Marrakech can be crowded and fast-paced, which may not appeal to all travelers. In contrast, Fez provides a more relaxed atmosphere.

Fez is a city with a rich history and culture. During my recent visit, I discovered its many charms.

Located in northern Morocco, Fez is the country's oldest imperial city, founded in 808 AD. It is known for its cultural and spiritual significance, with a rich history and stunning architecture.

Fez is a city full of color and life.

The city is famous for its crafts, including pottery and textiles.

One of the things I enjoyed most about Fez was the pace of life. The city feels more relaxed, with plenty of space to explore and take in the sights.

Fez is gaining recognition as a top travel destination, with Condé Nast Traveller naming it one of the best places to visit in 2026. With flights from London starting at £30, it's an affordable and accessible destination.

If you're looking for a cultural experience without the crowds, Fez is an excellent choice. The city offers a unique blend of history, tradition, and natural beauty.

Here are some of the top things to do in Fez, Morocco.

To understand Fez, start in the old city, Fes el Bali. This UNESCO-listed medina is the largest in the world and offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and culture.

The old city is a maze of narrow streets, with plenty of opportunities to explore and discover new things. You'll find stalls selling spices, sweets, and other local goods, as well as workshops where artisans create traditional crafts.

While it's easy to get lost in the old city, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. You can wander the streets and take in the sights without feeling overwhelmed.

To get a deeper understanding of the city, I booked a small-group walking tour. The tour lasted three and a half hours and cost just £10, providing excellent value for money.

The tour took us to some of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Nejjarine Fountain and the Chouara Tannery. We also visited the University of al-Qarawiyyin, which is one of the oldest universities in the world.

Having a knowledgeable guide made all the difference, as they were able to provide insights and context that brought the city to life. The tour was a great way to learn about Fez and its history.

Fez has its quieter moments, with plenty of opportunities to relax and unwind.

The city's accommodation options offer a chance to experience the local culture and hospitality. I stayed in a traditional riad, which was a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

There are plenty of accommodation options in Fez, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury riads. I stayed at La Maison Bleue, which was a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture.

The riad was beautifully decorated, with intricate tilework, carved plaster, and wooden arches. The rooms were comfortable and stylish, with plenty of space to relax and unwind.

One thing to note is that riads are designed to stay cool in the summer, so they can be quite cool in the winter months. However, this is a small price to pay for the opportunity to experience the local culture and hospitality.

The market in Fez is full of surprises, with plenty of opportunities to discover new things.

Moroccan cuisine is famous for its bold flavors and spices, and Fez is no exception. The city is known for its Fassi cuisine, which is considered one of the country's most refined culinary traditions.

For a unique dining experience, I recommend visiting L'Amandier, which is located in a stunning palace. The restaurant offers a range of Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes, all made with fresh, local ingredients.

The menu at L'Amandier is diverse and delicious, with plenty of options to suit all tastes. I particularly enjoyed the seafood and tagines, which were cooked to perfection.

One of the most memorable food experiences I had in Fez was outside of a restaurant. I booked a cooking class with a local family, which was a fantastic way to learn about the city's cuisine and culture.

The cooking class was a fun and interactive experience, with plenty of opportunities to get involved and learn new skills. We made a range of traditional dishes, including tagines and pastilla.

The class was a great way to meet new people and learn about the local culture. We had a fantastic time, and the food was delicious.

Fez is famous for its tagines, which are slow-cooked stews made with meat, vegetables, and spices.

I had the opportunity to try a range of traditional dishes during my visit, including tagines, salads, and pastilla. Each dish was delicious and flavorful, and I enjoyed learning about the local cuisine.

Fez is a city of artisans, with a rich tradition of craftsmanship and creativity. The city is famous for its pottery and zellige tilework, which are used to decorate buildings and create beautiful works of art.

I had the opportunity to visit a local atelier and learn about the craft of zellige tilework. The process is intricate and time-consuming, but the results are stunning.

Creating my own mosaic tile was a fun and challenging experience, and I gained a new appreciation for the skill and craftsmanship that goes into creating these beautiful works of art.

My tile is now a reminder of my visit to Fez and the city's rich cultural heritage.

Indulging in a spot of crafts is a must when visiting Fez.

I stayed at La Maison Bleue, which was a beautiful and peaceful riad in the heart of the city.

If you're staying in Fez for more than a few days, the city is a great base for exploring northern Morocco's landscapes.

One of the top destinations in the region is Chefchaouen, which is known for its stunning blue buildings and beautiful scenery.

While I didn't have the opportunity to visit Chefchaouen during my trip, it's definitely on my list for next time.

Other options for exploring the region include the Middle Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert.

The best time to visit Fez is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is warm and comfortable. These seasons offer the perfect opportunity to explore the city and its surroundings.

Now is a great time to book a trip to Fez, with flights and accommodation available at affordable prices.

Fez may not be as well-known as Marrakech, but it offers a unique and authentic cultural experience that is definitely worth exploring.

The city has a rich history and culture, with plenty of opportunities to learn and discover new things. From its stunning architecture to its vibrant markets, Fez is a city that will leave you with lasting memories.

With its low-cost flights, growing recognition, and plenty of things to see and do, Fez is unlikely to stay under the radar for long.

Ryanair flights to Fez start from just £30 return, making it an affordable destination for travelers.

Rooms at La Maison Bleue start from around £100 per night, offering a luxurious and comfortable place to stay.

Get Your Guide offers a range of tours and activities in Fez, from cooking classes to guided tours of the city.