Fez: Private Shopping Tour in the Souks of the Old Medina
Active
2h - 6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Don't miss this opportunity to explore the cultural capital of Morocco on this full-day guided tour of Fez. Take a stroll through the winding streets of the city’s UNESCO-listed pedestrian medina. Visit spicy tanneries and souks stacked with spices and crafts. See Bab Boujeloud, the Jewish quarter, Medersa Bou Inania, Nejjarine square and the Batha museum. If you wish, we can offer to you a Moroccan cooking class before the end of the tour.
- Discover the strong points of the medina of Fez like Bab Boujeloud
- Learn more about Moroccan history and contemporary culture
- Visit the souks, tanneries, museums, gardens and much more
Available options
Fez: Private Shopping Tour in the Souks of the Old Medina
Pickup included
What's included
Guide Speak English or your Native Language if it available
Private Guided Tour in the Old Medina
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Sultan Hassan I ordered the construction of the palace as a place for distinguished visitors and guests to stay. During 1912-1916 it housed the accommodation for the departments belonged to the French Protectorate before the function was moved to Rabat, the new capital of the state. Since then it was converted into a museum; first as a museum of national art, and then as a museum of ethnography and the cultural activities.
2
Stop 2
The structure is a triple-arched gate that makes use of Moorish architectural forms, with pointed horseshoe arches and a crenelated top. Both the inner and outer facades are covered in polychrome tiles featuring arabesques and Moroccan geometric motifs, with the outer facade predominantly blue and the interior facade predominantly green
3
According to history, religious leaders of the Karaouine Mosque advised Abu Inan Faris to build this madrasa. It was the last madrasa to be built by the Marinids. The madrasa became one of the most important religious institutions of Fes and Morocco, and gained the status of Grand Mosque.
4
Stop 4
In a wonderfully restored early-18th-century funduq, the former rooms for travelling merchants are given over to displays of fine woodwork from across Morocco, including doors, prayer beads and musical instruments. Many show the difference between Amazigh traditional styles and the more Andalusian designs of Fez. A highlight are the worn wooden boards used by Quranic recitation students, patched with copper and adorned with their graduation certificates. The rooftop cafe is simple but has great views over the medina.
5
One of the medina's oldest marketplaces and one of its most pleasant, this souq is dominated by a graceful plane tree amid stalls selling pottery and traditional cosmetics, including henna. This is a good place to come if you'd like to be talked through the fascinating array of natural products Moroccans routinely use – stall-holders are friendly and offer little hassle. The mohtassib (price controller), now defunct, had his office here, and you can still see his large scales.
6
Stop 6
We will discover the hidden places in the Medina of 12 Centuries through our visit we can end the experience by a lunch or diner in a typical Restaurant
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
DE
EN
IT
FR
ES
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Fez
Fez is the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, known for its ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the oldest university in the world, the University of al-Qarawiyyin. It offers a rich tapestry of history, architecture, and traditional crafts.
Top Attractions
Fez Medina
The Fez Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval old cities in the world. It's a labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling markets, and historic sites.
Historical/Cultural
Full day
Free to explore, fees for specific sites
Al-Qarawiyyin University
Founded in 859 AD, Al-Qarawiyyin is the oldest continuously operating university in the world. It's a significant cultural and historical site.
Historical/Educational
1-2 hours
Free
Bou Inania Madrasa
A beautiful example of Marinid architecture, this madrasa (Islamic school) is one of the few religious sites in Fez open to non-Muslims.
Historical/Architectural
30-60 minutes
Moderate
Chouara Tanneries
One of the last remaining traditional tanneries in the world, the Chouara Tanneries offer a glimpse into an ancient craft that has changed little over centuries.
Cultural/Industrial
30-60 minutes
Free (donations appreciated)
Bab Bou Jeloud
The main gate to the Fez Medina, Bab Bou Jeloud is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and a great photo opportunity.
Architectural
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tagine
A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, served in a conical clay pot.
Dinner
Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.
Couscous
Steamed semolina grains served with vegetables and meat, often with a rich sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with various meats or vegetables, some vegetarian options available.
Pastilla
A savory-sweet pie made with layers of thin pastry, filled with spiced pigeon meat, almonds, and sugar.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat and nuts.
Harira
A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and spices, often served during Ramadan.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Rif Mountains
Horseback riding in the countryside
Spa and hammam treatments
Strolling through the gardens of the Royal Palace
Exploring the Fez Medina
Visiting historic sites and museums
Attending traditional music and dance performances
Experiencing a traditional hammam
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. This is the best time for sightseeing and exploring the city.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic, Berber
- Widely spoken: French, English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone
GMT+1
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Fez is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Fes-Saïss Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Fez Railway Station
By bus
Fez CTM Bus Station, Fez Supratours Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Fez. They are affordable but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: None widely used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fez Medina
Fes el Jdid
Ville Nouvelle
Day trips
Meknes
60 km • Full day
Meknes is a historic city with a rich past, known for its imperial palaces, mosques, and the famous Bab Mansour gate. It offers a mix of history, architecture, and local culture.
Volubilis
80 km • Full day
Volubilis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the remains of a Roman city. It's one of the most important archaeological sites in Morocco, offering a glimpse into the country's Roman past.
Chefchaouen
120 km • Overnight
Chefchaouen is a picturesque mountain town known for its blue-washed buildings, narrow streets, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains.
Festivals
Fez Festival of World Sacred Music • June
Fez Festival of Sufi Culture • April
Ramadan • Date varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide to navigate the medina and learn about its history and culture
- Visit the Chouara Tanneries early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds
- Try a traditional hammam experience for relaxation and rejuvenation
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals
- Bargain politely in markets and souks, but be prepared to walk away if the price is not agreeable
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
