How Many Days in Fes?
How Many Days in Fes: Best Itinerary for Parents & Travelers
Planning how many days in Fes to spend can make or break your family trip to Morocco. Fes (also spelled Fez) is one of North Africa’s most captivating cities full of history, culture, and unforgettable experiences but it’s also large and intricate, especially its ancient medina. Choosing the right length of stay helps you soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed and lets your kids enjoy the adventure too.
This guide is designed for parents traveling from Marrakech or elsewhere in Morocco who want practical advice, kid-friendly ideas, and ready‑made itineraries based on real travel recommendations. You’ll learn how long to stay in Fes for different trip styles, what to see each day, tips for traveling with children, sample itineraries, and ideas for memorable day trips. By the end, you’ll know exactly how many days in Fes will give your family the best experience possible whether you have a short stopover or a relaxed extended visit.
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Why Fes Is Worth the Time
Fes is one of Morocco’s oldest imperial cities and a cultural heartland of the country. Its ancient medina, Fes el‑Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the world’s largest car‑free historic urban areas. Unlike Marrakech’s more commercial feel, Fes offers a deeply authentic Moroccan experience with craftsmen’s workshops, hidden fountains, vibrant souks, narrow alleyways, and historical madrasas.
For kids, Fes can be like a real‑life maze to explore packed with colors, smells, and surprising finds around every corner. While the city’s hustle can be overwhelming, guided tours help families navigate the medina safely and learn about local crafts, spices, and architecture along the way.
Ideal Stay: How Many Days in Fes
2 Days in Fes — A Well‑Paced Visit
If you’re tight on time, two full days in Fes is widely recommended by travel guides as enough to see the major highlights at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed. On Day 1, you can explore the heart of the old medina, and on Day 2, visit surrounding attractions like gardens or museums, or relax with a slower pace.
This timeframe works especially well for families because it doesn’t overload kids with too much walking at once. Starting early helps you avoid midday heat, which can be intense in Fes, especially in summer.
3 Days in Fes — Best for Families
Three days in Fes is ideal if you want a more relaxed experience or plan to take one day for a longer day trip outside the city. With three days, your kids can explore at a slower pace, enjoy downtime in gardens or riads (traditional guesthouses), and you can add memorable activities like a Moroccan cooking class.
This stay length also gives you flexibility: you can keep one day light with fun experiences like visiting a pottery workshop, watching artisans at work in the souks, or heading to an open green space like Jnan Sbil Gardens a hit with younger travelers.
4+ Days in Fes — Deep Cultural Immersion + Day Trips
If time allows and your family loves discovery, consider 4 or more days. This extended stay lets you dive deeper into Fes’s culture, add structured learning experiences (like art or architecture tours), and explore nearby destinations such as Meknes, Volubilis, or even Chefchaouen.
Longer stays are great for families with older kids who enjoy history or want free time to explore markets and craft neighborhoods at their own pace.
What to do in Fez in 2 days?
Day 1 – Explore the Medina (Fes el-Bali):
Enter through Bab Bou Jeloud
Visit Bou Inania Madrasa
See the famous Chouara Tannery
Walk through the souks and artisan quarters
Day 2 – History and Views:
Visit the Royal Palace gates
Explore the Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
Discover Al Quaraouiyine University
Enjoy a sunset viewpoint over the medina
Two days allow you to explore comfortably without rushing.
How to Structure Your Days in Fes
Day 1: Explore the Medina & Landmarks
Start at Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate), the iconic entrance to Fes el‑Bali. From here, you’ll dive into a network of narrow streets lined with spice stalls, artisan workshops, and historic sites. Highlights:
Wander through souks (markets) full of leather goods, ceramics, and textiles.
Visit Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning example of Islamic architecture.
Stop by Chouara Tanneries to see traditional leather dye‑making. This can be fascinating for kids after a rooftop viewpoint.
A guided walking tour early in the morning can make navigating the maze of alleys easier and more educational for the whole family.
