Walking Tour in Fez
General information
Group size
15 max
Starting time
Check our calendar!
Duration
3 hours
Price
30 USD
Language
English
Walking Tour in Fez
This walking tour in Fez explores key sites within Fez el-Bali, the historic medina listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981. The route includes the Mosque and University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 and recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating educational institutions in the world, as well as the Chouara Tannery, where leather has been processed in stone vats using traditional methods for centuries, offering insight into the city’s religious, educational, and artisanal history.
Highlights
- Visit the Mosque and University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 and recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating educational institutions in the world.
- Observe the leather production process at the Chouara Tannery, where hides are treated and dyed in stone vats using traditional techniques.
- Walk through artisan quarters such as Place Seffarine, historically associated with metalworkers whose workshops continue to operate today.
Meeting point
Meet your tour guide outside of Riad Andalib Hotel. She will be holding a small red flag.
Itinerary
The walking tour begins outside the Riad Andalib and proceeds into the medina toward Place R’cif, a public square that has long functioned as a commercial hub linking the Andalusian and Qarawiyyin quarters. From there, the route continues to Place Seffarine, historically associated with metalworkers whose workshops still operate around the square. Nearby stands the Mosque and University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri and recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating educational institutions in the world. The complex includes a mosque and a historic library that has undergone several restorations, most recently reopening to the public in 2016.
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The tour continues through narrow streets to the Zaouia of Moulay Idriss II, a religious complex dedicated to the founder of the Idrisid dynasty, who established Fez in the 9th century. The shrine complex was expanded in the 18th century and remains an important pilgrimage site in Morocco. The route then leads to the Chouara Tannery, one of the oldest tanneries in the city, where leather is processed in stone vats using traditional methods that have been maintained for centuries. Visitors observe the different stages of treatment and dyeing from surrounding terraces.
The walk also includes a stop at the Nejjarine Fountain, built in the 18th century during the Alaouite period and decorated with zellij tilework, carved stucco, and cedar wood. The fountain stands beside the Nejjarine Fondouk, a former caravanserai that now houses the Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts. Throughout the tour, the route passes through sections of Fez el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site listed in 1981 for its urban fabric, religious institutions, and artisan quarters that have remained active since the medieval period.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum of participants?
The maximum of participants is 15 people.
Can I pay with something other than PayPal?
Yes, after clicking on “Pay with PayPal” and the PayPal window opens, you will see the option to pay with a debit or credit card.
Can I book a private walking tour?
Yes, you can book a private walking tour by contacting us straight via email.
Can I bring my children?
Yes, in this walking tour in Fez everyone is welcome.
What should I bring?
Check out the weather on the day of the tour to make sure you bring an umbrella in case it’s raining. Bring comfortable shoes and a big smile 🙂