Exploring the Cultural Riches of Fes with Friends

A Fond Farewell to Fes

Today marked the end of our incredible week in Fes, and what a way to say goodbye! We packed our final day with a mix of leisure, history, and breathtaking views, creating memories that I know we’ll cherish for years to come. It’s always bittersweet leaving a place that has so thoroughly captivated you, but I’m also excited to return home to Munich and share all our stories with Maximilian and Astrid.



Our day began with a leisurely breakfast at La Truffe. I opted for one of their salads – Salade la truffe – which was amazing. The mesclun salad, cherry tomatoes, dried tomatoes, parmesan, fresh mushrooms, smoked beef ham and truffle shavings was the perfect way to start the day. Fuelled up, we set off to Tropicana Parc. I must admit, after days of exploring the bustling medina, the idea of spending some time surrounded by nature was incredibly appealing. It was a bit of a drive from our riad, but the change of scenery was well worth it.




Discover the enchanting Tropicana Parc in Fes, Morocco—a serene park filled with greenery, attractions, and a picturesque pond for the perfect escape.

Tropicana Parc was a delightful surprise. It’s not a huge amusement park, but it offered a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The park had a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. As we strolled through the grounds, we admired the lush greenery, colorful flowers, and the peaceful central lake. It was lovely to see families enjoying picnics and children laughing as they played on the swings and slides. I found myself wishing Astrid was here to enjoy the park with me. It was a great reminder of the simple joys in life and a welcome change of pace after our busy week.

Sometimes, the best travel memories are made in the quiet moments of reflection, away from the crowds and the noise.

Next on our itinerary was the Palais Mnebhi. This palace is a true gem, steeped in history and architectural grandeur. Built in the early 20th century by Mehdi Mnebhi, the defense minister of Sultan Abdelaziz, it’s a stunning example of Moroccan craftsmanship. As we wandered through the palace, I couldn't help but marvel at the intricate details and opulent decorations. The vast reception hall, with its towering wooden dome ceiling supported by four majestic columns, was particularly breathtaking. The walls adorned with zellij mosaic tiles added to the palace's splendor. Apparently, the Palais Mnebhi holds historical significance as the site where the 1912 Treaty of Fes was ratified, marking the establishment of French colonial rule over Morocco. It's incredible to think that we were walking through a place where such a pivotal moment in history took place. The palace later served as the residence of the French Resident-General, Lyautey, and later became the headquarters of the Istiqlal (Independence) party in Morocco. I could almost feel the weight of history as we explored each room.




Discover the exquisite flavors and rich history at Palais Mnebhi, a must-visit restaurant and historical landmark in Fes.

After soaking in the palace's rich history, we decided to take a break for lunch. We headed to Restaurant Darna Fes, enticed by its reputation for traditional Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We decided to share a few dishes, including a tagine and some couscous, both of which were bursting with flavor. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning of exploration. The tagine was cooked to perfection, the meat tender and succulent, infused with aromatic spices. The couscous was light and fluffy, a delightful accompaniment to the rich and flavorful tagine. I must remember to try making tagine when I get back to Munich – I’m sure Maximilian and Astrid would love it!




Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Darna Fes - a family-friendly bistro offering delightful vegan options.

Our final stop of the day was the Merinide Necropole. Perched on a hill overlooking Fes el-Bali, the old city, this ancient burial ground offered panoramic views that were simply stunning. Although the tombs themselves are in a state of ruin, the site's historical significance and breathtaking vistas made it a truly special experience. As we stood there, gazing out over the city, we could see the sprawling medina, its labyrinthine streets and bustling markets stretching out before us. The views extended beyond the city, reaching the rolling hills and mountains in the distance. It was the perfect spot to reflect on our time in Fes and appreciate the beauty of this ancient city. The Necropole is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially at sunset. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the sky was painted with hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting a magical glow over the city. The call to prayer echoed through the valley, adding to the atmosphere.




Discover the captivating history and breathtaking views at Merinide Necropole, a must-visit historical attraction in Fes, Morocco.

Before heading back to our riad, we squeezed in one last shopping trip to La Petite Maison Berbere. I was on the hunt for a beautiful rug to take back home as a souvenir, and this shop was highly recommended for its authentic Moroccan craftsmanship. As soon as we stepped inside, we were greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors, patterns, and textures. The shop was filled with handmade rugs of all shapes and sizes, each one a unique work of art. The staff were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the stories behind each piece. I spent ages browsing the collection, admiring the intricate details and vibrant colors. Eventually, I found the perfect rug – a beautiful piece that I knew would look stunning in our living room in Munich. I can’t wait to show it off! The shop assistant was more than happy to help me haggle for a good price, which was all part of the fun. I also picked up a few smaller items as gifts for friends and family back home.




Explore the exquisite craftsmanship at La Petite Maison Berbere, the premier rug store in Fes, showcasing Morocco's rich textile heritage.

For our final dinner in Fes, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at Restaurant LA Noblesse. It was the perfect way to celebrate our incredible week in this magical city. The restaurant was elegant and sophisticated, with a refined atmosphere and impeccable service. The menu was extensive, offering a range of traditional Moroccan dishes and international cuisine. We opted for a selection of Moroccan specialties, each one expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The flavors were rich and complex, a true celebration of Moroccan cuisine. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip, from getting lost in the medina to exploring ancient palaces and soaking in the vibrant culture. It was a truly unforgettable experience, one that I know we’ll cherish for years to come.




Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere of Restaurant LA Noblesse in Fes, where culinary traditions meet modern delights.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of sadness that our trip is coming to an end. But I’m also filled with gratitude for the incredible experiences we’ve had and the memories we’ve made. Fes is a city that has truly captured my heart, and I know I’ll be back someday. Tomorrow, we head to the airport for our flight back to Munich. It’s time to return to our normal lives, but I’ll be taking a little piece of Fes with me in my heart.



Safe travels, everyone!

Ida