The Entire Old Town is a World Heritage Site! 5 Recommended Tourist Spots in the Ancient City of Fez, Morocco!

Fez is overflowing with historical streets and ruins, as well as natural wonders like the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains. With stylish Moroccan goods also drawing attention, it is a popular tourist destination.
The highlight of sightseeing in Fez is strolling through the old town (Medina). We recommend exploring the exotic old town full of curiosity. Here we introduce five carefully selected tourist spots located in the old town of the ancient city of Fez!

1. Fez’s Old Town

Fez was founded in 789 by the desert nomadic Berber, Idris I. Later, Idris II built a royal palace, and the city became the capital of the Idrisid dynasty. To protect against attacks during this time, the town was surrounded by walls and developed into a fortified city with a maze-like network of streets. This became today’s Fez Old Town. The entire Fez Medina was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.
In the narrow alleys where cars cannot enter, donkeys and carts come and go, and the surroundings are lined with shops. Taking photos, shopping for souvenirs, and visiting mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools) make for an exciting experience. In the small squares that appear here and there, there are cafés where locals gather, and it’s a pleasure to take a break with a sugary mint tea. Take your time exploring the old streets and enjoy sightseeing on foot.

2. Bab Bou Jeloud Gate

Bab Bou Jeloud Gate is the most famous entrance to the Medina. From this gate, the right path leads to Tala'a Seghira (Small Street), and the left to Tala'a Kebira (Big Street). If you remember just this gate and the two main streets, you don’t have to worry about getting lost, as the area is enclosed by walls. If you end up wandering, just head back toward the main streets and aim for the Bab Bou Jeloud Gate to find your way back.
Bab Bou Jeloud Gate is one of the entrances to Fez’s old town, built in the early 20th century. It’s a very busy spot, so if you want to take photos at leisure, early morning is recommended.
When taking pictures, it’s standard to include the minaret (tower) of Bou Inania Madrasa framed through the gate’s arch. The green and blue mosaic tiles and the arabesque patterned carvings are stunning and a must-see during your visit.

3. Bou Inania Madrasa (Islamic School)

Most mosques and religious facilities in Morocco do not allow non-Muslim tourists inside, but the madrasas in Fez are open to the public.
The Bou Inania Madrasa is an Islamic school built in the 14th century by Sultan Bou Inan of the Marinid dynasty. It's just a short walk from Bab Bou Jeloud Gate, but the entrance can be hard to spot, so be careful not to miss it while sightseeing.
Step through the beautifully decorated wooden door and enter a world of Islamic art. The green and blue mosaic tiles feature various designs, and the color combinations are exceptionally tasteful.
The carved wooden windows, stalactite decorations on the roof, and marble flooring make this an irresistible place for lovers of Islamic art. You can also go upstairs, so take your time exploring the site.

4. Tanneries

When you think of Morocco, leathercraft probably comes to mind. Stylish bags and accessories with Arabic designs and a French touch are popular among women. Most of these leather products are made in workshops here in Fez.
In the tanneries, leather craftsmen process, tan, and dye sheep and cow hides. During the summer, the smell of leather and the distinctive scent of dyes may help you locate them quickly. Several leather shops and workshops are clustered here, and you can observe the craftsmen at work from the rooftops.
The colorful, lightweight, and soft leather slippers called babouches, seen throughout the Medina, are perfect for indoor use. Why not take the opportunity during your Fez visit to buy a pair?

5. Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts

An oasis-like spot in the heart of Fez is the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts. Located facing Nejjarine Square, it’s easy to find.
This paid museum was originally a lodging facility for merchants. The exquisite wooden crafts on display are impressive, but the building itself is also an artistic masterpiece, making it well worth a visit.
The exhibits include grand single-panel doors made from Atlas cedar and Moroccan-style furniture. From the rooftop, you can look out over the old town and capture stunning photos.
There are different fees depending on whether you want to access just the rooftop or the entire museum, so be sure to check. The rooftop terrace serves simple drinks. If you’re tired from the hustle and bustle of the Medina, why not take a break here?

◎ Summary

The charm of Fez lies packed within its old town. The historic buildings and streets evoke a sense of calm and excitement. There are also plenty of perfect souvenir items to browse through and enjoy.
While exploring, you may encounter aggressive touts, so please stay alert while enjoying your sightseeing adventure.

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The Entire Old Town is a World Heritage Site! 5 Recommended Tourist Spots in the Ancient City of Fez, Morocco!