Considered the cultural and spiritual capital of Morocco, this “open-air museum” of a city, the second- largest in Morocco and founded in A.D. 789, engulfs visitors in multicultural architecture, cuisine and the arts. Preserving authentic Morocco, Fez serves as a center for traditional craftsmen and artisans in ceramics, woodworking, leather, textiles and more.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Fès-Saïs International Airport connects nonstop to 39 destinations in eight countries, primarily in Western Europe. Transit into the city via taxi (19 minutes, about $20–25), bus (40 minutes, $2) or rental car. The medina is best explored on foot; taxis (an average ride costs $2–4) and a reliable, extensive and inexpensive bus system (20 to 40 cents per ride) prove good options. Car rentals are convenient for daytrips, but be aware local drivers can be aggressive and accidents are common.
LODGING
La Maison Bleue & Spa
In the heart of the medina, this traditional Moroccan residence-turned-boutique hotel features carved plaster ceilings, zellij mosaic tiling, rich fabrics and antique furnishings. The property boasts a traditional Moroccan restaurant, spa and hammam, fitness center and pool, and offers culinary classes.
2 Place de L’Istiqlal, Fez, Morocco, tel 212 535 74 18 43 maisonbleue.com
Palais Médina Riad Resort
Combining tradition and modernity in a property overlooking gardens and the old Médina, Palais Médina features on-site restaurants, a lounge, event space, a large outdoor pool and poolside bar. Enjoy the fitness center and spa as well as free parking and WiFi.
Boulevard Allal El Fassi, Fez, Morocco, tel 212 529 08 01 04 acollectionhotels.com
Riad Laaroussa
Rooms and suites in this traditional 17th-century palace surround a peaceful open courtyard. Offerings include a pool, hammam and spa, while the rooftop bistro serves an à la carte menu of Moroc- can dishes and local wines. Concierge services arrange guides, reservations and daytrips.
3 Derb Bechara, Fez Médina, Morocco, tel 212 674 18 76 39 riad-laaroussa.com
DINING
Café Clock
This diverse and culturally inclusive hangout for locals and visitors offers Moroccan (camel burgers!) and international food all day. Indoor and outdoor seating; a welcoming atmosphere; and classes on calligraphy, cooking and Moroccan culture — plus live music, storytelling and cinema nights — deliver something for everyone.
7 Derb el Magana, Talaa Kbira, Fez, Morocco, tel 212 535 63 78 55 cafeclock.com
Dar Roumana
Chef Younes Idrissi describes his cuisine as Franco-Moroccan fusion using seasonal, locally sourced products. Complimentary porter service is offered from the nearest medina gate for guests not staying in the hotel.
30 Derb El Amer, Zkak Roumane, Fez Médina, Morocco, tel 212 535 74 16 37 darroumana.com
Restaurant L’Amandier
This fine-dining rooftop restaurant overlooking the medina serves quintessential Moroccan food matched with Moroccan wines. Linger in the adjacent Golden Bar for cocktails, tapas and jazz.
Palais Faraj, Derb Bensouda 16-18, Bab Ziat, Fez, Morocco, tel 212 535 74 10 26 palaisfaraj.com
ATTRACTIONS
Chouara Tannery
In a city renowned for its leather goods, Chouara stands out as the largest and one of the oldest (dating to the 11th century) tanneries in Fez. Leather shops overlook the colorful (but odiferous) dyeing pits. Come prepared to haggle for every- thing from traditional Moroccan backless slippers (babouches) to handbags and jackets.
21 Rue Chouara, Fez el-Bali, Morocco, tel 212 695 13 06 56
Médina
UNESCO designated the old city of Fez, a maze of 9,000 alleys, as having Outstanding Universal Value. This largest urban pedestrian zone in the world houses souks, traditional Moroccan homes, mosques, monuments, fountains and palaces. Avoid getting lost or missing unique attractions by hiring a local guide, or book with GuruWalk for a free guided tour.
guruwalk.com
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
Housed in a restored 18th-century funduq (inn for traveling merchants), the museum celebrates another famous Moroccan craft. Displays of fine woodwork include musical instruments, doors, prayer beads, chests and the tools used to create them. Intricately carved archways, courtyard columns and cedar ceilings are themselves works of art.
327F+WJ5, Place an Nejjarine, Fez el-Bali, Morocco, tel 212 531 41 26 16
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