Fez, Morocco — The world's oldest living medieval city
Fès-Meknès

Fez

The world's oldest living medieval city

About Fez

Founded in 789 AD, Fez is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Its medina — Fez el-Bali — was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 and remains the largest car-free urban area on the planet. Walking its 9,000 alleys is like traveling back in time.

The city is home to the University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 AD and widely regarded as the world's oldest operating university. The Bou Inania Madrasa, Chouara Tanneries, and the blue-tiled Nejjarine Fountain are just a few of the landmarks that draw travelers from across the globe.

Our guides were born and raised inside these ancient walls. When you explore Fez with Fez Cultural Tours, you are not following a tourist map — you are being welcomed into a living, breathing city by the people who call it home.

What to See & Do

📍 Chouara Tanneries

The oldest leather tannery in the world, still operating exactly as it did in the 11th century.

📍 Bou Inania Madrasa

A 14th-century Islamic school with breathtaking carved stucco, cedar woodwork, and zellige tiles.

📍 Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque

The oldest continuously operating university in the world, founded by a woman in 859 AD.

📍 Nejjarine Square

A beautifully restored caravanserai now housing a woodcraft museum and rooftop café.

📍 Mellah (Jewish Quarter)

The historic Jewish quarter of Fez with its distinctive architecture and remarkable history.

📍 Bab Bou Jeloud

The stunning Blue Gate — the iconic main entrance to the medina and Fez's most photographed landmark.

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November offer the most pleasant temperatures. Summer (June–August) is hot but the medina stays cool inside its ancient walls. Winter is crisp and beautiful.

Start Your Journey

Tours Departing from Fez

Day Trip from Fez to Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl of Morocco — 1-day private tour from Fez, Morocco1 Days

Day Trip from Fez to Chefchaouen

Escape the bustling city of Fez and embark on a private day trip to Chefchaouen — Morocco's famed Blue Pearl. Nestled in the Rif Mountains, this picturesque town is known for its striking blue-painted streets, relaxed atmosphere, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're a photographer, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Chefchaouen is a must-visit destination.

Day Trip from Fez to Volubilis and Meknes: A Journey Through History — 1-day private tour from Fez, Morocco1 Days

Day Trip from Fez to Volubilis and Meknes

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Morocco with a Day Trip from Fez to Volubilis and Meknes. This unforgettable journey combines the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis with the imperial grandeur of Meknes, offering a fascinating glimpse into Morocco's diverse cultural heritage.

Fez Medina Guided Tour — Private Half Day & Full Day — 1-day private tour from Fez, Morocco1 Days

Fez Medina Guided Tour — Half Day & Full Day

Fez el-Bali is the world's largest car-free urban area and one of the most extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage sites on earth. With 9,000 alleys, no street signs, and a living medieval economy still operating exactly as it has for a thousand years, it is impossible to navigate meaningfully alone. Our guides are not hired staff — they were born inside the medina. Omar and Issam grew up in Fez el-Bali, went to school steps from the tanneries, and know every family, every craftsman, and every hidden doorway. Choose the half-day tour for a focused 4-hour introduction covering the medina's greatest sites, or the full-day tour for an unhurried deep dive that also takes in the Pottery Village, Mellah, and a traditional lunch with the guide.