Cultural Exploration in Fes with Friends

Saying Goodbye to Fes: A Day of Views, Gates, and Treasures

As my journey in Fes draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past nine days. Today was a perfect culmination of everything I've come to love about this city: its rich history, stunning vistas, and vibrant artisan culture. It’s hard to believe our adventure is already ending, but what a way to spend our last day!

This morning, I met up with my friends for breakfast at Le Peroke Cafe Restaurant. The cafe was charming, with a cozy atmosphere that was perfect for a relaxed morning. We enjoyed a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea and local pastries. I even tried their fruit salad, which was delicious and refreshing. It was a lovely way to start the day, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip so far.

After breakfast, we decided to start our day with a visit to Bab Mahrouk. As one of the oldest and most historically significant gates of Fes el-Bali, it offered a tangible connection to the city's past. Ayoub from la Kasbah Salam hostel, who I had met the other day, had mentioned that Bab Mahrouk was more accessible than other gates, so we decided to check it out. While there, we paid our respects at the Bab Mahrouk Cemetery, one of the two cemeteries surrounding the Medina. It was a somber yet beautiful place, with graves facing Mecca. The atmosphere was peaceful, and it was a reminder of the many generations who have called Fes home.


Discover the historical beauty of Bab Mahrouk, a stunning gateway that connects you to the rich heritage of Fes, Morocco.
Next on our itinerary was the Merinide Necropole, also known as the Marinid Tombs. This site is a bit of a climb, but the panoramic views of Fes el-Bali were absolutely worth it. The tombs themselves are steeped in history, dating back to the 14th century during the Marinid dynasty. Although there isn't much information available about the site, the tombs served as a royal necropolis and provide a glimpse into the city's rich past. Standing there, overlooking the sprawling medina, I felt a profound connection to the generations who came before us.


Explore the Merinide Necropole in Fes, a serene historical site that offers a glimpse into Morocco's rich past and stunning city views.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

After soaking in the history and the views at the Merinide Necropole, we made our way to Point de Vue Allal El Fassi. This viewpoint offered yet another perspective of Fes, allowing us to appreciate the city's unique topography and architecture. It was named after Allal El Fassi, a Moroccan politician, writer, intellectual, and poet, who was an important figure in the Moroccan nationalist movement and the fight for independence from French colonial rule. From this vantage point, we could see how the city nestled amidst the hills, with the ancient medina sprawling below us. It was the perfect spot for some last photos of our group together, capturing the essence of our Fassi adventure.


Experience breathtaking views and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Fes at Point de Vue Allal El Fassi, a must-visit tourist attraction.
For lunch, we decided to try Darori, a restaurant recommended for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant is set in a stunning 17th-century riad, with intricate tile work and beautiful architecture. It felt like stepping back in time! I ordered the lamb tagine, and it was absolutely delicious – the best I’ve had during this trip. The ambiance was charming, and the staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect place to savor our last official meal in Fes.


Discover the exquisite blend of Moroccan tradition and haute French cuisine at Darori in Fes – an unmissable dining experience.
In the afternoon, we indulged in some retail therapy at the Cooperative Artisanal de Fes. I was eager to find some authentic souvenirs to take back home to Berlin, and this seemed like the perfect place. I had read about the Anou Cooperative before coming to Fes, and I was excited to support local artisans directly. The Cooperative Artisanal de Fes was bustling with activity, showcasing a variety of crafts, from weaving to pottery to leatherwork. I ended up purchasing a beautiful ceramic bowl, hand-painted with traditional Fassi designs, and a small leather pouch. Knowing that my purchases were directly supporting the local community made the experience even more rewarding.


Discover the vibrant craftsmanship of Morocco at Cooperative Artisanal de Fes, where tradition and artistry thrive in every handmade piece.
Before dinner, we took some time to wander through the medina, soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant city. The medina is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways, filled with shops, mosques, and workshops. It's easy to get lost, but that's part of the charm. We stumbled upon hidden courtyards, intricate doorways, and bustling squares. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way.

For our final dinner in Fes, we chose La Truffe, a restaurant known for its Mediterranean cuisine. After days of indulging in traditional Moroccan dishes, we were in the mood for something different. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the food was delicious. I ordered the pizza, and it was a welcome change of pace. The service was excellent, and it was a relaxing way to end our last day in Fes.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine at La Truffe in Fes—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
As I sit here tonight, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia. Fes has captured my heart with its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. From exploring the ancient medina to admiring the panoramic views from the Merinide Necropole, every moment has been a treasure. I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

While this chapter of our Moroccan adventure is coming to an end, I know that this is not goodbye, but rather, au revoir. I hope to return to Fes someday, to explore more of its hidden gems and immerse myself once again in its magic. For now, I will cherish the memories and carry the spirit of Fes with me wherever I go.

Tomorrow, we head back to Berlin, filled with stories and souvenirs. It's always bittersweet to leave a place that has touched your soul, but I know that the memories of Fes will stay with me forever. Until next time, Fes! Shukran!