Fes, discover the essence of Moroccan history.
Customized circuit for Morocco.
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Fès is the fourth largest city in Morocco, located in the northern and central region of the country. The city is surrounded by mountains and is known for its dry climate throughout the year, as well as its rich culture and history.
POPULATION
The city of Fes has approximately 1.5 million inhabitants, making it the fourth most populous city in Morocco after Tangier.
CLIMATE
Fes benefits from a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures generally reach 30 to 40 degrees Celsius, while winters are generally very cold, ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius
CURRENCY
The official currency is the Moroccan Dirham (DH, MAD).
LANGUAGE
The official language is Arabic, but the majority of people speak French and English.
The city of Fes was founded in 789 AD by Idris I, a descendant of the Prophet. His son, Idris II, decided to establish the seat of the dynasty there in 809, and from 818 onwards, the sultan welcomed 8,000 Andalusian Muslim families. Fes quickly prospered, attracting Arab, Berber, and Andalusian immigrants, as well as artisans and merchants.
For several years, the city experienced a period of intellectual and cultural progress that led to the construction of Al Quaraouiyine University in 859. It is considered to be the first and oldest university in the world still in operation.
The city has also been an important center for arts and crafts, including pottery, calligraphy, and embroidery.
In the 13th century, the Almohads were replaced by the Marinid dynasty, which consolidated power in Fes and continued to beautify the city. The Marinids built the Mosque of the Andalusians, the mausoleum of Moulay Idris II, and numerous palaces and gardens. Fes reached its peak under the rule of the Marinids and became one of the largest cities in the Islamic world.
The city is also known for its social innovations, such as the electric staircase of "Au fil du temps." Over time, Fes has experienced periods of political and economic decline. In the 16th century, the capital of Morocco was moved to Marrakech, reducing Fes's influence. The city has been affected by epidemics, conflicts, and earthquakes.
Fes has preserved its historical and architectural character. The Medina of Fes, also known as Fes el-Bali, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is famous for its narrow labyrinthine streets and magnificent palaces. The city has also been a center of religious and cultural learning, attracting scholars from around the world.
If you're looking for ideas to explore the best places in Fes, you've come to the right place! In this section, we will present you with the main attractions and activities not to be missed during your visit to this spiritual city in Morocco
The best time to visit Fes is during spring or autumn when the temperatures are pleasant, the crowds are less, and the climate is less dry.
In summary, if you prefer drier and sunnier weather, the best time to visit Fes would be during the dry season. If you are more tolerant of rain and want to avoid crowds, the rainy season could be a good choice.
If you're looking for cities to visit around Fes, you've come to the right place! In this section, we will present you with the best destinations near Fes, whether they are historical sites, spectacular natural sites, or traditional villages. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the wonders of the central region of Morocco during your stay in Fes.
CUSTOMIZED TOUR FOR Morocco
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If you're looking for the best restaurants to experience the cuisine of Fes, you've come to the right place! In this section, we will present you with the top establishments to indulge in local specialties and discover new tastes and flavors in this city known for its culinary delights.
Here are some of the most popular events in the city of Fes, whether they are festivals, concerts, sports competitions, or other cultural events. Don't miss these opportunities to experience the vibrant atmosphere of this city and discover its unique traditions and way of life.
The Festival of Sacred World Music in Fes was created with the aim of promoting peace, intercultural understanding, and interreligious dialogue through sacred music. Every year, internationally renowned artists representing different religious and musical traditions come together in Fes to share their art and message of peace. The performances showcase the diversity of sacred musical traditions, ranging from Sufi chants and gospel music to Jewish, Christian, Hindu, Buddhist, and many other genres.
Sefrou, a small town located near Fes, organizes this festival every year to celebrate the cherry harvest. You can taste fresh cherries, participate in colorful parades, and enjoy festive activities.
Buses are also an economical option for getting around in Fes. There are urban buses that operate throughout the city, as well as intercity buses that connect Fes to other cities in the Moroccan region.
Taxis are also available throughout the city, but it's important to make sure the driver uses the meter to avoid scams. Taxis can be hailed on the street or called by phone.
The cost of living in Fes is generally lower compared to major cities in North America and Europe, making it an affordable destination for travelers. Here are some examples of common costs in Fes.
The cost of renting an apartment varies depending on the location and size. Generally, the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood is typically higher than in other areas near the medina can cost you up to 20 $ to 45 $ per night
Restaurants and grocery stores in Fes are relatively affordable. A meal at a cheap restaurant can cost around $4 to $15, while a meal at a higher-end restaurant can cost between $25 and $65.
The public transportation system in Fes is affordable, with metro and bus fares ranging from $0.50 to $1. Taxis are also relatively affordable, with fares starting from $1.50.
Cinemas, museums, and cultural events in Fes are generally affordable, with admission fees ranging from $2 to $10.
It is recommended to research safe areas of the city and consult with local authorities' advice and recommendations before going on excursions or traveling outside the city. Additionally, it is advised to stay informed about the latest updates on the city's security situation by checking local and international media.
TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR Fez
Travel insurance is particularly important if you are planning to travel to Fes, Morocco.
Although the city is relatively safe for tourists, it is still possible to encounter unexpected situations such as health issues, lost or stolen luggage, or transportation delays.
In such cases, travel insurance can help you resolve the issues quickly and efficiently, without having to bear high costs or additional complications.
MONEY / BANKS
Lorsque vous voyagez à Fès, il est important de prendre en compte plusieurs aspects pratiques pour gérer au mieux votre argent. Tout d’abord, il est recommandé d’utiliser des distributeurs automatiques de billets pour retirer de l’argent liquide en dirham marocain.
However, make sure to withdraw money from safe and well-lit locations such as shopping centers or banks. Avoid exchanging money in the streets or non-official locations as it can be risky and you may be scammed.
It is also important to travel with international credit or debit cards, such as Visa or Mastercard. Check with your bank for transaction fees that may apply to using these cards abroad. It is also recommended to notify your bank of your international travel to avoid any blockage of your card due to suspicious activity.
Lastly, it is recommended to use online payment applications such as Revolut to avoid transaction fees and benefit from competitive exchange rates. Make sure to download the application and set it up before your trip to Morocco.
