like Fès. Dress modestly, especially in the Medina, when visiting religious sites like mosques or in rural areas – both men and women are best off covering their shoulders and knees. Also, be mindful of local prayer times, when many shops and businesses may close.

• Currency: The local currency is the Moroccan dirham (Dh). ATMs are widely available, especially in the Ville Nouvelle, and most major debit or credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger shops. It's worth carrying some cash for local shops or restaurants and smaller vendors.

• Getting around: The most convenient way to explore Fès is on foot, especially in the Medina. Petits taxis are a cheap and efficient way to travel between areas like Ville Nouvelle and Fes, and usually use their meters. There are also city buses, but they tend to be crowded, and taxis are quicker and easier for tourists.

• Electricity and plug types: Morocco uses a standard voltage of 220V, with Euro-type C and E plugs. UK visitors will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Morocco operates on Central European Time (CET), GMT+1.

Best things to do in Fes

Fes, the oldest part of Fez, is a treasure trove of history, architecture and culture, and can easily keep you entertained for several days. Whether you're wandering through its maze-like streets or visiting ancient monuments, there's something around every corner to enchant and enthral. Here’s a breakdown of what holidays to Fes can offer.

The best districts

• Medina: The main arteries and souks of the Medina are lined with shops selling everything from spices to traditional crafts. But to truly soak up the atmosphere of Fes, take off down the narrow alleys to search out the hidden attractions of the area, such as its hundreds of mosques, medersas (religious schools) and fondouks (ancient inns for traders).

Historic monuments

• Borj Nord: This 16th-century fortress was originally built to keep the locals in check, but it now offers spectacular panoramic views of the Medina’s rooftops and minarets. It’s also home to the Museum of Arms, showcasing Morocco's military history.

• Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University: One of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 859 AD, this is an essential stop in Fès. While the mosque is closed to non-Muslims, the architecture and history make it a must-see.

• Medersa Bou Inania: This stunning madrasa (Islamic school) is one of the few religious establishments in Morocco open to non-Muslims, and is possibly the country's finest building. Built in the 14th century, its intricate carvings, woodwork and zellij (tilework) are breathtaking.

• Dar Batha Museum: This former royal palace is now a museum dedicated to providing insight into traditional Moroccan arts and crafts that have been passed down through generations, from intricate woodwork to calligraphy and ceramics. It's also worth visiting just for its gardens.

Day trips in the area

• Moulay Idriss Zerhoun and Volubilis: For a fantastic day trip, head to the sacred town of Moulay Idriss, home to Morocco’s first Arab dynasty, just to wander around and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. From here, head to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis up on the long plateau, where you’ll discover mosaics and ancient temples.

Activities for families in Fes

Fes may seem like a place for history buffs, but there’s plenty for families to enjoy. Whether it’s outdoor fun or exploring ancient sites, there’s something for everyone.

• Jnane Sbil Gardens: This is a perfect green escape in the middle of the city. Children will love exploring the fountains, ponds and tree-lined paths, while parents can enjoy a quiet moment in the serene surroundings.

• Café Clock: More than just a place to grab a bite, this cultural hub offers workshops in everything from Arabic calligraphy to traditional Moroccan cooking, which are ideal for older children.

• Tannery Tour: The tanneries are a fascinating sight and kids will enjoy learning about the traditional methods of leather-making that have been practised here for centuries.

Free things to do in Fes

There are plenty of free activities to enjoy on Fes holidays. Here’s what you can do without spending a dirham.

• Explore the souks: The lively souks (markets) of Fes are a feast for the senses, filled with vibrant colours, exotic spices and handmade goods.

• Merenid Tombs: Another free place to visit with atmospheric views over the Medina from the site of these ancient tombs. It's particularly beautiful at sunset and a popular spot for photography.

Wellness in Fes

• Spas and thermal baths: Fès is known for its hundreds of hammams, where locals and tourists alike go to unwind. Hammam Mernissi offers an authentic Moroccan experience, with the full treatment from a thorough scrub-down to relaxing massages. For more luxury, try Palais Amani’s Les Bains Amani, which offers a traditional hammam with a modern twist, complete with a candle-lit atmosphere and rooftop massages.

Local dishes in Fes

One of the delights of holidays to Fes is enjoying Morocco's traditional cuisine, rich in spices and deep flavours. Here are some of the dishes to try.

Some typical dishes

• Tagine: This iconic Moroccan slow-cooked stew is cooked in a tagine – a dish with a conical lid – and is a staple across the country. Made with vegetables and chicken, lamb or beef, often with olives or dried fruit plus spices like cumin and saffron for flavour, they're eaten with bread.

• Couscous: Morocco's most famous dish, Couscous is a fluffy grain served with vegetables, chickpeas and your choice of lamb, beef or chicken, all topped with a rich broth. At home, it's traditionally eaten on Fridays and on special occasions.

• Pastilla: A rich, sweet-and-savoury pie made with layers of flaky pastry, filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, and topped with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

• Harira: A hearty soup of tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas and spices, it's available year-round but is traditionally eaten to break the fast during Ramadan.

Meat dishes

• Kefta Tajine: Minced lamb or beef spiced with cumin, coriander and garlic, formed into balls and simmered in a rich tomato sauce with eggs on top.

• Mechoui: Slow-roasted lamb, often marinated with garlic, cumin and other spices. It’s served at festive occasions and in some traditional restaurants.

Sweets and desserts

Moroccan sweets often incorporate almonds, honey and delicate spices. In Fès, try Seffa, a dessert made from steamed vermicelli noodles topped with cinnamon and icing sugar. Another must-try is Ghriba, small almond or sesame cookies with a crumbly texture. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, Chebakia, a honey-drenched fried pastry flavoured with sesame and anise, is a delight. These sweets are often enjoyed during holidays to Fes, especially after a big meal.

Local drinks

• Mint tea: Known as “Moroccan Whisky”, this sweetened green tea, brewed with fresh mint leaves, is a staple served everywhere from homes to street cafés.

• Fresh fruit juices: Sold at numerous stalls across the city, orange juice is the most common, but pomegranate and mixed fruit options are also popular.