Exploring the Historical Charms of Fes with Friends

Exploring Fes: A Day of Palaces, Plazas, and Bazaars

Today in Fes was nothing short of magical. From the stunning architecture to the vibrant marketplaces, every corner held a new discovery. It was a day filled with sensory overload in the best way possible, and I can't wait to share every moment with you.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Peroke Cafe Restaurant. Lena and I decided to try it out based on a recommendation from a fellow traveler we met yesterday. The cafe was cozy, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast – msemen with honey and a strong coffee. Lena, ever the adventurous one, chose a vegan pastilla, intrigued by the mix of vegetables and crispy pastry. It was a delightful start to the day, fueling us for the adventures ahead.


Discover Le Peroke Cafe Restaurant in Fes – where Moroccan tradition meets Italian flair amidst a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Our first stop was the Palais Mnebhi, a place that immediately transported us to another era. The palace's history is rich; I learned that it even served as the location where the Treaty of Fes was signed in 1912. The architecture was breathtaking, with intricate carvings and vibrant mosaics adorning every wall. The central courtyard, with its tranquil fountain, offered a peaceful respite from the bustling city outside. Lena was particularly captivated by the detailed stucco work, snapping photos from every angle. We spent a good hour wandering through the palace, soaking in its grandeur and imagining the lives of those who once called it home. It was a truly immersive experience, reminding me of the importance of preserving historical landmarks.

The essence of Fes lies not just in its monuments, but in the vibrant pulse of its daily life.

Next on our itinerary was Place Rcif, a bustling square that serves as the heart of the Fes medina. The square was alive with activity – vendors selling everything from spices to carpets, storytellers captivating their audiences, and locals going about their daily routines. We took a moment to simply sit and observe, letting the energy of the square wash over us. I couldn't resist trying some freshly squeezed orange juice from a nearby vendor, while Lena haggled for a beautiful handwoven scarf. The square provided a perfect glimpse into the daily life of Fes, a place where tradition and modernity seamlessly blend.


Explore the vibrant community of Place Rcif in Fes, a cultural hub full of local crafts, delicious cuisine, and rich traditions waiting to be discovered.

Lunch was at Restaurant Ouliya, a charming spot recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, each bursting with fresh flavors. For the main course, I chose a traditional chicken tagine with preserved lemons and olives, while Lena opted for a vegetable tagine with couscous. The tagines were cooked to perfection, the chicken tender and flavorful, and the vegetables perfectly seasoned. The restaurant itself was beautifully decorated, with intricate tile work and comfortable seating. It was a delightful culinary experience, one that I would highly recommend to anyone visiting Fes. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Savor the authentic tastes of Morocco at Restaurant Ouliya, where traditional dishes meet warm hospitality in the heart of Fes.

After lunch, we ventured into the Fez Bazar, a sprawling marketplace that is a feast for the senses. The bazaar was a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, each lined with shops selling a variety of goods. We wandered through the spice souk, inhaling the fragrant aromas of saffron, cumin, and ginger. We explored the leather souk, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship of the leather goods. Lena was particularly drawn to the jewelry souk, where she spent a good hour admiring the delicate silver and gold pieces. The bazaar was a sensory overload, but it was also an exhilarating experience, one that truly captured the spirit of Fes. I managed to pick up a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, a perfect souvenir to remind me of our time here.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Morocco at Fez Bazar, a must-visit destination for unique crafts, delicious food, and authentic experiences.

In the midst of the Fez Bazar, we stumbled upon Medin Art, a unique shop that showcases contemporary Moroccan designs. It was a refreshing contrast to the traditional crafts we had seen earlier. The shop featured clothing, jewelry, and home decor items, all made by local artisans using traditional techniques. Lena was particularly impressed by the quality and creativity of the designs. We ended up purchasing a few small gifts for friends back home, supporting local artisans in the process.


Discover authentic Moroccan handicrafts at Medin Art in Fes, where tradition meets creativity in a beautiful collection of unique treasures.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to have dinner at Restaurant Dar Alaoui, known for its traditional Fassi cuisine and elegant ambiance. The restaurant was located in a beautifully restored riad, with a tranquil courtyard and ornate dining rooms. We were greeted with warm hospitality and led to a cozy table. For dinner, I opted for the pigeon pastilla, a Fassi specialty, while Lena chose a vegetarian couscous. The pigeon pastilla was a culinary masterpiece, the flaky pastry filled with savory pigeon meat and a hint of sweetness from the almonds and spices. Lena's couscous was equally delicious, the vegetables perfectly cooked and the couscous light and fluffy. The meal was a perfect ending to a perfect day, a celebration of Fes's rich culinary heritage.


Discover the essence of Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Dar Alaoui in Fes—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Fes had captured my heart. The city's rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality had created an unforgettable experience. From the grandeur of Palais Mnebhi to the bustling energy of Place Rcif and the sensory overload of the Fez Bazar, every moment had been a treasure. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore this magical city and share my experiences with you.

Tomorrow, we plan to unwind a bit. We're booked for a spa day at Vichy Thermalia Spa Hôtel Moulay Yacoub Fes. Lena's been talking about it non-stop! After that, perhaps a visit to Tropicana Parc for a bit of fun, and maybe even brave a ride on the Mules of the Medina. Dinner at Eden at Palais Amani is also on the cards, so stay tuned for more adventures!

Until then, I bid you adieu from the enchanting city of Fes.

P.S. I almost forgot! While wandering through the bazaar, I realized I had forgotten my travel adapter back at the riad. Lena, of course, reminded me that I had also forgotten my portable phone charger. It seems my detail-oriented nature sometimes takes a vacation of its own!