Top Free Things to Do in Fez

This amazing school was built in the 14th century to teach young men about Islam. It has the classic green-and-white tiled minaret, like many other Medersas do. Anyone can enjoy its mesmerizing architecture and learn about its history since this is one of the few religious buildings in Fez open to non-Muslims.

Although it’s a bit spooky to have a picnic in a resting place for the dead, this is not your typical graveyard. The Merenid Tombs are ruins from the 14th century that hold the remains of important royals from the Marinid Dynasty. It’s an ideal location for an outdoor excursion and picnic with your loved ones, right in the middle of the mountains with a view of the city.

The Bou Jeloud Garden, also known as Jardin Jnan Sbil, was initially an imperial garden, and is the perfect location for a relaxed walk. Away from the hectic medina, it’s surrounded by beautiful flowers, fruit trees and a peaceful lake.

This is one of the best things to do, if you’re not afraid of crowds! It can get quite overwhelming at times, but if you go at strategic hours you might enjoy a half-full medina. With numerous shops selling artifacts, rare jewelry, traditional clothing, leather straight out of the tanneries, slippers and much more, head here to get a taste of local life.

The Jewish Quarter in Fez is called Mellah and it’s an incredible and multicultural neighborhood to this day. You can even visit the last and only synagogue in Fez, Ibn Danan Synagogue, built in the 17th century, and admire the simple architecture with zellij tilework that mixes different architectural traditions.

The tanneries are one of the main attractions in Fez, being the oldest tanneries in the world and offering a once-in-a-lifetime experience. They are absolutely free to visit, but beware of people offering mint leaves “for free” (to rub under your nose) as they will try to charge you crazy amount for them. Best be prepared with a scarf or handkerchief to cover your nose from the foul tannery smell.

This mount has one of the best views over Fez. You can climb up to the top at sunset and enjoy the picturesque landscape sprawling out in front of you. This is also another great location for a picnic, however, do not stay too late after it gets dark, as it might get dangerous.

All the royal palaces in Morocco are closed to the public, however, you can grasp an extent of their royalty just from the gates. The majestic Dar-el-Makhzen is a great place to take pictures and admire colorful and detailed tilework. Make sure to get an epic selfie in front of the golden doors!