Photo: Bernard Gagnon · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Fes el-Bali is the largest urban pedestrian zone in the world: 9,400 alleys, the planet's oldest university (al-Qarawiyyin, 859), and living craftsmanship almost unchanged since the Middle Ages.
Don't miss
The Chouara tanneries
Morocco's most photographed sight: dozens of multicoloured dye pits seen from the leather-shop terraces.
Bab Boujloud
The “blue gate”, monumental entrance to the medina — blue on the new-town side, green on the medina side.
Bou Inania Medersa
The only medersa with a minaret, and one of the peaks of Merinid architecture.
The artisan workshops
Potters, embroiderers, zellige makers: Fes has been Morocco's workshop for 12 centuries.
What to eat
Pastilla was born here. Also try bissara (fava-bean purée) for breakfast and gazelle horns from the medina's pastry shops.
The Veyama tip
Take an official guide for your first dive into Fes el-Bali — the medina is a proud labyrinth, and that's its beauty.
Where to eat
Our favourite tables — renowned addresses picked by the team. Want a reservation? Tick “restaurants” when booking your hotel.
Café Clock
The medina's cultural institution — famous camel burger and live music.
Dar Hatim
Family-run Fassi cooking in a guesthouse: unforgettable pastilla.
The Ruined Garden
A romantic garden in a restored ruin: slow dishes and mezze.