Day 2: Culture, Food & Relaxation
Use your second day to dig deeper into Fes’s culture:
Explore Jnan Sbil Gardens, a peaceful green space perfect for kids to run and relax.
Visit historical neighborhoods like the Mellah (Jewish Quarter).
Try a Moroccan cooking class together a fun way for kids to taste local food hands‑on.
Take afternoon rest at your riad or enjoy a family‑friendly meal in a courtyard café.
Day 3: Optional Tours & Day Trips
Use your third day for:
A guided cultural workshop (pottery, mosaics, calligraphy)
A longer day trip to Meknes & Volubilis ancient Roman ruins near Fes
Visiting the newer part of Fes (Ville Nouvelle) for wider streets and cafés outside the medina
Must‑See Attractions in Fes
Some experiences you should prioritize during your stay:
Fes el‑Bali Medina — Endless alleys, markets, and ancient gates
Bou Inania Madrasa — Beautifully decorated religious school
Chouara Tanneries — Historic leather working area
Jnan Sbil Gardens — Green oasis and peaceful break space
Borj Neffara Observation Tower — Great viewpoint over the medina
Historic Squares like Place Seffarine — Traditional metalwork area
Best Day Trips From Fes
If your stay is 3+ days, these are popular excursions:
Meknes & Volubilis
Walk through the ruins of ancient Roman city Volubilis, then explore Meknes, a smaller imperial city with grand gates and palaces.
Chefchaouen
The “Blue City” in the Rif Mountains is famous for its blue‑painted streets a stunning place for photos and relaxed exploration.
Ifrane & Cedar Forests
Known as “Little Switzerland,” Ifrane offers wide lawns and forests perfect for a quieter day with nature.
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Best Time of Year to Visit
Fes With Kids — Family‑Friendly Tips
Hire a local guide for maze navigation and storytelling.
Bring good walking shoes Fes streets are uneven and pedestrian‑only.
Take plenty of breaks in shaded fountains or gardens.
Consider riad accommodations with courtyards or pools for kid‑friendly downtime.
Sample Fes Itineraries
2‑Day Itinerary
Day 1: Old Medina tour, Chouara Tanneries, Bou Inania Madrasa
Day 2: Jnan Sbil Gardens, Mellah Quarter, afternoon rest + cooking class
3‑Day Itinerary
Add: Day 3: Day trip to Meknes & Volubilis OR Chefchaouen
What to do in Fez for 3 days?
Three days in Fez allows you to explore deeply without rushing. A 3-day itinerary in Fes gives you time for culture, history, and local experiences.
Day 1 – Medina Exploration
Bab Bou Jeloud
Bou Inania Madrasa
Chouara Tannery
Souks and artisan quarters
Day 2 – Culture & Heritage
Al Quaraouiyine University
Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
Royal Palace gates
Nejjarine Museum
Day 3 – Beyond the Medina
Panoramic viewpoints
Traditional hammam
Cooking class
Optional day trip to Volubilis
Three days is ideal for a balanced and enriching visit.
Is 1 day enough for Fez?
One day in Fez is enough to see the main highlights, but it is not enough to fully experience the city. You can visit the essential landmarks inside the medina in a single day if you plan carefully.
In Fes, focus on:
Bab Bou Jeloud
Bou Inania Madrasa
Chouara Tannery
A medina viewpoint
However, the medina is large and complex. Hiring a licensed guide helps maximize limited time. For a deeper cultural experience, 2–3 days is recommended.
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Is Fez a walkable city?
Yes, Fez is a walkable city, especially inside the historic medina. In fact, the old medina is largely car-free.
The ancient Fes el-Bali in Fes is designed for pedestrians, donkeys, and small carts rather than cars. Walking is the only way to explore its narrow streets.
Important tips:
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Use offline maps or hire a guide
Expect uneven cobblestones
Plan rest stops at cafés or riads
While the modern Ville Nouvelle has taxis and wider roads, the historic center is best explored on foot. Walking is part of the authentic Fez experience.
