Fez in 2 days: how to visit the medina without getting lost

Getting lost in the Fez el-Bali medina is almost a rite of passage — the largest car-free urban area in the world has more than 9,000 lanes, with no obvious layout for a first-time visitor. Here’s how to enjoy it calmly rather than endure it.

Day 1: enter through Bab Boujloud and follow the flow

The famous blue and green gate of Bab Boujloud marks the monumental entrance to the medina and remains the simplest landmark to find your way back. Once inside, the best approach is to follow the main flow of people and goods rather than cutting through side lanes: the major routes naturally lead to the key sights, including Al Quaraouiyine University, founded in the 9th century and considered the oldest continuously operating university in the world.

Day 1 (continued): tanneries and madrasas

The Chouara Tanneries, where leather is still dyed by hand in age-old vats, are among the most iconic images of Morocco — several leather-shop terraces let you view them from above. Nearby, the Bou Inania Madrasa is a masterpiece of Marinid architecture, renowned for the delicacy of its carved wood, plaster and zellij.

Day 2: gain some height

After a day in the maze, step back: the Marinid Tombs, ruins perched on a hill, offer one of the finest views over the whole medina — a way to finally grasp its overall structure. Borj Nord, a 16th-century fortress housing the arms museum, rounds out the view with an open perspective on the old town.

Day 2 (continued): the Mellah and the new town

Fez’s old Jewish quarter, the Mellah, is recognisable by its ornate wooden-balcony façades — an architecture unique among Moroccan medinas. Finish with Fez New Town, the more open modern district built in the 20th century, for a sharp contrast with the previous two days.

The tip that changes everything

A local guide, even for just a few hours, completely transforms the medina experience — not only to avoid going in circles, but to understand the history and customs of each quarter. It’s especially useful on the first day.

2 to 3 days are enough for a first visit to Fez. All practical information is on our complete Fez guide.