Family Adventure in the Heart of Fes

Gates of Grandeur & Culinary Adventures

Today in Fes was a beautiful blend of historical exploration and gastronomic indulgence. The city's gates whispered stories of centuries past, while the aromas of Moroccan cuisine filled the air, creating a sensory feast. It was a day of family bonding, cultural immersion, and delightful surprises.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Les Jardins de Sheherazade. What a wonderful way to start the day! The setting itself was magical, tucked away in a riad that felt like stepping into a different world. The traditional Moroccan breakfast was a feast for the eyes and the palate. We savored an assortment of pastries, fresh fruit, and, of course, traditional mint tea. Saoirse particularly loved the pastries, while Hans enjoyed the strong coffee. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring.


Savor authentic Moroccan flavors at Les Jardins de Sheherazade, where traditional cuisine meets enchanting ambiance in Fès.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we ventured out to explore some of Fes's famed gates. Our first stop was Bab El-Magana. It was truly impressive, a testament to the city's rich history. I tried to imagine what it must have been like centuries ago, with merchants and travelers passing through this very gate. The architecture was stunning, a blend of intricate designs and sturdy construction. It's amazing to think of all the stories this gate could tell. While not the most famous gate in Fes, it certainly held its own charm. We took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this historical landmark.


Explore the enchanting Bab El-Magana in Fes, a historical landmark that reveals the rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels of Morocco.

Next on our list was the Puertas del Palacio Real de Fez, the gates of the Royal Palace. These gates were truly magnificent! Each gate was a work of art, adorned with intricate tilework and carvings. The sheer scale of the palace was awe-inspiring. While we couldn't go inside, just standing before these gates gave us a sense of the grandeur and history of the Moroccan monarchy. The vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship were simply breathtaking. We spent a good amount of time admiring the gates and taking photos. Saoirse was particularly fascinated by the intricate designs, asking lots of questions about the artisans who created them.


Discover the stunning Puertas del Palacio Real de Fez, where Moroccan culture and exquisite architecture create a captivating experience for every traveler.

The beauty of Fes lies not just in its monuments, but in the everyday experiences that weave together history, culture, and community.

Our final gate of the day was Bab Chems. Each of these gates has its own unique character and charm. Bab Chems was no exception. The gate exuded a sense of history and resilience. The atmosphere around the gate was vibrant, with locals going about their daily lives. It was a great spot for people-watching and soaking up the local culture. We paused for a few moments, simply observing the hustle and bustle of Fes. Hans, ever the history enthusiast, pointed out some interesting architectural details that I had missed. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so special – we each bring our own perspectives and enrich the experience for one another.


Experience the historical charm of Bab Chems in Fes, a must-visit gateway to Morocco's rich cultural heritage and vibrant Medina.

After our exploration of the gates, it was time for lunch. We headed to Restaurant Soultana, where we enjoyed a delicious Moroccan feast. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting atmosphere. We ordered a variety of dishes, including tagine, couscous, and some flavorful salads. The spices were fragrant, and the flavors were a delight to the senses. Saoirse, who can sometimes be a picky eater, surprised us by devouring the tagine. It was definitely a hit! The staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was a truly memorable dining experience.


Discover the essence of Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Soultana in Fes – where every dish tells a story.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break from sightseeing and unwind at Restaurant-Bar Le voyageur. This place was a great find! It had a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a late-afternoon drink. I ordered a refreshing mint tea, while Hans opted for a local beer. Saoirse enjoyed a fruit juice. The bar had a lovely outdoor seating area, where we could soak up the sun and enjoy the pleasant Fes weather. It was a great opportunity to relax and reflect on our day so far. We chatted, laughed, and simply enjoyed each other's company.


Discover the vibrant nightlife of Fes at Restaurant-Bar Le Voyageur, where local culture meets a lively atmosphere and a diverse drink menu.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Zagora for dinner. This restaurant offered a different ambiance, with a more modern and stylish decor. The menu was diverse, featuring both Moroccan and international dishes. We decided to try some of the Moroccan specialties. The food was exquisite, beautifully presented and full of flavor. The service was impeccable. It was the perfect way to end our day of culinary adventures. As we savored our meal, we talked about our plans for tomorrow. We're looking forward to visiting Bab Ziat, Saffarin Madrasa, and Bab Khoukha. We also plan to do some shopping at Palais du Tresor.


Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at Zagora in Fes - where culinary artistry meets Moroccan hospitality.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but smile as I recall all the wonderful moments of today. It was a day of royal encounters, culinary delights, and family bonding. Fes has truly captured our hearts, and we can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Before drifting off to sleep, I managed to call my sister Niamh back in Westport. It's always lovely to hear a familiar voice and share stories of my travels with her. She was especially excited to hear about Saoirse's adventurous eating habits! It's these little connections to home that make being away from Berlin a little easier.

Good night from Fes!