Fez’s medieval medina remains one of the most intact in the world—dense, sensory, and still alive with commerce. A new wave of restorations is bringing fresh life to riads, museums, and kitchens across the city.
LessA grand Relais & Châteaux riad set around three intricately tiled courtyards. Expect classic Fassi architecture, a rooftop bar overlooking the medina, and an in-house hammam and spa for an elegant, traditional base in the old city.
A landmark 19th-century palace near the medina walls, reopening after a major restoration. The relaunch includes Alain Ducasse restaurants, bars, hammams, and pools, blending historic architecture with contemporary perks.
A restored 17th-century palace showcasing Moorish-Andalusian design, from zellige tilework to carved wood and stained glass. With a garden courtyard, spa, and cooking classes, it offers a refined, immersive stay at the medina’s edge.
A design-forward riad near the Karaouine University with just four rooms. Thoughtful details and a calm, intimate atmosphere make it ideal for private stays or group takeovers, with expansion plans underway.
A stylish riad restaurant spanning three floors, centered around a dramatic plant-filled courtyard. Known for its herb-crusted lamb shoulder and inventive takes on Moroccan classics, with live music and a refined, modern feel.
A lively lunch favorite where guests often choose dishes directly from the kitchen. Expect rich, spice-forward tagines and soups served in a bustling, local atmosphere that draws vendors, regulars, and in-the-know visitors.
A tiny, old-school tea spot tucked into the medina, where a veteran tea master blends herbs like mint, verbena, and geranium. Climb the narrow stairs for some of the most memorable and aromatic tea in the city.
A relaxed café set in an overgrown riad filled with bougainvillea and shaded tables. A peaceful escape from the medina, serving traditional dishes like slow-cooked lamb méchoui and fragrant Sephardic-style chicken.
A longtime expat and traveler hub with a casual, eclectic vibe. Come for coffee, cakes, and light meals like couscous or camel burgers, then head to the rooftop for views, music nights, and cultural programming.
Set within a leafy garden at Le Jardin des Biehn, this cafe offers cocktails, wine, and seasonal dishes. A relaxed, atmospheric place for an evening drink or dinner, especially during live Arab-Andalusian music nights.
A polished restaurant in the Ville Nouvelle known for its textbook-perfect traditional cooking. Popular with a local crowd, it’s worth the short taxi ride for classic tagines served in a smart dining room.
A 14th-century religious school with some of the finest Islamic craftsmanship in Fez. Intricate zellige tilework, carved stucco, and cedarwood details frame a serene courtyard open to visitors.
Housed in a restored funduq, this museum explores traditional woodwork, from carved doors to musical instruments. Climb to the rooftop café for one of the best views over the medina.
One of the oldest tanneries in the world, where leather is still processed in colorful dye vats. The smell is strong, and the view from surrounding terraces offers a vivid look at centuries-old craft traditions.
Hilltop ruins overlooking the medina, best visited at sunset. The panoramic view takes in a dense skyline of rooftops, minarets, and the surrounding hillsides dotted with cemeteries.
An easy day trip from Fez. Meknes offers imperial-era architecture and grand gates, while nearby Volubilis features well-preserved Roman ruins, including mosaics, arches, and ancient city walls.
A renovated 19th-century palace housing ceramics, textiles, calligraphy, and more. The updated displays provide context on Islamic art and culture, all set within peaceful gardens.
A curated space showcasing contemporary Moroccan designers. Expect ceramics, textiles, jewelry, and clothing that reinterpret traditional materials with a modern sensibility.
One of Fez’s original concept stores, blending Moroccan craftsmanship with European design influences. Known for bold colors, textured fabrics, and a wide range of clothing and accessories.
A small workshop producing handcrafted footwear in cactus silk and camel leather. Intricately painted designs turn traditional slippers and boots into standout, collectible pieces.
A refined ceramics shop offering high-quality examples of Fez’s signature blue pottery. Find tagines, bowls, and tableware rooted in local tradition but made for everyday use.