A tour with an officiel guide who will meet you at your Riad or Hotel at around 10 am, he will take you to explore Fes, the oldest of Morocco's imperial cities, known for its memorable monuments and busy souks.
The tour includes:
Bab Boujloud : The oldest gate in Fes that spans one of the medina's busiest thoroughfares and is a good starting point for your explorations inside the medina walls.
The Kairaouine Mosque : The oldest university in the world, predating even Oxford and the Sorbonne, and one of the most important centers of erudition in the Islamic world. The best view is from the main entrance, from which it's possible to see the pavilions to the far right (if you're standing on the far left side of the door), based on those in the Court of the Lions in the Alhambra.
Bou Inania Medersa : One of the most important buildings in Morocco. It was built by the Merenid sultan Bou Inan between 1350 and 1357. The medersa underwent extensive restoration a few years ago, and the results are amazing: elaborate zellij and carved plaster, beautiful cedar mashrabiyyas (lattice screens) and massive brass doors.
The tanners' quarter : Is characterized by its strong colors and smells. The tanneries operate as cooperatives and all work is performed manually, using natural products such as lime, pomegranate bark, pigeon dropiings and an ink extracted from chestnut and walnut tree bark. Climb up to one of the roof terraces overlooking the tanneries in order to obtain a good view of the different stages in the process.
Moulay Idriss Zaouia : The tomb/shrine/mosque of the son of the founder of Fez. Non-Muslims can't enter, but you can look inside from the doors, and should walk all around because on the outside there's some of the best zellij in Fez. The souk around the zaouia is also very interesting.
Souks & Medina Alleyways : Wander with your guide to explore the souks where you'll find traditional artisanal goods, carpets, pyramids of spices and leather.
A tour of Fes Medina Ramparts, your driver will meet at your Riad or Hotel at around 04:00 pm to take you to enjoy the panoramic views and the surroundings of the town.
The tour includes:
Panoramic views of the Fez medina from the Merenid tombs and Borj Sud:
The Merenid tombs : provides visitors with breathtaking views of the city, popular attractions and landmark religious sites can be seen amongst the bustle of Fez. The rolling hills that surround the Merenid Tombs allow visitors to appreciate the beauty of Fes.
Borj Sud (South Tower) : A prominent fortress overlooking the old city. This fortress was built in the 16th century to overlook and protect the city. It was built by Christian slaves.
Royal Palace (Dar el Makhzen) : It's not allowed to enter the Palace, but it is still an impressive sight even from outside. The palace was built in the 17th century and it is situated right in the centre if Fès el Jdid. Part of it still serves as the residence of the King of Morocco when he visits this area. The palace is of great historical value and is one of the major attractions of Fez.
Jewish quarter Mellah : was built in the 15th century when the Jews were ousted from their previous ghetto near Bab Guissa. The place is named after the Arabic word for salt, which is "melh" and refers to the old practice of the Jews of salting the heads of the bandits who were killed before they were publicly displayed.
Potters Quarter : A ceramics factory outside Fes where they make ceramics the same way for centuries.
