Akelah
Fes: Tanneries, Bread Ovens & the Oldest Kitchen in Morocco
Five days eating through the medieval medina that time kept intact.
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low confidence · sampled fares Aug 23 to Oct 27, 2026
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5 perfect days in Fes
The Heart of the Medina
Immerse yourself in the sensory overload of Fes el-Bali, focusing on the ancient rhythms of communal life and traditional baking.
Start with a traditional bissara (fava bean soup) at a local stall, then observe the neighborhood communal bread ovens where locals bring their dough to bake.
Navigate the labyrinthine alleys to reach a leather shop terrace overlooking the iconic, multi-colored dye vats of the Chouara Tanneries.
Culinary Foundations
Learn the secrets of Moroccan spice blends and the art of the tagine in a traditional setting.
Roman Echoes
Escape the city walls for a day to explore the ancient history of the region.
Artisanal Mastery
Focus on the intricate crafts that have sustained Fes for centuries, from ceramics to metalwork.
Spiritual and Sensory Depths
Discover the quiet corners of the medina and the aromatic world of Moroccan apothecaries.
The Final Harvest
A relaxed final day to gather souvenirs and enjoy the slow pace of life in a traditional dar.
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Things you can do
Flights from Dubai
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Where to stay
Best time to visit
Fes is a sensory masterpiece best experienced during the mild shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when the climate allows for comfortable exploration of its medieval culinary landscape. Visiting during these times ensures you can fully enjoy the city's hidden food gems and rooftop views without the extremes of the Moroccan summer or winter.
Before you go
- Visit a communal 'farran' (bread oven) early in the morning to see locals baking their daily loaves.
- Book a cooking class in a restored dar to learn the intricate spice blends of authentic Moroccan cuisine.
- View the Chouara tanneries from a leather-shop terrace while holding a sprig of fresh mint to mask the scent.
- Stay within the walls of Fes el-Bali to fully immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere.
- Try a traditional breakfast of 'bissara' (fava bean soup) drizzled with olive oil and cumin.
- Don't accept unsolicited 'guides' who offer to show you the way through the medina; they often lead to commission-based shops.
- Don't photograph locals without asking for explicit permission first.
- Don't miss out on ordering 'b'stilla', the iconic Fes pigeon or chicken pie that balances savory and sweet.
- Don't rush your day trips; take the time to explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis or the imperial gates of Meknes.
- Public displays of affection are culturally frowned upon and can attract unwanted attention.
- Photography of government buildings, military personnel, or police is strictly prohibited.
- Alcohol consumption is restricted to licensed hotels, bars, and restaurants; public intoxication is illegal.
- It is illegal to proselytize or attempt to convert Muslims to another religion.
- Always use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, and passing items, as the left is traditionally considered unclean.
- Dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees, especially when navigating the narrow alleys of the medina.
- Accept the offer of mint tea with both hands as a gesture of hospitality and respect.
- Remove your shoes before entering a private home or a traditional dar.
- Fes el-Bali is the world's largest car-free urban zone, relying on donkeys and carts for transport.
- The city is home to the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD, recognized as the oldest continuously operating educational institution.
- Hidden 'funduqs' (traditional inns) once housed traveling merchants and their pack animals, now often repurposed as artisan workshops.
- The intricate zellij tilework found throughout the city is still crafted using centuries-old techniques.
Getting around and eating well
Fes is a city best experienced by wandering its medieval arteries, where the scent of leather from the tanneries and the steam of morning bissara guide your path. Prioritize staying within the walls of Fes el-Bali to fully immerse yourself in the sensory richness of this historic culinary capital.
Facts and safety
- Capital
- Rabat
- Government
- constitutional monarchy
- Languages
- Arabic, Berber
- Currency
- MAD
- Population
- 36,828,330
- Power plugs
- Europlug, Type E
Morocco remains generally safe, but travelers should exercise increased caution due to the potential for terrorism and civil unrest. Maintain high vigilance in crowded areas and tourist sites.
- Keep your passport, cash, and credit cards in a secure location, such as a hotel safe, and carry only what you need for the day. Pickpocketing is common in crowded markets and tourist areas.
- Avoid all political demonstrations and large gatherings, as they can turn confrontational without warning. If you encounter a protest, leave the area immediately.
- Dress modestly, particularly in rural areas and religious sites, to avoid unwanted attention. Women should cover their shoulders and knees to show respect for local cultural norms.
- Avoid driving at night outside of major cities due to poorly lit roads, livestock, and unlit vehicles. Stick to major highways and use reputable transport services.
- Avoid walking alone in isolated areas or the narrow, unlit alleys of the medinas after dark. Stick to well-populated, brightly lit streets.
- Individuals may approach you offering to show you the way to a landmark or hotel, then demand an exorbitant fee once you arrive. Politely decline and use a GPS or official map.