Given the high concentration of cultural sites in the vicinity of Fez, one of the best options for getting around this area is certainly by car, which allows for freedom of movement without relying on the limitations of public transportation. Once you land in Fez, the most convenient and secure solution is to pick up a rental car at the airport. This airport is smaller in size compared to other airports in the country, which typically have a higher volume of annual passengers. It is not surprising, therefore, that there are fewer options for car rental at Fez airport. That’s why it is useful to book in advance, referring to Acarent, in order to ensure finding a car that meets your needs. While it is relatively easy to navigate at Fez-Saiss Airport, located just 15 kilometers south of the city center, the more authentic and less touristy nature of the destination can be a slight obstacle for first-time visitors to Morocco. With a suitable car for your needs, you can plan your trip more effectively, optimizing your various movements to visit all the places of interest.
What to see in Fez
Those who choose Fez for a short vacation or as the initial stop on a longer journey to discover the gems of Morocco can find plenty of inspiration in this city. With over thirteen centuries of history, Fez boasts some of the most captivating sites in the country, as exemplified by the famous Medina. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site for its universal value, the Medina of Fez is composed of a labyrinthine maze of streets and alleys without names. Navigating can be challenging, yet getting lost amidst the scents and colors of these narrow lanes is part of the most authentic experience. It is important to keep to the right side of the alleys to allow for the passage of donkeys and small motorbikes delivering and collecting goods for the numerous vendors in the area. A visit to the Chouara Tanneries is a must when exploring the Medina of Fez. The traditional craftsmanship of leatherwork is one of the most significant in all of Morocco, and it is in Fez where the craft reaches an unparalleled level of excellence. The tanneries can be admired from above, bewitching visitors with the myriad colors of the vats.
Other sights
In addition to the Medina, which represents the vibrant heart of the city, there are several points of interest not to be missed. One of the most important is the Royal Palace, which can only be admired from the outside, as well as the Al-Karouine Mosque. Moving to the hills overlooking Fez, you can admire the city from above and visit the Tombs of the Merenids, while listening to the distant call to prayer emanating from the heart of the valley. When visiting a city like Fez, it is important to carefully consider the time of year. Among the best times is spring, when the streets come even more alive than usual due to the World Sacred Music Festival. This is one of the many events that make Fez a premier artistic and cultural center.