Where to Stay in Fes (Family Hotels & Riads)
Riads (Traditional Moroccan Guesthouses)
These are charming, often family-run accommodations with courtyards, rooftop terraces, and personal service that make stays memorable:
Riad Maison Bleue & Spa – Elegant riad with a central courtyard and spa services, ideal for families who want comfort and traditional Moroccan style within the medina.
Riad Fes – Relais & Châteaux – Luxury riad with spacious rooms, excellent service, and a central medina location perfect for sightseeing.
Riad Raouia Fez | HAMMAM & SPA – Mid-range riad offering comfortable rooms and traditional Moroccan design plus a hammam experience.
Riad Dar Bensouda – Stylish riad with guest-oriented service and classic décor, good for families wanting an authentic feel.
Riad Zamane Fès – Boutique & Spa – Boutique riad with a rooftop terrace and serene vibe, suitable for couples and families alike.
Riad El Amine Fes – Comfortable medina riad known for warm service and family-friendly hospitality.
Riad Salam fes – Well-rated riad with traditional Moroccan architecture, good for exploring the medina on foot.
Hotels (Modern Comfort & Facilities)
If you prefer more modern conveniences like larger rooms, easier access for taxis, and on-site amenities:
Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace – Contemporary hotel with larger rooms and international standards, great for families who prefer easier access and service reliability.
Palais AMANI – Boutique hotel blending Moroccan style with modern amenities, located in a quieter part of the city centre.
Tips for Choosing Where to Stay
Medina (Old City) – Riads here put you in the heart of Fes’s historic core, steps from markets and landmarks. Try to book one near a main gate so taxi pickup/drop-off is easier.
Ville Nouvelle (New Town) – Offers more modern hotels with bigger rooms, easier parking, and taxi access good if you have young kids or mobility needs.
Many riads offer airport or train station pick-ups and can assist with luggage to avoid navigating the narrow medina streets on arrival.
Staying in a riad enriches your visit with local atmosphere, traditional décor, and personalized service, while hotels provide larger spaces and straightforward logistics both great choices for families visiting Fes.
Practical Travel Tips
Transportation: Petit taxis are affordable for short hops outside the medina. Inside the medina, you’ll walk mostly.
Food: Market snacks and cafés are plentiful introduce kids to tagine, couscous, and fresh juices.
Safety: Medina streets are safe but busy keep younger kids close.
Quick Takeaways
2 days in Fes is a good starting point to see main highlights.
3 days or more gives flexibility for relaxation and day trips.
Fes is rich in history, culture, and kid‑friendly moments if you plan wisely.
Guided tours help families navigate winding alleys.
Break up exploration with gardens and workshops to keep kids energized.
Conclusion
Fes is a destination that rewards thoughtful pacing. For families traveling from Marrakech or other parts of Morocco, understanding how many days in Fes to plan makes your visit richer, more comfortable, and more memorable. Whether you have just two days to explore winding souks and historic schools, or three to enjoy day trips beyond the city, Fes offers layers of culture and surprises that appeal to adults and kids alike.
Balancing exploration with rest and choosing family‑friendly activities ensures that every traveler in your group young or old leaves with a deeper appreciation for this timeless Moroccan city. So pack your comfortable shoes, curiosity, and sense of adventure your Moroccan story in Fes is waiting to unfold!
─── Your questions, our answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our dedicated team is here to answer your Morocco Travel questions and ensure a smooth, memorable journey through Morocco.
Is two days enough for Fes?
Yes two days lets you see major sites and soak in the medina’s atmosphere without rushing.
Can I visit Fes in one day?
One day is possible but will feel rushed and won’t allow much time for relaxed experiences.
What’s the best season to visit Fes with kids?
Spring and fall offer mild weather that’s easier for walking tours and outdoor activities.
Kate Carter
Family Travel Blogger
Kate Carter is a mom and travel blogger who fell in love with Morocco’s culture and warmth. Through Morocco Family Vacation, she shares tips and stories to help travelers enjoy authentic, stress-free experiences. Join us along the way.
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